Galle/Mirissa/Hiriketiya: Drop to Ella & Udawalawa Safari

If you’re exploring Sri Lanka’s southern coast and contemplating a trip inland toward Ella, this tour offers a smart and engaging way to get there. For just $50 per person, you’ll enjoy a door-to-door transfer from popular spots like Galle, Mirissa, Hiriketiya, Tangalle, and others to the cool hill country of Ella, with a wildlife safari in Udawalawe National Park en route.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the convenience of a comfortable, air-conditioned ride that takes the hassle out of long-distance travel. Second, the opportunity to see elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat, guided by knowledgeable local guides who know exactly where to find the animals.

A potential drawback? Travelers prone to motion sickness or those with back issues might find the roughly 4-6 hour journey in the vehicle a bit challenging. Also, keep in mind that park entry fees (around $38) and food are not included in the price, so plan accordingly.

This tour suits those looking for a cost-effective, seamless transfer combined with a wildlife adventure—perfect for wildlife lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to combine travel and discovery without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Convenient Door-to-Door Service saves hassle and time.
• Expert Guides enhance the safari with insightful wildlife knowledge.
• Scenic Drive offers views of lush hills and tea plantations en route.
• Wildlife Encounters include elephants, crocodiles, and various bird species.
• Flexible Booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
• Price Includes vehicle, safari jeep, driver, and tolls, but excludes park entrance and food.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This tour begins with a straightforward hotel pickup from a wide selection of southern tourist hubs — Galle, Mirissa, Hiriketiya, Tangalle, and more. The vehicle provided is air-conditioned and modern, which makes the roughly 4 to 6-hour journey more comfortable than it might sound on paper. We loved how smooth and hassle-free the transfer was, letting us sit back and enjoy the changing scenery.

The Drive and Scenic Views

The ride from the coast to Ella offers a visual feast. As you leave the coastal plains behind, you’ll pass through lush hills, tea plantations, and small villages, providing a taste of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscape. Several reviews mention the scenic drive as a highlight, with one traveler noting, “You’ll love the views of the hills and the way the landscape changes from the Indian Ocean to the high country.”

Udawalawe National Park Safari

Once you arrive at the park, the real excitement begins. You’ll hop into a rugged 4×4 jeep for a 2.5 to 3-hour safari, led by a local naturalist guide. We found this part of the tour to be the heart of the experience. Guides like Prasad and Pathum received glowing reviews for their knowledge, attentiveness, and respect for the animals—qualities that make wildlife viewing memorable and ethical.

Wildlife Encounters

The safari is designed to showcase Sri Lanka’s wildlife in their natural environment. Many visitors report seeing dozens of elephants, sometimes quite close, with one review stating, “We saw a lot of elephants, even a newborn.” Others spotted crocodiles lounging on riverbanks and a variety of birdlife, from kingfishers to storks. While no one guarantees spotting leopards, the elephants alone make the effort worthwhile.

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Authentic Guides and Personal Touches

Reviews repeatedly emphasize the guides’ expertise and friendly demeanor. One reviewer shared, “Prasad was incredible—knew exactly where to go and made the experience memorable,” highlighting how guides enrich the safari with local insights and respectful animal observation.

The Journey to Ella

After the safari, your driver will take you onwards to Ella, passing through more picturesque landscapes. Some reviews mention stopping at Ravina Falls or other scenic spots, adding a bit of variety to the trip. The drive culminates in the cooler highlands, where you’ll arrive refreshed and ready to explore Ella’s famous tea plantations and hiking trails.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Comfort

The air-conditioned vehicle is a key perk, especially considering Sri Lanka’s warm climate. The modern, safe vehicle makes the trip pleasant, with plenty of space for luggage and comfort. The driver is described as punctual, friendly, and knowledgeable, making the journey a stress-free experience.

Safari and Park Fees

The $38 park entry fee is not included, so budget for this if you want to maximize your wildlife viewing. The safari itself lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours, giving ample time to spot animals and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Food and Drinks

Food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so consider bringing snacks or stopping for a quick meal before or after the safari. Some reviews mention the driver’s kindness in stopping for lunch, often out of their own pocket, which adds a nice personal touch.

Flexibility and Booking

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before, making this a low-risk option for spontaneous travel plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who want a cost-effective way to see wildlife without booking separate safaris. It’s ideal for those who value comfort and convenience but still crave authentic wildlife encounters. If you’re traveling from the southern coast and looking to combine a scenic drive with a wildlife safari in Sri Lanka, this tour ticks all the boxes.

It also fits well with travelers who appreciate local guides’ knowledge and friendly service, as many reviews highlight guides who went above and beyond to make the day special. Nature lovers and wildlife photographers will find it particularly appealing, given the chance to see elephants, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.

The Sum Up: The Practical Pick for a Memorable Day

This tour offers a great balance of comfort, adventure, and ease. For $50, you get a door-to-door transfer, a well-led safari, and the opportunity to see elephants and other wildlife in a scenic setting. The experienced guides and beautiful landscapes make it a memorable experience, especially for those who want a convenient, affordable way to explore Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

While you’ll need to budget extra for entrance fees and food, the overall value is hard to beat considering the quality of wildlife sightings and the hassle-free transportation. It’s best suited for first-time visitors, family travelers, or anyone interested in experiencing Sri Lanka’s rich animal life without the complexities of planning multiple excursions.

FAQ

Does the price include park entrance fees?
No, the $38 park entry fee is not included. You should budget this separately and have cash ready at the park gate.

How long is the safari?
The safari lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, giving plenty of time to see elephants, crocodiles, and birds.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned and modern, designed for comfort during the roughly 4-6 hour trip.

Where do I get picked up?
Pickups are available from a wide range of locations including Galle, Mirissa, Hiriketiya, Tangalle, Weligama, and others.

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

What should I bring?
Bring cash for park fees, some snacks, water, and a camera to capture wildlife moments.

Is this suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves a long drive and a rugged safari jeep, so travelers with back issues or mobility challenges may want to consider this.

How experienced are the guides?
Guides like Prasad and Pathum are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and animal sightings.

What else is included in the tour?
Transport, driver, tolls, and safari jeep are included. Food, drinks, and park fees are extra.

This tour represents a practical, enjoyable way to connect from Sri Lanka’s coastal beauty to its wildlife treasures, all while passing through stunning scenery and avoiding the stress of independent planning. Perfect for those eager to combine comfort, wildlife, and scenic travel in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: