All Inclusive Yala/Udawalawa Safari From Ella, Mirissa,Hiriketiya

Experience the Wild in Sri Lanka: Yala and Udawalawe Safaris from Ella, Mirissa, and Hiriketiya

Imagine waking up early in Sri Lanka’s lush hills, jumping into a comfortable vehicle, and heading out for a day packed with wildlife encounters. For $99 per person, this all-inclusive safari offers a chance to see elephants, leopards, bears, and more in two of the country’s most renowned national parks—Yala and Udawalawe. The tour spans approximately 8.5 hours, with options for morning, evening, or full-day adventures.

What we love about this experience is how well it combines convenience with authentic wildlife viewing. The private transportation ensures a smooth journey, and the flexibility to tailor the safari to your needs makes it feel personalized. Plus, the inclusion of breakfast, bottled water, and snacks means you’re well-fed and refreshed as you explore.

A small caveat: The tour’s success hinges on weather conditions, especially when aiming for optimal animal sightings. Rain or overcast skies might reduce the number of visible animals, but experienced guides tend to know the best spots and times for sightings.

This tour suits travelers who want a value-packed, comfortable, and well-organized safari experience—especially those eager to maximize their wildlife sightings without sacrificing comfort or breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Flexible options for half-day or full-day safaris cater to different schedules.
• Private transport means avoiding crowded tours and enjoying a tailored experience.
• Expert guides are praised for their knowledge and dedication to helping you see wildlife.
• Early morning pick-ups maximize chances of spotting elusive animals, like leopards.
• All-inclusive package with breakfast, snacks, and bottled water adds convenience.
• Cancellable with ease up to 24 hours before departure, offering peace of mind.

A Deep Dive into the Sri Lankan Safari Experience

When considering a safari in Sri Lanka, it’s essential to understand what each park offers and what makes this tour stand out. The itinerary combines visits to Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Park, two of the country’s top wildlife spots, both famous for their animal diversity and scenic landscapes.

Yala National Park: The Leopard’s Playground

The Yala Safari is often the highlight, especially for spotting leopards—Sri Lanka’s most elusive big cats. The tour specifies options for both morning and evening safaris, with the 12-hour full-day option allowing you to explore multiple “blocks” like 5 & 6, known for higher animal densities and quieter trails.

Based on reviews, guides like Dylan are praised for their local knowledge and dedication. One traveler shared, “The guides knew exactly when and where to go and really cared about making it a memorable day,” highlighting the importance of a helpful guide in such a wildlife-focused adventure.

Expect to see elephants, deer, monkeys, and a variety of birds. Some guests have reported close encounters—like elephants just 30cm away—and even the chance to observe bears and leopards if luck is on your side. The parks are large, and guides will do their best to optimize the sightings, especially in quiet areas away from the crowds.

Udawalawe National Park: Elephant Haven

The second stop, Udawalawe, is renowned for its large herds of elephants. The park was created to provide a sanctuary for displaced wildlife, and it remains one of the best places in Sri Lanka to observe these majestic creatures up close. The 3-hour safari allows ample time to watch elephants in their natural habitat, often gathering near waterholes.

Guests have commended the professionalism of the guides and the comfortable transportation. One reviewer noted, “We were really lucky and got to see a leopard in Yala, but Udawalawe is all about elephants—up close and personal.”

The Transportation and Food

The tour offers private transportation, which we find essential for a stress-free day—no waiting around for other groups or feeling rushed. Pickup times vary, with early mornings at 4:00 am for full-day or morning safaris, which is crucial for catching the animals when they’re most active.

Included in the package is breakfast, a thoughtful touch that gets you started early. Snacks and bottled water keep you energized during the day. The reviews repeatedly highlight how all logistics are well-organized, making the day flow smoothly.

The Value of Guided Wildlife Tours

Guides like Dylan are praised for their knowledgeable commentary, helping travelers identify animals and learn about their behaviors. Their local expertise is invaluable, especially in parks as vast and sometimes confusing as Yala. The reviews echo this sentiment repeatedly, calling guides “friendly” and “professional,” with some even going above and beyond—like getting medicine for a sick child or adapting plans on the fly.

Practical Considerations

The price of $99 per person, including transport, breakfast, water, and snacks, is impressive considering the full-day adventure and the possibility of spotting big cats and elephants. However, keep in mind that lunch is not included, so you might want to bring extra snacks or plan for a meal afterward.

Weather can influence the experience. Rainy nights might make animal sightings more challenging, but experienced guides often know the best spots to visit and times to go. It’s wise to remain flexible and have realistic expectations—wildlife is unpredictable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who appreciates guided expertise and comfort, this safari will fit you perfectly. It’s ideal for travelers who want to maximize sightings without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Wildlife lovers, especially those eager to see leopards and elephants, will find this tour rewarding.

It’s also a good choice if you prefer private transport and a personalized experience, rather than large group safaris. The inclusion of breakfast and snacks adds to the value, especially for those on a tight schedule or budget.

The Sum Up: Why Choose This Safari?

This tour combines professional guides, private transportation, and well-organized logistics to make a wildlife adventure both accessible and memorable. For just under $100, you get to explore Sri Lanka’s most famous parks with the chance to see incredible animals in their natural environment.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want to avoid the chaos of crowded safaris but still crave authentic encounters. The flexibility to choose between morning, evening, or full-day safaris makes this experience adaptable to your interests and attention span.

The reviews show that guides like Dylan truly make a difference, ensuring you have the best chances to see elusive animals and learn about their habits. The inclusion of breakfast, snacks, and bottled water keeps the experience both comfortable and convenient.

Overall, if you’re after an affordable, well-guided, and packed-with-wildlife safari experience in Sri Lanka, this tour offers serious value—and some unforgettable moments with nature.

FAQ

What parks are included in this tour?
The tour visits Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Park, both known for their impressive wildlife and scenic landscapes.

How long is the safari?
You can choose between a 4-hour Yala safari, a 3-hour Udawalawe safari, or a full-day 12-hour combined experience. The full-day option maximizes wildlife sightings.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation, breakfast, bottled water, and snacks. Lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. This offers flexibility if your plans change or the weather looks poor.

What time does the tour start?
The morning safari begins with pickup at 4:00 am, while the evening safari starts around 10:30 am. The full-day safari commences early to maximize animal sightings.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It requires moderate physical fitness, mainly because you’ll be sitting in a vehicle for several hours and may need to navigate some uneven terrain during park drives.

How experienced are the guides?
Guides like Dylan are highly praised for their local knowledge, dedication, and friendly attitude. Many reviews emphasize their ability to spot animals and make the day special.

Will I see leopards?
While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, many guests have reported seeing leopards, especially in Yala’s quieter blocks and with the guides’ expertise.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and consider bringing a hat, sunscreen, and camera gear. Since breakfast is included, you may want to bring extra snacks or a small cooler for drinks.

In summary, this safari tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized, and value-packed way to experience Sri Lanka’s incredible wildlife with knowledgeable guides. It’s perfect for travelers looking to enjoy up-close animal encounters without the stress of planning every detail themselves. Expect early mornings, scenic drives, and hopefully, some terrific animal sightings—creating memories to last a lifetime.