GO WILD! Double Safari Day Trip (Yala & Udawalawe) – Private & All Inclusive

Setting out on a double safari adventure in Sri Lanka is a fantastic way to spend a day if you’re craving close encounters with the island’s wild side. This private, all-inclusive tour offers a seamless way to explore both Yala and Udawalawe National Parks—two of the country’s most renowned wildlife sanctuaries—without the hassle of planning or hidden costs.

What really makes this trip shine are three factors: the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off, the expert guides and safari jeeps that enhance your chances of wildlife sightings, and the balanced mix of iconic animals and scenic landscapes. However, be prepared for a long day (13 to 16 hours), which can feel quite intense but ultimately rewarding.

This tour is tailor-made for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, or anyone eager to see Sri Lanka’s elephants and leopards in their natural environment. If you’re after an authentic, value-packed experience with minimal fuss, this adventure could be just the thing.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: No hidden costs, including entry fees, transportation, lunch, and drinks.
• Expert Guides & Private Transport: Enhances safety, comfort, and wildlife spotting opportunities.
• Visit Two Major Parks: Experience both Yala’s leopard population and Udawalawe’s elephant herds in one day.
• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see elephants, leopards, and various bird species.
• Flexible Pickup Locations: Convenient pickup from multiple popular spots along the coast.
• Long Day, High Value: Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive safari experience without multiple trips.

Overview of the Tour Experience

This tour kicks off early in the morning with pickups from your hotel or nearby location, making it easy to start your adventure without logistical worries. The first stop is Palatupana, set within Sri Lanka’s second-largest National Park, a biodiversity hotspot. Here, you’ll explore a landscape made up of moist monsoon forests, wetlands, and saltwater lagoons, home to some of the highest leopard densities in the world. As one review puts it, “the safari was well organized, and we saw elephants and leopards—an unforgettable experience.”

The park’s ancient monasteries add a layer of cultural intrigue, giving the overall excursion a scenic and historic backdrop. With four hours allocated, you’ll get ample time to spot wildlife and enjoy the lush scenery, thanks to the private safari jeeps and guides who know the area well.

Next, the tour takes you to the Elephant Transit Home within Udawalawe, a sanctuary famed for rehabilitating orphaned elephants. The 30-minute visit offers an intimate look at young elephants being prepared for reintroduction into the wild. Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and the chance to witness these gentle giants being fed and cared for, with one describing it as “a highlight—seeing the orphan elephants was truly heartwarming.”

Then, it’s time for the main event: a three-hour game drive inside Udawalawe National Park, renowned for its large herds of elephants. The landscape here is primarily grasslands and bush forest, making wildlife spotting both exhilarating and accessible. Many travelers have reported seeing numerous elephants and bird species, with some lucky enough to catch a glimpse of other mammals or predators. One reviewer mentioned that “Udawalawe is fantastic for birdlife and elephants,” confirming the park’s reputation.

Throughout the day, you’ll be treated to lunch included in the package—a thoughtful touch that keeps you energized for the long hours of adventure. The tour concludes with a comfortable transfer back to your accommodation, often around late afternoon or early evening.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Palatupana (Yala National Park)

This stop is the tour’s first highlight. Covering over 375 square miles, Yala (or Palatupana) is famous for its dense leopard population. The landscape’s diversity—from moist forests to salt lagoons—means you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.

Travelers have noted that the safari is well-organized and that guides are friendly and knowledgeable. One reviewer shared, “We saw two leopards and many elephants, plus a variety of birds, thanks to the guides’ expertise.” The ancient monasteries scattered within the park add a touch of history to the wildlife viewing.

Elephant Transit Home (Udawalawe)

This short stop is more than just a photo op; it’s a chance to see young elephants being fed and learn about Sri Lanka’s conservation efforts. The guides’ insights add depth to this visit—many travelers comment on how educational and touching the experience is, especially when observing the orphaned calves.

Udawalawe National Park

The core of the day’s wildlife sightings happen here. Many reviews highlight how Udawalawe is one of the best parks for elephants—large herds are common and easy to spot. The park’s landscape creates perfect conditions for spotting wildlife, especially with the private safari jeeps and attentive guides.

Guests frequently mention that the guides are very skilled at spotting animals, even from a distance, and are eager to share their knowledge. One review states, “Our guide worked hard to find interesting birds and elephants, making the trip well worth it.” With three hours allocated, you’ll have plenty of chances to see the park’s star residents.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• All entrance fees for parks and transit home
• Private transportation with an experienced driver-guide
• Safari jeeps for game drives
• Bottled water to stay refreshed
• Lunch to keep energized during the long day
• Door-to-door pickup and drop-off from numerous locations along the coast

Not Included:

• Breakfast (which allows you to customize your morning meal)
• Drinks (other than bottled water)

This all-inclusive setup means you won’t face surprise costs once the tour starts, making it straightforward and hassle-free. The quality of the guides and transport, as reflected in reviews, adds significant value to the package.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Duration: Expect a very full day—13 to 16 hours—so dressing comfortably and bringing essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat is wise.
• Wildlife sightings: While guides are skilled, animal encounters are always unpredictable. Patience and a bit of luck are key.
• Long hours: If you’re prone to fatigue, prepare for a long day, but remember that every minute is packed with potential sightings and scenic views.
• Best for: This trip works well for those who want to maximize wildlife encounters in one go, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see Sri Lanka’s iconic animals.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the cost of $280 per person, this tour provides excellent value. It covers transport, entry fees, lunch, and expert guiding—all bundled into one seamless experience. The reviews highlight the high level of organization, friendly guides, and the chance to see animals like elephants and leopards—making the price well worth it for wildlife enthusiasts.

Travelers frequently note that the guides work hard to spot animals and that the entire trip is well orchestrated. The inclusion of the Elephant Transit Home adds an educational dimension, while the private jeep safaris mean you’re not competing with large tour groups.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This safari is ideal for wildlife lovers and photography enthusiasts who want a comprehensive day in the wild. It suits travelers who prefer comfort and convenience without sacrificing authentic encounters. The tour is especially good if you want to maximize your chances of seeing elephants, leopards, and an array of birdlife, all while enjoying a hassle-free, all-inclusive package.

If you’re traveling from Galle or nearby coastal towns, this is a fantastic way to explore two major parks in one day. The flexibility of pickup locations and the expert guidance make it a reliable choice for visitors seeking a memorable Sri Lankan safari.

FAQs

How early will I be picked up?
Pickup times vary depending on your location, but generally, you’ll be collected early in the morning to maximize your wildlife viewing time.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch is included. However, drinks other than bottled water are not, so you might want to bring some additional beverages.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is private, so it’s adaptable for families or groups with children, provided everyone is comfortable with long hours in a vehicle.

How long does the entire day last?
The tour lasts approximately 13 to 16 hours, depending on traffic and pace, so be prepared for a full day of adventure.

Can I see leopards on this tour?
While sightings depend on wildlife activity, the guides are experienced at spotting leopards, especially in Yala, which is known for its high leopard density.

What if it rains?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This double safari day trip from Galle offers an excellent way to see Sri Lanka’s most iconic wildlife in a single, well-organized package. The expert guides, private transport, and included meals make it a stress-free and highly valuable experience for anyone eager to witness elephants, leopards, and birdlife in their natural habitats.

While it’s a long day, the chance to cover both Yala and Udawalawe in one go means you won’t miss out on some of Sri Lanka’s most treasured wildlife moments. The positive reviews consistently commend the professionalism and friendliness of guides and the overall organization, which is crucial for such a full-day adventure.

If you’re looking for a safari experience that balances authentic wildlife encounters with comfort and convenience, this tour is a top contender. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a memorable, hassle-free wildlife adventure that delivers on both scenery and animals.