Udawalawa is a fantastic place to explore with the help of a private driver. Whether you’re eager to see the famous elephants at Udawalawe National Park or simply want a smooth transfer between cities, your options are plentiful. We especially like the private safaris, which combine comfort with personalized wildlife viewing—imagine spotting elephants, crocodiles, and water buffalo from a 4×4 vehicle with a knowledgeable guide. These tours make it easy to experience Sri Lanka’s wildlife without the hassle of public transportation or crowded group trips. For a seamless journey, the Udawalawe City to Hikkaduwa City Private Transfer offers a hassle-free ride after your safari, ensuring you arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy the beach.
If you’re planning your trip, consider what kind of experience suits you best—whether it’s an immersive safari or a quick transfer. The options below cover a range of needs and budgets, from full-day safaris to short, private transfers, all with great reviews and reliable service.
1. Hikkaduwa/Galle/Mirissa : Transfer to Ella & Udawalawe safari
At number one, this transfer and safari combo offers a full day of adventure and convenience. Starting with pickups from popular beach towns like Hikkaduwa, Galle, and Mirissa, the tour heads inland for an approximately 8-hour journey that culminates at Udawalawe National Park. This service is perfect if you want to combine a scenic drive with a wildlife safari, all handled in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle. Your naturalist guide, fluent in English, will share insights about the park’s diverse animals, including elephants, crocodiles, and water buffalo.
What sets this tour apart is its flexibility—pick-up locations are numerous, and the private nature means you set your own pace. The $95 per person price includes snacks and bottled water, with entry tickets payable separately. Multiple reviewers praise the professionalism and friendliness of the driver, noting how smooth the whole process was. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a guided experience that combines sightseeing with wildlife viewing, without sacrificing comfort or control.
Bottom line: If you prefer a comprehensive day trip that covers multiple locations and wildlife spotting, this is a top choice.
2. Udawalawa Safari(3-4hours) – Private Jeep with Experienced Driver
Number two features a shorter, more intimate safari offered at a very reasonable price. For around $45 per group (up to 6 people), you get a private 4-hour jeep tour into Udawalawe National Park, led by an experienced driver who knows the park inside and out. This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but still want to see Sri Lanka’s famous elephants and other wildlife like leopards, jackals, and wild boar.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on personalized attention—your driver shares insights about the park’s ecology and animal behavior, making the experience more educational. The rugged 4×4 vehicle provides access to areas larger tour buses can’t reach, increasing your chances of wildlife sightings. Guests consistently comment on how knowledgeable and friendly the drivers are, and how the trip exceeded expectations even within a few hours.
This tour is best suited for travelers on a budget or those with limited time who still want an authentic wildlife experience. Keep in mind, admission tickets are not included, so budget extra for entry.
Bottom line: A compact, cost-effective safari for animal lovers who want a personal experience without sacrificing quality.
3. Udawalawe City to Hikkaduwa City Private Transfer
The third option offers a straightforward private transfer from Udawalawe to Hikkaduwa, costing around $62 per person. This 3 to 4-hour service is perfect if your main goal is to travel comfortably between these popular destinations without the stress of navigating Sri Lanka’s roads yourself. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and the driver is professional and friendly, making your journey smooth and hassle-free.
While this isn’t a tour in the traditional sense, it’s ideal for travelers who want a reliable, private way to get from one city to another—especially after a day of safari or wildlife spotting. Reviews highlight the punctuality and courteous service, making this an excellent choice for those who value comfort and efficiency over sightseeing.
This transfer is perfect if you’re wrapping up your wildlife adventure in Udawalawe and heading toward the beaches of Hikkaduwa without fuss. Remember, it’s a private ride, so you can stop for photos or a quick break along the way.
Bottom line: The best pick for travelers prioritizing comfort and convenience over sightseeing.
$62.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Private Driver Service in Udawalawa
When selecting your private driver service, think about your trip priorities: Are you eager to see wildlife and spend a full day in the park? The Udawalawe safari offers an affordable, intimate experience perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. Or perhaps you want a seamless transfer after your safari—then the Udawalawa City to Hikkaduwa transfer is your best option.
Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the shorter safari, while those seeking a more comprehensive experience might opt for the full-day transfer and safari combo. Consider your schedule, interests, and how much time you want to spend exploring versus relaxing.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons when these private services are in high demand. Also, check if admission tickets are included or need to be purchased separately to avoid surprises.
Final Thoughts
Udawalawa offers a surprising variety of private driver services tailored to different interests and schedules. If wildlife viewing is your top priority, the full-day transfer with safari provides a well-rounded experience, while the shorter jeep safari delivers excellent value for wildlife enthusiasts short on time. For a simple, comfortable ride between cities, the private transfer delivers peace of mind.
Whatever you choose, booking ahead ensures you get the most out of your trip. With these reliable options, you’ll find yourself enjoying Sri Lanka’s incredible wildlife and scenery without any stress. Happy travels!