From Hikkaduwa/Galle/Mirissa : Udawalawa Safari & Drop Ella

Set out on a thrilling adventure from the southern coast of Sri Lanka to Udawalawe National Park and Ella. This comprehensive day tour offers the chance to witness majestic elephants and diverse wildlife during a 3-hour safari, followed by a scenic drive to the charming town of Ella. With convenient transportation and an experienced naturalist guide, you’ll learn about the natural wonders of this island paradise. What awaits you on this unforgettable journey?

Key Points

• This tour combines a safari in Udawalawe National Park and a scenic drive to Ella, with pickup from select hotels in Hikkaduwa, Galle, or Mirissa.
• The tour lasts 9 hours and includes luxury air-conditioned transportation, a customized 4×4 jeep, and an experienced guide/driver.
• During the safari, you have the opportunity to spot elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and diverse birdlife, with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home.
• The tour is priced between $92.29 and $73.83 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems, and the use of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a combination of a safari in Udawalawe National Park and a scenic drive to Ella, departing from Hikkaduwa, Galle, Mirissa, or Tangalle.

Priced between $92.29 and $73.83 per person, the tour lasts 9 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour includes luxury air-conditioned transportation, a customized 4×4 safari jeep, an experienced guide/driver, and park entry fees, but excludes food and drinks.

Itinerary and Activities

The tour begins with pickup from select hotels in Hikkaduwa, Galle, Mirissa, or Tangalle. Guests then travel in a luxury air-conditioned car for 2 hours to reach Udawalawe National Park. Inside the park, they embark on a 3-hour safari guided by an experienced naturalist in a customized 4×4 jeep. The itinerary also includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where they can observe baby elephants being fed. Finally, the tour concludes with a scenic drive to Ella, offering breathtaking views of lush landscapes and tea plantations.

| Itinerary | Duration |

| — | — |

| Hotel pickup | – |

| Drive to Udawalawe National Park | 2 hours |

| Safari in 4×4 jeep | 3 hours |

| Visit Elephant Transit Home | 40 minutes |

| Drive to Ella | – |

Highlights and Wildlife Experience

Udawalawa’s safari showcases the park’s magnificent elephants and diverse wildlife.

Travelers can expect to spot a variety of species, including:

• Majestic elephants roaming the plains

• Elusive leopards prowling the bushes

• Imposing buffaloes grazing near the reservoir

• A vibrant array of bird life, from storks to peacocks

The tailored safaris allow visitors to customize their experience, ensuring a unique and immersive adventure.

Guests can also visit the Udawalawe Reservoir for relaxation and picturesque photography opportunities amidst the lush landscapes and tea plantations.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a luxury air-conditioned car for the transfers, a customized 4×4 safari jeep, and an experienced guide/driver to escort you throughout the journey.

The entry fees for both the Udawalawe National Park (approximately $36) and the Elephant Transit Home (approximately $7) are covered.

Pickup and drop-off from select locations in Hikkaduwa, Galle, Mirissa, or Tangalle are also included.

The only exclusions are food and drinks. Guests are advised to bring their passport or ID card, as it’s required for the park entry.

Guests must bring their passport or ID card as it’s required for entry into the park.

Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed during the tour.

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Customer Feedback and Important Information

Travelers have given the tour a stellar overall rating of 5/5 from 5 reviews.

Positive traveler experiences include:

• Timely pickups and comfortable transport

• Engaging safaris led by experienced guides

• Unique wildlife spotting opportunities

However, the tour may not be suitable for certain individuals.

Pregnant women and those with back problems are advised against participating.

Travelers should bring their passport or ID card, as it’s a requirement.

Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the safari experience.

Transportation and Pickup Locations

The tour offers luxury air-conditioned car transportation for the journey from Hikkaduwa, Galle, Mirissa, or Tangalle to Udawalawe National Park, which takes approximately 2 hours.

Travelers can be picked up directly from their hotels in these areas. The comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle ensures a smooth and enjoyable ride to the safari destination.

Once at Udawalawe, guests will transfer to a customized 4×4 jeep for the 3-hour guided safari experience within the national park, led by an experienced naturalist.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking this tour is easy and flexible. Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later, allowing for greater convenience.

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for any last-minute changes in plans.

Some key features of the booking and cancellation policy include:

• Reserve now and pay later: No need to pay upfront, just secure your spot.

• Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

• Availability: Limited spots are available, so booking early is recommended.

Preparing for the Safari Adventure

As visitors prepare for their Udawalawa safari adventure, it’s important to pack the essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Comfortable, lightweight clothing, closed-toe shoes, and a hat are recommended to protect against the sun. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle are also essential.

Binoculars and a camera can enhance wildlife spotting and photography opportunities.

Visitors should also bring their passport or ID card, as it’s required for entry into Udawalawe National Park.

With the right preparation, travelers can enjoy the natural wonders of Udawalawe and create lasting memories.

Common Questions

What Are the Recommended Attire and Footwear for the Safari?

Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and closed-toe, sturdy shoes are recommended for the safari. Layers are advised as temperatures can vary. Hats, sunglasses, and sun protection are also suggested to enhance the safari experience.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?

There’s no minimum group size for this tour. Travelers can book individually or in groups of any size, and the tour operator will accommodate accordingly. The tour operates with a flexible group size to provide a personalized experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Safari?

Guests can bring their own food and snacks on the safari. However, it’s important to note that outside food and drinks are not included in the tour price, and participants should be mindful of any park rules regarding food consumption.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Hidden Fees?

The tour price includes the national park entry fee and Elephant Transit Home entrance, but food and drinks are not provided. There are no additional costs or hidden fees beyond what’s outlined in the inclusions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the safari duration for an additional fee. Guests can customize their safari experience to include more time in the national park and see more wildlife.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Hikkaduwa, Galle, or Mirissa to Udawalawe National Park, followed by a scenic drop in Ella. Experience a thrilling 3-hour safari, witness majestic elephants and diverse wildlife, and enjoy breathtaking views during the drive to Ella. With convenient luxury transportation and timely pickups, this tour offers an unparalleled nature experience that’ll create lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: