This day trip from Ella combines convenient transportation with an exciting wildlife safari, making it an appealing option for travelers. Visitors can marvel at elephants and leopards in Udawalawe National Park, as well as feed baby elephants at the Elephant Transit Home. With the flexibility to end the tour in either Galle or Mirissa, this adventure offers a balanced blend of nature and culture. Whether seeking an immersive wildlife experience or a scenic journey, this tour promises to deliver memorable moments.
Key Points
- Convenient transfer from Ella to Galle/Mirissa with a 3-hour jeep safari in Udawalwe National Park to view wildlife like leopards and elephants.
- Price range of $133.43 to $106.74 with up to 20% savings, and a tour duration of 8 hours with pickup from Ella, Bandarawela, or Haputale.
- Option to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home for baby elephant feeding during the safari experience.
- Air-conditioned vehicle transportation and tour is wheelchair accessible, with hotel drop-off options in Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, or Galle.
- Includes jeep safari and private 4×4 transportation, but excludes entry tickets and food/drinks, with an overall rating of 4/5 from 3 reviews.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour offers a convenient transfer from Ella to the coastal towns of Galle or Mirissa, accompanied by a safari excursion in Udawalawa National Park.
Travelers can save up to 20% on the per-person price, which ranges from $133.43 to $106.74.
The 8-hour duration includes pickup from Ella, Bandarawela, or Haputale, and hotel drop-off in the Galle/Mirissa area.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is available, and there’s a reserve now, pay later option.
With an overall 4/5 rating from 3 reviews, this tour provides an efficient way to explore southern Sri Lanka.
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Itinerary and Highlights
As part of the tour, travelers are picked up from their accommodation in Ella, Bandarawela, or Haputale and embark on a 1.5-hour drive to Udawalwe National Park.
There, they enjoy a 3-hour jeep safari to view the park’s abundant wildlife, including leopards and elephants.
Travelers can also opt to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home for a 1-hour experience of baby elephant feeding.
The main stop is the historic city of Galle.
Key highlights include convenient transportation, guaranteed baby elephant sightings, and an off-road adventure through Udawalawe National Park.
Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home
Renowned for its high population of wild Asian elephants, Udawalawe National Park is located approximately 160 km from Colombo.
The park is home to the Elephant Transit Home, established to care for orphaned elephant calves. As of February 2009, 39 orphaned elephant calves were being cared for, and 65 elephants have been released since 2008.
The Transit Home provides essential care and rehabilitation for these vulnerable elephants, ensuring their well-being and eventual reintroduction to the wild.
Visitors have the opportunity to witness the feeding of these baby elephants, making it a highlight of the safari experience.
Transportation and Accessibility
Air-conditioned vehicles transport visitors for the journey from the specified pickup locations in Ella, Bandarawela, and Haputale.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all travelers. Guests can choose hotel drop-off options in the Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, or Galle area.
This convenient transport service allows travelers to focus on the safari and sightseeing without the hassle of self-driving.
The tour’s accessibility and seamless transportation make it an attractive option for those seeking a hassle-free excursion from Ella to the southern coast of Sri Lanka.
More Great Tours NearbyInclusions and Important Information
The tour includes a Jeep safari and private 4×4 jeep transportation with an experienced driver/guide.
Bottled water is provided. However, entry tickets to Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home, as well as food, drinks, and gratuities, are excluded.
Travelers should bring their passport or ID card. The tour has a 4/5 rating based on 3 reviews.
While the safari and transportation are included, visitors will need to pay additional fees for park/home entry and any food/drinks beyond the bottled water.
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- From Ella : Udawalawa Safari & Drop Hikkaduwa/Galle/Mirissa
- Hikkaduwa/Galle/Unawatuna/Mirissa: Udawalawa Safari
- Hikkaduwa/Galle/Weligama/Mirissa: Yala National Park Safari
- From Hikkaduwa/Galle/Weligama/Mirissa: Udawalawa Safari Tour
Customer Reviews
According to the available reviews, customers have provided a 4 out of 5 rating for this tour. Reviewers praised the convenient transportation, the guaranteed opportunity to see baby elephants, and the overall adventure.
One reviewer mentioned the "off-road excitement" of the Udawalawe National Park safari. However, some customers noted the tour could be improved with the inclusion of entrance fees and more food options.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Customers can easily reserve this transfer and safari tour through the convenient online booking process.
The tour price starts at $106.74 per person, which represents a 20% savings. Guests have the option to book now and pay later.
Plus, customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy provides peace of mind when planning travel arrangements.
With the reserve now, pay later option and generous cancellation terms, booking this tour is hassle-free for customers.
Contact Information
To get in touch with the tour provider, guests can contact the customer service team at the phone number or email address provided.
The team is available to assist with any inquiries, bookings, or modifications to the tour. Guests can call the provided phone number during business hours to speak with a representative.
Alternatively, they can send an email to the listed address, and a team member will respond promptly.
The tour provider values customer satisfaction and is committed to ensuring a seamless booking and tour experience.
Common Questions
Is the Safari Suitable for Young Children?
The safari may not be suitable for young children as it involves a 3-hour jeep ride in Udawalawe National Park. However, the option to visit the Elephant Transit Home could be more suitable for families with young kids.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?
Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the safari. However, bottled water is provided. Bringing snacks or a packed lunch can be convenient, but there are also dining options available within Udawalawe National Park.
What Is the Best Time of Day to Spot Wildlife?
The best time to spot wildlife in Udawalawe National Park is during the early morning or late afternoon hours. This is when animals are most active and emerge from cover to graze or drink at waterholes.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Safari?
Visitors can generally take photos during the Udawalawe National Park safari, but they should avoid disturbing the wildlife. Some restrictions may apply in sensitive areas to minimize disruption. It’s best to check with the guide beforehand.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Elephant Transit Home?
Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. The on-site gift shop offers a selection of handicrafts, artwork, and elephant-themed items, providing an opportunity to support the conservation efforts and take home a memento from the experience.
The Sum Up
This seamless day trip offers a perfect blend of nature and culture. Travelers can enjoy a scenic drive, thrilling safari, and elephant encounter, with options for hotel drop-off in Galle or Mirissa. The tour provides a convenient and exciting way to experience the highlights of Sri Lanka’s wildlife and landscapes.
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