YALA National Park Safari with Transfer Hikkaduwa to Arugam Bay
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YALA National Park Safari with Transfer Hikkaduwa to Arugam Bay

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10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience

This is our warm invitation for you to explore breathtaking wilderness of Sri Lanka with our company. And with this package, we are ready to give you two Game Drives. One covers the "Golden Hours" and the other goes off the beaten path in YALA. Also, this is a great opportunity for you to meet new people, as it is a shared safari.

We're the only Sri Lankan safari operator mentioned both in Lonely Planet and the number one provider on Trip Advisor for more than a decade.

We take pride in our commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable Safari operations. For over 35 years, we've served clients from around the world with comfort, enjoyment, and adventure.

NOTE -
As an authorized company to offer safari services in YALA National Park, all of our 4X4 vehicles have necessary approvals & all of our drivers have the special licenses to provide their service as safari drivers in the YALA National Park - issued by the Department of Wildlife Conservation in Sri Lanka.

Available options

YALA National Park Safari with Transfer Hikkaduwa to Arugam Bay

Pickup included

What's included

Toyota Hilux 4X4 Safari vehicle on SHARING BASIS - (with 6 individual seats)
Experienced Driver cum Guide
Air-conditioned transfer vehicle on SHARING BASIS.
Drop off in any hotel around Arugam Bay area
If you're staying in a place beyond given area, we can arrange pickup with extra charge. Contact us
Hotel pickup - From Hikkaduwa/ Galle/ Unawatuna/ Talpe/ Dodanduwa/ Rathgama areas

Detailed itinerary

1

We will start the journey from Hikkaduwa, one of the top tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.
Our driver will come to pick you up from the hotel you're staying, in and around Hikkaduwa/ Galle/ Unawatuna/ Talpe/ Dodanduwa/ Rathgama area.
Transfer vehicle is an Air-conditioned car or minivan with luggage space and on SHARING BASIS. All pick up times - (Morning Safari – 2.30 a.m. / 3.00 a.m. / Afternoon Safari - if you want to have lunch before the safari select 11.00 a.m. / else 11.30 a.m.)

After the start of the journey, you will be transferred to Tissamaharama in 2 hours and 30 minutes.
You will have the chance to witness the sunrise in the latter part of the journey.

2

In Tissamaharama at around 5.30 a.m., you will get down from the transfer vehicle and get on to the SHARED SAFARI VEHICLE. Your safety and comfort is our top priority, so we use only the rugged Toyota Hilux 4x4 vehicle for the safari, specially equipped to navigate the YALA National Park's diverse off-road conditions easily. Safari vehicles consist of 6 individual seats, which gives a 270 degree view to the guest.
You can leave your luggage in the Taxi while you are going on the Safari.
Here, there's 30 minutes break in Afternoon Safari for you to have lunch.
You can request lunch for the Afternoon Safari for an additional charge of USD 10 Per Person - Sri Lankan lunch with Rice, Chicken Curry, Dhal Curry, Beans Curry, Tempered Potato, Papadam and Sri Lankan fruits. (Please send your meal requests at least a day before the tour)

3

This is the first game drive of the day, one of the highlights of the journey. The duration is 2 hours.

We are aiming to be in the YALA National Park at dawn in the Morning Safari or at dusk in the Afternoon Safari. These are the best times of the day, which is called "Golden Hours" and gives you the highest chance of spotting the elusive Sri Lankan leopards, which is a leopard subspecies native to Sri Lanka. YALA National Park boasts approximately a hundred individual leopards and has the highest leopard density in the world.

4

At the end of the first game drive, you will be given a break to refresh yourself at the Patanangala beach inside the YALA National Park facing the Indian Ocean.

You can enjoy your breakfast in the break. Breakfast is not included in this tour but you can request it from us with an additional charge of 8 USD per person. (Please send your meal requests at least a day before the tour)

Sri Lankan breakfast with Plain Hoppers, Egg Hoppers, Rotti, Coconut Sambol, Sini Sambol or Western Picnic Breakfast with Cheese and Tomato Sandwich, Boiled egg, Cake, Cookie, Jumbo Peanut and Sri Lankan fruits.

5

After the break, you start the 2nd game drive of the day. Duration 1 hour.

Marvel at the sight of majestic elephants, graceful spotted deer, and elusive sloth bears, among a plethora of other mesmerizing species. Your knowledgeable driver cum guide will regale you with insights into the behaviors and habitats of YALA's diverse wildlife, enriching your safari experience. With every moment promising an unforgettable encounter, YALA offers a sanctuary where the extraordinary becomes the norm.

6

After completing the 2nd game drive, you will come out of the YALA National Park and travel to Tissamaharama by the safari vehicle.
You will get down from the safari vehicle and get into the airconditioned transfer vehicle.

7

3 hours - Transfer from Tissamaharama to Arugam Bay
The road to Arugambay runs near the boarder of Lahugala Kitulana National park. When you are passing Lahugala area, most of the time you will be able to witness elephants by the side of the road.

8

This is going to be the place where we end the journey.

Visit your hotel in the Arugam Bay beach area, as a person filled with memories of a lifetime and has a newfound appreciation for the wonders of one of the best spots in Sri Lanka's majestic wilderness.

If you love surfing, this is going to be a paradise for you as Arugam Bay is the only international surf competition venue in Sri Lanka. It is also rated as one of the top ten surf destinations in the world.

Hope we were able to paint a picture in your mind, on what the experience of the tour would be.
We, at Ajith Safari Jeep Tours ready to serve you and we invite you to book this tour with us.

What's not included

Entrance Fees to the National Park (13,000/- Sri Lankan Rupees - Around $37 per person)
Can be requested with additional cost of 8 USD per person. - Sri Lankan Picnic Breakfast: Plain Hoppers, Egg Hoppers, Rotti, Coconut Sambol, Sini Sambol OR Western Picnic Breakfast & Sri Lankan fruits
Can be requested with additional cost of 10 USD per person. - Sri Lankan lunch with Rice, Chicken Curry, Dhal Curry, Beans Curry, Tempered Potato, Papadam and Sri Lankan fruits
Yala national park

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please be informed that the entrance fees for the YALA National Park is not included in this package.
You must pay the fees at the entrance in cash in Sri Lankan Rupees (Rs. 11,000/- , approx. $37 per person) or through a credit card. (There is no facility at present at the YALA National Park entrance to make cash payments in foreign currencies)
The total duration of the Tour is around 10 hours and 30 minutes. This includes 3 hours and 30 minutes inside the YALA National Park, 3 hours to Pick up and reach to the YALA National Park entrance and 4 hours to Drop off after the safari.
A minimum of 2 people is needed for a booking.

About Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is a vibrant coastal town in Sri Lanka, renowned for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and vibrant nightlife. It's a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Top Attractions

Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa Beach is the town's main attraction, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and excellent surfing conditions. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Hikkaduwa Coral Gardens

A protected marine area just off the coast, the Coral Gardens offer a chance to see vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. It's a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate (snorkeling/diving tours)

Tsunami Honganji Vihara

This Buddhist temple is a memorial to the victims of the 2004 tsunami. The temple features a large statue of Buddha and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling beach.

Historical 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Hikkaduwa Nightlife

Hikkaduwa is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties. It's a great place to enjoy live music, dance, and socialize with fellow travelers.

Entertainment Evening to late night Moderate to Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, stir-fried with spices.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or with meat/seafood

Fish Ambul Thiyal

A sour fish curry made with goraka (a type of sour fruit), coconut, and spices. It's a signature dish of Sri Lankan cuisine.

Dinner Contains fish

Woodapple Juice

A refreshing juice made from the woodapple fruit, often mixed with sugar and water. It's a popular local drink.

Drink Vegan

Popular Activities

Surfing Snorkeling Diving Jet-skiing Parasailing Beach lounging Yoga Spa treatments

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the best time to visit Hikkaduwa for beach activities and surfing, as the weather is dry and sunny. The town is lively with many events and festivals.

28°C to 32°C 82°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Sinhala, Tamil
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hikkaduwa is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions. Petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use reputable tour operators and guides.
  • • Negotiate prices in advance for taxis and tours.
  • • Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.

Getting there

By air
  • Bandaranayake International Airport • 120 km
By train

Hikkaduwa Railway Station

By bus

Hikkaduwa Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Hikkaduwa. They are affordable and frequent, connecting the town to nearby areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Beachfront Area Galle Road Area Seenimodara

Day trips

Galle
20 km • Half day to full day

Galle is a historic port city with a rich colonial heritage. It's known for its well-preserved Dutch Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its vibrant arts and culture scene.

Unawatuna
15 km • Half day to full day

Unawatuna is a beautiful beach town near Hikkaduwa, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the local beach bars.

Bentota
30 km • Full day

Bentota is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and luxury resorts. It's a great destination for adventure activities like jet-skiing, parasailing, and river safaris.

Festivals

Hikkaduwa Beach Festival • December (specific dates vary) Vesak • May (specific dates vary) Esala Perahera • July or August (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Sinhala or Tamil to enhance your interactions with locals.
  • Rent a surfboard or take a lesson from local surf schools to experience Hikkaduwa's famous waves.
  • Visit the Hikkaduwa Beach Festival if you're in town during December for a unique cultural experience.
  • Explore nearby towns like Galle and Unawatuna for a mix of history, culture, and relaxation.
  • Try local street food, but be cautious and choose stalls with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 3-120
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 6
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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