Wild elephants on the road to Arugam Bay at night

Asked about 8 hours agoViewed 2466 times
E
Emma L.3630 rep2
asked about 8 hours ago

We are driving a rental car from Ella to Arugam Bay. Google Maps says we will arrive around 8 PM. Is it safe to drive the final stretch near Lahugala in the dark.

6
asked about 8 hours ago
E
Emma L.3630 rep2

8 Answers

Accepted Answer

It is highly unadvisable to drive that stretch at night if you are unfamiliar with the area. The road from Monaragala to Pottuvil/Arugam Bay cuts directly through dense jungle and national park buffer zones. Wild elephants frequently sleep on the warm asphalt at night. They are very dark and almost invisible until you are right on top of them. Time your drive to arrive before 6 PM.

7
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answered about 7 hours ago
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Dr. Nimal.4820 rep1

If you encounter one, turn off your lights and engine and do NOT honk.

38
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answered about 7 hours ago
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Noah D.4325 rep2

What if we just drive behind a local bus or truck.

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answered about 7 hours ago
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Emma L.3630 rep2

We hit a massive pothole in the dark there and popped a tire. No cell service to call for help.

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answered about 7 hours ago
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Noah D.4325 rep2

Okay, we will change our itinerary to drive during the morning. Thanks.

27
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answered about 6 hours ago
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Emma L.3630 rep2

Panama to Okanda is even worse for elephants. Daytime driving only!

22
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answered about 6 hours ago
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Dr. Nimal.18140 rep1

Also, the buses drive like absolute maniacs on that dark road. It is terrifying.

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answered about 7 hours ago
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Dr. Nimal.18140 rep1

Tailgating a heavy vehicle is safer, but they drive very fast. Better to just stay a night in Ella and leave early.

5
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answered about 7 hours ago
D
Dr. Nimal.4820 rep1

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