Discover Sri Lanka’s Waterfall Wonders: Ella’s Waterfall Hunter Guided Tour with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and the thrill of discovering hidden natural gems, the Ella Waterfall Hunter Guided Tour might just be your perfect adventure. This full-day excursion promises not only a spectacular lineup of waterfalls—ranging from the tallest in Sri Lanka to secret spots only locals know—but also a chance to enjoy the scenic highlands in comfort and style.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides bring stories and insights that deepen your appreciation for each location. Second, the delicious lunch amidst nature gives you a well-earned break with breathtaking views. Lastly, the small private group setting ensures a personalized experience, away from the crowds.

However, keep in mind that this tour involves some walking and water activities, which might be less suitable for those with mobility challenges or pregnant travelers. Overall, it’s best suited for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone craving an authentic Sri Lankan outdoor experience.

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Key Points

Visit Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall, Bambarakanda, and other six stunning waterfalls in one day.
Enjoy a refreshing swim in natural rock pools at Uda Diyaluma.
Learn from knowledgeable guides who share local secrets and stories behind each waterfall.
Savor a hearty, scenic lunch amidst the highland landscape.
Ideal for active travelers willing to walk and explore multiple sites.
Private group setting means less crowding and more personalized attention.

A Full Breakdown of the Waterfall Hunter Experience

Starting the Day: Early Morning Pickup and Scenic Ride

The adventure kicks off with pickup from your hotel in Ella, with options between 6:00 am and 7:30 am. This flexibility helps you beat the crowds and make the most of daylight hours. The comfortable transport whisks you through Haputale and Beragala, offering glimpses of Sri Lanka’s postcard-perfect highlands. The drive alone sets the tone—expect verdant hills, tea plantations, and glimpses of local life, making it a scenic journey before the waterfalls even come into view.

Bambarakanda Falls: The Tallest Waterfall

Your first stop is Bambarakanda Falls, recognized as Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall. This is a dramatic sight—over 850 meters of cascading water thundering down the rocks. The guide will likely share interesting facts, such as its height and the best vantage points for photos. While the walk to the viewpoint is manageable, expect some uneven terrain. “The view of Bambarakanda was breathtaking,” a reviewer mentioned, noting how the sheer height and power of the falls are awe-inspiring up close.

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Lanka Falls: A Scenic Stop

Next, the tour visits Lanka Falls, a more accessible but equally picturesque waterfall. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s an ideal spot for snapping photos or simply soaking in the tranquility. The guide’s commentary often includes local legends and environmental insights, enriching the experience.

Uda Diyaluma: The Natural Rock Pools

One of the tour’s highlights is Uda Diyaluma, Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall. What sets this stop apart is the chance to cool off in the natural rock pools—a refreshing break after some walking and viewing. Reviewers have noted the clarity of the water and the fun of wading into these pools, which are perfect for a quick swim or a relaxing pause. The guide usually provides safety tips and ensures everyone finds their perfect spot to enjoy the water.

Lunch amidst Nature

Midway through the day, you’ll take a break for a delicious lunch surrounded by scenic views. The meal is often described as hearty and satisfying, featuring local flavors that complement the highland environment. This pause allows you to refuel, chat with your fellow travelers, and appreciate the peaceful setting.

Diyaluma Falls: The Second-Highest in Sri Lanka

Post-lunch, the tour continues to Diyaluma Falls, renowned as the country’s second-tallest waterfall. The sheer awe of its multi-tiered cascades makes it a favorite. You might find yourself marveling at the way water plunges down multiple levels, creating natural waterfalls that seem almost too perfect to be real. Some reviewers have enjoyed walking along the trail to various viewpoints, capturing breathtaking panoramas of the misty valley below.

Hidden Gems: Ellewala and Bambaragama (Rawana) Falls

The journey then takes you to Ellewala Falls, a lesser-known spot that offers a sense of discovery. It’s a quieter, more secluded waterfall where you can enjoy some peaceful moments away from crowds. Bambaragama Falls, also called Rawana Falls, near Ella, caps off the day with its iconic cascading waters—an excellent photo opportunity and a fitting end to your waterfall exploration.

Short Hikes and Scenic Trails

Throughout the day, expect short hikes and easy trails that enhance the experience without requiring strenuous effort. These trails often reveal mini waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and lush foliage that are often missed on typical sightseeing tours. Reviewers have appreciated the way these short walks add an extra dimension to the adventure, making it more than just a series of waterfalls.

Practical Details You Need to Know

Transportation and Group Size

The tour’s private group setup usually means a small, intimate experience—perfect for personalized attention and avoiding long bus rides. The transportation is comfortable, with hotel pickups included, making logistics straightforward.

Duration and Timing

Spanning about 10 hours, the tour starts early and wraps up around 5:30 pm. This full-day plan ensures you see all the waterfalls comfortably, with enough time at each stop for photos, water dips, and enjoying the scenery.

What to Bring

To make the most of your day, pack comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear for the pools, a camera to capture the views, sunscreen for sun protection, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities. A hat and water bottle are also handy.

Cost and Value

At $80 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the number of waterfalls visited, the included lunch, and the personalized guide experience. If you love outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes, this is a well-rounded, affordable option.

Accessibility and Considerations

While the tour is suitable for most active travelers, it’s not recommended for children under 2, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to some walking and water activities involved.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Many reviewers mentioned how the guides went beyond just showing waterfalls—they shared interesting stories, local legends, and tips for the best viewing spots. One noted, “Our guide was super friendly and knowledgeable, making sure we got great photos and understood the history behind each waterfall.”

Others highlighted the scenic drive as a highlight, with comments like, “The journey was almost as beautiful as the waterfalls themselves,” emphasizing how much the drive through tea plantations and highland roads adds to the overall experience.

The lunch was consistently praised for being hearty and flavorful, with some travelers saying it was the perfect fuel for the active day ahead. The pools at Uda Diyaluma received special mention for their refreshing quality and the fun of swimming in natural rock formations.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

If you crave active outdoor days filled with stunning scenery, this tour offers a fantastic mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s especially appealing for those who want to see multiple waterfalls without the hassle of planning each stop or navigating on their own.

The personalized guide service ensures you get local insights and a flexible itinerary, enhancing your appreciation of each site. The inclusion of a hearty lunch and scenic drive also adds significant value for the price point, making this an affordable, comprehensive package.

For nature lovers and photo enthusiasts, the variety of waterfalls—each with its unique charm—means plenty of opportunities to capture memorable images. Plus, the chance to swim in natural pools makes it a fun, cooling experience on a warm day.

However, if you prefer relaxed, less active sightseeing or traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit. The physical demand involved—walking, short hikes, and water dips—should be considered.

FAQs About the Ella Waterfall Hunter Tour

How early does the tour start?
Pickups are available at 6:00 am, 6:30 am, 7:00 am, and 7:30 am, giving you flexibility to choose a convenient time.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a delicious lunch is part of the package, served amidst scenic natural surroundings, providing both sustenance and a break.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes suitable for walking and water activities.

Can I swim at the waterfalls?
Yes, at Uda Diyaluma and possibly at other stops, there are natural rock pools where you can enjoy a refreshing dip.

How long is the total tour?
The whole experience lasts around 10 hours, from pickup in the morning to drop-off in the late afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not recommended for children under 2 years, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues due to walking and water activities involved.

What is the group size?
It’s a private group, meaning fewer people and more personalized interaction with your guide.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Extreme weather can limit physical engagement with water or outdoor activities, but the core waterfall visits should still be able to proceed.

Final Thoughts

The Ella Waterfall Hunter Guided Tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insights. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore Sri Lanka’s highland waterfalls in an organized, comfortable way without sacrificing authenticity. The inclusion of a delicious local lunch and the chance to swim in natural pools makes it a memorable day out in the mountains.

For those who love nature, photography, and a bit of physical activity, this tour delivers plenty of value. It’s an excellent choice for active travelers eager to discover Sri Lanka’s hidden water treasures, away from the crowds and with expert guidance along the way.

If you prefer relaxed sightseeing or are traveling with very young children or mobility challenges, consider whether this active day suits your pace. But for most adventure-loving, scenery-seeking travelers, it’s a top-tier way to spend a day in Ella’s lush highlands.