Ella’s shuttle service offers travelers a seamless way to explore the stunning southern coastal towns of Mirissa, Galle, and Hikkaduwa, while also providing an exhilarating safari experience in Udawalawe National Park. For just Kč2,126 per person, guests can embark on a guided tour through the park, witnessing diverse wildlife, including elephants and endemic birds. With convenient hotel pickups and comfortable air-conditioned vehicles, this adventure ensures a memorable journey, though the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance may prove enticing for those seeking flexibility. What else might this excursion have in store?
Key Points
- Shuttle service from Ella to southern coastal towns of Mirissa, Galle, and Hikkaduwa, including a 3-hour Udawalawe National Park safari.
- Cost of Kč2,126 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and hotel pickups in Ella, Bandarawela, Haputale, and Wellawaya.
- Diverse wildlife sightings during the early morning safari, including elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, water buffaloes, and endemic birds.
- Air-conditioned transportation with highway toll charges included, ensuring a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
- Not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or young children due to the fast-paced itinerary and safari ride.
Service Overview
The shuttle service offers a convenient and efficient way to travel from Ella to the southern coastal towns of Mirissa, Galle, and Hikkaduwa, complemented by an immersive safari experience at Udawalawe National Park.
For just Kč2,126 per person, travelers can enjoy a live English-speaking guided tour, with the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The service provides pickup from any hotel in the Ella, Bandarawela, Haputale, and Wellawaya areas, ensuring a seamless start to the journey.
With an early morning departure, participants can maximize their time in the national park and witness the diverse wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, and endemic bird species.
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Safari Experience
Travelers can look forward to a 3-hour safari in Udawalawe National Park, where they’ll have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, water buffaloes, and endemic bird species.
The safari experience is designed for optimal wildlife viewing, with an early morning start and an open-concept safari jeep that provides the best possible views.
Guests will also learn about the natural habitats of the animals they encounter, allowing them to better appreciate the diversity of the ecosystem.
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The safari takes place in the morning for the best chances of seeing wildlife.
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An open-concept safari jeep ensures unobstructed views of the surroundings.
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Travelers will learn about the natural habitats of the animals they encounter.
Transportation Logistics
The shuttle service provides pickup from the Ella area and drop-off at various locations along the southern coast, including Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, Ahangama, Koggala, Habaraduwa, Unawatuna, Galle, and Hikkaduwa.
Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the service includes highway toll charges. This convenient door-to-door service ensures a hassle-free journey for customers.
The shuttle departs early in the morning, allowing ample time for the safari experience at Udawalawe National Park before continuing the transfer to the final destinations.
With a focus on comfort and efficiency, the transportation logistics seamlessly connect the safari adventure with the coastal towns, providing a well-rounded travel experience.
Participant Considerations
This shuttle service may not be suitable for certain participants. Pregnant women and individuals with back problems should avoid booking, as the safari jeep ride can be uncomfortable for those with physical limitations.
The tour also isn’t recommended for young children, as the long drives and safari activities may be tiring and overwhelming.
Plus, travelers prone to motion sickness should reconsider, as the bumpy safari ride could cause discomfort.
Lastly, those seeking a more leisurely experience may find the pace a bit fast-paced, with multiple activities packed into a single day.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback
Overall, customers have provided mixed feedback on the shuttle service and safari experience.
While many praised the punctuality of the driver and the quality of the safari, some expressed concerns about the comfort level during the jeep ride through the national park.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 37 reviews. Customers were particularly satisfied with the transportation, giving it a 4.3 rating, but the value for money received a more modest 3.6 rating.
Highlights included the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, from elephants to crocodiles, in their natural habitats.
However, a few participants noted the roughness of the jeep ride, which could be an issue for those with back problems.
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Booking and Payment
Booking the shuttle and safari package is straightforward, with the option to reserve without any upfront payment. The service offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travelers.
Key booking details:
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Pickup from any hotel in the Ella, Bandarawela, Haputale, and Wellawaya areas
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Drop-off at various locations along the southern coast, including Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, Ahangama, Koggala, Habaraduwa, Unawatuna, Galle, and Hikkaduwa
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Air-conditioned transportation with highway toll charges included
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Reservation can be made without requiring an immediate payment, making it convenient for travelers.
Shuttle Route and Destinations
The shuttle service covers a route from Ella, connecting various coastal destinations along the southern coast of Sri Lanka, including Mirissa, Galle, and Hikkaduwa.
Passengers can be picked up from any hotel in the Ella, Bandarawela, Haputale, or Wellawaya area.
The shuttle then travels to the chosen coastal destination, with drop-off locations in Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, Ahangama, Koggala, Habaraduwa, Unawatuna, Galle, or Hikkaduwa.
This provides a convenient way for travelers to explore the southern regions of the island, with the added benefit of a safari experience at Udawalawe National Park along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Add a Boat Ride in Mirissa?
Unfortunately, the service described does not include an option for a boat ride in Mirissa. The package is focused on providing transportation and a safari experience, without additional activities in the destinations.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Shuttle Journey?
Unfortunately, the shuttle service does not make any scheduled stops for purchasing souvenirs along the journey. Passengers can inquire with the driver about making a brief stop, but this would be subject to availability and time constraints.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Amount of Luggage Allowed?
The service doesn’t have strict luggage restrictions, but passengers are advised to pack lightly. Oversized or excessive luggage may not fit comfortably in the vehicle. Travelers should check with the provider for specific guidance on luggage allowances.
Can I Request a Specific Pick-Up Time Within the Ella Area?
Yes, guests can request a specific pick-up time within the Ella area. The service offers flexible pickup from any hotel in Ella, Bandarawela, Haputale, or Wellawaya, allowing travelers to accommodate their schedule.
Is There a Discount for Children or Senior Citizens?
The shuttle service does not offer any discounts for children or senior citizens. The price is a flat rate per person, regardless of age. However, the service may accommodate special needs with advance notice.
Recap
The Ella shuttle service offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the stunning southern coast of Sri Lanka while also experiencing the thrilling Udawalawe National Park safari.
With convenient transportation, guided tours, and the flexibility of free cancellation, this package provides a seamless and memorable adventure for travelers seeking to enjoy the country’s natural wonders.
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