Value Tour: One Day Safari Trip to Yala & Udawalawe w/ Lunch

If you’re craving a close-up look at some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic animals — from leopards to elephants — this full-day safari tour offers an enticing way to tick those wildlife boxes. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions highlight an experience packed with adventure, comfort, and authentic encounters.

What makes this tour stand out? It combines visits to two of Sri Lanka’s top national parks into a single day, promises professional guides who know how to track elusive creatures, and includes a local picnic lunch that adds a genuine taste of the island. Plus, the door-to-door hotel transfers mean you can relax without worrying about logistics.

However, one consideration is that entrance fees to the parks are not included in the price, which means preparing cash for entry is necessary. This tour seems perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to maximize their time and see a variety of animals without sacrificing comfort or convenience. It’s suited for travelers with a full day to spare, who want an authentic yet manageable safari experience.

Key Points

• Visit Both Parks in One Day: Cover Yala and Udawalawe, the top spots for leopards and elephants.
• Professional Guides & Air-Conditioned Transport: Experience comfort and expert insight during your drive.
• Wildlife & Birdwatching: Spot iconic animals like leopards, elephants, water buffalo, and a large bird variety.
• Authentic Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a local Sri Lankan meal in a scenic setting.
• Park Entrance Fees Not Included: Budget for additional costs to access the parks.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Safari Day

The day kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a big plus — no need to worry about getting lost or arranging transport. Pickups are available from a broad list of locations including Yala, Udawalawe, Hikkaduwa, Galle, Mirissa, Colombo, and more, making it accessible for many travelers. Expect a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, setting a relaxing tone for your adventure.

Yala National Park: The Wildlife Hub

Your first stop is Yala, famous for its high leopard density and diverse wildlife. The journey to Yala is about a few hours, allowing for a leisurely morning on the road and perhaps some scenic glimpses of Sri Lanka’s rural landscape. Once inside the park, you’ll meet your private guide and hop into a sturdy 4×4 vehicle designed for wildlife viewing.

Sunrise in Yala is often recommended by previous guests as the best time for spotting big cats, because animals tend to be more active in the cooler morning hours. One reviewer, Jasmine, remarked how her guide Naja was fantastic at ensuring they saw as many animals as possible, highlighting the importance of a knowledgeable guide.

During the safari, expect to explore a mix of light forests, grasslands, lagoons, and scrub, each offering a different perspective on the local wildlife. Common sightings include leopards, elephants, jackals, and water buffalo, with birdwatchers also primed to spot a large variety of local bird species. Jemma, another guest, said, “Good day, worth the early morning as we saw so much,” pointing to the park’s potential for wildlife spotting.

A Tasty Local Lunch

After your morning safari, you’ll enjoy a local authentic picnic lunch. This isn’t just a quick snack — many reviews mention the good quality and tasty Sri Lankan fare, which adds a cultural touch to your wildlife adventure. Eating outdoors amidst nature makes the experience more memorable and gives you a real taste of Sri Lanka.

Udawalawe Elephant Transit & Park

Post-lunch, the tour takes you to Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, famous for its wild elephant babies. Visiting during feeding hours means you’ll see dozens of elephants at close quarters, which is especially moving for animal lovers. One reviewee, Aneta, described her experience as amazing thanks to the kind and knowledgeable guide Sasanka, who helped make the visit informative and enjoyable.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll head to Udawalawe National Park, where the focus shifts to elephants — the park has one of the world’s highest concentrations of these gentle giants. From around 3 pm onward, you’ll be on safari again, this time searching for elephants, deer, wild boar, crocodiles, and more. Your expert guide will navigate the vast landscape, increasing your chances of spotting these animals.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return and Reflection

The day wraps up with your driver returning you to your accommodation, often around evening time. Many guests note how smoothly everything runs, with some praising the well-organized schedule and good communication.

What Do You Get for Your Money?

At $60 per person, the base price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the safaris, entrance to the Elephant Transit Home, and a delicious lunch. This makes it excellent value, considering the costs of private safaris or multiple park entries. However, travelers should budget an additional 13,000 LKR (~40 USD) for Yala’s entrance fee, and similar fees for Udawalawe.

A key point highlighted by reviews is the value of guided expertise — guides like Sasanka and Naja aren’t just drivers; they’re wildlife trackers who maximize your chances of seeing rare animals. Many guests appreciated their knowledge and attentiveness, which truly elevates the experience beyond just a scenic drive.

Why This Tour Works

This tour is ideal for wildlife lovers who want to see a variety of animals with minimal hassle. It combines the thrill of big cat sightings in Yala with the gentle, elephant-filled landscapes of Udawalawe. The inclusion of lunch and hotel transfers makes the long day comfortable, especially for those traveling from popular tourist hubs like Colombo or Mirissa.

On top of that, the small group size and professional guides mean you’re likely to have a more personalized experience, gaining insights into animal behaviors and park ecosystems. Guests consistently mention how guides like Sasanka or Naja make the trips memorable with their friendly attitude and knowledge.

Practical Tips for Your Safari Day

• Bring cash for park entrance fees and any additional expenses.
• Wear neutral-colored clothing to blend into the environment and avoid startling animals.
• Carry a camera with zoom capabilities — you’ll want to capture those elusive leopards!
• Arrive early at the parks for the best chances at sightings.
• Prepare for a full day — comfortable shoes, hats, and sunscreen are recommended.
• Trust your guides — their experience greatly improves your chances of animal encounters.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

In terms of value for money, this tour delivers a lot — two parks, expert guides, and an authentic Sri Lankan picnic — for a reasonable price. You’ll get to tick off big animal sightings, enjoy scenic drives, and indulge in local cuisine.

It’s especially suitable for adventurous travelers eager to cover both parks in a single day without sacrificing comfort. If you’re patient, lucky, and guided by experts, you’ll leave with some incredible memories and plenty of photos.

For those wanting a comprehensive wildlife experience in Sri Lanka, this safari tour hits most marks — accessibility, good value, and authentic encounters.

FAQs

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fees to Yala and Udawalawe parks are paid separately and should be budgeted for in cash. The tour price covers transportation, guides, and lunch.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour is designed as a full day, starting with early morning pickup and ending with drop-off in the evening. Exact timings can vary but expect around 10-12 hours in total.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the experience is generally family-friendly, it’s best to check with the provider about age restrictions. Kids should be comfortable sitting in a vehicle for several hours.

What kind of vehicle is used for safaris?
A sturdy 4×4 jeep is used for exploring the parks, providing good visibility and comfort for wildlife watching.

Do guides speak languages other than English?
The tour is offered in English, and guides are experienced in providing clear and engaging commentary.

Can I see leopards and elephants in the same park?
Yes, Yala is renowned for its leopards, while Udawalawe is famous for its elephants. Visiting both parks gives you an excellent chance of seeing a variety of animals.

In summary, this One Day Safari Trip to Yala & Udawalawe offers a well-rounded, authentic wildlife experience that balances adventure, comfort, and value. It’s a fantastic option for those who want to make the most of Sri Lanka’s incredible animal diversity in just a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: