Ella: Udawalawe, Yala National Parks 2-Day Tour & Transfers

Ella, the picturesque town in Sri Lanka, offers a chance to explore the country’s stunning natural wonders. This 2-day tour takes adventurers to Udawalawe and Yala National Parks, where they’ll witness the breathtaking beauty of Rawana Falls and the unique stilt fishing experience in Weligama. With convenient hotel stays, transportation, and free cancellation options, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife and landscapes. What surprises await these travelers?

Key Points

• A 2-day tour exploring Udawalawe and Yala National Parks, priced from $360 per person, including hotel stay, transportation, and safari charges.
• Day 1 includes a visit to Rawana Falls and a half-day safari in Udawalawe National Park, known for its large elephant population.
• Day 2 features an early morning safari in Yala National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and sloth bears.
• The tour includes a visit to Weligama to observe the traditional stilt fishing practice, a unique cultural experience.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Ella: Udawalawe, Yala National Parks 2-Day Tour & Transfers is a comprehensive two-day tour that allows visitors to explore the renowned Udawalawe and Yala National Parks.

Explore the renowned Udawalawe and Yala National Parks on this comprehensive two-day tour.

Priced from $360 per person, the tour includes a 1-night hotel stay, transportation, safari charges, refreshments, and all applicable fees.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The tour runs for 2 days, with activities like visiting Rawana Falls, safaris in both parks, and a stilt fishing experience in Weligama.

Day 1: Rawana Falls and Udawalawe National Park

Depart from Ella at 8:00 AM, visiting the breathtaking Rawana Falls along the way. Take in the stunning 82-foot waterfall and its lush surroundings.

After, head to Udawalawe National Park for a half-day safari starting at 10:30 AM. Spot Sri Lankan elephants, water buffalo, monkeys, and an array of bird species. If lucky, catch a glimpse of the elusive leopard.

| Wildlife Sightings | Likelihood |

| ——————- | ———- |

| Sri Lankan Elephants| Very High |

| Water Buffalo | High |

| Monkeys | Moderate |

| Leopards | Low |

Continue the journey to Yala, where you’ll stay overnight and prepare for the next day’s early morning safari.

Udawalawe National Park: Wildlife Sightings

Udawalawe National Park is renowned for its large elephant population, offering visitors an exceptional opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Elephants aren’t the only wildlife to be spotted in the park, however. Visitors may also catch glimpses of Sri Lankan water buffalo, monkeys, and a diverse array of bird species.

While leopard sightings are less common, the park’s varied terrain and ecosystems provide a home for a host of other mammal and reptile species.

The park’s diverse terrain and habitats host a variety of other mammal and reptile species beyond the elusive leopard.

The safari experience at Udawalawe is truly a chance to take in Sri Lanka’s rich natural wonders.

Overnight in Yala

After exploring the wonders of Udawalawe, the tour continues onward to Yala National Park for an overnight stay. Yala is renowned for its significant leopard population and diverse wildlife, including 32 mammal species and 125 bird species. The early morning safari offers the best chance to spot these elusive predators, as well as other unique species like the Red Slender Loris and Fishing Cat.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Safari Time | 5:30 am |

| Wildlife | Leopards, Sloth Bears, Wild Water Buffalo |

| Highlights | Significant Leopard Population, Diverse Mammal & Bird Species |

The overnight stay allows travelers to fully enjoy the park’s natural wonders, providing an unforgettable wildlife experience.

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Day 2: Yala National Park Safari

Travelers embark on an early morning safari at Yala National Park, departing their accommodation at 5:30 am.

This iconic reserve is known for its diverse wildlife, including:

• Elusive leopards prowling the brush

• Majestic Sri Lankan elephants roaming the grasslands

• Lumbering sloth bears foraging in the forests

• A myriad of bird species taking flight overhead

With the park’s abundant biodiversity, guests have the chance to spot a vast array of animals in their natural habitats.

The safari provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness the wonders of Yala’s extraordinary ecosystem.

Yala National Park: Unique Species

Yala National Park is home to a remarkable array of unique species, many of which can’t be found elsewhere in Sri Lanka.

The park’s diverse habitat supports the elusive Red Slender Loris, a small nocturnal primate with striking large eyes.

The Golden Palm Civet, a tree-dwelling carnivore with a distinctive golden coat, is another rare find.

Plus, the park is known for its Fishing Cat population, a medium-sized wild cat skilled at hunting along the waterways.

These unique species add to the park’s allure, drawing wildlife enthusiasts from around the world to witness their exceptional biodiversity.

Weligama: Stilt Fishing Experience

As part of the tour, visitors have the opportunity to witness the unique stilt fishing tradition in Weligama.

At 11:30 am, the tour makes a stop in this coastal town, allowing guests to observe the skilled fishermen perched atop their wooden poles, casting their lines into the azure waters.

This traditional fishing method, dating back centuries, offers a captivating glimpse into the local culture:

• Fishermen balancing precariously on stilts, up to 15 feet above the water

• Casting their nets with precision, relying on their exceptional balance and technique

• Catching a variety of fish, including mackerel, tuna, and sardines

• Attracting onlookers from around the world, eager to witness this unique practice

Inclusions, Amenities, and Important Information

The tour includes a 1-night stay in a 3 or 4-star hotel on a bed and breakfast basis, as well as an air-conditioned luxury private vehicle with a driver, including fuel surcharge and driver charges.

Jeep charges for both Udawalawe and Yala National Parks are also included. Refreshments like water and snacks are provided during the tour, and all entrance fees and government taxes are covered.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or individuals with back problems. Guests should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water, and refrain from smoking, drinking alcohol, or littering.

Common Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks, but the tour provider will offer water and snacks during the tour. Consuming alcohol or bringing prohibited items is not allowed.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to More Days?

Yes, the tour can be extended to more days. Customers can customize the itinerary and add extra days to explore more destinations or spend more time in the national parks. Pricing for extended tours would be provided upon request.

Do I Need a Special Permit to Visit the National Parks?

Yes, visitors to Sri Lankan national parks, including Udawalawe and Yala, require a permit. These can be obtained through the tour operator or independently from the Department of Wildlife Conservation. The permit fees are included in the tour package.

Can I Request a Customized Itinerary for the Tour?

Yes, you can request a customized itinerary for the tour. The tour provider is typically willing to accommodate special requests, subject to availability and additional costs. It’s best to discuss your preferences with them directly.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are group discounts available. The more people in the group, the higher the discount. Customers can save up to 20% on the total booking cost for group sizes of 4 or more.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Ella offers a chance to experience Sri Lanka’s natural wonders. Witness the stunning Rawana Falls, go on safaris in Udawalawe and Yala National Parks to spot diverse wildlife, and try the unique stilt fishing activity in Weligama. With convenient hotel stays, transportation, and flexible cancellation options, it’s an ideal way to explore the island’s breathtaking beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: