Ella → Yala private transfer
Ella to Tissamaharama, the base town for Yala National Park, is about 90 km and 2 to 2.5 hours. Most safari jeeps pick up from Tissa hotels.
- Distance90 km
- Drive time2 h 15 min
- Pricefrom $50
Every trip is driven by a vetted local partner in Sri Lanka. Your confirmation names the driver, the car and its plate; on chauffeur-guide bookings also the SLTDA licence number.
Ella → Yala: price per car
| Car | Per car one way | Per person if you are 2 · 3 · 4 · 6 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedan up to 3 Toyota Axio / Prius / Premio | $50 ≈ Rs 16,500 | $25 | $17 | — | — |
| Minivan (KDH) up to 6 Toyota HiAce KDH, high roof | $65 ≈ Rs 21,500 | $33 | $22 | $16 | $11 |
| SUV up to 4 Prado / Montero class, leather, more legroom | $95 ≈ Rs 31,500 | $48 | $32 | $24 | — |
| Coach up to 20 Toyota Coaster, up to 20 seats | $165 ≈ Rs 54,500 | $83 | $55 | $41 | $28 |
Prices updated 20 October 2026.
The road
Down the Ella gap to Wellawaya, then south through dry-zone farmland to Tissa. Good road, little traffic.
Worth stopping
- Ravana Falls and Buduruwagala on the way.
Good to know
- Yala Blocks 1 and 2 close every year in the dry season — in 2026 from 14 September to 15 October. Check before you plan a September safari.
- Want the safari and the beach the same day? See the Yala safari with transfer.
Included
- Private air-conditioned car and an English-speaking driver
- Fuel, expressway tolls and parking
- Short stops on the way (up to 30 min in total)
- Free cancellation up to 24 h before; pay the driver at the end — no prepayment for transfers
Questions
How long from Ella to Yala?
2 to 2.5 hours to Tissamaharama; the park gate (Palatupana) is another 30 minutes.
Does the price include the safari?
No, this is the transfer only. The safari jeep is booked separately — or take the combo product with a private jeep included.