From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour
Ella, Sri Lanka

From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour

Outty Ranking 66 4.2 · 23 traveler reviews8 hoursFrom $40
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Outty Ranking

66/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.2/5

Based on 23 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour worth booking?

From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour is a 8-hour experience in Ella, Sri Lanka, from $40 per person. It scores 66 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.2/5 rating across 23 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
66 / 100
Rating
4.2/5 (23)
Duration
8 hours
From
$40 per person

This is our warm invitation for you to explore breathtaking wilderness of Sri Lanka. From Ella, moving to the sandy beaches in down south (Tangalle/Hiriketiya/Thalalla/Matara/Mirissa/Weligama/Ahangama/Habaraduwa/Koggala/Unawatuna/Galle) is the most popular option. We give you the opportunity to transfer from Ella to down south while enjoying the experience of a Wildlife Safari in YALA, which is the second largest National Park in the country. The biggest attraction of the YALA national park is the Sri Lankan Leopard, which is native to Sri Lanka. YALA is considered to have the highest density of leopards in anywhere in the world.

What you get

    About this experience

    This is our warm invitation for you to explore breathtaking wilderness of Sri Lanka. From Ella, moving to the sandy beaches in down south (Tangalle/Hiriketiya/Thalalla/Matara/Mirissa/Weligama/Ahangama/Habaraduwa/Koggala/Unawatuna/Galle) is the most popular option. We give you the opportunity to transfer from Ella to down south while enjoying the experience of a Wildlife Safari in YALA, which is the second largest National Park in the country. The biggest attraction of the YALA national park is the Sri Lankan Leopard, which is native to Sri Lanka. YALA is considered to have the highest density of leopards in anywhere in the world.

    What's included

    Included

    • Air conditioned Transfer Vehicle
    • Experienced Driver cum Guide
    • 3 Hours Yala Safari Jeep Tour 4X4 Safari vehicle - (maximum of 7 passengers per vehicle)
    • Drop off area Tangalle/Hiriketiya/Matara/Mirissa/Weligama/Ahagama/Unawatuna/Galle/Hikkaduwa areas
    • Hotel pickup - From Ella/ Wellawaya area
    • If you're staying in a place beyond given area, we can arrange pickup with extra charge. Contact us

    Not included

    • Entrance fees
    • Meals

    What you'll see and do

    1. Ella

      We will start the journey from Ella, one of the top tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. Our driver will come to pick you up from the hotels in and around the Ella/ Bandarawela/ Wellawaya area. Pick up vehicle will be an air-conditioned car or mini van. Pick up times will be (Morning Safari - 3.00 a.m. / Afternoon Safari - if you want to have lunch before the safari select 11.30 a.m. / else 12.00 p.m.) The time will be slightly adjusted depending on the location of your hotel and the locations of other guests' hotels who are going to SHARE the safari with you. The Taxi is on SHARING BASIS. After the start of the journey, you will be transferred to Tissamaharama in 2 hours. You will have the chance to witness the sunrise in the latter part of the journey.

      120 minutes here

    2. Tissamaharama

      In Tissamaharama, 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.

      30 minutes here

    3. Yala National Park

      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. This is one of the best times of the day, which gives you the highest chance of spotting the elusive Sri Lankan leopards, which is a leopard subspecies native to Sri Lanka. YALA boasts approximately a hundred individual leopards.

      120 minutes here · Admission not included

    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. Sri Lankan picnic breakfast with Plain Hopper, Egg Hopper, Rotti, Coconut Sambol, Sini Sambol and Sri Lankan fruits

      30 minutes here

    5. Yala National Park

      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.

      60 minutes here

    6. Tissamaharama

      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 transfer vehicle.

      30 minutes here

    7. Mirissa

      2 -4 hours - Transfer from Tissamaharama to the area of Hambantota/Ranna/Tangalle/Hiriketiya/Matara/Mirissa/Weligama/Ahangama/Habaraduwa/Unawatuna/Galle/Hikkaduwa areas and suburbs.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 12 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Ajith Safari Jeep Tours

    Know before you go

    • 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
    • We can accommodate dietary needs of Vegetarian and Vegan for your meals.

    Photos

    From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour, photo 2From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour, photo 3From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour, photo 4From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour, photo 5From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour, photo 6From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 23 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Organization

    5 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Pace and timing

    4 mentions

    Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Traveler reviews

    23 verified traveler reviews for From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    16
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    3
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    3
    Sort
    shehansasinda · March 2026

    Best way to explore Yala and shuttle to Down south

    Our guide Sasanka was fantastic!! He literally sped as soon as he heard there were leopards. And we saw 2. But he was so nice as well as he would check on us and ask if it’s okay to go fast and let us know when we wanted to stop or if we were ready to go. The experience was great, got picked up on time and great value for money tbh. Thanks sasanka!

    via Viator

    kellysZ3223OW · March 2026

    Worst shuttle experience of my entire life. Avoid at all costs.

    Worst shuttle experience of my entire life. The whole thing was a mess from start to finish. Zero coordination or organization from the team. They called with practically no notice and said I had to go somewhere else to get picked up, at the last minute, even though homestay pickup was supposed to be part of the package. Then they were incredibly late, zero leopards because we only had 2 hours at Yala before it closed, and an extremely long day with zero meal breaks. Just a total nightmare. Avoid at all costs.

    via Tripadvisor

    Harvey · March 2026

    An absolute disgrace.

    We were picked up 1/2 hr late with no communication. After placing luggage on coach we drove to an office to be transferred to jeeps for our safari. The organisation for this was extremely poor with nobody explaining anything. On completion of our very rushed safari we were dropped back to the office. On arrival we noticed that none of the other people on the coach were there and neither was the coach. We were left wondering what was going on until we approached one of the staff. We explained that we needed our transfer to Tangalle and enquired about our luggage on the coach. The coach had departed without us (6 people) and our luggage with it. After arguements amongst the staff and 1/2 hr passing a plan was devised to take us to collect our luggage from the coach which was approx 1 hr away. The rain started to pour when we arrived and we were told to take shelter under a tree. We retrieved our luggage and waited patiently under a tree as the coach left. A minibus appeared and we were told to get on it. There were only 4 seats available and nowhere to put our luggage other than the aisle. Arguments developed for the other passengers as the organisers were adament we all needed to get on bus with on 4 seats for 6 people. We were then told to get off the bus in the pouring rain and wait under a tree while the other 4 got on the minibus. We were left under the tree while the minibus departed, not knowing what was going on. A taxi was ordered by the organisers and we were told to get in. The taxi then proceeded to our hotel in Tangalle but we arrived approx 2 hours later than expected.

    via Viator

    V4623YPsureshm · January 2026

    Great experience

    Wonderful journey. We enjoyed the Yala park alot. Our guide is well experienced knowledgeable about the park. Transfer also worked fine. Easy transfer.

    via Tripadvisor

    NikkiF187 · December 2025

    Avoid

    We were given unclear pickup instructions for Ella to Mirissa (with a stop at Yala national park). We arrived on time to our pickup location in Ella. The driver did not. He was 35 minutes late (very unacceptable). As there were two cars going the same direction (due to lots of peple) - we had to turn around and go back for the other car due to the fact they ran out of gas. Through this all- there was no detail given by the driver. The driver arriving late and since we had to go back for the other car- this delayed our experience at Yala park. The safari felt rushed and was very unsatisfactory. We did spot some animals but were allowed very little time to watch due to the park closing time. When we got back to where our driver dropped us in order to switch to the safari vehicle- we waited another 30 minutes as he was not there. Once again- no communication. I was considering a “pick me” car on the app to take me the rest of the way to Marissa. I do not recommend this company.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    8 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    8
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Ajith Safari Jeep Tours, who run 8 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 62.8.

    See everything Ajith Safari Jeep Tours runs

    Why this scores 66

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)63
    Review evidence (18% weight)60
    Booking momentum (14% weight)52
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)78
    Local standing (8% weight)9
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Ella.

    How much does From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour cost?

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    Prices start at $40 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Ella usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour take?

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    Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Ella is not rushed.

    Is From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 66 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.2/5 across 23 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Ella, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour?

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    Around 8 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Ella can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Ella and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Ella within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Ella?

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    On Outty we rank every Ella experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Discover Ella - Ella Rock, Little Adam's Peak & Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Sight seeing Private tours, Ella Sri Lanka Cooking Class Experience. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Ella?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Ella?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour?

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    Included: Air conditioned Transfer Vehicle; Experienced Driver cum Guide; 3 Hours Yala Safari Jeep Tour 4X4 Safari vehicle - (maximum of 7 passengers per vehicle); Drop off area Tangalle/Hiriketiya/Matara/Mirissa/Weligama/Ahagama/Unawatuna/Galle/Hikkaduw; and Hotel pickup - From Ella/ Wellawaya area. Not included: Entrance fees; and Meals. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 450 listed pickup locations in and around Ella. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour offered in?

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    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Ella. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about From Ella:Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle with Yala Safari Tour?

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    Across 23 reviews averaging 4.2 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, organization, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.

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