Ella, Sri Lanka, is a favorite for travelers craving stunning mountain views, lush tea plantations, and outdoor adventures. Its compact size and diverse attractions make it an ideal base for 2-day tours. Whether you’re seeking wildlife safaris, waterfall swims, or breathtaking hikes, Ella offers options that fit different interests and budgets. I personally love how tours like the 2-Day Ella and Yala Safari combine nature, wildlife, and history, giving you a taste of Sri Lanka’s wild side in just a couple of days. Plus, the chance to spot leopards, elephants, and sloth bears makes it an especially appealing choice for animal lovers.
Some tours emphasize scenic landscapes, like the Diyaluma Falls, Horton Plains & Scenic Train, blending hikes, waterfalls, and a relaxing train ride for a well-rounded experience. Others focus on active exploration, like hiking Ella Rock or visiting Lipton’s Seat, perfect if you’re into outdoor adventures. No matter your style, Ella’s 2-day tours provide memorable ways to learn about Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
1. 2-Day Ella and Yala Safari: Tour from Colombo
This tour offers an incredible mix of wildlife safaris, waterfalls, and cultural sites. Starting from Colombo or Negombo, you’ll journey to Ella for an overnight stay, then head into Yala National Park for a safari adventure. The experience includes visits to the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, where you can marvel at the engineering marvel that seems to defy gravity, and Ravana Falls, perfect for a quick photo or a splash in its cascading waters. The tour also takes you to the Pedro Tea Factory, where you’ll learn about Sri Lanka’s famous tea-making process, which is worth the visit even if you’re not a tea fanatic.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of nature and culture. The safari in Yala is the highlight, with chances to spot leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. Reviews praise the smooth logistics and knowledgeable guides. At $380 per person, it’s an investment, but the wildlife experience is top-notch for those who want to see Sri Lanka’s iconic animals in the wild. The tour’s flexible pickup and drop-off points add to its convenience, especially if you’re based in Colombo or Negombo.
Bottom Line: Great for wildlife enthusiasts who want a full package of parks, waterfalls, and cultural sights—all in two days.
$380 per person
2. 2-Day Ella Tour: Diyaluma Falls, Horton Plains & Scenic Train
This tour balances adventure and relaxation with visits to Diyaluma Falls, Horton Plains, and a scenic train ride. Starting from Ella, you’ll take a dip in the natural pools at Diyaluma Falls, which is a highlight for many. The hike through Horton Plains to World’s End provides some of the most breathtaking views in Sri Lanka. The panoramic vistas of tea plantations and valleys at Lipton’s Seat are a rewarding finish to the day.
What makes this tour special is the combination of trekking, waterfall swimming, and a relaxing train journey. The train ride offers tranquil views of the hillside tea plantations, making this a perfect pick for travelers who enjoy both active days and gentle moments. At just $120 per person, it’s fantastic value, especially considering the inclusion of multiple attractions and the scenic train experience.
A review notes, “Hiking Horton Plains was a highlight, and the views from Lipton’s Seat are unforgettable,” which sums up how this tour appeals to those craving outdoor exploration. It’s suited for active travelers who want a mix of nature, easy hikes, and scenic transport.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for budget-conscious adventure seekers eager to experience waterfalls, plains, and mountain vistas.
$120 per person
3. Ella 2 Day Tour: Hikes, Waterfalls, Adventure Activities
This tour dives into Ella’s outdoor highlights, including a hike to Ella Rock, exploring Little Adam’s Peak, and walking across the famous Nine Arch Bridge. It also features adventure activities at Flying Ravana Adventure Park, making it perfect for thrill-seekers.
The guide, Danuj, is praised for his flexibility and local knowledge, often tailoring the day to avoid crowds or catch sunset views. The tour also visits Adisham Bungalow and Lipton’s Seat in Haputale, providing cultural and scenic stops. The highlights include Diyaluma Falls and the tranquil Blue Pond, adding varied experiences.
At $80 per person, it offers great value, especially for those who want an active, full-day experience with a personal touch. The review quotes, “Danuj was very friendly and knew the best routes,” emphasizing the local expertise involved.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for active travelers wanting to maximize outdoor adventures with personalized guides.
$80 per person
4. Ella 2 Day Tour (Private Group Tour)
This private tour offers the same highlights as the group version but caters to small groups of up to three people for a more personalized experience. Starting from Ella, you’ll hike Ella Rock, explore Little Adams Peak, and visit Nine Arch Bridge with your guide customizing the itinerary to your pace.
The key advantage here is the personalized attention and flexibility. The guide is highly rated, with reviews noting the guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude. For $150 per group, it’s an affordable way for couples or small groups to enjoy Ella’s top sights without the hassle of large tour groups.
What sets this apart is the ability to tailor the trip, whether you want more hiking or cultural stops. The itinerary includes Lipton’s Seat and Diyaluma Falls, making it a comprehensive option.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups or couples seeking a flexible, private experience with a personal guide.
$150 per group up to 3
5. Ella: Udawalawe, Yala National Parks 2-Day Tour & Transfers
For wildlife lovers wanting more than just one park, this tour combines Udawalawe and Yala National Parks. Starting from Ella, you’ll enjoy a jeep safari in Udawalawe, famous for its large elephant populations, then move to Yala for a second safari where chances to see leopards, elephants, and sloth bears are high.
Highlights include a visit to Rawana Falls along the way and the chance to see Sri Lanka’s big mammals in their natural habitat. The tour costs $340 per person, and reviews note the smooth organization and knowledgeable guides. The combination of two parks offers a comprehensive wildlife experience in just two days.
It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who want variety and high chances of animal sightings. The package also includes hotel transfers, making logistics simple.
Bottom Line: A solid pick for wildlife aficionados wanting two parks in one trip, with good value for the extensive safari experience.
$340 per person
6. From Ella: 2-Day Tour to Nuwara Eliya and Kandy with Drop
This tour takes you beyond Ella into Nuwara Eliya’s colonial charm and the Kandy Temple of the Tooth, with stops at the Ambuluwawa Tower and the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. Starting from Ella, it’s perfect for those who want a cultural break amid scenic hill country landscapes.
The trip includes tea heritage visits and allows you to soak in Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural diversity. At $235 per person, it offers a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation.
Guests rave about the scenic views and the chance to see Sri Lanka’s tea-growing region. It’s best suited for travelers interested in culture, history, and gardens, rather than outdoor adventure.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a cultural and scenic tour that showcases Sri Lanka’s hill country.
$235 per person
7. From Ella: 2-Day Yala Park Safari & Transfer to Beach
This tour combines Yala Safari with a transfer to the southern beaches like Tangalle or Mirissa. Starting from Ella, you’ll go on a jeep safari in Yala, then enjoy a relaxing transfer to the beach.
Highlights include Rawana Falls and sightings of leopards, elephants, and even the elusive Fishing Cat. The tour costs $300 per person and is perfect for those wanting wildlife and a beach break in one trip.
It’s ideal if you want a wildlife adventure and then unwind at the coast. The guide’s local expertise ensures good wildlife sightings, and the drop-off flexibility is convenient.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers combining safari adventures with a beach holiday.
$300 per person
8. From Ella: 2-Day Yala Park Safari with Arugam Bay Drop-off
This tour offers a classic Yala safari experience with the added bonus of a drop-off at Arugam Bay, famous for surfing and beaches. Starting from Ella, you’ll enjoy a second safari in Yala and then visit the coast.
It’s perfect for adventure surfers or beach lovers who want to combine wildlife with ocean waves. The safari includes sightings of leopards, elephants, and sloth bears, with a focus on quality game viewing. The $300 price includes the safari and transfer.
This tour is suitable for those with limited time who want both animal encounters and beach relaxation without multiple trips or transfers.
Bottom Line: Excellent for wildlife enthusiasts planning to continue to the coast afterward.
$300 per person
9. From Ella: Udawalawe & Yala National Parks 2-Day Tour
Finally, this package combines Udawalawe and Yala for a full wildlife immersion. Starting from Ella, you’ll visit Udawalawe’s large elephant herds and then enjoy a Yala safari to increase your chances of spotting big cats and other iconic animals.
The tour costs $340 and includes hotel stays in Yala. Reviewers mention the comfortable accommodations and expert guides. It’s perfect for those who want a detailed wildlife experience over two days, with plenty of time in the parks.
Bottom Line: Best for wildlife-focused travelers wanting a comprehensive safari experience with comfortable lodging.
$340 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Ella 2-Day Tour
When selecting a tour, consider what excites you most—wildlife safaris, waterfalls, or cultural sites. For wildlife lovers with limited time, the 2-Day Ella and Yala Safari offers the most comprehensive wildlife experience. If outdoor adventures appeal more, the Hikes, Waterfalls, Adventure Activities combines hiking and scenic views at a budget-friendly price.
Budget travelers might prefer the Diyaluma Falls, Horton Plains & Scenic Train, while those seeking privacy or a tailored experience should consider the Private Group Tour. For a mix of culture and nature, the Nuwara Eliya and Kandy trip is excellent.
Think about your interests, fitness level, and whether you prefer active hikes or relaxing safaris. Booking early, especially during peak months, guarantees availability for these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Ella offers a range of 2-day tours that suit active explorers, wildlife enthusiasts, and culture lovers alike. For those wanting an adventure-packed, wildlife-focused trip, the Yala Safari tours and the combined Udawalawe & Yala safaris deliver unforgettable animal encounters. If scenery and hiking are more your style, options like the Diyaluma Falls & Horton Plains showcase the best of Sri Lanka’s mountain landscapes.
No matter which tour you choose, Ella’s natural beauty and variety of experiences make it a perfect two-day escape. Be sure to book early, as these tours are popular with travelers seeking authentic and memorable adventures.