Galle/Mirissa: Yala & Udawalawe Safari Day Trip With Picnic

Embarking on a safari day trip from Galle or Mirissa can be an unforgettable experience. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the breathtaking Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, where they might spot elusive leopards, majestic elephants, and diverse wildlife. With a delightful picnic lunch and a visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, this 16-hour adventure offers a chance to take in the natural wonders of Sri Lanka. From hotel pickup to air-conditioned transport and guided jeep safaris, the trip promises an immersive adventure that could leave a lasting impression on nature enthusiasts.

Key Points

• This 16-hour safari day trip from Galle/Mirissa offers visits to Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, with the opportunity to spot leopards, elephants, and other wildlife.
• The trip includes hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned transport, jeep safaris, a picnic lunch, bottled water, soft drinks, and all entry fees.
• Visitors can witness the diverse flora and fauna of Yala National Park, known for its high concentration of leopards and Asian elephants.
• The tour also includes a visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where guests can observe the feeding and care of wild elephant calves.
• Udawalawe National Park, renowned for its high elephant population, provides a chance to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat during a sunset drive.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of Safari Trip

This 16-hour safari day trip from Galle/Mirissa provides an opportunity to explore the wildlife-rich Yala and Udawalawe National Parks at an affordable price starting from £81.29 per person.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, jeep safaris at both national parks, a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, a picnic lunch, bottled water, soft drinks, and all entry fees.

Guests will have the chance to spot a variety of animals, including leopards, elephants, water buffalo, jackals, and crocodiles.

A live English-speaking tour guide is available throughout the journey.

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible and convenient option for visitors.

National Parks and Wildlife

The safari day trip provides an opportunity to explore Yala National Park, home to 44 varieties of mammals and 215 bird species, and Udawalawe National Park, known for its high concentration of elephants.

During the jeep safaris, travelers can spot a variety of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, water buffalo, jackals, and crocodiles.

The timing of the safaris is designed to take advantage of the golden hours, allowing guests to witness the natural beauty of the parks at sunrise and sunset.

Whether it’s spotting the elusive leopard or observing the majestic elephants, the national park experiences offer an immersive encounter with Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife.

Itinerary and Pickup Details

The tour’s itinerary begins with pickup from guests’ accommodations, followed by a drive to Yala National Park.

Travelers will then embark on a safari through the park in sturdy 4×4 vehicles, optimizing their chances of spotting wildlife during the golden hours of the day.

After the Yala safari, a picnic lunch will be served in nature.

Next, the group will visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home to witness the feeding of wild elephant babies.

The day culminates with a safari in Udawalawe National Park, known for its high concentration of elephants, before a scenic sunset drive back to your’ accommodations.

Safari Experiences in Yala

Yala National Park offers visitors a thrilling safari experience, home to an impressive array of 44 mammal species and 215 bird species. Guests can spot a variety of wildlife, including:

1. Majestic leopards, the apex predator of the park.

2. Herds of gentle Asian elephants roaming the grasslands.

3. Crocodiles basking on the banks of the park’s lagoons.

The safari is best experienced during the golden hours of dawn and dusk, when animals are most active.

Observing this diverse ecosystem come alive is a truly humbling and awe-inspiring experience.

Travelers can expect to be immersed in the rhythms of nature and leave with lasting memories of their Yala safari adventure.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Elephant Transit Home Visit

During the safari day trip, visitors can also make a stop at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where they’ll get to observe the feeding and care of wild elephant calves being rehabilitated for release back into the national park. This unique experience allows guests to witness the important conservation efforts taking place at the center.

The Elephant Transit Home is a vital facility that rescues, nurses, and prepares orphaned or abandoned baby elephants for their eventual return to the wild. Visitors can watch the staff’s dedication as they bottle-feed the young elephants and maintain their natural behaviors, all while learning about the challenges faced by these magnificent creatures.

This stop offers a heartwarming addition to the safari adventure.

Safari in Udawalawe National Park

After exploring the rich wildlife of Yala National Park, visitors can look forward to the next stop on the safari day trip: Udawalawe National Park. Here, they’ll find one of the world’s most concentrated populations of elephants, along with a variety of other captivating species like spotted deer, jackals, wild boar, and crocodiles.

The safari through Udawalawe promises an unforgettable experience, with the chance to spot these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. The day culminates with a sunset drive back to the accommodation, leaving guests with lasting memories of their adventure.

Key highlights of the Udawalawe portion of the safari include:

1. Observing the world’s most concentrated number of elephants

2. Spotting other diverse wildlife like spotted deer, jackals, and crocodiles

3. Enjoying the beautiful sunset as the day comes to a close

Customer Reviews and Recommendations

Reflecting on customer feedback, the safari day trip garners an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 from 32 reviews. Customers have praised the knowledgeable drivers and successful wildlife spotting, but some concerns were raised regarding delays, communication, and additional costs for tickets.

To ensure a smoother experience, it’s recommended to purchase tickets directly rather than relying on the jeep driver, as this may help avoid any extra charges. For those traveling in groups, group tickets could offer better pricing.

Binoculars are provided during the tour, enhancing the wildlife viewing experience. Lastly, it’s crucial to clarify the day’s structure and timings to set proper expectations and avoid any surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows customers flexibility to change their plans without penalty if needed.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

The safari tour can be customized to individual preferences. Travelers can request modifications, such as additional stops or flexible timings, though this may incur extra costs. It’s best to discuss any customization needs with the tour operator in advance.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges During the Safari?

There may be additional fees or charges during the safari, such as extra costs for vehicle entrance tickets or excursions not included in the base tour price. Travelers should ask about any potential add-on fees when booking to avoid surprises.

What Kind of Photographic Equipment Is Recommended for the Safari?

For the safari, a DSLR camera with a telephoto lens is recommended to capture clear, high-quality photos of the wildlife. Binoculars can also enhance the viewing experience and spotting of animals in the distance.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Options for the Picnic Lunch?

The tour provides a picnic lunch, but there’s no mention of dietary restrictions or options. It’s best to inquire with the tour provider about any special dietary needs prior to the trip to ensure they can accommodate them.

Recap

This safari day trip from Galle/Mirissa offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the stunning wildlife of Yala and Udawalawe National Parks.

With the chance to spot leopards, elephants, and more, along with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, it’s a must-do experience for nature enthusiasts.

The convenient hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and delightful picnic lunch make this an unforgettable and well-rounded adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: