Embark on an extraordinary adventure from Hiriketiya or Tangalle to Udawalawe National Park, where you’ll witness the majestic elephants, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. After the game drive, visit the Elephant Transit Home before continuing your journey to the scenic town of Ella. This eco-friendly tour offers an intimate setting with fellow travelers, promising an unforgettable experience. Discover the details that make this safari stand out.

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Key Points

Pickup locations include Hiriketiya, Tangalle, and other nearby areas, with transportation provided in air-conditioned cars or mini vans.
Morning Safari includes a 3-hour game drive in Udawalawe National Park and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, with drop-off in Ella around 1:00 p.m.
Full Day Safari offers three 1.5-2 hour game drives over 8.5 hours, with a lunch break and drop-off in Ella around 8:15 p.m.
Prices start from Kč 2,467 per person, with optional meals and entrance fees available, and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Safari experiences are sustainable and eco-friendly, with small group sizes (maximum 12 participants) for an intimate wildlife viewing experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Options and Pricing

The tour options at Hiriketiya to Ella include a Morning or Afternoon Safari with a 3-hour game drive and visit to the Elephant Transit Home, as well as a Full Day Safari with three 1.5-2 hour game drives over 8.5 hours.

Prices start from Kč 2,467 per person. Optional meals and entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home are available.

Prices start from Kč 2,467 per person. Optional meals and entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home are available.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tours offer sustainable and eco-friendly safari experiences with small group sizes for an intimate wildlife viewing.

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Itinerary Overview

While the Morning Safari begins with pickup between 5:15 a.m. and 5:45 a.m., guests are transferred to Udawalawe around 6:45 a.m. to embark on the wildlife safari/game drive from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

The visit to Elephant Transit Home for feeding follows at 10:30 a.m. before guests are dropped off in Ella around 1:00 p.m.

The Full Day Safari follows a similar initial schedule, with an additional two game drives – one from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and another from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., including a lunch break from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Guests are dropped off in Ella around 8:15 p.m.

Pickup and Transfer Details

Pickup locations for the safari tours include Hiriketiya, Tangalle, Dikwella, Rekawa, Nilwella, and Mawella.

Transfer vehicles are air-conditioned cars or mini vans. Pickup times are adjusted based on hotel locations and other guests.

There’s an optional 20-minute break at Rawana-Ella waterfall during the transfer to Ella.

The tour company give you a comfortable and convenient transportation experience for guests, ensuring they arrive at the safari destination on time and refreshed.

Safari Experience and Wildlife Viewing

Depending on the selected tour, the safari experience lasts between 8 to 15 hours, providing ample opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.

The safari highlights include:

Spotting majestic elephants, crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, playful sloth bears, and an abundance of diverse bird species.

Spotting majestic elephants, crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, playful sloth bears, and an abundance of diverse bird species.
Engaging in sustainable and eco-friendly safari operations that support the local community.
Enjoying an intimate experience with a small group size limited to 12 participants.

The safari is designed to offer an immersive and responsible wildlife viewing experience in Udawalawe National Park.

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Important Information and Restrictions

The safari tour may not be suitable for certain individuals, such as pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.

Children aged 5 and below can join free, while those aged 5-12 receive a 50% discount.

Payment for entrance fees must be made in cash using Sri Lankan Rupees.

There’s a minimum booking requirement of two adults.

For any additional pickup or drop-off arrangements beyond the listed areas, guests should contact the provider.

The small group size is limited to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate safari experience focused on sustainability and supporting the local community.

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Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The operator offers a flexible cancellation policy to accommodate last-minute changes in plans.

Travelers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The operator offers a flexible cancellation policy.

Here are 3 key points about the booking and cancellation policy:

Minimum booking requirement of two adults.
Entrance fees must be paid in cash (Sri Lankan Rupees) only.
Contact the operator for any additional pickup or drop-off arrangements beyond the listed areas.

This straightforward policy provides travelers with peace of mind when planning their Udawalawe safari experience from Hiriketiya/Tangalle to Ella.

What to Bring and Expect

While the safari experience promises unforgettable wildlife encounters, it’s important to come prepared.

Pack light, comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and sun protection. Binoculars and a camera are a must to capture the stunning scenery and animals. Hydrate well, as it can get hot, and bring snacks to fuel your adventure. Remember to bring cash for entrance fees and optional add-ons.

During the safari, listen to your guide’s instructions and respect the wildlife by keeping a safe distance.

Expect to see a variety of species, from majestic elephants to elusive sloth bears, in their natural habitat.

Contact and Additional Information

To book your Udawalawe safari adventure, visitors can contact the tour operator directly through their website or by email.

The company offers:

Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Customized pickups and drop-offs to accommodate different locations along the Hiriketiya-Ella route.
Additional services like meals and entrance fee payments that can be arranged in advance.

For any special requests or inquiries, travelers are encouraged to reach out to the tour provider.

Their team will be happy to assist in planning an unforgettable safari experience from Hiriketiya to Ella.

Common Questions

Is the Safari Vehicle Shared With Other Tourists?

The safari vehicle is shared with other travelers. The tour operator limits the group size to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate safari experience.

Can I Modify the Safari Itinerary Based on My Preferences?

Yes, the safari itinerary can be modified based on one’s preferences. The tour operator offers flexible options, such as choosing between a morning or full-day safari, and accommodating additional pickup/drop-off arrangements beyond the listed areas, upon request.

What Kind of Wildlife Photography Opportunities Are Available?

The safaris offer excellent wildlife photography opportunities. Guests can capture photos of elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, buffaloes, and diverse bird species. The small group size and eco-friendly operations provide an intimate safari experience for keen photographers.

Are There Any Restrictions on Bringing Own Food and Drinks?

Guests can’t bring their own food or drinks on the safari. However, optional meals like breakfast and lunch are available for purchase. All entrance fees must be paid in cash in Sri Lankan Rupees.

How Do I Tip the Safari Guide and Driver?

It’s common to tip the safari guide and driver between 10-15% of the total tour cost. This helps acknowledge their efforts in providing a memorable experience. Tipping is optional but appreciated by the staff.

The Sum Up

This unforgettable safari adventure from Hiriketiya or Tangalle to Udawalawe, followed by a scenic transfer to Ella, offers a unique opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife. Travelers can spot majestic elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species during the 3-hour game drive, before visiting the Elephant Transit Home for a heartwarming encounter with rescued elephants. This eco-friendly and intimate tour is a must-try for nature enthusiasts.