Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari From Ella / Bandarawela
Active
8h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This half-day jeep safari will give you the chance of visiting Udawalawe National Park from hotels in Ella or Bandarawela, which is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants. An Asian elephant herd, no less than 250, is permanently residing at Udawalawe national park. The park is capable of sustaining large numbers of elephants because of its abundant water sources. Hundreds of elephants annually migrate to the park from nearby protected areas as well. Udawalawe national park was created for elephants displaced by the construction of the adjoining Udawalawe reservoir. Furthermore, Udawalawe is an important bird area with a wide range such as aquatic, birds of prey, and land birds in abundance. If you like to explore Sri Lankan birdlife, morning safari experiences are known to include rare bird sightings frequently.
Available options
Pick up from Udawalawe Hotels
Pick up and drop off at most closely located hotels in Udawalawe area.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Udawalawa, Sri Lanka<br/>Pickup included
Pick Up From Colombo Hotels
Pick Up and drop off at most closely located hotels in Colombo.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Colombo, Sri Lanka<br/>Pickup included
Pick Up From Bandarawela Hotel
Pick Up From Bandarawela: Pick Up and drop off at most closely located Hotels in Bandarawela area.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Bandarawela, Sri Lanka<br/>Pickup included
Pick up from Mount Lavinia
Pick up and drop off at most closely located hotels in Mount Lavinia Area.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Mount Lavinia, Sri Lanka<br/>Pickup included
Pick Up From Ella Hotels
Pick Up From Ella: Pick Up and drop off at most closely located hotels in Ella area.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Ella, Sri Lanka<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pick up and drop off will be provided by a air-conditioned vehicle.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
All government taxes.
Refreshments and water bottles during the safari.
Cost of the safari jeep.
Hotel pick up and drop off to most closely located hotels in mentioned locations.
Entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
6.00 AM - You will be greeted and picked up from most closely located hotels in Ella / Bandarawela and proceeded to Udawalawe National Park.
10.00 AM - On arrival at Udawalawe National Park, you will enjoy a thrilling 3 hours safari with our jeep driver. Udawalawe National Park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants. An Asian elephant herd, no less than 250, is permanently residing at Udawalawe National Park. The park is capable of sustaining large numbers of elephants because of its abundant water sources. Hundreds of elephants annually migrate to the park from nearby protected areas as well.
02.00 PM - After the safari, you will be taken to enjoy your lunch at a local restaurant.
03.00 PM - After a mouthwatering lunch, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Ella / Bandarawela.
2
Passing by.
3
Passing by.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Passing by.
5
Pick up
6
Pick up
What's not included
Anything not mentioned in inclusions.
Gratuities.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
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2★
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1★
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please bring valid passports for entering to the national park.
Please come with a comfortable attire for a safari.
Please be ready at the hotel lobby 15 minutes before the pick up time.
Meeting point
Pick up and drop off to most centrally located Hotels in Udawalawe area.
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
Instant confirmation
