2 Days Tour of Double Safari (Yala & Udawalawe) – All Inclusive

Exploring Sri Lanka’s Wildlife on a 2-Day Double Safari Tour: Yala & Udawalawe

If you’re craving a wildlife adventure in Sri Lanka but want to keep things straightforward and stress-free, this 2-day all-inclusive safari package could be just what you need. Organized by Bentota Travel Mart, it offers a seamless blend of luxury, adventure, and authentic wildlife encounters—all from the comfort of private transport with an experienced guide. The tour covers Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Park, two of the country’s most celebrated reserves, renowned for their high animal densities and stunning landscapes.

One thing we particularly love about this experience is how it balances guided expertise with flexible timing—you get to enjoy the parks with knowledgeable guides, plus the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The accommodations at a 3-star hotel in Yala add comfort without inflating the cost.

That said, a potential consideration is the bumpiness of the safari rides, which some reviewers mentioned, especially for those with back issues. This tour suits wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, or those wanting a comprehensive Sri Lankan safari without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: Includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and park entry fees, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Expert guides & private transport: Ensures smooth, informative rides with personalized attention.
• Diverse parks in one trip: Experience both the dense leopard-populated Yala and the elephant-rich Udawalawe.
• Authentic wildlife encounters: Opportunities to see elephants, leopards, birds, and more, guided by knowledgeable locals.
• Comfortable accommodations: Stay at a 3-star hotel with dinner and breakfast included.
• Flexible pickup options: Free pickup/drop-off from multiple locations in Negombo, Colombo, and surrounding areas.

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Yala & Udawalawe Safari Tour

This tour is designed for travelers who want to see Sri Lanka’s wild side without the stress of organizing multiple bookings. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate guided tours with clear logistics and prefer traveling in a small group or private setting. Here’s a detailed breakdown that captures what you can expect.

Day 1: Arriving at Yala National Park

Your adventure kicks off with a morning pickup around 8 or 9 am, with a comfortable private vehicle and a driver-guide. The drive from Negombo or Colombo is straightforward, thanks to the inclusive pickup service from multiple locations—no need to worry about navigating local transport. Once you arrive at Yala, the second largest and most famous national park in Sri Lanka awaits.

What makes Yala special?

Yala’s claim to fame is its dense leopard population—the highest in the world—and its diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, saltwater lagoons, and marshlands. It’s an incredibly rich habitat that supports elephants, crocodiles, jackals, peacocks, and more than 200 bird species. Within the park, you’ll find ancient monasteries, adding an extra layer of cultural intrigue to the wildlife experience.

The evening safari lasts around four hours, and this is when the light is often perfect for wildlife photography. Our review notes that guides are noted for their knowledge, helping guests spot elusive animals like leopards or the rare golden jackal. One reviewer, Susan, shared that the guides “had informative guides and courteous driver,” which made the experience even more enjoyable.

Pro tip: If you have back problems or are sensitive to bumpy rides, be prepared for a ride that some describe as “very, very bumpy,” especially in the more rugged parts of the park.

After your safari, you’ll unwind at a 3-star hotel in Yala, offering a comfortable overnight stay with dinner included. This lets you relax and recharge for the next day’s adventures.

Day 2: Udawalawe & Elephant Encounters

The second day begins with an early breakfast before heading to Udawalawe National Park—about a 2-hour drive from Yala. Known for its population of wild elephants, Udawalawe offers some of the best opportunities in Sri Lanka for elephant sightings.

What to Expect at Udawalawe?

The park is primarily made up of grasslands and bush forests, giving it a different feel from Yala’s dense forests. The safari here lasts around three hours, focusing on spotting herds of elephants, which are often seen bathing, grazing, or walking across open plains. Our review reflects that the guides are highly knowledgeable, enhancing the chances of catching those perfect wildlife moments.

Elephant Transit Home (ETH)

A highlight is the Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned calves are rehabilitated for eventual release. Visiting ETH adds a meaningful dimension to your trip—you’ll see young elephants being cared for and learn about conservation efforts. The 30-minute visit is included in the tour and provides a touching insight into Sri Lanka’s dedication to protecting these gentle giants.

Cultural stop at Sri Sankapala Raja Maha Viharaya

To round off your day, there’s a visit to this historic temple perched on a rocky mountain. You’ll find ancient inscriptions dating back before the birth of Christ—an unexpected bonus that adds a quiet, spiritual dimension to the experience.

What’s Included & What to Consider

This tour is quite comprehensive for the $375 per person price tag. Everything from meals, park fees, private transport, and a safari jeep is included. The hotel stay with breakfast and dinner provides comfort after long days outdoors. Plus, the free pickup and drop-off from multiple areas make it very accessible.

On the downside, some travelers, including one reviewer, mention the rides in the park can be rough and bumpy, which might be challenging for those with back issues or lower tolerance for bumpy roads. The tour is designed for most travelers, but it’s good to be prepared for some uneven terrain.

Authentic Wildlife Experiences

What sets this tour apart is the combination of expert guides and authentic park experiences. The guides are praised for their knowledge—helping guests spot animals that might otherwise go unnoticed. The parks themselves are teeming with wildlife, and the timing of the safaris often coincides with animal activity, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.

The Yala Safari offers the chance to see leopards, which are a rare find in many parks worldwide, as well as a variety of birdlife and crocodiles. Meanwhile, Udawalawe’s focus on elephants means you can expect to see herds crossing the plains or bathing in watering holes, often with calves in tow.

Value Considerations

Compared to booking separate safaris or accommodations, this all-inclusive tour offers great value. It’s especially appealing for travelers who prefer organized, hassle-free trips that cover logistics, meals, and transport. The inclusion of all entry fees and a safari jeep means there are no hidden costs or surprises.

Plus, reviews consistently mention the guides’ helpfulness and friendliness, making the safari more engaging. The hotel quality is rated at 3 stars, which balances comfort with affordability—though there is an option to upgrade if you want a more luxurious stay.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts wanting to maximize their chances of seeing Sri Lanka’s iconic animals in a short period. It’s well-suited for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting a comprehensive, guided experience without the stress of planning every detail.

Keep in mind that if you have back problems, you might want to prepare for the rough rides and consider your comfort accordingly. Also, those with limited time in Sri Lanka will appreciate how much ground you cover in just two days.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an authentic wildlife adventure that combines the thrill of seeing leopards, elephants, and exotic birds with the comfort of private transport and hotel stays, this tour delivers. It provides a well-organized, value-packed experience that’s ideal for travelers eager to tick off Sri Lanka’s top parks without fuss.

The knowledgeable guides, scenic parks, and meaningful visits like ETH and the temple are added bonuses that make this a memorable trip. While the ride quality might be a concern for some, the overall experience—especially the wildlife sightings and local insights—more than compensates.

Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-timer eager to see Sri Lanka’s unique fauna, this tour offers a practical, enriching way to connect with nature.

FAQs

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $375 per person, which includes transportation, meals, accommodations, park entry fees, and guided safaris.

Is pickup available from my location?
Yes, free pickup and drop-off are offered from many areas including Negombo, Colombo, Mt Lavinia, Wadduwa, Kalutara, Beruwala, Bentota, Ahungalla, Hikkaduwa, Galle, and nearby towns.

How long are the safaris at Yala and Udawalawe?
The Yala safari lasts approximately four hours, while Udawalawe’s is about three hours.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, the hotel is rated 3-star and includes dinner and breakfast. There is also an option to upgrade to higher-star hotels at extra cost.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Yala is known for leopards, crocodiles, and bird species, while Udawalawe is famous for elephants—often seen grazing or bathing.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with back problems?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware that the safaris involve bumpy rides, which might be uncomfortable for some with back issues.

What meals are included?
Breakfast and dinner are included at the hotel, with lunch provided on both days during the safaris.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations later might incur fees.

Is this a private or group activity?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

To sum it up, this 2-day safari offers a comprehensive, value-packed approach to experiencing Sri Lanka’s wildlife. It’s ideal for those who want to see leopards, elephants, and more without the hassle of organizing every part of the trip. The knowledgeable guides, convenient logistics, and authentic parks make it a memorable choice for wildlife lovers and first-time visitors alike.