Ella to Udawalawa Wildlife Safari and Drop Down South
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About this experience
A safari trip from Ella to Udawalawe is a fantastic way to explore Sri Lanka's wildlife! Here’s a suggested plan:
Morning
Depart from Ella: Leave early to make the most of your day. The drive takes about 2-3 hours.
Scenic Views: Enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way, including tea plantations and hills.
Mid-Morning
Udawalawe National Park Safari: Arrive and start your safari. Look out for elephants, water buffalo, and various bird species.
Lunch
Lunch Options: You can have lunch at a nearby restaurant with lake fish and rice and Curry options.
Afternoon
Continue Safari: Spend more time exploring the park, capturing photos and enjoying the wildlife.
Return
Head Back to your accomadation.
Tips
Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and binoculars for wildlife watching.
Enjoy your adventure!
Available options
Ella Udawalawa Wildlifesafari
Duration: 7 hours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
Safari jeep 4×4
Transport by private vehicle
What you'll see
Departure from Ella
Start your day early to maximize your time at Udawalawe.
The drive takes about 3 hours.
Arrival at Udawalawe National Park
Arrive at the park entrance and pay the entrance fee
Morning Safari
Begin your safari in a 4x4 jeep, as morning is the best time for wildlife viewing.
Look for elephants, water buffalo, and various bird species, including peacocks and eagles.
Enjoy the beautiful landscapes, including open grasslands and wetlands.
Mid-Morning Break
Stop at a scenic spot for a short break. If you packed snacks or drinks, this is a great time to enjoy them.
Return from Safari
Head back to the park entrance after your morning safari.
Lunch
Have lunch at a nearby restaurant. Enjoy rice and curry with lake fish, with vegetarian options available.
Visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home
After lunch, visit the Elephant Transit Home (ETH), a rehabilitation center for orphaned elephants.
Watch the baby elephants being fed at 3:00 PM and learn about the center's conservation efforts.
Departure to Accommodation
Drop off at your accommodation in the Tangalle, Mirissa, Weligama, or Hirikatiya areas.
Essential Packing Tips:
Essentials: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera with a good zoom lens for wildlife photography.
Clothing: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for off-road conditions.
This plan offers a fantastic day of adventure and wildlife viewing, making the most of your time in Udawalawe National Park. Enjoy your safari!
What's not included
Breakfast
All Fees and Taxes
Entrance tickets for Udawalawa national park
Lunch
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
Important notes
• Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on bag. Oversized or excessive luggage please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage is acceptable.
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
About Ella
Ella is a picturesque mountain town in Sri Lanka's Uva Province, renowned for its lush tea plantations, scenic landscapes, and cool climate. It's a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering breathtaking views, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Top Attractions
Little Adam's Peak
A scenic hiking trail offering panoramic views of the surrounding tea plantations and mountains.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free
Ella Rock
A challenging but rewarding hike with breathtaking views of the valley and Ella Gap.
Adventure
3-4 hours
Free
Nine Arch Bridge
A iconic colonial-era bridge known for its architectural beauty and scenic surroundings.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Dova Temple
An ancient Buddhist temple with historical significance and beautiful views.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Uva Halpewatta Lake
A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for a peaceful stroll or picnic.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kottu Roti
A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat or fish.
Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with egg, sambal, or curry.
Breakfast
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available
String Hoppers (Indi Appa)
Noodle-like strings made from rice flour, served with curry and sambal.
Lunch
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available
Lamprais
A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.
Lunch
Non-vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Trekking
Mountain Biking
Tea Tasting
Picnicking
Yoga
Visiting Temples
Exploring Local Markets
Best Time to Visit
December to August
This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather with clear skies and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Ella is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid unlicensed taxis
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranaike International Airport • 200 km (124 miles)
By train
Ella Railway Station
By bus
Ella Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Ella and nearby areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ella Town Center
Demodara
Passara
Day trips
Nuwara Eliya
30 km (18.6 miles) • Full day
A picturesque hill station known for its colonial-era architecture, tea plantations, and cool climate.
Horton Plains National Park
40 km (24.9 miles) • Full day
A protected area known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered Sri Lankan leopard.
Bogawantalawa Trail
20 km (12.4 miles) • Half day to Full day
A scenic hiking trail offering breathtaking views of the tea plantations and surrounding mountains.
Festivals
Ella Tea Festival • January
Vesak Festival • May (Full Moon Day)
Esala Perahera • July or August (Full Moon Day)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for hiking trails and tea plantation tours for a more immersive and informative experience
- Carry a light rain jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable, especially during the wet season
- Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience
- Visit the Nine Arch Bridge during train passage times for the best photos and a memorable experience
- Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs, spices, and handicrafts
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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