Ella to Mirissa Shuttle & Udawalawe Safari Drive with Breakfast

Ella , Sri Lanka

Ella to Mirissa Shuttle & Udawalawe Safari Drive with Breakfast

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(38 reviews)

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About this experience

Leave the cool highlands of Ella and head toward the warm plains of Udawalawe, where open skies, dry forests, and glimmering lakes shape one of Sri Lanka’s most rewarding wildlife experiences. This is a place where you’ll see elephants up close — not in crowds, but moving freely in their natural habitat — along many other wildlife.

The 4×4 drive led by an experienced wildlife tracker who knows the park by heart. It’s a natural, unhurried experience with the pure wilderness. A freshly prepared homemade breakfast or evening snack is served, adding a personal and local touch.

After the safari, continue seamlessly to the southern coast—reaching Mirissa, Galle, Ahangama, Hiriketiya, or Tangalle in comfort. Choose from shared, private, sunrise or signature safari options—delivering transformative experiences that generates meaningful value for both local communities and the guests.

“Connecting Ella and the South since 2018—a time-efficient transfer built on real value and authenticity.”

Available options

Sunrise Safari (Exclusive)

Private Jeep & Taxi: Beat the Crowds & Enjoy Sunrise! 4x4 Off-road Safari with Local wildlife expert and Fresh home made breakfast.<br/>Pickup included

Private Safari

Private Jeep & Shared Shuttle: 4x4 Off-road Safari with Local wildlife expert and Fresh home made breakfast or Evening snacks.<br/>Pickup included

Shared Safari

Shared Jeep & Shuttle: 4x4 Off-road Safari with Local wildlife expert and Fresh home made breakfast.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Service of an experienced tracker

Bottled water

4x4 Off-road Safari (3.5-4 hours of pure wilderness)

Hotel pickup & drop (Ella to Mirissa, Weligama, Hiriketiya, Tangalle and the Suburbs) by Car or Van

Freshly home made breakfast or Evening Snacks

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Udawalawe National Park spans over 30,000 hectares across Sri Lanka’s southern plains, centered around the shimmering Udawalawe Reservoir — a lifeline that draws hundreds of wild elephants throughout the year. The park’s open grasslands, scrub forests, and distant mountain views create a strikingly beautiful and photogenic landscape. Beyond its famous elephant herds, Udawalawe is home to buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and an impressive variety of birds that thrive in this dry-zone ecosystem. Unlike many national parks around the world that experience seasonal closures or limited sightings, Udawalawe remains vibrant and accessible throughout the year, offering consistent wildlife encounters and one of the most rewarding safari experiences in Sri Lanka.

What's not included

National park entrance fees (approx. 9000 to 11000 LKR per person - depends on the group size)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

24 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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