1-Day Tour of Both Yala and Udawalawe National Parks

Yala and Udawalawe in One Day: A Wildlife Adventure Through Sri Lanka’s Best

If you’re looking to experience Sri Lanka’s incredible wildlife diversity in just a day, this tour might be your best bet. For around $128 per person, you get the chance to visit both Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, starting early at 5 AM and spending about 12 hours immersed in the natural world. The tour includes a private guide and a rugged 4×4 vehicle, perfect for navigating the parks’ rough roads and spotting elusive animals.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines two of Sri Lanka’s top parks into one day, giving you a broader glimpse of the country’s fauna. The early start means catching the sunrise over Yala, which is spectacular and offers some of the best lighting for wildlife viewing. Plus, the chance to witness Udawalawe’s famous elephant herds in the late afternoon is a highlight—these parks are truly some of the best places to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

However, a consideration to keep in mind is the additional entrance fees, which aren’t included in the tour price. These can add up to around 26,000 LKR (roughly $80 USD), so it’s worth budgeting for that extra expense. Also, be prepared for a full day of early mornings and long drives, which might not suit everyone, especially those with back problems or who prefer more relaxed schedules.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive wildlife experience without spending multiple days on safari. If you’re eager to see leopards, elephants, water buffalo, and a variety of birdlife in a compact, guided format, this is definitely worth considering.

Key Points

• Visit two top national parks in one day for a broader wildlife experience
• Private guide and rugged 4×4 vehicle ensure personalized attention and better animal spotting
• Early start with sunrise viewing offers stunning lighting and peaceful wildlife encounters
• Includes transportation and picnic lunch, but park entrance fees are separate
• Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and excellent animal sightings, with some noting issues in communication about fees
• Ideal for travelers wanting a full-day adventure focused on wildlife, especially those comfortable with early mornings

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Full Experience: What to Expect

This tour is designed to maximize your time in Sri Lanka’s remarkable parks, but it’s important to understand how the day unfolds. Starting at 5 AM, you’ll be picked up from your hotel — this early start is key to catching the golden hours at Yala, when the early morning light illuminates the landscape and animals are most active.

Once you’re in the park, you’ll meet your private guide, who will be your eyes and ears throughout the safari. The vehicle—a sturdy 4×4—can handle the uneven terrain and provide good visibility for wildlife viewing. Expect to explore Yala’s diverse habitats, including light forests, grasslands, lagoons, and scrubs. Your guide will be on the lookout for leopards, which are the main attraction at Yala, along with water buffalo, jackals, and various bird species.

The sunrise at Yala is a particular highlight, offering a tranquil atmosphere and a chance to see animals waking up and foraging. Many reviews mention that guides are respectful of the animals, avoiding aggressive approaches, which makes the experience more authentic and less disruptive for wildlife.

Following the safari, a picnic lunch provides a break before heading to Udawalawe. Here, the focus shifts to elephants, with the park known for its large herds and high concentration of these gentle giants. Arriving around 2:30 PM, you’ll have time to explore until sunset at 6 PM. Guides will navigate the vast area, helping you spot deer, wild boar, crocodiles, and other wildlife in a different landscape—open plains and water bodies.

The overall pacing of the day is busy but rewarding. Expect plenty of animal sightings and photo opportunities, along with some long drives between parks. The morning at Yala tends to be slightly more dynamic due to the early light, while Udawalawe feels more relaxed but equally impressive.

Practical Details and Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

Transportation: The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which saves you the hassle of arranging your own transport. The private guide enhances the experience by offering insights and personalized attention.

Pricing and Fees: While the tour price is set at $128, it’s important to remember that the entrance fees—around 13,000 LKR for Yala and 11,000 LKR for Udawalawe—are not included. These fees are paid directly at the park entrances, often in cash, and can be a surprise if not prepared.

Timing: The 12-hour schedule is packed, so wear comfortable clothing, bring sun protection, and be ready for an early start. The best animal sightings generally occur during the early morning and late afternoon, making these times ideal for photography.

What to bring: A sun hat, camera, and water are essential. The tour provides a cool box and drinks, but you might want to carry extra snacks if you’re hungry between meals.

Activities not suitable for: Pregnant women and people with back problems should consider their comfort, as the rides can be bumpy and prolonged.

The Authenticity of the Experience: What Real Travelers Say

One review pointed out a common concern: hidden costs. Sascha-Louise noted that the guide didn’t clarify the high entrance fees beforehand, leading to some disappointment. They also mentioned that the guide was respectful of the animals but lacked detailed explanations about the parks and their wildlife. This points to an important aspect: if you’re seeking in-depth education about the animals and ecosystems, you might find this tour somewhat limited.

In contrast, another traveler, Vladan, praised the knowledgeable guide Tiki and described the day as “perfect from the morning”. According to this review, the guide was active in helping spot all kinds of animals and contributed to creating lasting memories. This shows that the quality of guiding can vary, and a good guide makes a significant difference.

The tour appears to deliver on animal sightings and a taste of Sri Lanka’s wilderness, but it’s essential to be aware of extra costs and the level of commentary provided.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the big cats, elephants, and a variety of other species in one day. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind early mornings and long hours in vehicles, provided they have a basic understanding that additional entrance fees are necessary.

Those looking for a guided, hassle-free day with professional transport and personalized attention will find this tour beneficial. However, if you want more in-depth animal education or a relaxed pace, you might want to consider longer, more specialized safaris or private guides.

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Final Thoughts

This 1-day tour of Yala and Udawalawe packs a lot of wildlife into a single day, making it perfect for those with limited time but a keen interest in Sri Lanka’s fauna and natural scenery. The expert guides and rugged vehicles improve your chances of seeing elusive animals, and the early start ensures you catch the parks at their most active.

While the additional entrance fees may feel like an unwelcome surprise, they are standard at Sri Lanka’s national parks and should be factored into your budget. The reviews highlight the importance of clear communication about costs and the value of a knowledgeable guide—both aspects that can make or break the experience.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, combining adventure, discovery, and beautiful scenery. It’s best for adventurous travelers who are happy to spend a full day in the outdoors, eager for memorable animal encounters and stunning vistas.

FAQ

Are park entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fees for Yala and Udawalawe are not included. Expect to pay around 13,000 LKR for Yala and 11,000 LKR for Udawalawe directly at the park gates.

What is the typical start time for this tour?
The tour generally starts around 5 AM, allowing you to enjoy sunrise at Yala and maximize wildlife viewing during the early hours.

How long is the total tour duration?
The full experience lasts about 12 hours, from hotel pickup to drop-off, including park exploration, meals, and transit.

Is this tour suitable for families or people with health issues?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but pregnant women and those with back problems should consider comfort, as the safari involves prolonged vehicle rides over rough terrain.

What should I bring with me?
Pack a sun hat, camera, water, and perhaps some snacks. The tour provides a cool box and drinks, but extra supplies can enhance your comfort.

Can I expect detailed explanations about the animals?
While guides are knowledgeable, some reviews mention they did not always provide in-depth commentary. If detailed education is important, clarify this beforehand.

Is this tour flexible?
You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility to fit your travel plans without immediate commitment.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical, full-day snapshot of Sri Lanka’s diverse and vibrant wildlife. With a good guide and the right expectations, you’ll leave with memorable sights of elephants, leopards, and a host of birds, and a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty that makes Sri Lanka a top safari destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: