Udawalawe National Park Safari With Travaling Unawatuna To Ella

Exploring Udawalawe National Park on a Full-Day Safari from Ella

Whether you’re an animal lover or just seeking a memorable adventure in Sri Lanka, the Udawalawe National Park safari offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s lush wilderness. This tour, organized by Scout Wild Safari Udawalawe, takes you from the scenic town of Ella on a 14-hour journey that combines comfort, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking scenery.

One of the standout features is the early morning start, which maximizes your chances to see the wildlife at their most active—especially the iconic Sri Lankan elephants. The logistics are well thought-out, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, and the inclusion of a professional, English-speaking driver/guide who adds local insights along the way.

However, it’s important to note that the tour doesn’t include meals—so bringing snacks or planning for lunch is advisable. This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate wildlife, nature photography, or simply want an authentic safari without breaking the bank. If you’re comfortable with a full-day commitment and enjoy guided excursions, this trip is likely to suit you well.

Key Points

• Early start for optimal wildlife viewing
• Includes transportation, guide, and a 3-hour safari
• Opportunity to see elephants, water birds, and other wildlife
• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire journey
• No meals included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase locally
• Private activity for your group, with flexible scheduling

A Deep Dive into the Udawalawe Safari Experience

The Journey from Ella to Udawalawe

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Ella, a charming town known for its rolling tea plantations and cool climate. The drive to Udawalawe takes approximately three hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic countryside—think lush green tea fields, mountain views, and glimpses of rural life. The transportation is by air-conditioned mini car, which ensures comfort after a potentially warm start.

Traveling in a private group means fewer distractions and a more personalized experience. The driver, who is covid-19 vaccinated and fluent in English, often shares interesting tidbits about Sri Lanka’s flora, fauna, and culture, enriching your understanding before reaching the park.

Entering Udawalawe National Park

Arriving at Udawalawe in the early morning means you’ll beat most crowds, and more importantly, you’ll catch the animals when they’re most active. The park’s landscape features marshes, forests, and grasslands, creating varied habitats for a wide array of wildlife.

The park itself was created in the 1970s as a sanctuary, and its primary fame comes from the large population of Asian elephants—sometimes numbering up to 100 in a herd. You’ll love the chance to observe these gentle giants up close, especially with the guidance of your knowledgeable guide who can point out behaviors and identify different animals.

The Safari Experience

The core of the day is a 3-hour safari in a jeep, which allows you to explore the park’s most promising spots. The safari vehicle is designed for optimal wildlife viewing, with open sides or large windows providing excellent visibility.

The guide’s insights are invaluable here. Reviewers mention guides who are “very knowledgeable,” providing not just spotting tips but also sharing fascinating facts about each species encountered—be it the fishing cats, water buffalo, or jungle cats.

During your safari, you’ll likely see water birds and, of course, the elephants. Some travelers have noted catching fleeting glimpses of jackals, foxes, mongooses, and wild boar, which adds to the thrill of the day. Reptiles, amphibians, and butterflies also make appearances, making this a true nature enthusiast’s dream.

Wildlife Insights and Tips

Our sources highlight the importance of the early start, as animals tend to be more active in the cooler mornings. The guide will help you spot the subtle signs of wildlife—like footprints or sounds—and if you’re lucky, you might even witness elephants bathing or grazing peacefully.

Reviewers also mention that guides are adept at sharing stories about the park’s ecosystem, making the experience more engaging. One reviewer noted: “The guide was incredibly knowledgeable, pointing out animals I would never have seen on my own.”

Returning and Relaxing in Ella

After your safari, you’ll head back to your vehicle, then make your way to Ella, arriving around 4 pm. This schedule leaves ample time to relax after a full day of adventure, and you’ll reflect on the stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings during the drive back.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $145 per person, the tour offers great value, especially considering the inclusions:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Ella
• Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned mini car
• A 3-hour safari in Udawalawe with a jeep
• The service of an English-speaking driver/guide
• All taxes and service charges

However, meals are not included, so plan for lunch and snacks. While the tour focuses on the safari experience, you might want to bring water, a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera with zoom to capture your wildlife moments.

The Experience’s Strengths and Considerations

This tour’s biggest advantage is the combination of convenience, expert guidance, and the chance for close-up wildlife sightings. The private group format adds a personal touch, avoiding the busier, more crowded safaris.

On the flip side, the long travel time—around three hours each way—might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer shorter excursions. Also, since the tour doesn’t include meals, travelers should prepare accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This safari is ideal for wildlife lovers eager to see elephants and other Sri Lankan fauna in their natural habitat. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided experiences with knowledgeable guides who make wildlife identification and storytelling engaging.

Travelers with a flexible schedule and a sense of adventure will enjoy the full-day itinerary and the chance to combine scenic drives with wildlife encounters. The private setting also makes it suitable for families, couples, or small groups seeking an intimate wildlife adventure.

If you’re looking for an authentic, value-packed safari that balances comfort, expert guidance, and a focus on wildlife, this tour hits the mark well.

Final Thoughts

The Udawalawe National Park safari from Ella offers a balance of comfort, natural beauty, and wildlife viewing that’s hard to beat for the price. The tour’s early start and expert guides make it a worthwhile choice for those eager to see elephants and other animals in their natural environment without the hassle of complicated arrangements.

While the length of the day and the lack of meals might not suit everyone, the overall experience is enriching and provides a genuine connection with Sri Lanka’s wilderness. The scenic drive, combined with the thrill of spotting wildlife, makes this tour a valuable addition to any Sri Lankan itinerary.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, authentic safari with knowledgeable guides and plenty of chances for sightings, this trip is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Ella, making it very convenient.

How long does the entire tour last?
It lasts approximately 14 hours, including travel time, the safari, and return.

What’s the main highlight of this safari?
The large population of Asian elephants and the opportunity to see them in their natural habitat are the biggest draws.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews mention guides who are “very knowledgeable,” capable of sharing detailed information about the wildlife and ecosystem.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
Transport is in an air-conditioned mini car for the entire trip, ensuring comfort during the long drive.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. Travelers should bring snacks or plan for lunch separately.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a private tour, so you can typically discuss any preferences with your guide upon booking.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Apart from elephants, expect water birds, jungle cats, fishing cats, water buffalo, jackals, foxes, mongooses, wild boar, and water birds.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the long day if traveling with young children.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This safari from Ella to Udawalawe offers a practical, immersive way to encounter some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic wildlife, making it a memorable experience for nature lovers and curious travelers alike.