Tangalle/Hiriketiya: Transfer to Ella With Yala Safari

Exploring the diverse landscapes of Sri Lanka’s southern region has never been easier. Travelers can seamlessly transfer from the coastal towns of Tangalle or Hiriketiya to the picturesque town of Ella, complemented by an exhilarating safari in the renowned Yala National Park. This all-inclusive package offers a hassle-free adventure, ensuring a memorable day of wildlife encounters and scenic vistas. With knowledgeable local guides and comfortable transportation, the stage is set for an unforgettable experience.

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Key Points

Door-to-door transfer service from Tangalle/Hiriketiya to Ella with a 4-5 hour safari experience in Yala National Park.
Opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, and birds.
Entrance and service fees for Yala National Park amount to approximately $40 USD, paid directly upon entry.
Smooth and punctual transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver-guide.
Overall rating of 4 out of 5 based on 31 reviews, with highlights including wildlife sightings and a relaxing drive to Ella.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Activity

This activity offers a door-to-door transfer service from Tangalle/Hiriketiya to Ella, complemented by a safari experience in Yala National Park.

The duration is 8 hours, with prices ranging from $50.00 to $47.50 per person, offering a savings of up to 5%.

The package includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve with no upfront payment.

This convenient and cost-effective transfer with a Yala safari provides an opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, elephants, and more, guided by a local expert.

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Safari Experience

The Yala National Park safari offers visitors a chance to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. During the 4-5 hour journey, guests have opportunities to spot native animals like leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, water buffalos, and a variety of birds. A knowledgeable local guide accompanies the group, providing insights and assistance throughout the safari.

| Animal | Likelihood of Sighting |

|——–|————————|

| Leopard | High |

| Sloth Bear | Moderate |

| Elephant | High |

| Crocodile | Moderate |

The best time for optimal viewing is during the day when animals are most active. This immersive safari experience allows travelers to appreciate Sri Lanka’s incredible biodiversity.

Transportation Details

For this transfer activity, door-to-door service is provided.

Guests are picked up from their hotels in Tangalle/Hiriketiya and dropped off at their destination in Ella. Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey.

Guests are transported in an air-conditioned vehicle from their Tangalle/Hiriketiya hotels to their destination in Ella, ensuring a comfortable journey.

A professional driver-guide is included, who’ll handle the driving and provide insights along the way. The transportation arrangement is designed to be seamless, allowing travelers to focus on the safari experience without worrying about logistics.

With this package, guests can enjoy a stress-free transfer from one destination to another.

Entrance & Service Fees

Entrance and service fees to Yala National Park are not included in the package, which amounts to approximately 13,000 Sri Lankan Rupees (around $40 USD). These mandatory fees cover park admission, guide, and other administrative costs. The fees are paid directly to the park authorities upon entry.

| Fee Type | Cost (LKR) | Cost (USD) |

| — | — | — |

| Yala National Park Entrance | 6,000 | $18 |

| Safari Jeep Fee | 4,500 | $14 |

| Eco Tax | 2,500 | $8 |

| Total | 13,000 | $40 |

Visitors should budget for these additional fees when planning their Yala safari experience.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have generally praised the Yala safari experience, with an overall rating of 4 out of 5 based on 31 reviews.

According to traveler reviews, the Yala safari experience is generally praised, with an overall rating of 4 out of 5 based on 31 reviews.

Highlights from travelers include Mariell from Norway, who enjoyed the safari, saw various animals, and found the transport and guide to be smooth and knowledgeable.

Rhiannon from the UK had an incredible safari with an early pickup, spotting sloth bears and elephants.

Christoph from Malta had an amazing experience, punctual driver, great safari sightings, and a relaxing drive to Ella.

However, the value for money received a slightly lower rating of 3.3 out of 5.

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Highlights From Travelers

According to the customer reviews, travelers were particularly impressed with various aspects of the Yala safari experience.

Highlights included:

Incredible sightings of diverse wildlife, such as sloth bears, elephants, and more.
A knowledgeable guide who provided insightful commentary and assistance throughout the safari.
Smooth and punctual transportation, with a relaxing drive to the final destination of Ella.
Overall, an amazing experience that offered great value for money, despite the separate entrance fees to Yala National Park.

Guide, Transportation, and Value for Money Ratings

The tour guide received a respectable rating of 4.1 out of 5 from travelers, who praised their knowledgeable commentary and helpful assistance throughout the safari.

The transportation also earned a rating of 3.8 out of 5, indicating a generally smooth and comfortable journey.

However, the value for money received a slightly lower score of 3.3 out of 5, suggesting room for improvement in terms of pricing and overall experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book this transfer and safari package with no upfront payment.

The booking process is straightforward:

Reserve your spot online or by phone.
No need to pay immediately – the "reserve now & pay later" option allows you to secure your place.
If plans change, you can cancel for a full refund up to a day before the trip.
On the day, simply sit back and enjoy the door-to-door service from Tangalle/Hiriketiya to Ella, including the exciting Yala National Park safari.

Common Questions

What Should I Bring on the Safari?

Visitors should bring binoculars, cameras, sun protection, insect repellent, and comfortable clothing and shoes. It’s also a good idea to bring snacks and water to stay hydrated during the safari.

Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the safari duration. Customers can book an extended safari tour for an additional fee, allowing them more time to explore Yala National Park and see more wildlife.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes?

Yes, there are additional fees and taxes. The package price doesn’t include the Sri Lankan Rupees 13,000 (around $40 USD) entrance and service fees for Yala National Park. Travelers should budget for these costs separately.

How Is the Accessibility for People With Disabilities?

The safari tour doesn’t explicitly mention accessibility features for people with disabilities. It’s best to check with the tour operator about their accommodations and make any necessary arrangements in advance to ensure a comfortable experience.

Can I Request a Specific Type of Vehicle for the Transfer?

Travelers can request a specific type of vehicle, such as a wheelchair-accessible van, for the transfer. The tour provider will accommodate individual needs to the best of their ability. However, it’s recommended to inquire about vehicle options when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive package offers a seamless transfer from Tangalle or Hiriketiya to Ella, complemented by an exciting safari in Yala National Park. Travelers can relax in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle while spotting wildlife like leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. With knowledgeable local guides and great value for money, this experience ensures a memorable day immersed in Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: