From Ella: 2-Day Yala Park Safari with Arugam Bay Drop-off

If you’re traveling from Ella and craving a close encounter with Sri Lanka’s famous wildlife, this 2-day Yala National Park safari is a compelling choice. For $300 per person, you’ll spend two days exploring Yala’s diverse habitats, with chances to see leopards, elephants, and sloth bears — all while enjoying the comfort of private, air-conditioned transport. Plus, the tour ends with a leisurely drop-off at Arugam Bay, giving you a chance to relax on Sri Lanka’s famed surf coast afterward.

What we love about this trip are the scenic drives and the organized logistics that make wildlife viewing stress-free, as well as the hotel stay in Yala on a B&B basis, offering rest and reflection after a day in the wild. The scenic stop at Rawana Falls provides a refreshing change of scenery and a chance to stretch the legs.

One possible consideration is that entrance fees to Yala aren’t included in the base price, so budget about $35 extra per person. Also, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, which is important for sensitive travelers to note. This tour suits nature lovers, first-time safari visitors, or anyone eager to combine wildlife with a scenic Sri Lankan road trip.

Key Points

• Wildlife Viewing: Chance to see leopards, elephants, and sloth bears in their natural environment.
• Comfortable Transport: Private, air-conditioned vehicles ensure a relaxed journey.
• Scenic Stops: Includes a stop at Rawana Falls for photos and a break.
• Hotel Stay: One night in a 3- or 4-star hotel on a B&B basis allows downtime and comfort.
• Flexible Schedule: Optional morning safari on day two for more wildlife sightings.
• Drop-off at Arugam Bay: Perfect for travelers heading to the coast afterward.

We found this tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure and comfort. The early pick-up from your Ella hotel kicks things off with a scenic drive through lush landscapes, and the stop at Rawana Falls adds a splash of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. The Yala Jeep safari is the highlight — a chance to see big cats and a variety of mammals in their habitat. The customized safari jeeps and private transport give you the space and flexibility to really focus on wildlife spotting.

The hotel stay in Yala is a real plus, offering a chance to relax and process what you’ve seen. Many reviews mention the friendly guides and the fun of spotting elusive animals like leopards, which can be quite a thrill, especially if you’re lucky. The optional morning safari on the second day is perfect if you want to maximize your chances of catching rare sightings.

On the other hand, the additional cost for park entry and potential extra expenses for meals should be factored in when considering the overall value. The tour’s price includes almost everything—transport, driver, fuel, taxes, water, and parking—making it transparent and stress-free.

For those who enjoy wildlife photography, this tour could offer some memorable shots, especially with the best chances early in the morning. The small group setting makes for a more intimate experience, ideal for travelers who dislike large tour buses or crowded safaris.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day 1: From Ella to Yala National Park

Your adventure starts with a hotel pickup in Ella. The journey to Yala is approximately 3 to 4 hours, but it’s far from dull. Expect a scenic drive through lush tea plantations and dense forests, with occasional stops for photos or to stretch your legs. The highlight here is the stop at Rawana Falls, a spectacular cascade where you can take photos or just enjoy the fresh mountain air.

As you approach Yala, you’ll feel the excitement build — the park’s reputation for big cats and diverse mammals precedes it. Upon arrival, you’ll hop into a jeep with your driver and guide, ready for your afternoon safari. This is when the real magic begins.

Safari Experience: What You’ll See and Feel

The jeeps are equipped with customized viewing platforms, giving you a good vantage point. Your guide will be on the lookout for leopards, perhaps curled up in a tree or stealthily crossing a clearing. The chances of spotting elephants are high, especially near watering holes, and the sloth bears can be surprisingly elusive but rewarding to see if you’re lucky.

Expect to see other mammals, such as spotted deer, wild boar, and even fishing cats, which are less common but fascinating. One reviewer praised the guide’s keen spotting skills, noting, “We saw a leopard lounging and even a family of elephants crossing the road — truly unforgettable.”

After the safari, you’ll return to your hotel for the night, with plenty to reflect on over dinner or just the quiet of the Sri Lankan evening. Many guests mention the comfort of the hotel and the peaceful setting as a welcome respite after an exhilarating day.

Day 2: Morning Safari and Transfer to Arugam Bay

Early risers can opt for a second safari session, which often provides a better chance to see leopards and other nocturnal animals. The early morning light over Yala’s landscape, combined with the quiet of dawn, makes for a particularly special wildlife experience.

Post-safari, enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel — often included in the B&B package — then set out on the scenic drive to Arugam Bay. The road trip, about 3-4 hours, offers more views of Sri Lanka’s coastal scenery.

Once you arrive in Arugam Bay, the tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel or accommodation, giving you the rest of the day free to relax or explore Sri Lanka’s surf capital at your own pace.

The price of $300 covers a lot: one overnight stay in a comfortable hotel, all transportation in a private vehicle, fuel, parking, and refreshments during the tour. The private jeep safaris ensure a more personalized experience, increasing your chances of wildlife sightings.

However, note that Yala entrance fees (~$35) are not included, so plan to pay this extra at the park gate. Also, meals are not included during the safari days, so bringing snacks or planning for meals outside the tour is advisable.

The tour is flexible — you can reserve now and pay later, offering some peace of mind, and there’s a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

• Bring a good camera with zoom capabilities to capture elusive animals.
• Wear comfortable outdoor clothing — long sleeves, neutral colors, and sturdy shoes.
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water — the Sri Lankan sun can be intense.
• Since smoking is not allowed during the safari, plan accordingly.
• Keep your eyes peeled — wildlife can be unpredictable and often appear when you least expect it.

This safari is ideal for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers eager to see Sri Lanka’s iconic animals in the wild. It suits those who want a well-organized, comfortable experience without sacrificing the thrill of spotting elusive creatures. The hotel stay adds a comfortable touch, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or travelers with back problems, given the nature of the jeep safaris.

This 2-day Yala Safari from Ella is a solid choice for anyone wanting a taste of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, combined with scenic drives and a comfortable hotel stay. The private transport and guided safaris maximize your chances of seeing some of the park’s most famous inhabitants, while the stop at Rawana Falls adds a scenic break in the mountains.

The cost reflects the quality of the experience — private vehicles, hotel accommodation, and all taxes included — making it a practical option for travelers seeking both adventure and comfort. If you’re passionate about spotting big cats and elephants, and want to experience Sri Lanka’s wilderness with minimal hassle, this tour is worth considering.

This tour also works well as an extension if you’re heading toward the coast afterward, especially with the drop-off at Arugam Bay. It’s a chance to combine wildlife, scenic landscapes, and some well-earned relaxation in one memorable package.

What animals can I expect to see during the safari?
You can expect to see leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and various smaller mammals such as the Fishing Cat, Wild Boar, and Spotted Deer. The guides are experienced at spotting these elusive creatures.

How long are the drives between locations?
The drive from Ella to Yala takes about 3-4 hours, with a scenic stop at Rawana Falls. The drive from Yala to Arugam Bay is also approximately 3-4 hours.

Is the park entrance fee included?
No, the entrance fee (~$35) is not included in the price. You will need to pay it at the park entrance.

What should I bring for the safari?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, water, camera, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity. Avoid smoking during the safari.

Can I do additional safaris?
Yes, there’s an optional morning safari on day two, which many travelers find worthwhile for additional wildlife viewing.

Is accommodation included?
Yes, you stay one night in a 3- or 4-star hotel on a B&B basis, providing comfort and a good rest after your safari.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the package, so plan to bring snacks or eat outside the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While generally suitable for most, the jeep safaris involve some bumpy rides. It’s not recommended for those with back problems or pregnancy due to the nature of the transport.

This 2-day safari from Ella offers a wonderful way to see Sri Lanka’s animal kingdom up close while enjoying the scenic and cultural richness of the island. It’s a journey that balances adventure, comfort, and a touch of Sri Lankan hospitality.