From Ella: Udawalawe & Yala National Parks 2-Day Tour

If you’re looking to get up close and personal with Sri Lanka’s incredible wildlife without spending weeks doing it, this 2-day tour from Ella to Udawalawe and Yala might just be your ticket. For $340 per person, you’ll spend two days immersed in some of the best national parks the island has to offer, with the comforts of private transport and a cozy hotel stay in Yala.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines diversity and convenience. First, you get to see wild elephants in their natural habitat at Udawalawe, which is arguably the best place to observe these gentle giants in Sri Lanka. Then, on the second day, the chance to spot leopards and sloth bears in Yala is a highlight that makes this trip worth every penny. Plus, the inclusion of a stop at Rawana Falls adds a scenic break that gives you a bit of a breather from the safari action.

A possible consideration is the early mornings needed for safaris, which might catch some travelers off-guard if they’re not morning people. Also, note that entry fees to the parks aren’t included, so budget around US$35 per park, but the tour’s logistics and guidance make up for that with ease.

This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts, those eager to see Sri Lanka’s iconic animals, and travelers who appreciate well-organized, hassle-free trips with private transport. It’s especially good if you’re short on time but want a substantial wildlife experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Wildlife Highlights: Spot elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and water buffalo.
Comfort & Convenience: Private, air-conditioned vehicle with round-trip transportation from Ella.
Tour Experience: Includes a visit to Rawana Falls and stays in a comfortable hotel in Yala.
Cost Breakdown: Price covers jeep safaris, driver charges, fuel surcharge, parking, and hotel breakfast.
Additional Costs: Park entrance fees (~$35 per park) and meals are extra.
Suitable for: Wildlife lovers, adventure travelers, those with limited time, and anyone wanting a guided experience.

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An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Safari Experience

Day 1: Ella to Udawalawe and Rawana Falls

The adventure kicks off early, with your guide (probably someone like Anura or Saman, based on reviews) picking you up from your hotel in Ella. From there, the drive through Sri Lanka’s lush scenery is comfortable in your private, air-conditioned vehicle, giving you time to relax or snap some photos of the landscape.

Your first stop is the Rawana Falls, a stunning cascade near Ella that offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs. The falls are not only beautiful but also a great way to break up the drive and soak in some natural beauty before diving into the safari.

Next, it’s time for the Udawalawe National Park. This park is renowned for its large herds of elephants, which are quite the spectacle. The jeep safaris here are typically half a day, giving you enough time to get a good look at the wildlife. Expect to see water buffalo, monkeys, lizards, and perhaps some leopards—though they are more elusive.

Reviewers often praise the expertise of the guides, noting how they keep the vehicle steady and are eager to help spot animals. One traveler said, “The safari was exhilarating; we saw a huge herd of elephants and even a distant leopard lounging in a tree.” Keep in mind, since the park entry fee isn’t included, budget around $35 for the day.

After the safari, you’ll check into your hotel in Yala, which offers a cozy base for your second day. Many guests appreciate the comfort of the hotel stay, especially after a day of wildlife excitement.

Day 2: Yala National Park and Drop-off at Arugam Bay

Your second day begins with an early morning safari in Yala, the most famous park in Sri Lanka. This park is the best place to see leopards, with the chance of spotting one on roughly 70% of safaris, according to reports. The landscape here is more varied—dry scrublands, grassy plains, and some water bodies—creating ideal conditions for spotting a range of animals.

Leopards and sloth bears are the main attractions, and guides often point out these impressive creatures amid the thick foliage. One review states, “We saw two leopards resting in the shade, and the guide was fantastic at spotting them.” Expect plenty of elephants as well, especially in the early morning hours.

After your safari, the tour concludes with a transfer to Arugam Bay—a popular surf spot—where you will be dropped off at your hotel. This easy, direct route is a bonus for those wanting to continue their Sri Lanka adventure without fuss.

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Transportation & Logistics

The private vehicle is a major plus, providing both comfort and flexibility, especially if you want to stop for photos or breaks. The timing usually involves early departures to maximize wildlife sightings, which is a common theme for safaris worldwide.

The tour operator, Sign of Lanka, includes driver charges, fuel surcharge, parking fees, and water—a package that simplifies planning and minimizes surprises. The only extra costs are the park entrance fees, which you’ll want to budget for ahead of time.

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Authentic Experiences and Real Reviews

Travelers frequently mention the professionalism of the guides and the well-organized nature of the trip. One person said, “The driver was punctual and knowledgeable, making sure we didn’t miss anything.” Others note that the safaris were the highlight, with abundant wildlife sightings.

However, some mention that the early morning safaris require a willingness to wake up before dawn. If you’re not naturally an early riser, this might be a minor challenge but also the best chance for wildlife activity.

Pricing & Value

At $340 per person, the tour offers considerable value—especially factoring in the hotel stay, private transport, and safaris. While the park entrance fees (~$35 each) are extra, this is a reasonable addition considering the quality of the safaris.

The tour balances affordability with comfort, avoiding the crowds and chaos of larger group tours. Plus, the logistics are all handled for you, so you can focus on the animals and scenery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wildlife lovers wanting a concentrated experience of Sri Lanka’s best parks. It’s perfect if you prefer the convenience of private transport and a guided experience. It also suits travelers on a tight schedule who want to maximize their chances of seeing elephants, leopards, and bears in just two days.

However, if you’re sensitive to early mornings or prefer more flexibility regarding park entrance fees, you might want to plan accordingly. It’s not recommended for children under six, pregnant women, or those with back problems, due to the early safaris and vehicle rides.

FAQs

Are the safaris included in the price?
The safaris are included; jeep charges are covered in the package. However, park entrance fees (~$35 each for Udawalawe and Yala) are paid separately.

What is the accommodation like?
You stay in a comfortable hotel in Yala on a bed and breakfast basis, with options rated 3 or 4 stars, offering a restful night after your safari adventures.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the round-trip transportation from Ella is by air-conditioned luxury private vehicle, making the journey smooth and relaxed.

How early do I need to wake up for safaris?
Safaris typically start early in the morning for the best wildlife sightings, often around sunrise.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities.

Are meals included?
No, meals during the tour are not included, so you might want to pack snacks or plan for additional dining.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not suitable for children under six, pregnant women, or people with back problems due to early starts and vehicle rides.

How do I book?
You can reserve now and pay later, keeping your plans flexible. Just check availability for your preferred dates.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of two national parks in one trip, the comfortable hotel stay, and the professional guides make it a well-rounded wildlife experience for those short on time.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day safari from Ella to Udawalawe and Yala offers a practical way to experience Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife without the need for extensive planning or multiple trips. The inclusion of private transport, comfortable accommodation, and expert guides means you get a seamless, engaging experience that highlights the best of Sri Lanka’s national parks.

If you’re passionate about animals like elephants, leopards, or bears, and want a trip that balances adventure with comfort, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to make every moment count, with logistics handled and wildlife opportunities maximized.

While early mornings and extra park fees are considerations, they are small prices to pay for the chance to see some of Sri Lanka’s most fantastic creatures in their natural habitat. For anyone seeking a straightforward, well-organized safari adventure, this tour delivers genuine value and memorable moments.