Traveling from the cool hill town of Ella to the Udawalawe National Park offers a rewarding experience for anyone eager to see Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife. For just around $65 per person, this full-day tour includes a 5-hour safari, a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, and a taste of local hospitality with a traditional lunch. The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting with hotel pickup at 9:00 AM, making it an accessible day trip for those based in Ella.
What makes this experience attractive? Firstly, the chance to see approximately 500 elephants in their natural habitat is a true highlight. Secondly, the variety of wildlife—from crocodiles basking in the sun to deer darting through the trees—adds layers of excitement. We especially appreciate the opportunity to observe elephants at the Elephant Transit Home, where you can see young elephants being cared for before returning to the wild.
However, a potential consideration is the length of travel and the early start, which might feel long for some travelers, especially if you’re not used to 10-hour days. It’s also worth noting that the park entrance fees and meals are not included in the price, so budget accordingly.
This tour is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers who want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of self-driving. If you’re comfortable with a full day on the road and eager to experience Sri Lanka’s best-loved animals, this trip will likely meet your expectations.
Key Points
- Wildlife diversity: Expect to see elephants, buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and snakes.
- Authentic experience: Visit the Elephant Transit Home and get a glimpse of young elephants being cared for.
- Comfortable transport: Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Cost considerations: Entrance fees and meals are not included, so plan extra.
- Time commitment: A full 10-hour day, so be prepared for a long but rewarding outing.
- Authentic food: Enjoy a local lunch after your safari experience.
Exploring the Udawalawe Safari from Ella: A Practical Guide
If you’re staying in Ella and craving a wildlife adventure, this tour offers an efficient way to explore one of Sri Lanka’s most famous national parks. Covering over 230,000 hectares, Udawalawe National Park is renowned for its large elephant population, estimated at around 500 elephants. You’ll be traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which is especially welcome after the bumpy roads leading to the park.
The journey from Ella takes about five hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery—think lush tea plantations, jungle-clad hills, and rural villages—along the way. While this length of travel may seem long, it’s a small price for the chance to experience Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife in a single day.
The Itinerary in Detail
Stop 1: Pickup in Ella
– You’ll be collected from your hotel at around 9:00 AM, allowing for an early start.
– The drive itself offers a scenic preview of what’s to come, especially for those who love observing rural life and agricultural landscapes.
Stop 2: Udawalawe National Park Game Drive
– The core of the day.
– You’ll go on a 3-hour safari in a jeep, which is the best way to spot wildlife.
– Expect to see elephants, of course, and a host of other animals like wild buffalo, spotted deer, barking deer, and wild boar.
– The park is also home to 30 species of snakes, many bird species, and butterflies—a true paradise for nature lovers.
– As one traveler mentioned, “The park and the animals in the park were very beautiful, seen a lot of elephants! Also some babies,” highlighting how close-up encounters can be quite special.
Stop 3: Elephant Transit Home
– A 30-minute visit to this unique facility, where young elephants are cared for before rejoining the wild.
– It’s a heartwarming experience to observe these gentle giants in a caring environment, especially if you’re traveling with children or animal lovers.
Return to Ella
– After the safari and visit, you’ll be transferred back.
– Expect to arrive back in Ella in the evening, around 7:00 or 8:00 PM, depending on traffic.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The price of $65 covers transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the safari jeep. It’s a good value considering the cost of private safaris elsewhere, but remember that lunch, entrance fees to the park, and the Elephant Transit Home are not included. You’ll want to budget an extra amount for these.
The Experience and Authenticity
Travelers have praised the guides and drivers for their professionalism. One review specifically mentions “a good driver, excellent guide” who explained everything clearly and found prime animal sightings. The small group size (implied by the personalized experience) helps keep the safari intimate and allows for more individual attention.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip
- Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat—the open jeep can get quite sunny and dusty.
- Stay hydrated; bottled water is provided, but you might want to carry extra.
- Be patient and observant—wildlife can be elusive, and sightings are never guaranteed, though the park’s large elephant population makes success likely.
What Others Say: Authentic Perspectives
One traveler’s words resonate with many: “A must if you are going to Sri Lanka. Good driver, excellent guide. Explained everything, found around the park just perfect. Saw elephants, alligators, buffalo and more. Highly recommended.” This underscores the value of knowledgeable guides and small-group safaris.
On the flip side, some might find the long drive a bit tiring, especially if you prefer shorter excursions or have limited time. The cost does not include meals or park entrance fees, so plan accordingly.
Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
This tour is ideal for wildlife lovers and adventure travelers eager to see elephants in their natural environment. It’s suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers comfortable with a full day’s outing. If you’re keen to visit the Elephant Transit Home and enjoy a guided safari experience, this tour offers good value.
However, if you prefer a more flexible, shorter visit or want to include other parks or activities, you might want to explore other options. Also, those sensitive to long travel times or heat should consider their stamina before booking.
The Sum Up
This Udawalawe Safari from Ella delivers a well-rounded glimpse of Sri Lanka’s wildlife with a focus on elephants, which are the star attraction. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want value for money and an authentic experience without the hassle of organizing transport or guides independently. The visit to the Elephant Transit Home adds a caring, human touch to the day, making it memorable not just for the animals but for the stories you’ll bring home.
While the long day might be a stretch for some, the chance to see so many elephants, crocodiles, and birds in their natural surroundings makes it worthwhile. Just remember to bring your camera, sun protection, and a sense of adventure.
If you love wildlife encounters, enjoy small-group tours, and don’t mind a full day on the road, this trip is a solid choice. It combines comfort, authentic sights, and a good dose of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty—an experience you’ll likely cherish long after your trip ends.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most children who enjoy wildlife and are comfortable with a full day out will find this memorable. Just keep in mind the long drive and make sure kids are prepared for a day in the sun.
Are the park entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to budget for that separately.
What should I bring on the safari?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and plenty of water. Since the safari is in an open jeep, dress appropriately for the weather.
Can I expect to see elephants?
While sightings depend on luck and animal activity, the park is known for its large elephant population, so chances are high.
Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You can purchase a local meal after the safari, which many travelers recommend for an authentic experience.
How long does the drive from Ella take?
Approximately five hours each way, so prepare for a long day but one packed with wildlife viewing.
Is the experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the safari involves some vehicle movement on uneven terrain, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility concerns.
This tour offers a practical, authentic way to encounter Sri Lanka’s wildlife and understand the country’s conservation efforts. With its balance of adventure and comfort, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to connect with nature’s gentle giants and their environment.
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