Ella: Shuttle to Tangalle, Mirissa, Galle & Udawalawe Safari
If you’re making your way from Ella southward, this combined transfer and safari package offers a straightforward way to see some of Sri Lanka’s wildlife while heading to the coast. For $52 per person, you’ll enjoy a door-to-door shuttle that drops you off at popular beach towns like Tangalle, Hiriketiya, Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, and Galle. Included in the experience is a 3-hour safari in Udawalawe National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most reliable elephant-spotting locations.
We love how this experience combines convenience with a chance to see wildlife in action — it’s particularly well-suited if you’re short on time but still want a taste of wildlife-rich Sri Lanka. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drive comfortable, and the safari offers some great photo opportunities. On the flip side, a word of caution: the driver’s safety practices vary, and some reviews highlight issues with reckless driving.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want value for money and a well-organized transfer combined with a wildlife adventure. If you’re comfortable with a flexible schedule and are eager to see elephants and birds in a natural setting, this could be just what you need. But if road safety is a priority, you’d want to read on about the experiences others have had.
Key Points
- Convenient door-to-door transfer from Ella to the South Coast or Galle.
- 3-hour wildlife safari in Udawalawe National Park, renowned for elephants and birdlife.
- Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a driver/guide.
- Additional costs like park entrance fees are not included, so budget extra.
- Some driver safety issues reported, so be aware of varying experiences.
- Tours are available in English, with flexible booking options—pay later, if you like.
An In-Depth Look at the Ella to South Coast & Udawalawe Safari Experience
Taking this combined shuttle and safari offers a smooth way to move from the lush hill country of Ella to Sri Lanka’s sunny southern beaches. For $52, you get a door-to-door service that alleviates the hassle of figuring out local transport, plus a chance to see elephants and wildlife in Udawalawe — a real highlight for animal lovers.
Starting in Ella, the pickup is typically from your hotel or accommodation, and the journey begins early enough to maximize your time at Udawalawe National Park. The highlight here is the safari, which lasts about 3 hours. You’ll switch to an open-concept jeep for the best views, which means plenty of room for your camera and a better chance of spotting wildlife at close range.
In the reviews, many travelers mention the expertise of guides like Pathum, who were praised for their ability to spot animals and share interesting facts. You can expect to see herds of elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, water buffaloes, and a variety of endemic bird species. It’s a perfect stop for nature enthusiasts, or anyone wanting an authentic wildlife experience without paying for a dedicated tour.
After the safari, the journey continues, usually heading toward popular beach towns like Mirissa or Tangalle. The air-conditioned vehicle provides comfort during the long drive, and you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or accommodation. This is especially handy if you’re planning to relax on the beaches or explore the coast afterward.
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What to Expect During the Safari
The safari in Udawalawe is the centerpiece of this experience. The early start ensures you catch the animals during their most active times — elephants are often seen in herds, and your guide will be skilled at locating the best sightings. Several reviews highlight the quality of the wildlife viewing:
- One traveler noted, “Pathum was good at both driving and spotting animals, and we saw lots of elephants and monkeys.”
- Others appreciated the speed and safety of their driver, mentioning that their guide was able to find animals efficiently, making the trip worthwhile.
However, some reviews raised concerns about driver behavior. One traveler described their driver as speeding aggressively to make deadlines and expressed feeling unsafe due to reckless driving. This inconsistency highlights the importance of being aware and, if you’re sensitive to safety issues, perhaps discussing your preferences with the driver beforehand.
The Journey from Ella to the South
The transfer itself is designed for ease and comfort. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making long hours on the road more bearable. The route takes you through scenic countryside, with glimpses of rice fields, small villages, and lush greenery.
Most travelers appreciate the door-to-door service, which means no lugging luggage around or navigating unfamiliar public transport. The driver/guide also provides some commentary along the way, sharing insights about Sri Lanka’s wildlife and local culture — a bonus for curious travelers.
It’s worth noting that entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park are not included in the base price — currently around $37 USD — so be prepared for that additional expense. Some reviews mention paying extra fees and feeling the trip becomes pricier than expected, especially when factoring in optional tips or additional transportation costs to certain beaches.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is best suited for travelers who value convenience over independence. If you want a stress-free transfer combined with a wildlife safari, and you’re comfortable with some variability in driver behavior, you’ll appreciate how smoothly it all comes together.
Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will love the chance to capture elephants and other animals, especially considering the well-reviewed guides who are keen to spot wildlife.
But, if road safety or driver professionalism is a top concern, you may want to consider other options or clarify expectations beforehand. Given that some travelers found the driving too aggressive, it’s wise to be prepared for a bumpy ride in that respect.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Tips for Your Trip
- Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Bring extra cash for park entrance fees and any tips you wish to give guides or drivers.
- Bring your camera or binoculars — wildlife sightings happen quickly and require good optics.
- Bring some snacks or breakfast if you want to avoid waiting until after the safari for food, as some reviews suggest no food is available during the safari itself.
- Be prepared for the possibility of reckless driving; communicate your safety preferences if needed.
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Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This shuttle and safari combo offers a practical way to see Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants while heading coastward. It’s especially ideal if you appreciate organized transportation, want to avoid the hassle of local taxis, and are eager to combine wildlife viewing with your journey.
Travelers who value guides with good animal-spotting skills and enjoy the comfort of air conditioning will find this a worthwhile option. On the other hand, those who prioritize safe driving and driver professionalism should weigh the mixed reviews about driver safety.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for independent travelers looking to add a wildlife experience to their coastal trip, provided they’re aware of the extra costs and some variability in driver safety.
FAQs
Is the safari in Udawalawe included in the price?
No, the safari itself is included, but entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park (around $37 USD) are paid separately.
What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is provided in English.
Can I cancel the booking later?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems?
No, this tour is not recommended for pregnant women or those with back issues.
What happens if the driver is late?
While some travelers experienced late pickups, the company is typically responsive, and drivers often make up lost time. Still, it’s good to confirm pickup times in advance.
How long is the safari?
The safari lasts approximately 3 hours, giving ample time for wildlife spotting.
What should I bring?
Bring cash for extra fees, a camera, binoculars, and perhaps some snacks for before or after the safari.
Are tips expected?
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; if you’re pleased with your guide or driver, a small tip is appreciated.
What are the main highlights of this experience?
The wildlife viewing, especially elephants, the comfort of air-conditioned transport, and the door-to-door convenience are the key selling points.
In a nutshell, this tour offers a great way to combine wildlife adventures with a hassle-free transfer. Just stay aware of the safety concerns voiced by some travelers, and you’ll likely find it an enjoyable part of your Sri Lankan journey.
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