Ella to Udawalawa Wildlife Safari and Drop Down South

Traveling around Sri Lanka often means discovering its rich landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and warm-hearted culture. One trip that stands out for those craving a mix of adventure and authentic nature encounters is the Ella to Udawalawa Wildlife Safari and Drop Down South tour. This experience promises a full day of exploration, wildlife viewing, and even an elephant rescue center visit—all within a well-balanced six-hour window.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the scenic drive from Ella offers stunning views of tea plantations and hill vistas, perfect for photography. Second, the safari in Udawalawe National Park is famed for elephant sightings—an iconic part of Sri Lanka’s natural charm. Third, the visit to the Elephant Transit Home allows travelers to connect with conservation efforts and see adorable baby elephants being fed.

However, a key consideration is the early start time—departing at 4:00 am—which might be a challenge for some. Also, while the price is quite reasonable at around $99.99 per person, it doesn’t include park entrance fees or lunch, so budgeting for those is necessary. This trip is ideal for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting an authentic glimpse of Sri Lanka’s wilderness in a short timeframe.

Good To Know

• Convenient transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off saves hassle.
• Early morning start maximizes wildlife activity and park time.
• Visit to Udawalawe National Park provides close-up animal sightings.
• Elephant Transit Home offers insight into conservation and adorable baby elephants.
• Cost-effective at $99.99, but with additional expenses for park entry and meals.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable drivers and staff, praised for their friendliness and expertise.

What You Can Expect from the Ella to Udawalawa Safari Tour

Scenic Drive from Ella to Udawalawe

The journey begins very early—around 4:00 am—to give you a head start on the day. This early departure, while demanding, pays off with a quieter drive through Sri Lanka’s lush landscape. Expect to see the iconic tea plantations and rolling hills along the way, which are a photographer’s dream. Multiple reviewers praised their drivers for making the ride comfortable and enjoyable, with one describing it as a “great ride” in their review. The drive takes roughly 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic, but the scenery makes it feel quicker.

Arriving at Udawalawe National Park

Once at the park entrance, you’ll pay the entrance fee (not included in the tour price), which is standard for these excursions. From there, your safari begins in a sturdy 4×4 jeep—perfect for navigating the open grasslands and wetlands. The early morning time slots are particularly effective because wildlife is more active, especially elephants.

The Safari Experience

Our sources highlight that the morning safari is top-notch for animal sightings. Expect to spot elephants, water buffalo, and a variety of bird species, including peacocks and eagles. The reviews note that guides and drivers are well-informed, making sure you get close-up views of the animals and plenty of photo opportunities. One reviewer shared, “Our team made sure we saw all the animals we wanted,” emphasizing the attentive nature of the guides.

The landscape itself is picturesque—vast open grasslands, marshy wetlands, and patches of forest—perfect for wildlife photography. For birdwatchers, the diversity of species is a definite highlight.

Mid-Morning Break and Scenic Views

After the initial safari, there’s a short break at a scenic spot. This is a good chance to stretch, enjoy the surroundings, and perhaps have a snack or drink if you’ve brought some along. The landscape throughout the park is worth taking time to appreciate, with many visitors commenting on how stunning the views are.

Lunch and the Elephant Transit Home

Post-safari, you’ll head to a nearby restaurant for lunch, with options including rice and curry, lake fish, and vegetarian dishes. The value here lies in experiencing authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in a relaxed setting. Reviewers loved the local flavor, with one mentioning lake fish as a highlight.

After lunch, the tour takes you to the Elephant Transit Home (ETH). This sanctuary rehabilitates orphaned elephants, and visitors get to see these gentle giants being fed around 3:00 pm. The ETH is praised for its conservation work, and many travelers find it touching to witness elephants being cared for in such a dedicated environment. One reviewer appreciated the opportunity to learn about the center’s efforts, describing it as “a wonderful way to connect with Sri Lanka’s wildlife conservation.”

Return Trip and Drop-Off

After a fulfilling day, you’ll be driven back to your hotel in the Hirikatiya, Mirissa, Weligama, or Tangalle areas. The drive back typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on traffic and your hotel location. This relaxed end to the day allows you to reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters.

What You Need to Pack and Keep in Mind

Since this is a full-day adventure, packing essentials is key. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and binoculars—especially if you want the best animal sightings. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, and sturdy shoes suitable for off-road terrain.

The early start can be demanding, so a good night’s sleep beforehand helps. Because the tour is private and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, you avoid the cramming of larger group tours, making for a more relaxed experience.

Price and Value

At $99.99 per person, this tour offers an excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of private transport, a safari in a well-equipped vehicle, and the visit to the Elephant Transit Home. The only extra costs are the national park entrance fee and lunch, which are reasonable and typical for such excursions.

Authentic Experiences from Real Travelers

Reviewers consistently mention the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. One commented, “Naveen and his team were great. Best driver in Sri Lanka,” indicating how much a knowledgeable and personable guide can elevate the experience. Another remarked on how the guides’ expertise helped them see animals they might otherwise have missed.

The views along the drive and within the park are repeatedly highlighted as spectacular. Travelers loved the chance to capture wildlife close-up and appreciated the well-organized schedule that maximized park time while allowing for restful breaks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a concentrated experience in Sri Lanka’s famous national park. It suits photographers eager to capture elephants and birdlife in natural settings. It’s also perfect for families or couples looking for an authentic, manageable way to see Sri Lanka’s wilderness without sacrificing comfort.

If you’re short on time but want a full day of adventure, this tour packs in the highlights efficiently. It’s especially valuable for those staying in Ella or nearby areas, as the logistics are handled smoothly with hotel pickup.

The Sum Up

The Ella to Udawalawa Wildlife Safari and Drop Down South offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, animal encounters, and scenic views. With a strong focus on comfort, knowledgeable guides, and excellent value, it’s one of the most practical ways to experience Sri Lanka’s wildlife without extensive planning or multiple days’ commitment.

While the early start might be tough for some, the payoff in animal sightings and stunning landscapes makes it worth considering. Whether you’re a dedicated wildlife fan, a casual traveler, or someone eager to photograph elephants, this tour strikes a great balance between adventure and ease.

Overall, it’s a smart choice for those wanting a memorable day immersed in Sri Lanka’s wilderness, with the convenience of private transport and expert guides making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making your day hassle-free from the start.

What time does the tour start?
It begins very early, around 4:00 am, to maximize your time at Udawalawe.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included in the price, but there are options at nearby restaurants, and you might want to budget extra for it.

Do I need to pay for park entrance fees separately?
Yes, the entrance fee for Udawalawe National Park is not included and needs to be paid on the day.

What should I bring for the safari?
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, binoculars, and a camera with a zoom lens for wildlife photography.

How long is the entire trip?
The total duration is around six hours, including transport, safari, lunch, and Elephant Transit Home visit.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is family-friendly, especially if you enjoy wildlife and scenic drives.

Ready to see Sri Lanka’s wildlife in a compact, well-organized adventure? This tour could be your perfect day out in the country’s lush, animal-filled landscapes.