2-Day Yala & Udawalawe Safari Tour with Hotel & Meals

Summary

Sri Lanka Wildlife Safari: Yala and Udawalawe Adventure

You’ll get up close to wild elephants and maybe even spot a leopard on this two-day safari through Sri Lanka’s top national parks. With everything sorted—meals, hotels, entry fees—you can just soak up real wildlife moments and local stories without any hassle.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the dry, earthy scent as we rolled into Yala National Park. Our driver—Chaminda, who seemed to know every bump in the road—pointed out a peacock strutting along the edge of the scrub. The afternoon sun was fierce but not unbearable; I just kept my hat low and my camera ready. We bounced along in our open-top jeep, eyes peeled for any flicker of movement. Suddenly, a leopard slipped across the track ahead—just a flash of spots and muscle before it vanished into the brush. Chaminda grinned like he'd seen an old friend.

That night at the hotel near Yala, I could still hear monkeys chattering somewhere outside my window. The place wasn't fancy but felt comfortable after a day in the dust—hot shower, simple dinner, and a cold Lion beer from the bar. Next morning, after a quick breakfast (eggs with spicy sambol), we set off for Udawalawe. The drive cut through sleepy villages where kids waved at us from roadside stalls selling king coconuts.

Udawalawe was different—wide open grasslands instead of tangled jungle. Within minutes inside the park, we found ourselves surrounded by elephants: mothers with calves, teenagers play-fighting by a muddy waterhole. The air smelled faintly sweet from wildflowers crushed underfoot. Our guide explained how this park is famous for its elephant herds; he even knew some individuals by their ear shapes.

Before heading back, we stopped at the Elephant Transit Home. Watching orphaned calves being bottle-fed was unexpectedly moving—you could see how much care went into getting them ready for life in the wild again. On our way home, we made a quick detour to Sankapala Raja Maha Viharaya—a temple perched on a rocky hilltop with ancient Brahmin inscriptions carved right into the stone ledges. Not many tourists stop here; it felt like stepping back in time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Yala Safari Experience

• Yala National Park Safari
• Additional activities

Day 2 — Udawalawe Safari & Visits

• Udawalawe National Park Safari
• Elephant Transit Home visit
• Sankapala Raja Maha Viharaya visit

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes! The tour is family-friendly and infant seats are available if you let us know in advance.

Can you cater to special dietary needs?

Absolutely—just mention your requirements when booking so we can arrange suitable meals.

What kind of accommodation is included?

You’ll stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel near Yala National Park; upgrades to 4 or 5 stars are possible for an extra fee.

How long are the safari drives?

The evening safari in Yala lasts about 3 hours; Udawalawe’s morning safari is similar in length but timing may vary based on animal activity.

What’s included

Your private driver-guide handles all transport from your pickup point (Negombo to Hambantota area). All entry fees for safaris and attractions are covered—including jeep hire—plus bottled water along the way. You’ll get lunch both days, dinner and breakfast at your hotel (with options for dietary needs). No hidden costs—it’s all sorted so you can focus on enjoying Sri Lanka’s wildlife.