From: Ella – YALA Safari – Drop Off: Arugam Bay / Arugambay

Set out on a thrilling adventure from Ella to the renowned YALA National Park. This 9.5-hour excursion promises an unforgettable wildlife experience, where you’ll have the chance to spot magnificent leopards, majestic elephants, and a diverse array of bird species. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you’ll explore the rugged terrain in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle. After a day of exploration, you’ll be transported to the serene shores of Arugam Bay, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s sights and encounters. Get ready to learn about the wonders of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• The YALA Safari departs from Ella and drops off participants in Arugam Bay/Arugambay, covering a total journey duration of 9.5 hours.
• The safari includes a 3-hour morning wildlife viewing experience within YALA National Park, with the chance to see leopards, sloth bears, elephants, and more.
• The package includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a rugged 4×4 vehicle, and an English-speaking guide, with entrance fees to YALA National Park covered.
• The safari can be booked for a minimum of two guests, with children aged 5-12 years eligible for a 50% discount.
• Operated by Ajith Safari Jeep Tours, a company with over 30 years of experience in wildlife expeditions in Sri Lanka.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The YALA Safari is a popular excursion that offers visitors a chance to explore the renowned YALA National Park.

Starting from the Ella area, the 9.5-hour journey takes guests on a thrilling wildlife viewing experience, with the chance to encounter leopards, sloth bears, elephants, and more.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, a rugged 4×4 vehicle, and an experienced English-speaking guide.

The safari tour provides pickup and drop-off, a rugged 4×4 vehicle, and an experienced English-speaking guide for the wildlife viewing experience.

Priced from €111.39 per person, the safari can be booked with a reserve now, pay later option, and features a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Safari Experience

During the YALA Safari, guests have the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes, and an abundance of bird species. The best times for wildlife viewing are dawn or dusk, when animals are most active. Guests will travel in a rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4, equipped for off-road conditions, and accompanied by a knowledgeable, English-speaking tour guide.

| Wildlife | Best Times |

| — | — |

| Leopards | Dawn or dusk |

| Sloth Bears | Dawn or dusk |

| Elephants | Dawn or dusk |

| Crocodiles | Dawn or dusk |

| Buffaloes | Dawn or dusk |

Itinerary Details

Guests can opt for either a morning or afternoon pickup, with the morning option starting at 3:00 a.m. and the afternoon one at 11:15 a.m.

The safari transfers to Yala National Park take approximately 2 hours. Once there, guests embark on a morning wildlife safari with 2 game drives, totaling 3 hours.

After a 30-minute break at Patanangala Beach, the group transfers back to Arugam Bay, a journey of around 3 hours. In total, guests can expect to spend approximately 4 hours wildlife viewing within the park.

• Pickup Locations: Ella, Wellawaya, Bandarawela

• Morning or Afternoon Safari Options

• 2-hour Transfer to Yala National Park

• 3-hour Morning Wildlife Safari with 2 Game Drives

• 30-minute Break at Patanangala Beach

• 3-hour Transfer to Arugam Bay

Pricing and Inclusions

The YALA Safari package includes pickup and drop-off from hotels in the Ella area, as well as a professional driver/guide.

The entrance fees to YALA National Park, around $37 USD, are also covered. Travelers will be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle.

However, food and drinks, including breakfast, aren’t included in the package price. Plus, a service charge applies for single bookings.

The safari operator, Ajith Safari Jeep Tours, has over 30 years of experience and is authorized by the Department of Wildlife Conservation in Sri Lanka.

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information

One must pay the entrance fee to YALA National Park in cash (Sri Lankan Rupees) or by credit card at the park entrance.

The tour has certain booking requirements – a minimum of two guests per booking, children (5-12 years) at 50% price, and children under 5 are free.

Plus, the safari isn’t suitable for:

• Pregnant women

• People with back problems

• Wheelchair users

The tour is operated by Ajith Safari Jeep Tours, which has over 30 years of experience and is authorized by the Department of Wildlife Conservation in Sri Lanka.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The YALA Safari offers pickup locations from Ella, Wellawaya, and Bandarawela. Guests can choose between a morning or afternoon departure, with pickups at 3:00 a.m. or 11:15 a.m. respectively.

The safari then transfers visitors to the YALA National Park, located approximately 2 hours from the pickup points.

The safari then transfers visitors to the YALA National Park, located approximately 2 hours from the pickup points.

After the wildlife viewing experience, the tour transports guests back to their final destination in Arugam Bay, a journey of around 3 hours.

This comprehensive day trip provides a seamless door-to-door service, ensuring a hassle-free adventure from start to finish.

Wildlife Encounters

Guests on the YALA Safari can expect to encounter an array of captivating wildlife during their expedition.

The safari offers the opportunity to spot:

• Majestic leopards, the apex predators of the region

• Playful sloth bears, known for their adorable antics

• Towering elephants, gracefully navigating the terrain

• Prehistoric-looking crocodiles basking on the riverbanks

• Magnificent buffaloes, their powerful presence commanding attention

• A diverse array of vibrant bird species, from elusive raptors to colorful waders.

These sightings make for an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience in the heart of the YALA National Park.

Operator Credentials

Ajith Safari Jeep Tours, the operator of the YALA Safari, boasts over 30 years of experience leading wildlife expeditions in Sri Lanka.

The company is authorized by the Department of Wildlife Conservation, ensuring its tours adhere to the highest safety and environmental standards.

With a team of professional drivers and guides, Ajith Safari Jeep Tours provides an immersive experience for visitors to encounter Sri Lanka’s diverse fauna, from leopards and sloth bears to elephants and crocodiles.

Guests can trust the operator’s expertise and commitment to responsible tourism when embarking on this safari adventure.

Common Questions

What Is the Total Travel Distance Covered During the Safari?

The total travel distance covered during the safari is approximately 5 hours, including the 2-hour transfer to YALA National Park and the 3-hour transfer back to Arugam Bay.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages for the Trip?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages for the YALA Safari. However, breakfast is available for an additional fee. The tour operator provides the main transportation and safari experience within YALA National Park.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Mentioned in the Pricing?

The pricing provided covers the key inclusions, but there may be additional fees or taxes that aren’t explicitly mentioned, such as service charges or parking fees. Guests should check with the operator for a full breakdown of costs.

Can I Request a Private Safari or Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, private safaris and customized itineraries are available upon request, though additional fees may apply. Clients should inquire with the tour operator, Ajith Safari Jeep Tours, about these options to fit their needs and preferences.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Gear or Equipment for the Safari?

The YALA Safari doesn’t require any specialized gear or equipment. Casual, comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera are also advisable to bring for the wildlife viewing experience.

The Sum Up

Set out on a thrilling journey from Ella to Yala National Park, concluding with a scenic drop-off at Arugam Bay. Spot magnificent wildlife, including leopards and elephants, on a guided 4×4 safari. After a day of exploration, relax on the serene shores of Arugam Bay, the perfect end to this unforgettable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: