Privet 2 Day Tour Udawalawe & Ella From Colombo

Traveling from Colombo to Sri Lanka’s heartland offers an adventure packed with wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights. This 2-day private tour, operated by Vishwa Colombo Tours, promises to blend a safari experience with scenic train rides and visits to iconic attractions. With a reputation for high ratings and glowing reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this trip a memorable way to explore Sri Lanka beyond its beaches.

What we particularly love about this tour is its focus on guaranteed elephant sightings at Udawalawe National Park—something that sets it apart from other safaris. The inclusion of the gem museum in Ratnapura adds a touch of local craftsmanship, while the scenic train ride over Ella’s Nine Arches Bridge offers a breathtaking view of tea plantations and lush jungles.

That said, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a long, busy itinerary with early starts and a fair amount of driving—something to consider if you prefer a more relaxed pace. This tour seems best suited for travelers craving a comprehensive, authentic experience that combines wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural highlights in a short timeframe.

Key Points

• Highly praised for its wildlife safari, especially the elephant sightings guaranteed on every drive.
• Includes scenic train rides with stunning views over tea plantations and lush forests.
• Enriches the experience with visits to cultural landmarks like the Nine Arches Bridge and Kandy Temple.
• Value for money at just $5 per person, with all fees and taxes included.
• Guides and transportation receive consistent praise for professionalism and punctuality.
• Perfect for travelers seeking an active, full-day adventure with diverse highlights.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

Day 1: Udawalawe National Park & Ratnapura Gem Museum

The journey kicks off early, with a 6:00 am pickup from your Colombo hotel. We appreciate how the tour starts promptly—timing is key when making the most of Sri Lanka’s daylight hours. The drive to Udawalawe takes approximately four hours, but it’s broken up with a fascinating stop at the Ratnapura gem museum. Here, you can get a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s famous gemstone industry, spotting raw stones and learning about local craftsmanship.

Once at Udawalawe, the highlight is undoubtedly the three-hour jeep safari. The safari jeeps are comfortable and suited for spotting wildlife. According to visitors, Udawalawe is the only place where an elephant sighting is guaranteed on every drive, which makes it a particularly attractive option for wildlife lovers. Expect to see large herds of majestic elephants, often accompanied by playful calves. Reviewers mention that guides are knowledgeable and work hard to find the animals, with one noting how the guide’s expertise made the safari both informative and exciting.

Apart from elephants, you might glimpse exotic birds, water buffalo, and sometimes even a leopard. The park’s terrain is mainly open grasslands with patches of forested areas, providing the perfect backdrop for wildlife photography. We loved the way the safari offers close encounters with nature in a relatively undisturbed environment.

Day 2: Scenic Train Ride & Cultural Highlights

The second day begins early again—6:00 am pickup for a journey to Ella, with the main highlight being the Nine Arches Bridge. This railway marvel, located amidst dense jungle and tea plantations, is a photographer’s dream. Its graceful arches and the backdrop of greenery make it one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights. Reviewers rave about the breathtaking views from the bridge, especially when a train crosses, adding a nostalgic charm.

After visiting the bridge, the tour transitions into a scenic train ride from Ella to Kandy. According to reviews, this train journey is one of the most spectacular in Sri Lanka—a perfect way to see the countryside, with windows offering panoramic views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and forests. The guides ensure smooth transfers to and from the train station, and the train itself is a comfortable experience.

In Kandy, the group visits the famous Temple of the Tooth, which is a must-see for its spiritual significance and beautiful architecture. The tour also includes a visit to the upper lake, offering a peaceful moment amidst the city’s hustle.

En route back to Colombo, there’s a stop at a spice and herbal garden. Travelers mention enjoying this peaceful break, as it offers a chance to learn about Sri Lanka’s herbal traditions and sample local spices.

The return journey is scenic and allows travelers to reflect on their diverse experiences—from wildlife safaris to cultural sites and scenic train rides—all packed into just two days.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation & Comfort

The tour uses modern, air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during the long drives. Reviewers consistently mention the driver’s punctuality and helpful attitude, which significantly enhances the experience. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be part of a large group, allowing for flexibility and personalized attention.

Cost & Value

At $5 per person, the tour represents exceptional value. This price includes all fees and taxes, making it easier to budget without unexpected costs. However, it’s worth noting that lunch and dinner are not included, so planning ahead is recommended. The tour doesn’t include entrance fees or jeep safaris, but these are reasonably priced and are highlights of the experience.

Timing & Group Size

Most travelers book about 5 days in advance, highlighting good availability for such short notice. The early start ensures you maximize daylight, especially for safaris and scenic views. Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, which allows for a more relaxed pace and tailored experience.

What’s Not Included

• Meals: Plan to bring snacks or buy at stops.
• Entrance fees and jeep fees: Budget accordingly.
• Accommodation: The tour doesn’t include overnight stays, so it suits travelers with their own arrangements or those flying in for a day or two.

Authentic Experiences & Feedback from Travelers

Reviewers frequently mention the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, making the trip feel personal and informative. One noted how their guide, Terrance, was particularly helpful and punctual. The elephant safari often stood out, with many saying it exceeded expectations because elephants are seen in large herds with playful calves, adding a lively, authentic touch to the safari.

The scenic train ride receives high praise, with travelers describing it as “probably the most scenic train journey in Sri Lanka”. The views over tea plantations and waterfalls are said to be truly picture-perfect.

Cultural visits like Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth are appreciated for their beauty and spiritual significance, while stops at spice gardens add a sensory element, with fragrant spices and herbal remedies on display.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour fits adventurous travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and culture buffs alike. If you’re someone who values wildlife sightings, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights in a short time, this experience is a strong contender. It’s particularly suitable for those comfortable with early mornings and long drives, and for travelers on a budget, as it offers impressive value at just $5 a person.

While it’s ideal for independent travelers or groups, the private aspect means families, couples, or small groups will find it flexible and personalized. If you’re after luxurious accommodations or a slower pace, this tour might feel too busy, but for those eager to see a lot in a short window, it’s perfect.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For wildlife lovers, the guarantee of elephant sightings makes this tour especially appealing. The scenic train ride over Ella’s famous nine-arches bridge is a highlight that many travelers remember long after returning home. The cultural stops, like Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth, add richness, making this more than just a safari.

The value for money is remarkable, considering the inclusion of transportation, guides, and multiple highlights. Reviewers consistently praise the professionalism of the guides and the smooth logistics, which is key when navigating Sri Lanka’s often winding roads.

This tour is best for energetic travelers eager to pack a lot into two days, and those who want an authentic, well-rounded experience of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, scenery, and culture. If you’re seeking a fun, affordable way to see the highlights beyond beaches and city bustle, this tour offers an excellent, trusted option.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour’s flexible private setup can work well for families, especially those comfortable with early starts and long drives. Just consider the ages of children and their stamina for wildlife safaris and scenic train rides.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Lunch and dinner are not included, so it’s advisable to bring snacks or plan to purchase meals during stops. There are opportunities to buy food at certain points, like the spice garden.

How guaranteed are the elephant sightings?
Udawalawe National Park is famous for elephants, and the tour ensures a guaranteed sighting on every drive. Many reviewers highlight this as a major highlight.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While the specific season isn’t mentioned, Sri Lanka’s dry months typically offer better wildlife viewing and scenic train rides. Check local climate conditions for optimal timing.

Is this tour a full two days?
Yes, the itinerary covers two full days, starting early and returning late. It’s packed with activities, so be prepared for an active schedule.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees and jeep safari costs are paid separately, but they are reasonably priced. The main tour fee covers transportation, guides, and taxes.

This 2-day adventure from Colombo offers a well-balanced mix of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, scenic beauty, and culture. With trusted guides, scenic routes, and guaranteed wildlife encounters, it’s a solid choice for those wanting an authentic taste of the island in a short time.