Ella: Udawalawe, Yala National Parks 2-Day Tour & Transfers

Travelers eager to explore Sri Lanka’s wildlife and scenic beauty will find this 2-day tour from Ella offers a well-rounded, immersive experience. Covering two of the country’s most renowned national parks—Udawalawe and Yala—along with cultural highlights like traditional stilt fishing, it’s a practical choice for those looking to see diverse animals, stunning landscapes, and local traditions without a hassle.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the large populations of elephants at Udawalawe make for memorable safaris. Second, the chance to spot elusive leopards at Yala adds an exciting thrill. Third, the visit to Rawana Falls offers a peaceful moment amid lush surroundings. However, be aware that the tour requires early mornings and involves multiple long drives, which might be tiring for some travelers. It’s best suited for those with a keen interest in wildlife, nature, and authentic cultural experiences.

Good To Know

• Wildlife encounters at Udawalawe include elephants, buffalo, and water birds.
• Yala’s diversity offers sightings of leopards, sloth bears, and rare species like fishing cats.
• Scenic stops include Rawana Falls and traditional stilt fishing in Weligama.
• The comfortable transport and included accommodations offer value and convenience.
• The price covers safaris, hotel stay, transfers, and taxes but not park entrance fees.
• Early mornings are required for the best wildlife viewing, so prepare accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and What to Expect

This 2-day tour is designed to maximize your exposure to Sri Lanka’s vibrant parks and local culture with the convenience of private transport and guided safaris. It offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight.

The tour begins in Ella—a small town known for its lush landscapes and cool mountain air—and takes you on a scenic journey to the country’s wildlife hotspots. The entire trip is organized around well-timed safaris and sightseeing, so you’ll get plenty of opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitat, all while enjoying the comfort of air-conditioned vehicles.

Day 1: Ella to Udawalawe and Yala

Rawana Falls: A Stunning First Stop

The tour kicks off at 8:00 am with a visit to Rawana Falls, a waterfall that tumbles about 25 meters down into a lush green basin. Guests report that this spot is perfect for photos and stretching your legs after the drive from Ella. The waterfalls are surrounded by trees and often attract local birdlife, making it a peaceful start. We loved the way the falls are set against the backdrop of jungle, making it an ideal picture moment.

Safari at Udawalawe National Park

Around 10:30 am, you’ll arrive at Udawalawe National Park for a 3-hour game drive. Known for its large elephant population, the park is a favorite among wildlife lovers. Reviewers consistently mention elephants as the main highlight—”You really get close to herds of elephants, which is incredible,” one guest shared. Besides elephants, you might spot water buffalo, monkeys, and a variety of bird species including kingfishers and eagles. Although leopards are rarely seen, there’s always a chance if you’re lucky.

The safari Jeep—exclusive to your group—provides a comfortable, open-air view so you can scan the plains effortlessly. Guides are generally knowledgeable and able to share interesting facts about the park’s flora and fauna, which enhances the experience. Keep in mind that the park’s entrance fee (~$35) isn’t included in the tour price, so budget accordingly.

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Transfer to Yala and Overnight Stay

Post-safari, the journey continues to Yala National Park, where you’ll check into a hotel on a Bed & Breakfast basis. The drive takes around 3.5 hours, giving you the chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. The hotel stay offers a cozy spot to unwind after a busy day of travel, and many guests mention that the accommodations are comfortable and well-situated for the next day’s early start.

Day 2: Yala Safari and Weligama

Early Morning Safari at Yala

The next day begins at 5:30 am with an early morning safari in Yala, arguably Sri Lanka’s most famous national park. This park is renowned for its significant leopard population, and many reviewers say it’s the best place in the country to see these elusive cats. The morning light over the landscape adds to the thrill, and guides often point out rare species such as the Red Slender Loris or Golden Palm Civet.

During this safari, you’ll also have opportunities to see sloth bears, elephants, and wild water buffalo. With 32 mammal species and over 125 bird species, Yala is truly a biodiversity hotspot. The guides tend to be attentive, making sure you don’t miss the key sightings. Expect this safari to be about 3 hours, after which you’ll head out of the park to continue your journey south.

Weligama and Traditional Stilt Fishing

By 11:30 am, you’ll stop in Weligama, a coastal town famous for its traditional fishing method—stilt fishing. Here, fishermen balance on wooden poles stuck into the shallow waters to cast their lines. Guests often find it fascinating to watch this centuries-old tradition, and some even try their hand at it after observing local fishermen. The experience offers not only a look at local life but also stunning views of the sea.

Drop-off at Beach Destinations

After witnessing the fishing, the tour concludes with a drop-off at your chosen southern beach, whether it’s Mirissa, Galle, Hikkaduwa, or other nearby spots. This flexibility allows travelers to seamlessly transition from wildlife adventures to relaxing days on the beach.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package offers excellent value, especially considering the included accommodation, private transportation, and safaris. The price of US$340 covers one night at a 3- or 4-star hotel, all transportation in a luxury vehicle, and safari Jeep charges at Udawalawe and Yala.

However, the park entrance fees (~$35 each) are not included, so travelers should be prepared for these extra costs. Also, meals during the tour are not covered, giving you flexibility to explore local eateries or pack some snacks.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing is crucial—early starts mean you’ll need to wake up before dawn, but this is the best time to see wildlife.
• Comfortable shoes and sun protection are essential, especially during safaris and outdoor sightseeing.
• Bringing a camera with zoom will help you capture those elusive animals.
• Water and refreshments are included, but it’s wise to carry additional snacks.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with back problems, largely due to early mornings and bumpy rides.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest remarked, “The safari in Udawalawe was memorable—I loved seeing the elephants up close.” Another noted, “Yala’s leopard sightings are hit or miss, but the landscape alone is worth it.” Many appreciated the comfortable transport and the knowledgeable guides who kept the experience engaging.

The focus on scenic stops like Rawana Falls and the unique cultural experience of stilt fishing creates a well-rounded trip. Guests also appreciated the flexibility to be dropped off at different beaches, making this a smooth addition to a broader Sri Lankan itinerary.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Ella offers a balanced mix of wildlife adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Sri Lanka’s iconic animals like elephants and leopards while enjoying some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes and traditional practices.

The organized logistics, private transport, and included safaris make it a convenient choice—especially for those short on time or seeking hassle-free planning. While early mornings and long drives are part of the package, the rewards—up-close animal sightings and stunning scenery—are well worth it.

If you’re wildlife-oriented, eager to experience authentic local traditions, and comfortable with some travel time, this tour provides excellent value and a memorable Sri Lankan adventure.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts for 2 days, with starting times based on availability. It includes one night’s stay at a hotel in Yala and transfers between locations.

Are meals included?
No, meals during the tour are not included. Guests should plan to have lunch or dinner at local restaurants or bring snacks.

What animals might I see during the safaris?
You can expect to see elephants, water buffalo, monkeys, and a variety of birds at Udawalawe. In Yala, chances to spot leopards, sloth bears, and rare species like the Fishing Cat are high.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or people with back problems due to early starts and bumpy rides.

How much do park entrance fees cost?
The entrance fees are approximately US$35 per person for each park and are paid separately.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water. It’s also helpful to have a zoom lens for wildlife photography.

Can I be dropped off at different beaches?
Yes, the tour finishes with a drop-off at your preferred southern beach destination, including Mirissa, Galle, or Hikkaduwa.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, all transfers are in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle, providing a smooth and comfortable ride throughout the trip.

This tour offers a fantastic introduction to Sri Lanka’s wildlife and culture in a well-organized package—perfect for travelers wanting authentic experiences with minimal fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby