From Ella: Drop to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle & Udawalawe Safari

Travelers visiting Ella often look for ways to explore Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife and scenic spots without breaking the bank. This tour offers just that—a straightforward, guided safari experience combined with convenient drop-offs at popular southern destinations. We’re here to share detailed insights based on the tour’s structure, value, and real traveler feedback, helping you decide if it’s the right fit.

Three things we really like about this experience:

• The affordable price point of $36 per person, especially considering the guided safari and flexible drop-off options.
• The personalized service by local guide Tush, who is praised for his knowledge, friendliness, and responsiveness.
• The flexibility to customize your pickup and drop-off locations—perfect for travelers with varied plans.

One potential consideration: The shared jeep safari means you’ll be sharing the journey with others, which might impact your privacy or flexibility during the game drive. Plus, the transportation fee is separate from the $36, so budget accordingly.

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager for wildlife sightings, budget-conscious visitors, and those wanting a flexible, guided experience that can be tailored to their itinerary.

Key Points

• Affordable wildlife experience with a guided safari for just $36.
• Flexible booking and drop-off options in Ella, Tangalle, Mirissa, Galle, and beyond.
• Shared off-road safari jeep provides access to diverse wildlife like elephants, buffalo, peacocks, and crocodiles.
• Transport costs are separate and payable in cash, varying based on distance.
• Booking is simple and flexible—reserve via WhatsApp or the official website, and pay later.
• Tour is group-based, requiring at least six participants for the advertised rate.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Udawalawe Safari Tour

This tour offers a compelling mix of wildlife viewing, local guiding, and seamless transportation—perfect for travelers seeking a guided adventure without hassle. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can anticipate.

Booking and Communication

First off, the process is straightforward but requires some planning. You’re encouraged to contact the guide Tush via WhatsApp (see the first picture or the links provided) to check availability, confirm pricing, and discuss specifics like pickup times. The “reserve now, pay later” option is a flexible feature that allows you to lock in your spot without immediate payment, ideal for uncertain travel dates.

If you’re traveling solo or in a small group, you should reach out beforehand. The minimum group size of six is necessary to hit the $36 rate per person**. For smaller groups, contact Tush directly to negotiate a price.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickups in Ella, Haputale, Bandarawela, or Badulla. The guide emphasizes promptness, asking guests to be ready at the lobby 10 minutes before pickup time. The journey to Udawalawe National Park takes approximately 3.5 hours, depending on your starting point.

The transportation fee—ranging from LKR 40,000 to LKR 65,000 depending on your destination—is paid in cash, and covers the van and jeep. Keep in mind, this is separate from the safari fee and should be budgeted for. The vehicle used is an off-road safari jeep, which allows access to areas typically off-limits to standard vehicles, increasing your chances of wildlife sightings.

The Safari Experience

Once at Udawalawe, you’ll enjoy a guided 3-hour wildlife safari. The tour emphasizes off-road access, bringing you closer to animals like elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, peacocks, deer, and various bird species. The guided aspect is a big plus, as the local guide “Tush” is praised for his knowledge and approachable manner.

Reviewers note the safari’s up-close encounters with elephants, which are the highlight for many. One reviewer shared, “We loved the way Tush explained animal behaviors—definitely made the sightings more meaningful.”

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Wildlife and Sightings

The main attractions include elephants, buffalo, and crocodiles. Birdwatchers will appreciate the variety, including peacocks and assorted waterfowl. Rabbits, deer, and occasionally even leopards can be spotted, although the latter is less common.

The safari’s timing—around 3 hours—means you’ll experience a good portion of the early morning or late afternoon wildlife activity, when animals are most active. The off-road nature of the jeep provides better chances to spot animals in their natural habitat.

Drop-off and Flexibility

Post-safari, you’re dropped at your preferred location—be it Ella, Galle, Mirissa, or Tangalle. This flexibility makes the tour attractive for travelers heading south after their safari. The drop-off points are carefully chosen, with options to suit your travel plans.

Additional Amenities and Extras

If desired, the guide can arrange a picnic breakfast during the safari—though this incurs an additional fee. It’s a good way to enjoy the experience without rushing, especially if you want to make the most of the early wildlife activity.

Cost and Value Analysis

The $36 per person price for the safari itself is competitive, given the guided nature and access to wildlife. However, you must add transportation costs in cash, which vary based on your starting point. For example, transportation from Ella to Galle costs around LKR 50,000 (~$170), so for a group of six, this could make the entire trip more expensive—but still often cheaper than private options.

Reviewers appreciate the transparency and simplicity of the pricing system. The ability to book in advance and pay later adds flexibility, especially for spontaneous travelers or those adjusting plans on the fly.

Group Size and Social Experience

The group experience can be a mixed bag. Some travelers enjoy the camaraderie and shared excitement of spotting animals with others, while others prefer more privacy. The minimum group size requirement of six ensures a more communal atmosphere, but it could be a challenge for solo travelers or small parties. That said, the guide Tush is known for personalized attention, making the experience feel more intimate even in a group.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The mix of affordable pricing, flexibility, and local guiding expertise makes this safari appealing. It’s ideal for those who want a guided wildlife experience without the hefty price tag, coupled with the convenience of drop-offs at popular beaches and towns.

The off-road access and small-group dynamics increase the chances of authentic wildlife encounters. Plus, the ability to reserve and pay later can help travelers manage their budget and schedules more easily.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is perfect if you’re budget-conscious but still want an authentic wildlife experience. It’s especially suitable for groups of six or more, travelers staying in Ella or nearby areas, and those planning to head south afterward. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a photographer wanting closer animal encounters, this tour offers good value with knowledgeable guides.

However, if you’re traveling solo and don’t want to combine your safari with transportation or drop-offs, consider the total costs and whether group sharing fits your style. Also, those looking for luxury or private safaris might find this option more basic.

FAQ

Q: How do I book this safari?
A: Contact Tush via WhatsApp or the official website to check availability, confirm prices, and arrange pickup. You can reserve now and pay later.

Q: Are transportation costs included?
A: No, transportation from your hotel to the park and back is paid separately in cash, with prices depending on your starting point.

Q: Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
A: Solo travelers can contact Tush directly, but the best rates are for groups of six or more. Smaller groups or solo travelers might need to negotiate a different price.

Q: What animals can I expect to see?
A: Elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, peacocks, rabbits, deer, and various bird species are common sightings.

Q: How long is the safari?
A: The guided game drive lasts about 3 hours, giving ample time to spot wildlife and enjoy the environment.

Q: Can I customize the drop-off location?
A: Yes, you can choose to be dropped at Ella, Galle, Mirissa, Tangalle, or other locations listed.

Q: What should I bring on the safari?
A: Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, camera, and possibly a light snack or water (though the guide can arrange breakfast if you pay extra).

Q: Is the safari suitable for children or pregnant women?
A: Pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with recent surgeries are advised against this activity. Children are welcome but should be supervised.

Q: What if I want to cancel?
A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Q: How do I know if the safari will go ahead?
A: The tour is weather-dependent; you should confirm with Tush via WhatsApp for updates or adjustments.

To sum it up, this affordable, flexible, and well-guided safari from Ella to Udawalawe offers a fantastic way to spot Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife without overspending. It’s best suited for groups, wildlife lovers, and travelers who enjoy social experiences. The ease of booking, combined with the local expertise of guide Tush, makes it a reliable choice for those wanting to add a bit of adventure to their Sri Lankan itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: