GO WILD! Double Safari Day Trip (Yala & Udawalawe) – Private & All Inclusive

Experience the Wild in Sri Lanka with a Double Safari Day Trip from Galle

Imagine spending a day surrounded by some of the most incredible wildlife Sri Lanka has to offer — all in one seamless adventure. For around $280, you get a full-day guided tour that takes you into Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Park, two of the country’s top wildlife hotspots. With private transportation, all entry fees included, and the chance to witness majestic elephants, leopards, and a variety of birdlife, this trip offers a rare opportunity to see nature in all its glory without breaking the bank.

What we love most about this tour is how smoothly it’s organized. From the moment we’re picked up at our hotel—whether in Wadduwa, Galle, or nearby areas—the experience feels tailored and hassle-free. Plus, the chance to visit Elephant Transit Home, where rescue calves are rehabilitated before their return to the wild, adds a meaningful touch that elevates this safari beyond just a wildlife spotting trip.

One potential consideration is that this is a long day, often lasting between 13 to 16 hours. You’ll need to be prepared for an early start and a full schedule. But if you’re a wildlife enthusiast eager to maximize your time, the value of seeing two parks in one day makes it worthwhile. This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive view of Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems, especially those keen on elephants and leopards, and who appreciate the convenience of an all-inclusive private tour.

Key Points

• Two Parks in One Day: Experience the thrill of Yala and Udawalawe, two of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserves.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Price covers transportation, entry fees, lunch, and guides, making it straightforward and stress-free.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides help you spot wildlife and share insights about the parks’ ecosystems.
• Wildlife Highlights: Expect elephants, leopards, numerous bird species, and perhaps the elusive big cats in Yala.
• Rehabilitation Experience: Visit the Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned calves are cared for with the aim of releasing them back into the wild.
• Flexible Pickup: Service available from multiple locations, including popular tourist areas along the coast.

In-Depth Review of the Double Safari Day Trip

Starting Point: Seamless Pickup and Private Transportation

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or designated location, which is a significant advantage for travelers eager to avoid the hassle of navigating Sri Lanka’s often crowded roads. The private transportation is a comfortable, air-conditioned Jeep, driven by an experienced guide who doubles as your wildlife spotter and storyteller. From the start, the focus is on making your day smooth and enjoyable.

Stop 1: Palatupana and Yala National Park

Your first stop is Palatupana, a key gateway to Yala National Park. This park covers over 375 square miles and is renowned for its dense leopard populations, often considered the highest in the world. The diverse habitats here include moist monsoon forests, scrub jungles, wetlands, and saltwater lagoons, all teeming with wildlife.

In the reviews, visitors frequently mention how well-organized the safari is, with guides who are both friendly and knowledgeable. One reviewer noted, “So many elephants and saw 2 leopards in Yala — brilliant experience, really well organised with friendly driver and guides.” This highlights the park’s reputation for spotting predators and large herbivores alike.

Inside the park, ancient monasteries add a touch of history to the landscape, and the variety of ecosystems means you could see everything from elephants grazing in open plains to elusive leopards lurking in the bushes. The four-hour safari gives ample time to soak in the scenery and wildlife, with entry fees included in the tour price.

Stop 2: Elephant Transit Home

Next, your journey takes you to the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe. This facility cares for orphaned calves, many of whom have lost their mothers due to human-wildlife conflict or other reasons. The 30-minute visit is especially touching, as you observe these young elephants being fed and cared for, knowing that they are destined to return to their natural habitat.

Reviews emphasize how this visit adds depth to the experience. One visitor shared, “The elephant orphanage was great, and the staff worked hard to let us see the feeding and learn about elephant conservation.” It’s an inspiring look at Sri Lanka’s efforts to protect these gentle giants.

Stop 3: Udawalawe National Park

The highlight for many is the Udawalawe safari, a three-hour exploration of grasslands and bush forest that is arguably the best place in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants in their natural environment. The park’s open plains offer excellent viewing opportunities, and your guides are skilled at spotting these gentle giants among the trees.

Several reviews praise the guides’ expertise. One noted, “Our guide worked hard to spot interesting birds and let us know their behaviour to get the best shots,” demonstrating the knowledgeable approach that elevates this safari beyond just a drive through the wilderness.

Expect to see elephants, water buffalo, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife, especially if you’re lucky with timing. Many guests mention the park’s scenic beauty and abundance of wildlife, making it a worthwhile investment for animal lovers.

Practical Details: What to Expect

The day is long but well-paced. Breakfast isn’t included, but a hearty lunch with bottled water keeps you energized through the day’s adventures. The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, and the small group size ensures personalized attention from guides.

The cost of $280 per person reflects good value considering the all-inclusive nature—covering transportation, park fees, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide. Unlike other tours that might have hidden costs or limit activities, this package is transparent and stress-free.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

Reviews highlight the guides’ friendly demeanor and expertise. One reviewer mentioned, “Dinesh was on time, took us safely to both parks, and was very friendly and knowledgable,” which makes a significant difference when navigating the parks and spotting elusive wildlife.

The safari vehicles are comfortable, and the experience of observing animals in their natural habitat — especially the majestic elephants and the elusive leopards — is unforgettable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species**. It’s also well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day without the hassle of organizing multiple park visits themselves. The all-inclusive setup appeals to those who prefer a hassle-free experience, especially if they are pressed for time.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Tour for You?

If you’re looking for a full-day wildlife adventure that covers two of Sri Lanka’s top parks, this tour offers a fantastic combination of convenience, expert-guided wildlife viewing, and meaningful conservation stops. It’s particularly valuable for those who want to maximize their time, see iconic animals like elephants and leopards, and enjoy the comfort of private transport—all for a fair price.

Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, seamless logistics, and authentic encounters with wildlife will find this trip to be a highlight of their Sri Lankan journey. The long day may not suit everyone, especially those with limited stamina or a tight schedule, but for wildlife lovers, it’s a memorable, rewarding experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 13 to 16 hours, depending on traffic and timing.

Where does the tour start?
Pickup is available from Wadduwa, Kalutara, Beruwala, Bentota, Ahungalla, Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Talpe, Koggala, Ahangama, Weligama, Mirissa, Dickwella, Tangalle, Hambantota, Yala, Tissamaharama, Udawalawe, and nearby areas.

What is included in the price?
All taxes, fees, transportation, entry fees to parks and Elephant Transit Home, safari jeeps, bottled water, and lunch.

What’s not included?
Breakfast and drinks (besides bottled water). You should bring your own snacks if needed.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the private nature makes it flexible for family groups.

Can I see leopards on this trip?
While many have seen leopards in Yala, wildlife sightings depend on luck, but guides are experienced at spotting various animals.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring comfortable clothes, camera, sun protection, and binoculars if you have them. A hat and insect repellent might also come in handy.

How is the wildlife viewing?
Guests report good sightings of elephants, birds, and even leopards, especially if you’re patient and the guides are skilled.

Are the vehicles comfortable?
Yes, the safari jeeps are private, well-maintained, and suitable for wildlife viewing.

What about the guide’s knowledge?
Guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise, making the experience more enjoyable and educational.

Overall, this double safari day trip is a well-organized, value-packed way to explore Sri Lanka’s wildlife treasures. It’s best suited for those who want to see big animals, enjoy expert guiding, and don’t mind a long but rewarding day out in nature. If wildlife is part of your travel dreams, this tour ticks all the right boxes.