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Ella, Yala & Udawalawe 3-Day Tour
from Kosgoda and Bentota

Explore Ella, Yala and Udawalawe on a private 3-day tour from Kosgoda or Bentota with wildlife safaris, chauffeur guide and hotel options.

Ella, Yala and Udawalawe 3-Day Private Tour

Discover Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country and renowned wildlife parks on a private three-day journey from Kosgoda, Bentota or a nearby beach hotel. Explore Ella, experience a wildlife safari in Yala National Park, and continue to Udawalawe National Park for another safari among elephants and open natural landscapes. Travel in a comfortable private vehicle with a chauffeur guide or private driver.

Tour Overview

Ella, Yala and Udawalawe 3-Day Tour

The Ella, Yala and Udawalawe 3-Day Tour is ideal for travellers who want to combine mountain scenery, waterfalls and wildlife during their beach holiday in southern Sri Lanka.

The route includes three different travel experiences:

  • Guests can enjoy hill-country scenery and sightseeing in Ella.
  • Guests can experience a wildlife safari in Yala National Park.
  • Guests can enjoy an elephant-focused safari experience in Udawalawe National Park.

The tour starts directly from your hotel in Kosgoda, Bentota or another confirmed beach area.The tour can return to the southern coast on Day 3 or finish in Galle, Mirissa, Tangalle, Ella or another suitable destination.

Tour Highlights

  • Private hotel pickup from Kosgoda or Bentota
  • Scenic drive into the hill country
  • Ella town
  • Ravana Falls
  • Nine Arch Bridge
  • Optional Little Adam’s Peak
  • Optional tea experience
  • Yala National Park safari
  • Possibility of seeing elephants, deer, crocodiles and leopards
  • Udawalawe National Park safari
  • Wild-elephant habitats
  • Optional Elephant Transit Home visit
  • Private air-conditioned transport
  • Flexible accommodation and meal-plan options
  • Private return transfer to the southern coast

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Kosgoda or Bentota to Ella

Day 1: Kosgoda or Bentota to Ella

Your private driver or chauffeur guide will collect you from your hotel, villa or guesthouse at the confirmed time.An early departure is recommended to provide enough time for sightseeing in Ella.Travel inland from the southern coast through rural areas and mountain roads towards Ella.Breakfast, refreshment and comfort stops can be arranged during the journey.

Ravana Falls

Stop at Ravana Falls near Ella.The waterfall’s appearance depends on rainfall and seasonal conditions.Guests should remain within safe viewing areas and avoid climbing on wet rocks.

Ella Town

Continue to Ella, a popular hill-country destination surrounded by tea estates, mountains and valleys.There will be time for lunch or refreshments at a selected restaurant.

Nine Arch Bridge

Visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge, set among forest and tea-country scenery.The standard route includes some walking on uneven paths.An easier viewing option may be considered for guests with limited mobility.Train arrival times at the bridge cannot be guaranteed.

Optional Little Adam’s Peak

Guests who enjoy walking can add Little Adam’s Peak.The route includes slopes and steps but offers views across the surrounding hills.This activity is optional and can be removed from the itinerary.

Optional Tea Experience

A tea-factory visit, tea tasting or plantation viewpoint may be included where practical.

Hotel Check-In

Check in at the selected hotel in Ella.The evening is available for rest or independent exploration of the town.

Overnight: Ella

Meal Plan: According to the selected package

Day 2: Ella to Yala National Park

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and travel from the hill country towards Yala.The departure time will depend on the confirmed safari schedule.

Scenic Journey from Ella

Travel through changing landscapes from the mountains towards Sri Lanka’s dry-zone wildlife region.Suitable scenic, refreshment and comfort stops may be added during the journey.

Optional Morning Ella Activity

If the safari is scheduled for the afternoon, guests may have time for one additional Ella experience, such as:

  • Visit Little Adam’s Peak for scenic mountain and valley views.
  • Enjoy a tea tasting experience at a selected location.
  • Visit Ravana Falls for a short scenic stop.
  • Stop at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the surrounding hills.
  • Enjoy short local sightseeing in and around Ella.

Yala National Park Safari

Meet the safari-jeep driver near the confirmed park entrance and begin the wildlife safari.

Yala contains a variety of habitats, including:

  • Dry forest provides habitat for a wide range of wildlife.
  • Open grassland offers opportunities to observe animals in their natural surroundings.
  • Lagoons and waterholes attract wildlife and bird species.
  • Rocky landscapes form part of the park’s varied terrain.
  • Coastal ecosystems provide another distinctive wildlife environment.

Wildlife that may be seen includes:

  • Leopards may be seen depending on natural conditions and wildlife movement.
  • Elephants can be encountered in different areas of the park.
  • Spotted deer may be observed in open areas and forest edges.
  • Sambar deer may be seen in suitable habitats.
  • Crocodiles may be observed near waterways and lagoons.
  • Water buffalo may be found around grasslands and water sources.
  • Monkeys can be encountered in forested areas.
  • Wild boar may be seen along safari routes.
  • Jackals may occasionally be observed during the safari.
  • Peacocks and other colourful bird species may be encountered.
  • Eagles and other birds of prey may be seen in suitable areas.
  • Other bird species and wildlife may be encountered according to natural conditions.

All wildlife lives freely in the national park.

Leopard sightings and other specific animal sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Hotel Check-In

After the safari, travel to the selected hotel in Tissamaharama, Kirinda or the Yala region.

Overnight: Yala or Tissamaharama area

Meal Plan: According to the selected package

Day 3: Yala Area to Udawalawe and Return to the Coast

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and travel towards Udawalawe.

Udawalawe National Park Safari

Meet the safari-jeep driver and begin a wildlife safari in Udawalawe National Park.Udawalawe is especially known for its elephant habitats and open natural landscapes.

Possible wildlife includes:

  • Elephants may be seen throughout suitable areas of the park.
  • Water buffalo may be observed near grasslands and water sources.
  • Spotted deer may be encountered in open areas.
  • Sambar deer may be seen in suitable habitats.
  • Crocodiles may be observed near waterways.
  • Monkeys may be encountered along the safari routes.
  • Jackals may occasionally be seen during the safari.
  • Peacocks and other colourful birds may be observed.
  • Eagles and other birds of prey may be seen in suitable areas.
  • Water birds can be observed around reservoirs and wetlands.
  • Other wildlife species may be encountered depending on natural conditions.

Specific wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed because animals move freely within the national park.

Optional Elephant Transit Home

Depending on operating times, guests may add a visit to the Elephant Transit Home.The centre cares for orphaned young elephants before they are eventually released back into the wild.Viewing times may not suit every itinerary and should be confirmed in advance.

Lunch or Refreshment Stop

Stop at a suitable restaurant in or near Udawalawe.

Return to Kosgoda or Bentota

After completing the wildlife programme, travel back towards the southern coast.

Drop-off can be arranged at:

  • Kosgoda
  • Bentota
  • Galle
  • Mirissa
  • Ahungalla
  • Another confirmed destination

Optional Tour Variations

Optional Tour Variations

Option 1: One Safari Only

Guests who prefer a slower trip may choose either Yala or Udawalawe for a single safari experience.

The additional time can be used for:

  • Enjoying more sightseeing in Ella.
  • Adding additional tea-country experiences.
  • Allowing more time for rest and relaxation.
  • Arranging a convenient beach-hotel transfer.
  • Including additional local village experiences.

Option 2: Tour Ending in Yala

The tour can finish at a hotel near Yala instead of returning to the original beach hotel.

Option 3: Tour Ending in Ella

The itinerary can be reversed to finish in Ella for guests continuing to Nuwara Eliya or Kandy.

Option 4: Four-Day Relaxed Tour

Add an extra night to reduce travel pressure and allow more time in Ella or the wildlife regions.

Option 5: Add a Beach Stay

The final night or onward destination can be arranged in:

  • Tangalle
  • Mirissa
  • Galle
  • Unawatuna

Chauffeur-Guide Service

Chauffeur-Guide Service

A chauffeur guide may assist with:

  • Private driving throughout the confirmed itinerary.
  • Route planning and practical journey coordination.
  • General destination information during the journey.
  • Hotel check-ins and practical accommodation assistance.
  • Safari coordination according to the confirmed itinerary.
  • Local recommendations for suitable stops and experiences.
  • Practical travel support throughout the tour.

The safaris themselves normally use separate safari jeeps operated by safari providers and safari drivers.

A specialised wildlife guide may be arranged separately when requested and subject to availability.

Private Driver Service

Transport-Only Service

Travellers who have booked their own accommodation can request private transport only.

This option is suitable for guests who:

  • Have booked their own hotels.
  • Prefer to pay park fees directly.
  • Have arranged their own safaris.
  • Want a private vehicle throughout the tour.
  • Have prepared their own itinerary.

What to Bring

Recommended Items

Recommended items include:

  • Comfortable clothing suitable for sightseeing and long journeys.
  • Walking shoes with good grip for uneven paths and outdoor attractions.
  • A hat for protection from direct sunlight.
  • Sun protection such as sunscreen and sunglasses.
  • Insect repellent for wildlife and outdoor areas.
  • Drinking water for long journeys and outdoor activities.
  • A camera for sightseeing and wildlife photography.
  • Binoculars for observing wildlife and birds during safaris.
  • Light rain protection for changing weather conditions.
  • Personal medication required during the journey.
  • A small overnight bag for the multi-day tour.
  • Passport or identification for travel and hotel requirements.
  • A warm layer for cooler mornings and evenings in Ella.
  • Neutral-coloured clothing is recommended for safari activities.

Accessibility and Fitness Information

Accessibility and Physical Requirements

This tour includes long-distance road travel, two safari-jeep rides and optional hill-country activities that may require physical effort.

The tour includes:

  • Long-distance road travel between the southern coast, Ella, Yala and Udawalawe.
  • Two safari-jeep rides in national park environments.
  • Uneven park roads that may result in a bumpy safari experience.
  • Optional hill-country walking at attractions around Ella.
  • Early departures depending on safari schedules.
  • Long periods of sitting during road journeys and safari drives.

The itinerary can be adjusted by:

  • Removing Little Adam’s Peak to reduce walking and climbing.
  • Using an easier Nine Arch Bridge viewpoint where practical.
  • Selecting only one safari for a more relaxed itinerary.
  • Requesting shorter safari durations where available.
  • Adding an extra night to reduce travel pressure.
  • Choosing accessible hotels where suitable accommodation is available.

Guests should provide information about:

  • Mobility limitations that may affect sightseeing or vehicle access.
  • Back or neck concerns that may be affected by long journeys or uneven safari roads.
  • Knee or hip issues that may affect walking or climbing.
  • Pregnancy before confirming safari and travel arrangements.
  • Wheelchair requirements so suitable transport and accommodation can be considered.
  • Other medical conditions relevant to travel that may affect the itinerary.

Safari-jeep rides can be rough and may involve uneven roads, vibrations and extended periods of sitting. They may not be suitable for everyone.

Responsible Wildlife Viewing

Safari Safety and Wildlife Guidelines

Guests should:

  • Remain inside the safari jeep unless instructed otherwise by the safari driver or park authorities.
  • Avoid feeding wildlife under all circumstances.
  • Avoid loud noise to minimise disturbance to animals and other visitors.
  • Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and follow the driver’s guidance.
  • Follow park rules and driver instructions throughout the safari.
  • Avoid chasing animals for photographs or requesting unsafe driving behaviour.
  • Keep national parks free from litter and take personal rubbish with you.

Wildlife welfare and guest safety should always come before close sightings or photographs.

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Tour Information

  • Duration: 3 days and 2 nights
  • Tour Type: Private hill-country and wildlife round tour

Suggested Route

The suggested route is Kosgoda or Bentota → Ella → Yala → Udawalawe → Southern beach hotel.

Recommended Overnight Stays

  • The first night can be spent in Ella.
  • The second night can be spent in Tissamaharama, Kirinda or the Yala area.

Transport Options

  • A private car with driver can be arranged for couples, solo travellers and small families.
  • A private van with driver can be arranged for families and small groups.
  • A chauffeur-guide service can be arranged for guests who prefer private driving with general destination assistance.

Starting Locations

Private pickup can be arranged from:

  • Pickup can be arranged from Kosgoda.
  • Pickup can be arranged from Bentota.
  • Pickup can be arranged from Ahungalla.
  • Pickup can be arranged from Induruwa.
  • Pickup can be arranged from Balapitiya.
  • Pickup can be arranged from Beruwala.
  • Pickup can be arranged from Aluthgama.
  • Pickup can be arranged from Ambalangoda.

The tour may also start from Galle, Colombo Airport, Colombo or another confirmed location.

Alternative Route

The tour may also operate in the following order: Kosgoda or Bentota → Udawalawe → Ella → Yala → Southern beach hotel.

This route may be recommended when:

  • Udawalawe safari availability is better on Day 1.
  • The guest prefers to visit Ella in the middle of the tour.
  • Yala is more convenient for the final destination.
  • The tour finishes in Tangalle or Mirissa.
  • Weather conditions favour the reversed route.

The final route will be confirmed before booking.

Accommodation Options

Accommodation

Accommodation can be arranged according to the guest’s preferred category.

Possible options include:

  • Budget guesthouses for travellers seeking simple and affordable accommodation.
  • Three-star hotels offering comfortable accommodation and essential facilities.
  • Four-star hotels for guests seeking additional comfort and facilities.
  • Boutique hotels offering a more personalised and distinctive stay.
  • Eco-lodges for travellers who prefer nature-focused accommodation.
  • Safari lodges located close to wildlife areas and national parks.
  • Nature resorts offering a relaxing stay surrounded by natural landscapes.
  • Family-friendly hotels suitable for families and different room requirements.

Guests may choose:

  • A complete package with accommodation included.
  • A transport-only service with self-booked hotels.

Final accommodation selection depends on travel dates and hotel availability.

Meal-Plan Options

Meal Plans and Dietary Requirements

Hotels may be arranged with:

  • Breakfast included according to the selected accommodation package.
  • Half board including breakfast and dinner according to the confirmed package.
  • Full board including breakfast, lunch and dinner according to the confirmed package.

Please provide information about:

  • Vegetarian meals required during the tour.
  • Vegan meals required during the tour.
  • Halal meals required during the tour.
  • Food allergies that should be communicated to the accommodation provider.
  • Children’s meals required for younger travellers.
  • Any other dietary requirements that should be considered when arranging meals.

Meals outside the confirmed meal plan may be paid for directly by the guest.

Safari Jeep Arrangements

Safari Jeep Options

Safari jeeps are separate from the main private road vehicle used for transfers between destinations.

Guests may request:

  • A private safari jeep for a more exclusive wildlife experience.
  • A jeep with elevated seating for improved visibility during the safari.
  • A jeep with front-facing seats for additional comfort during the journey.
  • An experienced wildlife tracker when available.
  • An upgraded safari-jeep option with additional comfort features, subject to availability.

The final safari-jeep type depends on availability and the selected safari operator.

Vehicle Options

Private Car

A private car is suitable for:

  • Solo travellers looking for comfortable private transport.
  • Couples travelling with limited luggage.
  • Small families with limited luggage requirements.

Mini Van

A mini van is suitable for:

  • Families requiring additional passenger space.
  • Small groups travelling together.
  • Travellers carrying additional luggage.

Larger Passenger Van

A larger passenger van is suitable for:

  • Larger families requiring additional space.
  • Private groups travelling together.
  • Travellers carrying more luggage.

The final vehicle depends on the number of passengers and luggage requirements.

Possible Tour Inclusions

  • Private air-conditioned vehicle
  • Private driver or chauffeur guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Fuel, parking and highway charges
  • Driver expenses
  • Two nights of accommodation
  • Selected hotel meal plan
  • Yala safari-jeep reservation
  • Udawalawe safari-jeep reservation
  • National park entrance tickets
  • Elephant Transit Home arrangements
  • Local travel assistance
  • Applicable taxes and service charges

Possible Tour Exclusions

  • International flights
  • Sri Lanka visa
  • Travel insurance
  • Yala entrance tickets
  • Udawalawe entrance tickets
  • Safari-jeep charges
  • Elephant Transit Home ticket
  • Optional Ella activities
  • Meals outside the selected plan
  • Drinks
  • Tips
  • Personal expenses
  • Optional activities
  • Specialised guides
  • Early check-in or late check-out
  • Services not mentioned in the confirmed itinerary

Optional Experiences

  • Little Adam’s Peak
  • Tea factory visit
  • Tea tasting
  • Ella zip line
  • Cooking experience
  • Specialised wildlife guide
  • Private upgraded safari jeep
  • Elephant Transit Home
  • Kataragama Temple
  • Bundala National Park
  • Additional night in Ella
  • Additional night near Yala
  • Beach-hotel extension

Important Tour Conditions

Wildlife Sightings

No wildlife sighting can be guaranteed.

Leopard Sightings

Yala is known for leopard habitats, but sightings depend entirely on natural conditions.

Elephant Sightings

Udawalawe is well known for elephant habitats, but sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Safari Availability

Safari times and jeep availability should be confirmed in advance.

Park Closures

National park areas may close due to weather, maintenance or official decisions.

Weather

Rain, heat or mist may affect sightseeing and safaris.

Travel Times

Driving times depend on traffic, road conditions and weather.

Hotel Availability

Hotel prices and availability may change until booking confirmation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Bentota and Kosgoda are our main pickup areas.

Yes. The route can be adjusted according to the flight arrival time.

Yes. The route can be reversed.

Private safari jeeps can be arranged for your party.

No. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.

No, although Udawalawe is widely chosen for elephant-focused safaris.

Yes, when the schedule and operating times allow.

Yes. The final drop-off can be customised.

Yes. The tour can be adjusted to provide more time in Ella.

No. It is optional.

Yes. Transport-only service is available.

They may be included or quoted separately. The quotation will clearly state this.

Yes, but parents should consider long travel periods and two jeep safaris.

It may be, but the safari rides can be uneven. Mobility and health requirements should be discussed before booking.

Yes. A four-day version offers a more relaxed experience.

Reserve Your Tour

Plan your perfect Sri Lanka journey with flexible private tours, instant assistance, and trusted local travel experts.


Explore Ella, Yala and Udawalawe in Three Days

Combine waterfalls, mountain scenery and two of Sri Lanka’s renowned wildlife regions in one private journey from Kosgoda or Bentota.Travel in a comfortable private vehicle with a chauffeur guide or private driver and customise the route around your beach holiday.

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