From Ella: Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour

Exploring the wonders of Udawalawe National Park is a must-do experience for nature enthusiasts visiting Ella. This 6-hour guided safari tour provides the perfect opportunity to witness the park’s diverse wildlife, particularly the majestic elephants, in their natural habitat. Offering a seamless and convenient experience, the tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and an expert guide who’ll share insightful commentary throughout the journey. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time visitor, this Udawalawe adventure promises to leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s pristine wilderness.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In Ratnapura.

Contents hide

1 Tour Overview

2 Transportation and Logistics

3 Wildlife Experience

4 Important Information

5 Customer Reviews

6 Park Location and Access

7 Safety and Regulations

8 Booking and Cancellation

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

The 6-hour safari tour departs from Ella and includes a 4-hour guided safari in Udawalawe National Park.
The tour is priced at LKR 2,000 per person and offers hotel pickup, drop-off, and an open-top jeep experience.
The knowledgeable guide with 10 years of experience provides insightful commentary and educational opportunities during the safari.
The tour focuses on wildlife sightings, especially elephants, and offers stops for memorable photo opportunities.
The tour package includes bottled water and park entrance tickets, providing a seamless and convenient experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour from Ella offers a 6-hour experience, including a 4-hour guided safari through the park.

Priced from LKR 2,000 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup in Ella and drop-off in Udawalawe.

Travelers can enjoy a free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The safari takes place in an open-top jeep, providing an immersive wildlife experience.

Bottled water and park entrance tickets are included, ensuring a hassle-free adventure.

With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of animals, including elephants, crocodiles, and monkeys, while learning about the park’s diverse ecosystem.

Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Ratnapura

Mirissa/ Weligama : Drop to Ella With Udawalawe Safari Tour

Transportation and Logistics

Guests on the Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour from Ella are picked up from their hotels in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey to the park.

Once at the park, they’ll board an open-top Jeep, which provides an immersive safari experience.

The tour includes bottled water and National Park entrance tickets, so travelers don’t have to worry about additional expenses.

After the safari, guests are dropped off in Udawalawe, making it a convenient day trip from Ella.

The transportation and logistics of the tour are designed to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Wildlife Experience

A knowledgeable guide with 10 years of experience leads the safari, offering visitors the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, and monkeys.

During the 4-hour safari, guests can expect:

Insightful commentary from the guide, who shares their extensive knowledge about the animals and their habitats.
Stops for memorable photos, capturing the beauty of the park and its inhabitants.
The chance to ask questions and engage in discussions about the wildlife, providing a more enriching experience.

The safari’s focus on education and conservation ensures that visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for Udawalawe’s ecological diversity and the importance of preserving this natural wonder.

Important Information

Pregnant women shouldn’t book this safari tour, as it’s not suitable for them. Drones, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited within the national park. Travelers should be aware that the park’s entrance fee of approximately $30 per person for US visitors is not included in the tour price.

To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants, the tour operator has established the following guidelines:

Restriction	Reason
No drones	To protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment
No alcohol	To maintain a responsible and alert group during the safari
No drugs	To comply with park regulations and ensure the well-being of all guests

These rules are in place to enhance the overall experience and ensure a memorable and responsible visit to Udawalawe National Park.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Reviews

Overwhelmingly positive feedback from travelers highlights the tour’s exceptional value, with a perfect 5-star rating based on two reviews.

Customers raved about the incredible wildlife sightings, with one noting they ‘saw more elephants than [they] could count.’

The knowledgeable guide received high praise, with travelers appreciating their:

Expertise in spotting and identifying animals
Engaging explanations about the park’s ecosystem
Accommodating nature, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience

Notably, solo travelers felt safe and well-cared for throughout the tour, with one reviewer highlighting the ‘proactive communication and kindness of the guides and drivers.’

Here's some more things to do in Ratnapura

Park Location and Access

Udawalawe National Park is situated in the Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces of southern Sri Lanka, approximately 200 kilometers from the capital city of Colombo.

The park is accessible from the town of Udawalawe, which is located along the Colombo-Batticaloa highway. Visitors can reach the park by taking a bus, train, or private vehicle.

The safari tour departs from the nearby town of Ella, which is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic tea plantations and hiking trails. The tour includes hotel pickup in Ella and drop-off in Udawalawe, making it a convenient option for travelers wishing to explore the national park during their stay in the region.

Safety and Regulations

Visitors must be aware of several important safety guidelines and regulations when participating in the Udawalawe National Park safari tour.

Drones, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited within the park boundaries. Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women due to the potential risks involved in the open-top Jeep experience.

The tour follows a few key rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

All participants must remain seated and follow the instructions of the knowledgeable guide at all times.
Guests are advised to wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the safari.
Photography is permitted, but the use of flash is discouraged to avoid disturbing the wildlife.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking the Udawalawe National Park safari tour can be done directly through the tour operator, with prices starting from LKR 2,000 per person.

Travelers have the flexibility to cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing a convenient and risk-free option to plan their safari experience.

The tour includes hotel pickup from Ella and drop-off in Udawalawe, along with an open-top jeep for the safari itself. Bottled water and National Park entrance tickets are also provided, ensuring a hassle-free adventure.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, guests can look forward to a memorable wildlife-viewing experience and the opportunity to capture stunning photographs during the 4-hour safari.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the safari. The tour includes bottled water, but you’re welcome to pack additional snacks and beverages to enjoy during the 4-hour safari experience.

What Is the Best Time of Day to Spot Wildlife?

The best time to spot wildlife during the Udawalawe National Park safari is typically early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active and coming out to feed. Guides know the optimal times and locations to maximize wildlife sightings.

Is There a Dress Code for the Safari?

There is no strict dress code for the Udawalawe National Park safari, but comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Guests should dress for the warm, tropical climate and bring sun protection.

Can I Extend the Safari Duration for an Additional Fee?

Yes, visitors can extend the safari duration for an additional fee. The tour operator offers the flexibility to customize the duration based on traveler preferences, subject to availability and an extra charge.

Are There Any Additional Costs I Should Be Aware Of?

There may be additional costs, including the Udawalawe National Park entrance fee, which is approximately $30 per person for US travelers. Travelers should also be aware that personal expenses like food and souvenirs are not included in the tour price.