From Galle/ Mirissa/ Tangalle : Udawalawa Safari & Drop Ella

Exploring Sri Lanka’s Wildlife and Scenic Landscapes: A Complete Review of the Udawalawa Safari & Drop Ella Tour

If you’re planning a trip along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, you’ll likely want to include an encounter with its incredible wildlife and stunning countryside. Our review focuses on the popular Udawalawa Safari & Drop Ella tour offered by Tiger Safaris, which promises a seamless combination of adventure, conservation, and scenic beauty—all for just $44 per person. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed descriptions, reviews, and itinerary paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to see diverse wildlife, the chance to learn about elephant conservation at the Elephant Transit Home, and the luxurious comfort of traveling in air-conditioned vehicles and spacious safaris. Plus, it’s designed to be flexible and well-organized, making it ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free experience.

One consideration worth noting is that the entry fees for Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home are additional—roughly $36 and $7 respectively—so be prepared for a bit of extra cost. This tour suits travelers eager to explore Sri Lanka’s nature without the need to organize separate transport or guides, especially if you’re based in Galle, Mirissa, Tangalle, or nearby.

Good To Know

• Wildlife Encounters: Guaranteed sightings of elephants, buffaloes, and diverse bird species.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides and naturalists enhance the experience.
• Comfort & Convenience: Luxurious, air-conditioned transport and spacious safari jeeps.
• Flexible & Organized: Pickup from multiple locations with a structured itinerary.
• Conservation Focus: Visits to the Elephant Transit Home provide insight into elephant care.
• Value for Money: At $44, this is a cost-effective way to enjoy two major experiences in one day.

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The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Pickup and Journey to Udawalawe

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Hikkaduwa, Galle, Mirissa, or Tangalle. The transfer is in a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle, making the roughly 3-4 hour drive comfortable and relaxing. Travelers like Juan Luis Alcazar appreciated that “they picked us up at our hotel in Tangalle at the agreed time and dropped us off in Ella around 2 pm.” This smooth coordination is a real plus, allowing you to maximize your day without worrying about transportation logistics.

Udawalawe National Park Safari

Once at Udawalawe, you’ll hop into a spacious 4×4 safari jeep, guided by an experienced naturalist. This is where the magic begins. The park is famous for its large herds of elephants, which you may see up close walking through the grassy plains. Other wildlife, including crocodiles, spotted deer, and buffalo, also frequent the area.

The guides are a standout feature here. Multiple reviews mention how they excel at pointing out animals and sharing insights into the park’s ecology. David, for example, highlighted the professionalism and friendliness of the guide, which added to the overall enjoyment.

Visiting the Elephant Transit Home

After the safari, you’ll visit the Elephant Transit Home, which operates feeding sessions at 10:30 AM, 2:30 PM, and 6:00 PM. This stop provides a heartwarming look at efforts to care for orphaned elephants. Observers like Rinata described how she loved learning more about the elephants here and enjoyed the close-up views during feeding time.

The facility isn’t just about feeding; it offers educational insight into conservation efforts to protect Sri Lanka’s elephants. As some reviews note, this stop complements the safari by giving a more personal, behind-the-scenes look at elephant care.

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Scenic Drive to Ella

The journey continues through lush landscapes, with rolling hills and tea plantations on the way to Ella. This drive is highly praised for its scenic beauty. Travelers often comment on how the views alone make the trip worthwhile. Expect to arrive in Ella in the afternoon, ready to explore or relax.

Exploring Ella (Optional)

While the tour concludes in Ella, the journey here is part of the experience. The town itself offers spectacular vistas, waterfalls, and tea plantations, making it a popular base for further adventures.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $44 per person, the tour balances affordability with a rich experience. The price covers transportation, a guided safari, and the Elephant Transit Home visit. The only additional costs are the entry fees to Udawalawe National Park (about $36) and the Elephant Transit Home (about $7), which are standard and necessary for entry.

Comparing this cost to private safaris or organizing independently, the bundle offers significant savings. You’re paying for comfort, expertise, and convenience—key ingredients for a stress-free day.

The Highlight: Trusted Guides and Well-Organized Logistics

One of the most praised aspects of this trip is the quality of guides and the seamless organization. Travelers like GetYourGuide reviewer appreciated the “very well organized” experience, noting the punctual pickups, private guides, and expert pointing out wildlife. The guides aren’t just there to drive; they genuinely enhance the safari with their knowledge.

Wildlife Encounters That Feel Authentic

Many reviewers emphasized how close and personal the wildlife sightings were. Brian shared how he “saw families of elephants, and they were so close you could touch them,” which is a rare and memorable experience. The safari’s vehicle design and the guides’ skill ensure travelers get the best possible chance to see animals in their natural habitat.

Supporting Elephant Conservation

The Elephant Transit Home adds a meaningful layer to the day. Instead of just observing wild animals, you also see conservation in action, which many travelers find rewarding. Rinata expressed joy at learning more about elephants, and others appreciated the opportunity to see the elephants being fed in a close-up setting.

Scenic Drive & Flexibility

The transfer to Ella is not just transportation but part of the experience. The lush landscapes, green hills, and tea plantations provide photo-worthy vistas. The flexible pickup and drop-off points make this a practical choice for travelers staying in multiple southern locations.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Entry fees: Remember to budget for about $36 for Udawalawe Park and $7 for the Elephant Transit Home.
• What to bring: Carry your passport or ID for entry, as well as hats, sunscreen, and water.
• Timing: The tour operates with specific feeding times at the Elephant Transit Home; planning your schedule around these will maximize your experience.
• Physical considerations: The safari involves some driving on uneven terrain and may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems.
• Flexibility: Booking with the “pay later” option allows you to secure your spot without immediate payment, making last-minute plans easier.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For a cost-effective, organized, and wildlife-rich experience, this tour hits many of the right notes. You get a chance to see Sri Lanka’s famous elephants, spot other wildlife in a natural setting, and enjoy a scenic drive to Ella—all in one day.

It’s ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free way to combine wildlife viewing with sightseeing. The knowledgeable guides make all the difference, providing insights that turn a simple safari into an educational adventure.

If you’re staying in Galle, Mirissa, or Tangalle and want to experience Sri Lanka’s wilderness without the fuss of planning, this tour offers excellent value. Plus, the reviews suggest it’s reliable and fun, with many travelers returning with stories of close animal encounters and beautiful scenery.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wildlife lovers, conservation enthusiasts, and travelers who prefer organized tours with comfort and knowledgeable guides. It’s also a good choice for those wanting to visit Udawalawe’s renowned parks while relocating to Ella, saving on separate transportation arrangements.

The tour’s affordability combined with its high-quality highlights makes it a solid pick for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a day packed with adventure and natural beauty. Keep in mind the extra costs for park entries, and plan your schedule around the feeding times at the Elephant Transit Home for the best experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The $44 fee covers transportation in a luxury air-conditioned vehicle, a private safari with a guide, and the visit to the Elephant Transit Home. Entry fees for Udawalawe National Park ($36) and the Elephant Transit Home ($7) are additional.

Where does the pickup happen?
Pickup arrangements are available from Hikkaduwa, Galle, Mirissa, Tangalle, and nearby locations. The provider offers complimentary pickup and drop-off within these areas.

How long does the entire tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the trip typically involves a morning pickup, safari, Elephant Transit Home visit, scenic drive, and arrival in Ella by early afternoon, making it a full-day experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind that it involves some vehicle bouncing on uneven terrain and a fair amount of walking at the stops. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

Can I book the tour last minute?
Yes, the booking process allows you to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility to confirm your plans closer to your travel date.

What if I want to skip the optional sightseeing in Ella?
The main focus is on the safari and Elephant Transit Home; the transfer to Ella is part of the package. You’ll typically arrive in Ella in the early afternoon, with free time afterward to explore or rest.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s advisable to bring bottled water and snacks, especially if you want to stay energized during the safari.

How close can I get to the animals?
Guides aim to give you the best view possible, and travelers have reported sightings where elephants and other animals come quite close, sometimes within touching distance during the safari.

This tour offers a mix of wildlife adventure, conservation education, and scenic travel—delivering a memorable day for those eager to see Sri Lanka’s natural side without breaking the bank. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, you’ll find plenty to enjoy along the way.

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