GO WILD! Double Safari Day Trip (Yala & Udawalawe) – Private & All Inclusive

A comprehensive review of the GO WILD! Double Safari Day Trip (Yala & Udawalawe) – Private & All Inclusive

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing wild elephants and elusive leopards in a single day, this tour might just be your best bet in Sri Lanka. Designed for wildlife lovers, nature adventurers, and those craving an authentic jungle experience, this private day trip takes you through two of the country’s most famous national parks—Yala and Udawalawe—without the hassle of planning or logistics. It’s a full-on, action-packed adventure that packs in two safaris, a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, all meals, and transportation — all for $280 per person.

What we find particularly appealing is how seamlessly organized this trip appears, with reviews consistently praising the knowledgeable guides, punctual pickups, and the wide range of wildlife sightings. The all-inclusive approach, covering entry fees, safaris, and lunch, means no surprises or hidden costs, making it a solid choice for travelers who want a hassle-free experience.

However, a potential consideration is the long duration—about 13 to 16 hours—so this is best suited for energetic travelers ready for a full day in the wild. If you’re after a relaxed, leisurely pace, you might find the schedule a bit intense. But if your main goal is to maximize wildlife sightings and explore two top parks in one go, this trip hits the mark.

In short, this experience is ideal for wildlife aficionados, photography enthusiasts, and adventurous travelers eager to see a diverse array of animals in their natural habitat in one day.

Key Points

• Two Parks in One Day: Combines Yala and Udawalawe for maximum wildlife variety.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Entry fees, lunch, transportation, and guides included—no hidden costs.
• Expert Guides & Punctual Pickups: Well-reviewed drivers and guides create a smooth experience.
• Wildlife Highlights: Elephants, leopards, birds, and more are frequently spotted, with some reviews mentioning multiple leopard sightings.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect 13-16 hours of adventure, suitable for energetic travelers.
• Private Tour Benefit: Only your group participates, offering a more personalized experience.

Exploring the Tour: A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins early in the morning with a free pickup from numerous locations including Galle, Hikkaduwa, Bentota, and nearby coastal towns. The private transportation with an experienced driver-guide promises a comfortable and safe journey, crucial for a trip that extends well into the late afternoon or early evening. The reviews emphasize punctuality, with one guest praising “pick-up with Dinesh was on time from our hotel,” setting the tone for a well-organized day.

The vehicle itself is private for your group, which allows for flexibility and a more relaxed pace. If you’re traveling with friends or family, this private aspect is a definite plus, as it avoids the typical group tour rush and noise.

First Stop: Palatupana and Yala National Park

The adventure kicks off in Palatupana, renowned as the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka and a hotspot for leopard sightings. The park’s diverse eco systems—from moist monsoon forests to saltwater lagoons—offer a scenic backdrop for wildlife spotting.

With over 375 square miles of land, Yala is famous among locals and travelers alike, especially for its high density of leopards. Our review sources mention sightings of two leopards in recent trips, highlighting the park’s potential for rare and exciting wildlife encounters.

Guided safaris within Yala typically last around 4 hours, with entry fees included in the package. The reviews praise the “friendly driver and guides,” noting their skill in locating animals. The experienced guides’ knowledge contributes to a more rewarding experience—many travelers mention how guides point out animals that might be easy to overlook.

Elephant Transit Home (ETH)

Next, the tour visits the Elephant Transit Home within Udawalawe National Park, a well-regarded sanctuary for orphaned elephants. Established in 1995, this facility rehabilitates young elephants before releasing them back into the wild.

The 30-minute stop allows visitors to observe elephants at feeding times, learn about conservation efforts, and appreciate the importance of protecting these gentle giants. Multiple reviews highlight the benefit of this stop, describing it as a “brilliant experience” and praising the staff for their work. It’s not just a sightseeing spot but a meaningful glimpse into conservation in action.

Udawalawe National Park Safari

After the Elephant Transit Home, the focus shifts to Udawalawe National Park, which is widely regarded as one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants in their natural habitat. The park’s grasslands and bush forest create an ideal environment for spotting herds, often close enough to the safaris for impressive photo opportunities.

Expect to spend approximately 3 hours exploring Udawalawe, with many reviews emphasizing the abundance of elephants—some mention seeing “plenty of elephants” and a variety of bird species. The terrain is relatively open, making animal sightings easier compared to densely forested parks, and guides are praised for their skill in locating wildlife.

Additional Stops & Flexibility

The itinerary includes numerous stops, which may vary depending on your guide’s expertise and animal activity that day. While some reviews mention seeing birds, crocodiles, and other wildlife, the main goal remains spotting elephants and leopards.

Food & Comfort

Lunch is included, typically a well-packed meal, allowing travelers to refuel after a long morning of safaris. Reviewers comment positively on the quality and convenience of the meal, though breakfast is excluded and might require travelers to arrange their own beforehand. Bottled water and snacks keep everyone hydrated and energized throughout the day.

Value & Overall Experience

From the reviews, we see that many guests found this tour to be excellent value for money, especially given the inclusion of entry fees, lunch, private transport, and experienced guides. The long duration is appreciated by those eager to make the most of their wildlife encounters.

Why This Tour Works for Different Types of Travelers

If you’re someone who wants to maximize wildlife sightings in a single day—including elephants and leopards—this trip offers a well-rounded, hassle-free option. The private, all-inclusive nature means fewer worries about hidden costs and logistics, which is ideal for travelers who prefer a more personalized experience.

Photographers will love the opportunity to capture animals in their natural environment, especially with guides who are adept at finding elusive species. Families and groups of friends will appreciate the comfort of private transport and the flexibility of the itinerary.

However, if you’re not keen on long hours or prefer a slower pace, this might be a tiring day. But for those eager to see Sri Lanka’s top wildlife highlights in one go, this safari delivers.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This double safari day trip offers a fantastic opportunity to explore two of Sri Lanka’s premier parks without the stress of planning multiple separate visits. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photography fans wanting to see elephants, leopards, and a variety of birdlife, all in a single, seamless day.

The all-inclusive package ensures convenience and transparency, while the knowledgeable guides tend to make the experience more rewarding. The private setting means you’ll have room to breathe and ask questions, making it a more tailored adventure than large group tours.

Keep in mind the long hours—if you’re up for an active, immersive day in nature, this tour is a steal at the price point. It truly offers a rich wildlife experience packed into one memorable day in Sri Lanka.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides private transportation with an experienced driver-guide, including pickup and drop-off from numerous locations around Galle and nearby coastal towns.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 13 to 16 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Are entry fees and activities included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the parks and the Elephant Transit Home, as well as safaris and lunch, are covered.

Do I need to arrange my own breakfast?
Breakfast is not included, so you may want to eat beforehand or plan to have something after the tour.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the private nature and comprehensive schedule make it suitable for families, provided everyone is prepared for a long day.

How likely am I to see animals like leopards and elephants?
Reviews suggest high chances, with some guests reporting multiple leopard sightings and plentiful elephants, especially in Udawalawe.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable, lightweight clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and binoculars are recommended. Don’t forget your camera!

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, since it’s an outdoor activity, poor weather could affect the experience. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour balances the thrill of wildlife discovery with comfort and convenience—ideal for those wanting to pack a lot into a single day, with guides and transportation making the adventure smooth from start to finish.