Exploring the wild wonders of Sri Lanka’s renowned national parks is an exhilarating prospect. This day trip from Hikkaduwa to Yala and Udawalawe promises an unforgettable adventure, where travelers can enjoy the diverse ecosystems and search for majestic leopards, gentle giants, and other captivating creatures. With a delightful picnic lunch, a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, and flexible reservation options, this comprehensive tour offers a seamless and memorable experience. Uncover the enchanting beauty of these protected landscapes and witness the incredible wildlife that calls them home.
Key Points
- A day trip combining visits to Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, with jeep safaris to spot diverse wildlife like leopards and elephants.
- Includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home and a picnic lunch, with hotel pickup and drop-off provided.
- Competitively priced at Kč 2,188 per person, with a flexible reservation and 24-hour cancellation policy.
- Opportunity to see a variety of animals, including leopards in Yala and elephants in Udawalawe, during sunrise and sunset safaris.
- Comprehensive package with air-conditioned transportation, English-speaking driver/guide, and all necessary amenities included.
Trip Overview
This day trip offers travelers the chance to experience two of Sri Lanka’s premier national parks – Yala and Udawalawe.
The 1-day tour includes a jeep safari in each park, a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, and a picnic lunch. Priced competitively from Kč 2,188 per person, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a knowledgeable driver/guide.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This safari adventure is an opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, from leopards to elephants, amid stunning natural landscapes.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Hikkaduwa
Itinerary Highlights
The day trip begins with hotel pickup, whisking travelers away to the first stop – Yala National Park.
The day trip begins with hotel pickup, whisking travelers away to the first stop – Yala National Park.
There, they’ll experience the park at sunrise, searching for leopards, elephants, water buffalo, jackals, and crocodiles.
After the Yala safari, guests enjoy a picnic lunch in nature.
Next, they visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home during feeding hours to see baby elephants.
The final stop is Udawalawe National Park, where they spot more wildlife like elephants, spotted deer, jackals, wild boar, wild buffalo, and crocodiles.
The day promises an immersive experience in Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems.
Wildlife Experience
Travelers on this day trip can expect to spot a variety of wildlife, including the elusive leopard, during the safaris in Yala and Udawalawe National Parks. The parks are home to an abundance of species, from massive Asian elephants to nimble jackals. Guests may catch a glimpse of the following:
| Animal | Yala National Park | Udawalawe National Park |
|————————|——————-|————————-|
| Elephants | ✓ | ✓ |
| Leopards | ✓ | – |
| Water Buffalo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Jackals | ✓ | ✓ |
| Crocodiles | ✓ | ✓ |
The tour allows travelers to experience the natural wonder of these parks at both sunrise and sunset, optimizing the chances of spotting diverse wildlife in their natural habitats.
Included Amenities
The tour package includes a host of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
It offers hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
The highlight is the thrilling jeep safaris at Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, where guests can spot an array of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and crocodiles.
Thrilling jeep safaris at Yala and Udawalawe National Parks offer the chance to spot leopards, elephants, and crocodiles.
The package also includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home to observe baby elephants during feeding time.
A picnic lunch and bottled water are provided, though park entry fees aren’t included.
The tour is led by an English-speaking driver/guide, offering valuable insights throughout the day.
More Great Tours NearbyEntrance & Service Fees
Visitors to Yala National Park can expect to pay approximately $40 (13,000 Sri Lankan Rupees) in entrance and service fees. These fees aren’t included in the tour package price.
The Udawalawe National Park fees are also not included and must be paid separately.
The tour includes admission to the Elephant Transit Home, where visitors can observe the feeding of baby elephants.
While the other amenities, such as transportation, guides, and lunch, are covered in the package price, guests are responsible for covering the national park entrance fees upon arrival.
This ensures a seamless and affordable safari experience.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Hikkaduwa
- From Hikkaduwa/ Galle/ Mirissa – Yala National Park Safari
- From Hikkaduwa/Galle/Mirissa : Udawalawa Safari & Drop Ella
- 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
Live Tour Guide
Although the tour is led by an English-speaking driver/guide, a live tour guide is available to provide more in-depth commentary and insights throughout the day. The live guide can enhance the safari experience by sharing their expertise on the local flora, fauna, and conservation efforts in the national parks.
| Feature | Live Guide |
| — | — |
| Language | English |
| Experience | Extensive knowledge of the region |
| Perspective | Experienced naturalist |
| Value | Enriches the safari with deeper insights |
This option allows travelers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the wildlife and ecosystems encountered during the Hikkaduwa safari adventure.
Reservation Options
Travelers can reserve this Hikkaduwa safari day trip conveniently through the provided options.
They can choose to reserve now and pay later, ensuring flexibility with their travel plans. Plus, they can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.
The trip’s reservation process is straightforward:
-
Book the tour online or through a travel agent.
-
Secure the reservation by providing the required information.
-
Enjoy the safari experience, knowing the cancellation policy allows for easy adjustments if needed.
Transportation Details
For this Hikkaduwa safari day trip, participants are picked up from their accommodations in an air-conditioned vehicle. The comfortable transportation ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey to the national parks.
The driver-guide is knowledgeable about the local wildlife and landscapes, providing insights throughout the trip. Passengers can sit back, relax, and take in the scenic countryside as they travel between Yala and Udawalawe National Parks.
The air-conditioning keeps everyone cool and comfortable, even on hot days. The transportation provided for this safari adventure is efficient and enhances the overall experience.
Common Questions
What Should I Bring for the Safari?
Guests should bring binoculars, camera, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and light layers for the safari. They’ll also want to pack snacks and water to stay energized throughout the day’s wildlife viewing activities.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari?
There are generally no age restrictions for the safari. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, as long as they are accompanied by a responsible adult. The tour provider may have some guidelines or recommendations based on the child’s age and comfort level.
Is It Possible to Extend the Safari Duration?
The safari duration can typically be extended, though this may incur additional costs. Customers should check with the tour operator to inquire about options for extending the safari and the associated pricing.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?
Participants can’t bring their own food and snacks on this tour. A picnic lunch is provided as part of the included amenities. Bringing outside food would not be permitted, as the tour package covers the meals during the safari experience.
How Long Is the Drive From Hikkaduwa to the National Parks?
The drive from Hikkaduwa to Yala National Park is approximately 2-3 hours, and the drive to Udawalawe National Park is around 1.5-2 hours. The total travel time between the parks and your accommodation can vary depending on your starting location.
The Sum Up
This day trip from Hikkaduwa to Yala and Udawalawe National Parks offers an unforgettable wildlife adventure. Guests can spot leopards and elephants on exciting jeep safaris, enjoy a picnic lunch, and visit the Elephant Transit Home. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a live guide, and flexible reservation options, making it a convenient and memorable excursion.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Scuba Diving Tours in Hikkaduwa
More Tour Reviews in Hikkaduwa
Still browsing? Here are more Hikkaduwa experiences we've covered recently
- Ella Day Tour with Scenic Train Ride From Hikkaduwa
- Srilanka taxi service Airport (BIA)to pick up and drop hotel
- Anyone Can Cook – Bentota Cooking Class
- Half Day Private Exploration of the Beauty of Southern Coast
- One Day Udawalawe Safari from Galle/Mirissa/Unawatuna/Hikkaduwa
- Sinharaja Rainforest Trip
- Yala National Park safari from Hikkaduwa
- Hikkaduwa to Colombo Airport
- Fully Private Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour
- Yala National Park Private Safari (All Inclusive) From Hikkaduwa
- The Most Recommended Round Tour in Sri Lanka
- Airport Transfer by Hikkaduwa Taxi Service