Hands-on safari experiences in Nuwara Eliya range from budget-friendly to premium options. I particularly love Udawalawe National Park’s private jeep safaris (€72-$200) for their knowledgeable guides and flexible scheduling – perfect for wildlife photographers and early risers. Yala National Park tours ($90+) offer excellent elephant and leopard spotting opportunities, especially during morning runs.
For travelers watching their budgets, the local tuk-tuk plantation safaris ($30) provide an authentic look at Sri Lanka’s famous tea industry. The Ella to Mirissa combo ($90) smartly pairs transportation with wildlife viewing, while Maduru Oya tours (€240) showcase pristine landscapes away from tourist crowds.
Let’s look at the most worthwhile safari options in detail.
Good To Know
- Udawalawe National Park offers private jeep safaris, immersive experiences, and flexible scheduling, with pricing ranging from €72.22 to $200 per person.
- Yala National Park provides private tours with morning and afternoon safari options, starting from $90 per person, including private transportation and safari jeep.
- Tuk Tuk Safari Experiences offer tours from Ella, Haputale, and Bandarawela, starting from $30 per person, with hotel pickup, knowledgeable guide, and picnic lunch.
- The Ella to Mirissa Shuttle & Safari Drive combines shuttle service with a safari drive experience, priced at $90 per person, including packed breakfast and national park fees.
- Cultural and unique safari experiences, such as the Maduru Oya Safari and Indigenous Village tour, provide private air-conditioned transport and an immersive local experience, starting at €240.75 per person.
Udawalawe National Park Safari From Ella
Set out on a captivating Udawalawe National Park safari from Ella, where you’ll have the chance to witness majestic elephants, playful primates, and a diverse array of wildlife in their natural habitat.
This 5-star rated tour, operated by Travceylon Leisure, offers an immersive experience for €72.22 per person. You’ll enjoy hotel pick-up, air-conditioned transport, and the services of an English-speaking chauffeur.
The tour includes a Jeep safari, park entrance fees, and bottled water. Reviewers praise the friendly guides and drivers, who help spot elusive animals.
With free cancellation and rescheduling, this private tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Ella.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari From Ella Review
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Tuk Tuk Safari and Picnic in the Tea Plantation From Ella,Haputale & Bandarawela
This Tuk Tuk safari and picnic in the tea plantations from Ella, Haputale, and Bandarawela offers a unique opportunity to explore the scenic countryside.
Operated by the Sri Lanka Trekking Club, the tour includes hotel pickup, a knowledgeable driver/guide, a picnic lunch, and bottled water. Priced from $30 per person, the private tour takes you through the tea estates of Haputale, Ella, and Bandarawela.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for moderate fitness levels. With a 4.5 overall rating based on 6 reviews, this activity provides a chance to learn about the region’s natural beauty and local culture.
Cancellation and rescheduling are free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Tuk Tuk Safari and Picnic in the Tea Plantation From Ella,Haputale & Bandarawela Review
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Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari From Ella / Bandarawela
Udawalawe National Park offers a captivating jeep safari experience for visitors to Ella and Bandarawela. Guests can explore the park’s diverse wildlife, focusing on elephants, birdlife, and more.
The private safari tour provides flexibility to explore at your own pace, with a morning excursion and included lunch at a local restaurant. The experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, park entrance fees, refreshments, and the cost of the safari jeep.
While not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, the safari is generally suitable for most. With a 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews and free cancellation, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to witness Udawalawe’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari From Ella / Bandarawela Review
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Udawalawe National Park Safari Trip From Ella
Travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience can embark on the Udawalawe National Park Safari Trip from Ella. This private tour offers a personalized safari journey, with hotel pickup and drop-off, a private safari jeep, and an experienced wildlife tracker.
The price, which starts from $200 per person, varies by group size. Participants can choose from early morning, late morning, or afternoon sessions, with pickup times ranging from 5 AM to 10 AM.
The tour includes national park entrance fees, bottled water, and refreshments. While food and drinks aren’t included, travelers can enjoy the beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife of Udawalawe National Park during this private safari adventure.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari Trip From Ella Review
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Ella to Mirissa Shuttle & Safari Drive
The Ella to Mirissa Shuttle & Safari Drive is a convenient and immersive option for those exploring the southern coast of Sri Lanka.
Featuring a 4.5-star rating from 25 reviews, this tour offers hotel pickup, a packed breakfast, and a safari drive with experienced trekkers. At $90 per person, it includes national park entrance fees and bottled water.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour provides the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife like elephants and crocodiles.
Some past travelers noted concerns about driver safety, but overall the experience is considered worthwhile.
Booking tips suggest looking for coupons to save on costs.
Read our full review: Ella to Mirissa Shuttle & Safari Drive Review
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From Ella: Transfer to Mirissa/Unawatuna/Galle & Yala/Udawalawe Safari Day Trip
Departing from the Ella area, this comprehensive day trip takes travelers on a journey to the southern coast of Sri Lanka.
Over the course of approximately 12 hours, guests can explore Yala National Park, one of the country’s premier wildlife reserves, in a safari jeep.
After the safari, the tour provides transportation to several popular beach destinations, including Tangalle, Hiriketiya, and Galle.
Priced from $90 per person, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, park entrance fees, and a meal.
While not recommended for those with certain health conditions, most travelers can participate.
With positive reviews and a free cancellation policy, this day trip offers a convenient way to experience Sri Lanka’s natural wonders and coastal charms.
Read our full review: From Ella: Transfer to Mirissa/Unawatuna/Galle & Yala/Udawalawe Safari Day Trip Review
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She Is Going to Udawalawe Safari (Safari Jeep Free)
This all-inclusive safari tour from Ella provides travelers with a hassle-free opportunity to explore the Udawalawe National Park.
Priced at $150 for up to 3 people, the tour includes a safari jeep, bottled water, and air-conditioned transportation.
With a 5.0 rating from 2 reviews, this excursion promises a memorable wildlife experience.
Pickup is available from select locations, and communication is facilitated through WhatsApp.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and suitable for those with a moderate fitness level.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours prior.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, making this safari tour a convenient and budget-friendly option.
Read our full review: She Is Going to Udawalawe Safari (Safari Jeep Free) Review
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Tuktuk Safari in Tea & Spice Plantation,View Points,Upper Diyaluma Waterfalls,
An enthralling TukTuk Safari awaits adventurous travelers in the heart of Bandarawela, Sri Lanka.
This full-day excursion immerses you in the region’s stunning tea and spice plantations, breathtaking viewpoints, and the majestic Upper Diyaluma Waterfalls.
Starting at 8 AM, you’ll be picked up from Ella, Haputale, or Bandarawela and treated to morning tea, lunch, and evening tea.
The maximum group size is 10, ensuring an intimate experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, it’s suitable for moderately fit travelers.
With a 5-star rating based on one review, this safari promises an unforgettable adventure through Sri Lanka’s picturesque landscapes.
Read our full review: Tuktuk Safari in Tea & Spice Plantation,View Points,Upper Diyaluma Waterfalls, Review
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Yala Safari Day Trip From Ella With Various Drop-Off Options
Adventurous travelers can embark on a captivating Yala Safari day trip from Ella, exploring one of Sri Lanka’s premier national parks.
The private tour offers morning and afternoon safari options, with pickup from any location in Ella. The experience includes private transportation, a knowledgeable driver-guide, park fees, a private safari jeep, bottled water, lunch, and gratuities.
Travelers will have the flexibility to be dropped off at various locations across southern Sri Lanka, from Tissamaharama to Bentota.
While not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant women, the safari is suitable for most visitors.
With a 5-star rating and a lowest price guarantee, this Yala Safari day trip provides an unforgettable wildlife adventure.
Read our full review: Yala Safari Day Trip From Ella With Various Drop-Off Options Review
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Yala National Park Safari From Ella
Nestled in the southern region of Sri Lanka, Yala National Park beckons adventurous travelers with its diverse wildlife and captivating landscapes.
Travelers can embark on a thrilling Yala National Park Safari from Ella, a private tour where only your group participates. Priced from $90 per person, the tour includes an English-speaking guide, comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, safari jeep, and all necessary fees.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical fitness level required makes this safari suitable for most visitors. With a solid 4.5 rating across reviews, this Yala tour promises an unforgettable wildlife encounter, starting bright and early at 5 AM.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Safari From Ella Review
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Maduru Oya Safari and Indigenous Village Day Trip From Ella
Travelers embarking on the Maduru Oya Safari and Indigenous Village Day Trip from Ella can expect an immersive experience that showcases Sri Lanka’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
The private tour includes private air-conditioned transport, an English-speaking guide, a moderate 4×4 jeep safari, and a local village lunch. Guests will also enjoy the national park entrance ticket, which covers all government taxes and service charges.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate fitness level, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the Maduru Oya region and interact with the indigenous community.
Prices start from €240.75 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Maduru Oya Safari and Indigenous Village Day Trip From Ella Review
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Udawalawe National Park Safari With Travelling Nuwaraeliya To Yala
Those seeking to explore the stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka can embark on the Udawalawe National Park Safari, which offers an opportunity to travel from Nuwara Eliya to Yala.
This private tour, priced at $120 per person, includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking driver, a 3-hour jeep safari, and all meals.
The tour operates daily from 7 AM to 2 PM, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Visitors can also take advantage of the reserve now, pay later option for added flexibility.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari With Travelling Nuwaraeliya To Yala Review
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Yala National Park Safari With Transfer From Ella to Arugam Bay
For those looking to continue their safari adventure in Sri Lanka, the Yala National Park Safari with transfer from Ella to Arugam Bay offers an exhilarating experience.
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including 3.5 hours in Yala and 2.5 hours for the transfer to the entrance. Travelers can expect a maximum group size of 12, with pickup from Ella, Bandarawela, and Wellawaya.
The air-conditioned transfer vehicle can accommodate up to 6 passengers. The Yala National Park entrance fee of 11,000 Sri Lankan Rupees per person must be paid separately.
Meal options, including breakfast and lunch, are available for an additional fee. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Safari With Transfer From Ella to Arugam Bay Review
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Half Day Udawalawe National Park Safari (Entrance + Lunch)
Nestled within the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka, the Half Day Udawalawe National Park Safari (Entrance + Lunch) offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the magnificent wildlife that calls this region home.
Priced from $125.00 per person, this private tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, refreshments, and entrance fees.
Travelers can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including the iconic Asian elephant, during the safari.
With a start time of 7:00 am, the tour also includes a lunch at a local restaurant.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable attire and bring a valid passport for park entry.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Half Day Udawalawe National Park Safari (Entrance + Lunch) Review
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Udawalawe Safari From Ella and Return Back to Ella
The Udawalawe Safari from Ella and back offers travelers a chance to explore the renowned Udawalawe National Park, renowned for its abundant wildlife, including the iconic Asian elephant.
This private tour includes round-trip transportation from Ella, a safari in an open-air Jeep, and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home.
Travelers can choose from morning or evening safari options, with the best times for the Elephant Transit Home being 9am, 12pm, and 3pm.
The tour is priced from $74 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as infant seats, are available.
Read our full review: Udawalawe Safari From Ella and Return Back to Ella Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari Tours?
Most safari tours don’t have strict age restrictions, but they may have recommendations for young children’s safety. It’s best to check with the tour operator about their policies and any special considerations for younger or older participants.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?
Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on safari tours. However, it’s important to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or recommendations regarding what can be brought. Many tour operators also offer catering services.
What Should I Wear for the Safari to Stay Comfortable?
Lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended for a safari. Layering is also a good idea, as temperatures can fluctuate. Don’t forget sun protection like a hat and sunglasses.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for the Tours?
Many safari tour operators offer package deals and discounts to attract customers. These can include combined tickets for multiple attractions or reduced rates for groups. It’s worth checking if any special offers are available to save money on your safari experience.
Are the Safari Vehicles Equipped With Safety Features?
The safari vehicles are typically equipped with various safety features, such as seatbelts, roll cages, and emergency exits, to ensure the well-being of passengers during the tour. Many operators also provide safety briefings before the safari commences.
The Sum Up
Nuwara Eliya offers a range of safari tour options, with Udawalawe National Park being a popular destination. Visitors can choose from full-day or half-day safaris, with some tours including transfers from nearby towns like Ella and Bandarawela. These safaris provide opportunities to spot elephants, leopards, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. Whether you’re looking for a wildlife adventure or a scenic tea plantation experience, Nuwara Eliya has something to suit your interests.