yala safari guide

A Yala Safari — Into the Wild Heart of Sri Lanka

The stunning Yala National Park is one of the most revered wildlife reserves in Sri Lanka, as it’s home to the highest density of leopards in the world. Here’s all you need to know in order to plan the perfect Yala safari.

The tiny island nation of Sri Lanka is a fantastic destination for wildlife lovers. It’s home to a huge diversity of animals, including leopards, elephants, boars, monkeys, crocodiles and tons more. It’s also home to a range of exemplary national parks which provide excellent habitats for wildlife to thrive.

Of Sri Lanka’s many national parks, Yala is the most famous. This is due to its high concentration of leopards, as well as its close proximity to the beach resorts in the south of the country. Yala National Park covers an area of approximately 979km² and is so rich in wildlife, it would be almost impossible not to have a fruitful safari.

In this article, we’ll explore what animals you can expect to see in the park, and help you plan your perfect Yala safari.

“Yala National Park: where the wild heart of Sri Lanka beats with unparalleled fervour.”

What animals can you see in Yala?

Yala National Park is home to 44 species of mammals, 215 species of birds and 46 species of reptiles. This is a huge range of biodiversity, and it would be practically impossible to not see any animals during your safari.

And while taking a safari doesn’t guarantee that you’ll see every animal that lives in Yala, it’s safe to expect to see water buffalos, wild boars, spotted deer, monkeys and peacocks up close. Keep an eye out for the impressive mugger crocodiles lurking in the waterways, as well as various species of turtles, lizards, snakes, and frogs.

Beyond this, there is also the potential to see rarer species such as leopards, elephants, black sloth bears, fishing cats and red slender loris.

Leopards in Yala National Park

Yala National Park is home to the highest concentration of leopards in the world, making it the number one destination for spotting these incredible cats. It’s estimated that around 55 leopards reside in the park, so you might just be lucky enough to spot one on your safari.

Keep in mind, though, that wild animals are not predictable and each safari experience is unique. Sightings of rare species like leopards can’t be guaranteed, so I recommend keeping your expectations low to avoid disappointment.

That being said, your Jeep driver will know all the best spots for leopard sightings and will do his best!

What’s the landscape like?

Watching animals in a beautiful setting really makes a safari all the more wonderful, and Yala is the perfect stage upon which to see Sri Lanka’s wildlife. Yala National Park is characterized by a mix of dense forest, scrubland, grassland, and lagoons.

The terrain of the park also makes it easy to see across long distances. There are some rocky outcrops and hills scattered throughout, but the terrain is mostly flat, which makes wildlife viewing easier. The park is bisected by several rivers and streams, which provide important water sources for the park’s resident wildlife. This makes it easier to know where animals are likely to congregate.

Conservation efforts in Yala

Through dedicated conservation efforts, Yala National Park safeguards its resident animals from threats such as poaching and habitat loss. The park is divided into several “blocks,” of which only a few are open to the public. This helps to ensure species remain protected.

Conservation efforts also have a direct impact on the livelihoods of local communities. The park generates significant revenue through tourism, creating job opportunities and driving the local economy. By engaging in sustainable tourism practices and supporting conservation initiatives, visitors to Yala National Park can play a vital role in safeguarding this precious ecosystem and empowering its surrounding communities.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Yala National Park is from February to June during the dry season. With less water in the ponds, it’s easier to spot animals coming out to drink. The peak season for leopards is February and March. 

The best time of day to visit is either early morning (6 am – 9 am) or late afternoon (3 pm – 6 pm), as this is when wildlife is most active.

Note: Yala National Park is usually closed for maintenance during the month of September.

How to arrange a Yala safari

The nearest town to Yala National Park is Tissamaharama (often shortened to Tissa). There are tons of safari operators here, and most accommodations can also help you arrange your Yala safari. For a beautiful place to stay in Tissa that compliments your safari experience, I suggest either Flameback Eco Lodge or Richards Cabanas.

Alternatively, Cinnamon Wild offers a really unique stay right on the edge of Yala itself. You’ll stay in an eco-friendly chalet nestled within 10 acres of green jungle. It’s the perfect launching pad for your safari!

Whether you book your safari through your accommodation or directly with an operator, the operator will usually pick you up from your accommodation and take you back afterwards. Most jeeps have the capacity to take 6 people.

You can choose a morning, afternoon or full-day safari. Morning and afternoon safaris will give you 3 – 4 hours in the park, whereas a full-day safari will be 10 – 12 hours.

Here are a few suggestions for operators to look into:

How much does a Yala safari cost?

As of 2021, foreigners pay LKR 4,000 (approx. £16) per adult and LKR 2,000 (approx. £8) per child to enter the park. There’s also a vehicle entry fee of LKR 2,500 (approx. £10) per jeep.

It’s recommended that you hire a driver/guide for your Yala safari. Expect to pay around LKR 8,000 to 12,000 (approx. £32-48) for a half-day tour and LKR 15,000 to 20,000 (approx. £60-80) for a full-day tour.

All in, it’s an average of 65 USD per person for a safari in Yala. This includes your park entrance ticket, as well as the hire of a jeep and guide. The price is higher than other national parks in Sri Lanka, but the quality of wildlife sightings you’re likely to have completely justifies this.

My experience on safari in Yala National Park

I visited Sri Lanka primarily to go cycling , so spent the morning biking around the Tissa countryside. This in itself was a fabulous experience — cycling near a national park meant we saw plenty of exotic birds, water buffalo, flying foxes and monkeys.

We went back to the hotel to have lunch, before being transferred to Yala National Park for an afternoon safari. We entered the park at about 3 pm.

Because I knew how popular Yala safaris are, I expected to see tons of other jeeps. And while there were definitely other jeeps, it wasn’t anywhere near as packed as I expected. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised by how unbothered I felt by other vehicles. I can’t promise it won’t be busy during your visit, but I didn’t find the volume of tourists to be an issue.

I had done a safari in Minneriya about a week ago and was pleased to see that the landscape and “vibe” of Yala is completely different to in Minneriya. This made it feel like a whole new experience. We very quickly saw a group of wild boars after entering Yala, followed by elephants, water buffalo, monkeys and peacocks.

Unfortunately, I didn’t see a leopard during my time in Yala National Park, however, I had kept my expectations low so that I wasn’t disappointed by this. I suggest you do the same, as it’s not guaranteed that you’ll see a leopard. The variety of wildlife we did see was amazing, though. We had lots of unique sightings and saw plenty of crocodiles, monkeys, wild boars, monitor lizards and more. We also saw absolutely tons of elephants, including a few babies.

After spending a good few hours admiring Yala’s wildlife, we left the park at about 6:30 pm.

My Yala safari was one of the highlights of my two weeks in Sri Lanka — an absolutely wonderful experience that I highly recommend.

About The Author

Lauren Pears is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in London. She writes about active adventure travel, aiming to encourage and inspire travellers to make the most of the great outdoors.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support – Lauren. Hotels –  Booking.com Hostels –  Hostelworld Cheap flights –  Skyscanner Travel insurance –  World Nomads Outdoor gear –  Decathlon  /  GO Outdoors Cycling gear –  Chain Reaction Cycles Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!

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How interesting since when I was in Sri Lanka, I opted for Udawalawe to see wildlife. As far as I remember, Yala was too much off my route. This way, I enjoy your post even more since I missed out on this reserve. Sri Lanka is a great place and my trip there was definitely one of my best travels – such an amazing mix of so many great features.

We have been to several game drives and saw a wide variety of wild animals. But we have never seem leopards in the wild. So a safari in Sri Lanka at the Yala National Park. Glad to know you did not find it packed with jeeps. But too bad you missed leopards on your visit.

Hey I have been there too! And… I didn’t see a leopard on my Yala safari! Actually I saw one but it was really far away and I was a bit sad about this. On the other hand, I loved the nature around us!

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• Attractions

Yala National Park and Safari: Ultimate Guide

Yala National Park is a wildlife sanctuary in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka. The park is the second-largest national park in the country for the best Safari experience, spanning over 978.8 square kilometres. It is home to diverse flora and fauna, including Sri Lankan elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and over 200 bird species. The park was first established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and was later declared a national park in 1938. This article will provide an ultimate guide to visiting Yala National Park and Safari.  

Flora and Fauna at Yala National Park 

It is considered one of the best places in the country for observing and photographing wildlife in its natural habitat. The park spans over 979 square kilometres and is home to many flora and fauna.

Flora:   The vegetation in Yala National Park is characterized by dry monsoon forest, thorny scrub, and savannah grasslands. The park has over 215 species, including trees, shrubs, herbs, and grasses. The most common trees found in the park are Satin, Palu, Weera, Ehala, and Kumbuk.

Fauna:   Yala National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including 44 species of mammals and 215 species of birds. The park is most famous for its large population of Sri Lankan leopards, considered the highest density of leopards in the world. Visitors to the park can also see Asian elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild boar, water buffalo, and the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.

The park is also a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 215 species of birds recorded within its boundaries. The most common birds found in the park are the Sri Lanka Junglefowl, Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill, Black-capped Bulbul, Indian Peafowl, and the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo.

Visitors can explore the park on safari jeeps accompanied by experienced guides knowledgeable about the park’s wildlife and vegetation. The park has five zones, each offering a different wildlife experience. Visitors can also enjoy camping, bird watching, and nature walks in the park.

However, it’s important to note that many of the species in Yala National Park are endangered due to human-wildlife conflict and habitat destruction. Therefore, visitors should not disturb the wildlife or damage their habitats.

Expect to be seen five main animals at Yala National Park .

Leopards : Yala National Park is famous for its leopard population, and it’s one of the best places in the world to spot these elusive cats. The park has a high density of leopards; visitors can spot them during their safari tours. Leopards are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making these times the best to go on a safari.

Elephants: Yala National Park is also home to many elephants, and visitors can see herds of them grazing in the park’s grasslands. The park has around 300 to 400 elephants; visitors can spot them during their safari tours. Elephants are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making these times the best to go on a safari.

Sloth Bears: Yala National Park is among the few places visitors can see sloth bears. The park has a small population of these bears, and visitors can spot them during their safari tours. Sloth bears are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making these times the best safari.

Water Buffalo: Water buffalo are commonly found in Yala National Park; visitors can see them grazing in the grasslands. The park has a large water buffalo population; visitors can spot them during their safari tours. Water buffalo are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making these times the best to go on a safari.

Crocodiles: Yala National Park is home to two species of crocodiles: the mugger crocodile and the saltwater crocodile. Visitors can see these crocodiles basking in the sun near the park’s water bodies. The park has a large population of crocodiles, and visitors have a good chance of spotting them during their safari tours.

When to Visit Yala National Park

Yala National Park is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka that attracts visitors from all over the world. The park is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and experience.

High Season (December to April): The high season is the best time to visit Yala National Park to spot leopards and other wildlife. During this time, the park’s vegetation is minimal, making it easier to spot animals. In addition, the temperature during this time is pleasant, ranging from 25°C to 30°C, making it comfortable for visitors to explore the park. However, it’s essential to note that the high season is also the busiest time of the year, and the park can get crowded with tourists. Therefore, booking your accommodation and safari tours in advance is advisable to avoid any inconvenience.

Shoulder Season (May to July and September to November): The shoulder season is an excellent time to visit Yala National Park to avoid crowds and experience good wildlife sightings. During this time, the park’s vegetation is thicker, making it a little harder to spot animals. However, the park’s flora is also in full bloom during this time, making it a beautiful sight to behold. The temperature during the shoulder season is slightly higher, ranging from 30°C to 35°C, but it’s still comfortable for visitors to explore the park. It’s also advisable to book your accommodation and safari tours in advance during this time.

Low Season (August): Due to the monsoon season, the low season is the least popular time to visit Yala National Park. In addition, the park is closed for most of August due to heavy rainfall, making it challenging to explore the park. However, the park’s flora is in full bloom during this time, making it a beautiful sight to behold.

The best time to visit Yala National Park depends on what you want to see and experience. If you wish to spot leopards and other wildlife, the high season is the best time to visit. If you want to avoid crowds and still experience good wildlife sightings, the shoulder season is an excellent time to visit. However, despite the heavy rainfall, the low season is the best time to see if you want to share the park’s full bloom.

Getting to Yala National Park

Yala National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous national parks, known for its diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. The park is situated in the country’s southeastern region and is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. This article will discuss the different ways of getting to Yala National Park.

By Air: The nearest airport to Yala National Park is the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, approximately 45 kilometres away. Several international airlines operate flights to the airport from various destinations, including Dubai, Doha, and Mumbai. In addition, you can hire a taxi or a car from the airport to the park.

By Train: Travelling from Colombo , you can take a train to Matara, the nearest city to Yala National Park. The train journey takes approximately six hours and offers beautiful views of Sri Lanka’s countryside. In addition, you can take a bus or a taxi from Matara to the park.

By Bus: Several buses operate from major cities in Sri Lanka to Tissamaharama, the nearest town to Yala National Park. From Tissamaharama, you can hire a taxi or a jeep to reach the park. The bus journey from Colombo to Tissamaharama takes approximately eight hours.

By Car: If you prefer a more comfortable and convenient mode of transportation, you can hire a car or a taxi to reach Yala National Park. Several car rental companies operate in Sri Lanka, and you can book a car in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle. The journey from Colombo to Yala National Park takes approximately five hours.

Once you reach the park, you can hire a jeep with a driver to explore the park’s various attractions. The entrance fee for foreigners is approximately $30 per person, which includes the cost of the jeep and the driver. You can also hire a private jeep for a more personalized experience, which costs around $50 to $70 for half a day.

Accommodation Options at Yala 

Yala National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, known for its diverse range of wildlife and natural beauty. Several accommodation options are available near the park, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. 

Cinnamon Wild Yala : Cinnamon Wild Yala is a luxury resort on the edge of Yala National Park. The resort offers comfortable accommodations, including treehouses, chalets, and bungalows. The resort’s facilities include a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar. Cinnamon Wild Yala is the perfect place to stay for those looking for a luxurious experience. Book Now 

Jetwing Yala : Jetwing Yala is another luxury resort near Yala National Park. The resort offers comfortable accommodations, including deluxe rooms, suites, and villas. The resort’s facilities include a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar. Jetwing Yala is the perfect place to stay for those looking for a luxurious experience. Book Now

Taru Villas – The Yala Lodge : Taru Villas -The Yala Lodge is a mid-range resort near Yala National Park. The resort offers comfortable accommodations, including chalets, villas, and deluxe rooms. The resort’s facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. Taru Villas – The Yala Lodge is the perfect place to stay for comfortable accommodation at an affordable price. Book Now

Elephant Reach Hotel : Elephant Reach Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel located near Yala National Park. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations, including standard rooms and deluxe rooms. In addition, the hotel’s facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. Elephant Reach Hotel is the perfect place to stay for those looking for affordable accommodation. Book Now

Camping: For those looking for a unique experience, camping is also an option at Yala National Park. Several camping sites are available near the park, offering a chance to sleep under the stars and experience the park’s wildlife up close.

Things to Do in Yala National Park and surrounding Areas

Yala National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, known for its diverse range of wildlife and natural beauty. In addition to wildlife safaris, there are several other things to do in and around Yala National Park.

Wildlife Safaris: Wildlife safaris are the main attraction of Yala National Park. Visitors can book a safari tour with a guide and explore the park’s grasslands, forests, and water bodies. The park has various animals, including leopards, elephants, sloth bears, water buffalo, crocodiles, and many more. Safari tours are available early morning and late afternoon, making it the best time to spot animals.

Visit Kataragama Temple: Kataragama Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims. The temple is located near Yala National Park and is dedicated to Lord Kataragama. Visitors can explore the temple’s beautiful architecture and learn about its cultural and religious significance.

Visit Sithulpawwa Temple: Sithulpawwa Temple is an ancient temple in Yala National Park’s outskirts. The temple dates back to the 2nd century BC and is known for its ancient rock inscriptions and beautiful architecture. Visitors can explore the temple’s ruins and learn about its historical significance.

Visit Yala Village: Yala Village is a small village near Yala National Park. The town is known for its handicrafts, including woodcarvings and woven products. Visitors can explore the village’s markets and purchase souvenirs to take back home.

Tissamaharama Temple: also known as Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara, is a Buddhist temple in the town of Tissamaharama in southern Sri Lanka. The temple is believed to have been built in the 2nd century BC by King Kavantissa, a prominent ruler of the region. It is one of the most important historical and religious sites in Sri Lanka. The temple is famous for its stupa, which is one of the largest stupas in Sri Lanka. The stupa , which is over 55 meters tall, is believed to contain relics of Lord Buddha.

Visit Bundala National Park: Bundala National Park is another famous national park near Yala National Park. The park is known for its birdwatching opportunities and is home to over 200 species of birds. In addition, visitors can explore the park’s wetlands and water bodies and spot various bird species. Explore Bundala 

Relax on the Beach: Yala National Park is located near the South coast of Sri Lanka , and visitors can relax on the beautiful beaches of Tangalle and Mirissa. The beaches are known for their soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful sunsets.

Suggested read: Wipattu National Parks & safari Guide  

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Planning a Yala National Park Safari: Your Ultimate Guide

If you are in the early stages of planning a Yala National park safari , you probably have a lot of questions like ‘will I actually see leopards?’ or ‘when should I visit?’

So I decided to write this Yala safari guide to help answer all of your burning questions about visiting Yala National park and help you organise an amazing wildlife safari in Sri Lanka, like the one I had personally.

Yala National Park is one of the best places for a leopard safari in Sri Lanka . With the worlds highest concentration of Leopards, you have a great chance of spotting Leopards here. But beyond leopards, you will also see a huge variety of wildlife on a Yala National park safari and it’s very likely to become one of your absolute best experiences in Sri Lanka.

Going on a wildlife safari is one of the most popular things to do in Sri Lanka and with good reason. There are so many wildlife opportunities in Sri Lanka such as spotting leopards in Yala, seeing huge herds of elephants in Minneriya National Park and whale watching in Mirissa .

Sri Lanka really is a dream wildlife destination and if you love seeing animals in the wild, a safari absolutely has to be on your Sri Lanka itinerary .

No time to read it now? No worries, save it for later…

** Pssst, this article may contain affiliate links. If you have no idea what this means, click here and everything will be explained!**

What you can expect from this article...

• 1.1 What are the alternatives locations for a wildlife safari in Sri Lanka?
• 2 The history of Yala National park
• 3.1 What are the chances of seeing a Leopard on a safari in Sri Lanka?
• 3.2 Facts about Leopards
• 3.3 Facts about elephants
• 3.4 What are the Big Five in Sri Lanka?
• 4 What to Expect on a safari in Yala National park
• 5 Which part of the park should I visit?
• 6.1 Tips for photographing wildlife on a Yala safari
• 7.1 Group Tours which include a Yala Safari
• 8.1 When is the best time of year to visit Yala National park for a safari?
• 8.2 How long should I stay in Yala National park?
• 8.3 How to get to Yala National park
• 8.4 How much does a Yala national Park ticket cost?
• 9.1 Should I camp or stay in a hotel?
• 9.2 Can you stay inside Yala National park?
• 9.3 Hotels near Yala National park
• 9.4 Yala National park camping
• 10 What Next?

So why choose Yala National Park?

There are many national parks where you can go on a wildlife safari in Sri Lanka, so why choose Yala?

The main advantage of booking a safari in Yala National Park is that you stand the best chance of seeing Leopards. If you are not fussed about Leopards and you’re all about the elephants then I would recommend visiting Minneriya National park instead. Yala National park has elephants but you won’t see nearly as many as in some other parks.

However, there is also a huge variety of wildlife in Yala National park and I saw so many more animals here than I did on safaris elsewhere. I think this is in part due to the varied landscape in Yala. There are wide open spaces, scrub bush, forest and wetlands to suit a huge variety of animals.

What are the alternatives locations for a wildlife safari in Sri Lanka?

Whilst Yala is one of the best places for a safari in Sri Lanka, especially for leopard safari’s, there are some other options. Minneriya and Udawalawe National parks are both great for seeing elephants but there is less chance of seeing leopards.

Minneriya National Park

Go here if you want to see huge herds of elephants, especially if you are visiting in August. With a lack of drinking hole options, elephants head en masse to Minneriya and sometimes you will see hundreds of elephants all hanging out by the water. Yep, hundreds. We saw about 40 or so in March. Minneriya National Park was great for elephant sightings but we didn’t see a lot of other wildlife unlike in Yala National park. If you can, visit both.

Udawlawe National park

Go here if you want to visit an ethical elephant rehabilitation centre, the Elephant Transit Home. The elephants here are going to be released back into the wild when they are ready and are not there for tourists amusements unlike other so-called ‘rehabilitation centres.’ Udawalawe National park is also a great place to see elephants in the wild however the chances of seeing Leopards are much smaller.

The history of Yala National park

Yala National Park was first designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 where it was used as a hunting ground under British rule. In 1938, it then became a National Park along with Wilpattu – the first two national parks in Sri Lanka.

It spans 979 Square Kilometres of land and borders the South east Sri Lankan coastline – it’s one of the few places where you may encounter an elephant on the beach

The National park now is the most visited National Park in Sri Lanka but there are certain zones which are not open to the public and these areas are used for education and conservation of the flora and fauna.

What animals will I see on a Yala National Park safari?

You will see so much wildlife in Yala. Whilst you are probably mst excited to see Leopards and Elephants, here are a few other animals you may see on a Yala safari…

• Sloth bears – another popular sighting although less common, the elusive sloth bear. We didn’t spot one so this is a stock photo. But I hope you get to see some as they are super cool!
• Crocodiles – keep your eyes peeled as they can be difficult to spot and look like logs floating n the water!
• Buffalo — the first buffalo we saw, we thought was a rock as it was almost completekly submerged in the water to keep cool. We were busy admiring the bird sat on top of the rock – until the rock poked his head up!
• Deer – we saw so many deer on our morning safari when they come out to graze. They can be a little skittish so keep quiet and take your photos quickly before they run away.
• Lizards – We saw a huge monitor lizard digging a hole, it didn’t seem to care that it was being watched!
• Birds – there are over 215 species of birds in Yala, 6 of which are endemic to Sri Lanka. It is a bird watching paradise here.
• Wild Boar – not the prettiest of animals but they are cute. Sort of.
• Monkeys – no matter how many monkeys I see, I still love them. Such little characters. We saw several varieties throughout our Yala safari.
• Mongoose . Although sometimes considered as a pest in Sri Lanka, I think these little animals are really cute!

And if course, if you are lucky…. Elephants and Leopards !

What are the chances of seeing a Leopard on a safari in Sri Lanka?

This can depend on the weather and time you visit. When I visited at the end of March, we were told the chances of seeing a leopard was about 50% on every safari ride. So the more safari’s you take, the more chance you have of spotting leopards. If you visit for more than 1 or 2 days, you have a very good chance of spotting leopards.

Facts about Leopards

• The Sri Lankan Leopard is an endangered species with population estimates at 700-950 (in the wild.)
• The average male Leopard weighs in at around 50-60kg but can grow up to around 100kg.
• Leopards are nocturnal hunters but are also active at dawn and dusk, hence these are the best times to spot them on a safari.
• The spots on a Sri Lankan Leopard are smaller than those on an Indian leopard.

Facts about elephants

• The Sri Lankan elephant is the largest and darkest of asian sub-species
• They hang out in a herd with 12-20 or more elephants all led by the eldest female – the matriarch
• The elephant population in Sri Lanka has fallen by 65% since 19th century and they are now endangered. Killing an elephant in Sri Lanka carries the death penalty!
• Asian elephants are 8-10 ft tall and can weigh up to 5400Kg! (600kg less than their African cousins.)
• Asian elephants have smaller ears shaped link India whereas African elephants have larger ears shaped like Africa! How cool is that?
• Elephants spend 12-18 hrs a day eating and create 1 tonne of elephant poo a week!
• Elephants throw mud and sand over themselves to protect themselves from the hot sun. Clever!

What are the Big Five in Sri Lanka?

Just like the Big Five on safari in Africa, there is a Sri Lankan Big Five too. These are the animals that everyone wants to catch sight of when they visit.

Yala National Park is the only National Park where you can see all five as it borders the beautiful coastline. The Big Five are;

• The Leopard
• The Elephant
• The Sloth Bear
• The Blue Whale
• The Sperm Whale.

What to Expect on a safari in Yala National park

Firstly, you should know that you won’t be alone! Although there are far more restrictions in Yala National park to ensure less crowding, you will still see a fair number of safari vehicles. That said, I think I saw more in Minneriya National park than in Yala.

The safari drivers get fined and banned for 2 weeks if they arrive back after 6 pm. So if it gets to 5.30, your driver will have to head back without making many stops. Don’t be surprised if this happens.

Usually you will stop once during the safari where you can get out to stretch your legs. Many safari drivers will also provide you with snacks and water at this point. There may be a toilet block here but don’t be surprised if you just have to cross your legs!

At 6 Am before the park gates open, there will be a queue. Get there early if you want to be first into the park!

Which part of the park should I visit?

The park is divided into 5 different zones or blocks, some of which are open to the public and others which are used for research and documentary purposes only.

The most popular zone for safari’s in yala is Block one. Hee there is the highest concentration of leopards. It’s also the oldest part of the park so Leopards here are used to seeing the safari vehicles and may be less shy than in other regions in the park.

Try to go on safari in Block one for the best chance of seeing a leopard.

Tips for Visiting Yala National Park

• Take LOTS of sunscreen, water and a hat. One of my friends got heat stroke on safari in Sri Lanka. Often whilst driving, there is a lovely breeze. So you can underestimate how hot it is and not drink enough water or protect yourself from the sun.
• Take bug spray. Since safaris are conducted at the start and end of the day when mozzies are prevalent, I’d encourage you to apply plenty of bug spray.
• Factor in time for at least 2-3 safari’s if you can to maximise the opportunity of seeing a leopard.
• Always take a guide or a ‘spotter.’ Some safaris only provide a driver but as you can imagine, it’s difficult to spot wildlife and avoid potholes at the same time! You can often hire a spotter at the gates as long as you get there early enough. Ask your driver to negotiate a good deal for you.

Tips for photographing wildlife on a Yala safari

• If you can, bring a camera with a decent zoom or telephoto lens. 95% of my photos were taken with a telephoto 70-300mm lens on my Sony A7III .
• Bring a ‘dust puffer’ to get rid of dust off your camera lens as it will get VERY dusty.
• Keep your shutter speed up high to capture the animals sharply when they move. You may need to increase your ISO to maintain a fast shutter speed as the sun goes down and you have less sunlight at your disposal.
• You often don’t need a wide aperture to capture wildlife photos with a nice Bokeh effect as you will be using a longer zoom. Instead, keep your aperture a little narrower so you stand more chance of getting the animal completely in focus without blurring its eyes or nose! You can always add a little extra bokeh when you are editing your photo if needs be. You can’t recover a soft, blurry photo.
• I edit my wildlife photos with a combination of iPhoto on my Mac, Photoshop and Lightroom depending on how many tweaks it needs. If it’s just the lighting, I’ll often use iPhoto for pure ease.

How to book a Yala National park Safari Tour

There are various ways you can book a wildlife safari in Yala National park.

Booking an all inclusive safari…

You could book your accommodation with a nearby hotel or game camp where the safaris will be organised for you and possibly included in your overall price. keep reading for various accommodation suggestions below…

Arrange a local day trip…

You could stay in nearby town Tissamaharama and either arrange a private safari locally or pre-arrange a safari online. Sometimes this can work out cheaper as you can join other travellers and share the cost.

You can choose to book a half day safari which operates in both the early morning and early evening, a full day safari with both, or an overnight safari with camping included. Here are a few options you may wish to look at…

Top Tip | Whilst a private half day safari may work out cheaper than a half day tour, a full day tour will usually be cheaper than a private day tour as you will incur 2 entrance fees. So the best value trip above is the all day trip. Go check it out!

Visit on a group adventure tour…

The other option is that you join an organised tour in Sri Lanka where everything will be organised for you. This is definitely the easiest way to travel Sri Lanka with minimal stress. It also means that you have an informative travel guide and ready-made travel friends to enjoy your trip with.

I travelled Sri Lanka as a guest with G Adventures on their Sri Lanka Encompassed tour . We did 2 safaris in Yala National park and 1 in Minneriya National Park as well as loads of other cool stuff like visiting tropical beaches in Mirissa , visiting Sigiriya rock, Dambulla cave temple and climbing Little Adams peak. It was an awesome trip, I’d highly recommend it! You can read my G Adventures Sri Lanka Review if you want to know more!

Arrange an excursion…

Your final option is to arrange an excursion from elsewhere. this is great if you are short of time or want to base yourself in one place and not switch hotels all the time. You can organise day trips from Colombo, Tangale, Galle and Mirissa to Yala BUT, you will have to resign yourself to an early start and late finish as it’s a fair trek away!

Group Tours which include a Yala Safari

The two companies I always recommend for group adventure travel trips are G Adventures and Intrepid Travel . Both companies I have travelled with multiple times. Both G Adventures and Intrepid Travel offer trips which include at least one and sometimes more safaris in Yala National Park. Check them out below or read my comparison of G Adventures vs Intrepid Travel .

Frequently asked questions about booking a Yala National Park safari

When is the best time of year to visit yala national park for a safari.

Leopards are best seen in the dry season. The dry season in Yala is between May and August. At this time, the Leopards can often be found at the watering holes, quenching their thirst.

How long should I stay in Yala National park?

Ideally, try to stay a few days and go on several safari’s both in the early morning and late afternoon. The more safari’s you go on, the greater chance of seeing a leopard. If you just spend a day in Yala National Park, there is the possibility you won’t see any leopards at all. If you stay for 2-3 days then you stand a really good chance of spotting at least one leopard.

That said, if you only have time for one or two safari drives, you will still have an amazing time even if you don’t get lucky with leopards. The scenery and wildlife is incredible in Yala National Park.

How to get to Yala National park

How to get to yala from ella.

A Taxi will take around 1 hour 30 minutes $30+ ( this will be cheaper if you hire a driver for the full length of trip.) There are also buses to Kataragama and you can arrange a taxi for the last section of the trip.

How to get to Yala from Mirissa

Yala is a 2 hour 20 minute drive and a taxi will cost $35+.

The closest town is Tissamaharama and there are direct buses from Mirissa.

How to get to Yala from Colombo

You will need to get a train or bus to Matamara then from there arrange a taxi or bus to Tissamaharama.

How much does a Yala national Park ticket cost?

Adults: $15 per person entry fee

Children age 6-12: $8 per child

(as per May 2019)

How much will a Wildlife safari in Sri Lanka cost in total?

If you arrange your own safari, then you will need to consider some additional costs.

In addition to the Yala park entrance fee, you also need to consider the cost of hiring a jeep with a driver and a spotter as well as the expected tips for the driver and spotter. The spotters are usually volunteers so the only payment they get is the money you tip them. We were advised by a local that it was standard to tip our spotter and driver 1000Rs each (That’s just under $6.)

You will also need to factor in the cost of accommodation if you decide to stay nearby.

Alternatively, you could organise a group tour or split the cost of the safari jeep with other people to keep the costs down.

Total Costs

Entrance fee: $15

Jeep and driver fee: $35

= Total $62

Yala National Park – where to stay?

Should i camp or stay in a hotel.

I would encourage you to camp near Yala National park. You don’t have to rough it – there are some very glamorous glamping sites with beds, fans, bathrooms and even wifi inside your tents! But for me, camping was all part of the safari experience. However, there are several hotels nearby if you really can’t imagine sleeping inside a tent.

Can you stay inside Yala National park?

No, there are no campsites or hotels inside the park. You can, however, stay on the outskirts near to the main park entrance so you won’t have to travel for miles to reach the park.

Hotels near Yala National park

For budget options check out Banana resort and if you want a compromise between camping and staying in a hotel then a great budget option is the Lakeside Cabana .

If you are on a mid-budget (neither shoestring or all-out luxury) then check out Leopard Corridor Yala , Go Yala Farm Villa and Ariya Tissa .

For those fancy-pants with a luxury budget (lucky you) check out The Coconut Gardens Hotel & Restaurant

Yala National park camping

I stayed at The Big Game Camp Yala and absolutely loved it. Our tent was comfy with proper beds, a fan, plenty of space to stand and even an ensuite bathroom. We even had a wifi tent! The food was amazing, the guides informative and super friendly. I highly recommend it for those with a low-mid budget.

Here are a few other suggestions…

For those on a shoestring budget, check out the no-frills wild eco safari.

For those seeking a bit of luxury without draining the bank account, The Flameback Eco Lodge would be a great choice.

If you can afford it, the Wild Coast Tented Lodge is totally dreamy. This one is #lifegoals for me…

Now that your wildlife safari in Yala National park is over, what’s next?

You could hop over to Arugam Bay for some yoga and surf on one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka or head to the South coast where you can visit charming Galle, hang out at the Secret Beach in Mirissa , go whale watching or visit gorgeous Dalawella beach – the perfect place for some R&R.

Alternatively, you could head inland towards Ella, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya to explore the mountains, tea plantations, temples and rock fortresses such as Sigiriya rock!

For more inspiration, check out this 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary and these lists of 57 awesome things to do in Sri Lanka and 14 things to do in Mirissa .

I hope you’ve enjoyed this Yala National park safari Guide and hopefully you are convinced that a Yala safari to see Leopards is an absolute must-do in Sri Lanka!

Do you have any questions that I haven’t already answered? In which case, pop them in the comments and I’ll do my best to get back to you asap!

Happy travelling!

Oh and here are some pretty pins for your Pinterest board so you can come back later…

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Yala National Park in Sri Lanka: A safari guide’s tips on the best time to visit, hotels, permits

By Kriti Saraswat-Satpathy

Roughly five hours from Colombo lies Yala National Park, home to the world’s highest population of leopards . While our arrival after a night of rain dampened our chances of spotting the big cat, other wonderful sights left a memorable imprint. A trio of elephants—a male, female and calf—crossing the road inches from our jeep, a brahminy kite swooping low to snatch a fish from a lake, migratory birds like the large comb duck swimming, a colony of dainty, green bee-eaters taking flight. As the rain let up, we caught sight of a dancing peacock trying to entice its mate, a playful herd of deer, a wild boar looking for food, and a mugger crocodile and water buffaloes submerged in ponds. The best sightings require plenty of planning, so we spoke with Praneeth Jayamadu, senior ranger at the newly-opened Hilton Yala Resort, on how to have the best safari experience at Yala National Park in Sri Lanka.

What makes Yala National Park special?

Photo: Sajith Withanage

Besides biodiversity, varied terrain and different ecosystems that attract both local and foreign tourists, Yala is known to have the highest density of leopards in the world. “At present, a proper survey has been carried out in only one part of the park, where the figure stands at 77 adult leopards. They are each given a code name, like YF01 or YM01, where Y stands for Yala and M and F represent their gender. The number is the count,” explains Jayamadu. “The leopards also have common nicknames like Jessica and Lucas.”

Tell us about one incredible leopard encounter you had. “Each safari to the park is special but some sightings simply leave you speechless. One such recent leopard sighting at Yala was when we had parked our jeep near a waterhole and saw a mother leopard hiding behind a nearby bush,” Jayamadu recalls. “Camouflaging perfectly, she was waiting to ambush a herd of wild boar that had a few boarlets in the mix. Leopards don’t always attack the adult ones as the herd attacks back, but being a new mother, she was desperate for a kill for herself and her cubs. Calculating the distance between the prey and the closest tree, she leapt from the bushes, grabbed a boarlet by its neck and climbed a tree to save herself from the herd’s retaliation. After waiting for them to leave, she clambered down and disappeared into the bushes with her kill. It was indeed a rare sighting as leopards usually hunt at night but we were able to witness this during the day by being at the right place at the right time!”

Besides leopards, what else can you spot at Yala National Park? Yala is not just a playground for leopards; it has several other animals and birds that make for an exciting safari excursion. “Apart from the Sri Lankan leopard, you can spot sloth bear, grey langur, the Sri Lankan elephant, mugger crocodile, water buffalo, golden-backed jackal, spotted and sambar deer, soft-shell turtle, ruddy mongoose, land monitor lizard, and wild boar,” shares the ranger. Yala also plays seasonal home to scores of migratory birds. Among them, the most common ones include the Indian pitta, blue-tailed bee-eater, redshank, comb duck, sand plover and brown shrike. “The park has several endemic and non-endemic resident birds, like the Sri Lankan junglefowl, Sri Lankan swallow, Malabar pied hornbill, brown-capped babbler, black neck stork, crested hawk eagle and green imperial pigeon.”

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What are the telltale spotting rituals of a guide? “These depend on the animal we are trying to spot. For example, elephants love grass, so the weather and food availability play a huge role. When the park dries up, they go deep into the forest, so we try to look for patches of grass,” Jayamadu says. “Sloth bears are quite elusive and unpredictable, but they love this yellow fruit called palu; the chances of seeing them are higher when they are in season, usually between January and July, or during monsoons, when termite mounds are damp, and they can eat them. When it comes to leopards, relying on alarm calls by other animals, especially monkeys, is helpful as they raise an alarm when they spot a predator. In the dry season, we look for pugmarks and near watering holes, but in the monsoon, leopards like taking shelter in caves or up in trees, so it’s essential for guides to train their eyes. Being in the park regularly, we also understand the patterns and movements of different leopards, which helps lead to better sightings.”

What’s the best time to visit Yala National Park? From May to July, the weather is dry but it stays windy, which makes the weather bearable. The trees shedding their leaves renders it easier to spot animals, who often venture out to waterholes during this time. According to Jayamadu, this is the best time to visit Yala to spot leopards, though the tourist count remains low. In this part of Sri Lanka, its peak monsoon from November to January. The park turns into a lush green oasis and a haven for flocks of birds. It’s also the high tourist season at Yala. Leopard sightings, however, are difficult at this time, given the wet weather, but elephants, peacocks and water buffaloes are easy to spot, Jayamadu explains. February to April is the low tourist season; safaris are highly uncomfortable, especially in April, the hottest month here. Dry heat keeps the weather harsh from August to October. In fact, before Covid, the park would remain closed from September 1 to October 15.

How many safaris can fit into a three-night stay? “A minimum of two safaris are ideal, with three being the absolute best over a three-night stay. In the first one, we show guests the varied landscapes of the park, entering from Block 1 to spot different birds and animals. In the second safari, we focus on leopard sightings and take a different route to show another side of the park. And in the third safari, we explore other blocks of the park, giving guests a wholesome Yala experience,” the guide suggests, adding that they keep a mix of morning and afternoon safaris, or one full-day safari, to raise the chances of different sightings.

What are the safari slots at Yala National Park? The park is usually open from 6am to 6pm, with slight changes in the timing depending on the season and weather. The last slot to enter the park for a morning safari is 11am and 5pm for an evening safari. Keep in mind that the latter gives tourists just an hour inside the park. “Yala National Park offers both half-day and full-day safari options. But it’s closed from 12pm to 2pm every day. There are two dedicated zones where vehicles and tourists can wait during this time. We also have the option of returning to the hotel for lunch and continuing the full-day safari post 2pm,” says Jayamadu.

How do you book a safari permit at Yala? How much does it cost? To book a safari permit for Yala National Park, head to the official website of the Department of Wildlife Conservation. It has a certain number of permits available for each day that you can book online in advance by filling in the requested details and making a payment. “The permit cost for foreigners is US$25 (roughly Rs2,083), excluding taxes. But do note that the safari permit requires details of the vehicle and guide to be filled, so it’s important to figure these out beforehand. I recommend first booking your accommodation and letting the hotel help you with the safari bookings, including the permits,” the ranger advises.

How to book a jeep and guide at Yala National Park? Jayamadu warns that this is the tricky part. “You can get safari permits through the official portal, but the jeep and guide bookings need to be made through privately-owned businesses. This makes it difficult for foreign tourists to vet the good ones based on an online search,” he says. “There are usually some jeeps parked near the entrance gates that visitors can book directly, but they may not get the best safari experience. The safest way to go about this is to choose an all-inclusive package at a hotel so that your safari with a jeep and guide are part of the experience provided with the stay.” The cost of the safari package would vary according to the hotel’s category and the season. While some hotels book an external guide, resorts like Hilton Yala have their in-house rangers who accompany guests on every safari trip, armed with refreshments and binoculars. A maximum of five guests in a jeep leaves room for a driver and guide to join.

Which are the best zones at Yala National Park? In Sri Lanka, national parks are divided into blocks instead of zones, and Yala has six such demarcated blocks. “There were five earlier, but an adjoining national park, Lunugamvehera, became part of Yala recently, taking the total to six. All the blocks are accessible to tourists, though Block 1 remains the most popular one. It has two entrances: Palatupana is the main one, and Katagamuwa is the rear entrance,” he explains. With a diverse ecosystem—from rocky outcrops and watering holes, to grasslands, lagoons and a coastal stretch—this block is home to not just leopards, but several endemic and migratory birds and other mammals. “Since the main entrance becomes too crowded during the peak season, we take our guests to certain offbeat tracks inside for a better safari experience.” Entering through the rear gate is also a good idea as it’s less frequented by tourists.

“If you love off-roading, Block 2 is for you. It’s accessible via the main block after a river crossing. Secluded with no mobile reception, tickets to this block are only issued when there’s a minimum of two safari jeeps together, keeping safety in mind,” Jayamadu adds. Blocks 3 and 4 are thick forest areas and about 50km from Block 1, and Block 5 (also 50km from the first) is also good for leopard sightings. Block 6 is home to several species of reptiles, birds and mammals and can be accessed from either Block 1 or through Block 5.

What are the best hotels around Yala National Park? Most of the hotels, resorts and campsites are concentrated around Block 1. The Palatupana entrance is easily accessible and a designated tourism zone. The newest property here is Hilton Yala Resort (doubles from Rs41,960; website ) located in the buffer zone and overlooking the Indian Ocean, with 42 rooms including some with a private pool. The resort also offers packages that include the stay, meals, guided safaris and other excursions. Wild Coast Tented Lodge (doubles from Rs49,928; website ) is a luxury tent accommodation; Uga Chena Huts (doubles from Rs87,443; website ) offers luxury cabins; and Cinnamon Wild (doubles from Rs31,070; website ) has chalets. Besides these, there are some glamping and camping accommodations near the Katagamuwa entrance.

What else can you do at Yala National Park? “Tourism in and around Yala is largely for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers and pilgrims,” says Jayamadu. Resorts located close to Block 1 have access to the beach and offer activities like sundowners by the water. “Hilton also offers bush walks and sand dune visits, besides safaris and beach trips,” he adds. The ancient Buddhist monastery, Sithulpawwa Rock Temple, is perfect to get a bird’s eye view of the park and pay your respects to this 2,200-year-old place of worship. The sacred town of Kataragama is easily accessible from Block 5; it’s a holy place for different faiths, including Hindus and Buddhists. The guide also recommends visiting Bundala National Park, a haven for bird enthusiasts as it’s a hotspot for migratory birds and just 45 minutes from Yala. Ask your resort about these sightseeing excursions in addition to your safari trips.

How do you reach Yala National Park? For international tourists, Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Colombo is the closest airport to Yala National Park, roughly 287km away. It’s connected by an expressway, with a smooth drive of about four to five hours to the hotels around the park. Getting the hotel to arrange for a car and driver would be ideal as there’s no direct public transport to take you to your destination. For those looking for a faster mode of transport, Cinnamon Air offers domestic flights from Colombo to Tissa and Weerawila, less than an hour from the park. There are a few private chopper services, as well, to take you to your resort in Yala, provided they come equipped with a helipad. For instance, Hilton Yala Resort, Wild Coast Tented Lodge and Uga Chena Huts have such a provision, which can cut down your travel time to just over an hour from Colombo.

How to reach the guide? You can reach ranger Praneeth Jayamadu and Hilton Yala Resort at +94 472 555 555 or [email protected]

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A guide to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s best safari destination (Update 2023)

Looking to do a jeep safari in Yala National Park? Here’s my guide to Sri Lanka’s best safari destination, including what to see and do, the jeep safari price, and insightful travel tips.

For me, someone who never went on a wildlife safari before, Yala National Park was, without a doubt the most rewarding and exciting adventure during my trip to Sri Lanka.

It’s an exhilarating happening to embark on a jeep safari, knowing you’re about to observe extraordinary animals in their natural habitat while driving along the bumpy roads of the wildlife park.

Especially if you realize that Yala National Park is considered the most popular wildlife park on Sri Lanka’s teardrop-shaped island.

This excellent reputation is due to its dynamic landscape, great variety and density of wildlife – plus the fact that the park is acknowledged as one of the best places in the world to see leopards in the wild.

Here’s my guide to Yala National Park, featuring what to see and do, which safari to choose, and where to stay – plus insightful travel tips, including costs, the best time to visit, and how to get to Yala National Park.

If you choose to use any of the links on this page, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these links, you’ll have a direct impact on WTSW and my ability to continue to create free insightful travel content for you. If you find any of my tips useful, you can support me by buying a virtual coffee here .

WHERE IS YALA NATIONAL PARK?

Yala National Park is situated in the southeast region of Sri Lanka’s teardrop-shaped island and stretches over the two provinces, Hambantota and Monaragala.

The Yala National Park is quite remote, and therefore it’s almost inevitable to visit a town named Tissamaharama.

Tissamaharama itself isn’t the most interesting town and it’s also quite difficult to get to. Nevertheless, it functions perfectly as the only official gateway to the wildlife park.

The official Yala visitor centre is around 20km east of the town, which is easily reached by joining a Yala National Park tour from Tissamaharama.

Where |  Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

WHERE TO STAY IN YALA NATIONAL PARK

You’ll find an abundance of excellent accommodations (both in and outside the park) that suit almost every budget and travel style.

Tissamaharama has no shortage of budget-friendly options, comfortable lodges and luxury hotels, while there’s also a great number of luxurious wildlife campings and chalets inside the Yala National Park itself.

Going on a safari in Yala National Park is extremely popular and therefore it’s wise to book your accommodation a couple of weeks in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during the high season.

Some of the accommodations I recommend include:

Hotel River Front

A charming riverfront hotel with spacious air-conditioned rooms, comfortable beds, and a great outdoor swimming pool. The hotel has a good in-house restaurant that serves excellent local, Chinese and Continental food.

Booking.com | Hotels.com

Thaulle Resort

Located directly at the Yoda Lake, Thaulle Resort is a great hotel with traditional Sri Lankan-style rooms, spectacular lakeside views, a large outdoor pool and a courteous and helpful staff. This hotel literally provides all the essentials to unwind after an adventurous safari tour in Yala National Park.

Cinnamon Wild Yala

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, look no further. Cinnamon Wild offers astonishing eco-friendly chalets in the midst of the lively jungle of the beloved Yala National Park. Undisputedly one of the best picks when it comes to uniqueness, comfort and world-class service.

Jetwing Yala

A luxurious hotel with a marvellous outdoor pool, spacious air-conditioned rooms, and a charming ambience. Given the location of the hotel, you’ll be encircled by delicate nature and fascinating wildlife. The friendly staff also provide great service and hospitality.

WHAT ANIMALS WILL YOU SEE ON A YALA NATIONAL PARK SAFARI?

Yala National Park is a vast dynamic reserve, consisting of dense jungle, endless grasslands and several lakes and lagoons.

This distinct landscape ensures the perfect habitat for a great variety and density of wildlife, making Yala one of the best national parks in Sri Lanka .

But it isn’t just the variety of animals that makes Yala National Park so popular. No, it’s mostly the fact that it’s acknowledged as one of the best spots in the world to see wild leopards.

THE ANIMALS OF YALA NATIONAL PARK

Although taking a safari tour doesn’t guarantee that you’ll see every animal that lives in the Yala National Park, it’s safe to expect to get up close and personal with water buffalos, wild boars, spotted deers, monkeys and peacocks.

Beyond the aforementioned wildlife, there is the potential sighting of leopards, elephants, Black Sloth bears, Fishing cats, Red Slender loris and crocodiles.

In total, the Yala National Park is home to 44 species of mammals, 215 species of birds and 46 species of reptiles, which makes it impossible not to spot any animals during your safari.

LEOPARD SIGHTINGS IN YALA NATIONAL PARK

According to extensive research, Yala National Park is said to have the biggest concentration of leopards in the world.

And given the fact that there live a total of approximately 55 leopards in the park, you might have the good fortune to encounter one during your jeep safari in Yala.

However, each safari is completely unique and it’s impossible to guarantee what animals you’re going to see (especially the rare species). Therefore I highly recommend lowering your expectations, as it’s less common to encounter leopards.

JOIN A YALA NATIONAL PARK TOUR

Tissamaharama is home to an abundance of safari tour operators, that are all extremely willing to take you on your once in a lifetime Yala National Park safari experience.

A Yala safari jeep has the capacity for up to 6 people and the safari tour operator will usually arrange a pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.

Yala National Park can be visited as part of a morning, afternoon or full-day jeep safari.

Book | Arrange your Yala National Park Safari Tour in advance

MORNING SAFARI IN YALA NATIONAL PARK

It is often said that a morning safari in Yala National Park provides the best circumstances when it comes to the potential sightings of elusive wildlife.

This is mainly due to the fact that the animals aren’t yet disturbed by the countless amount of jeeps that drive along the park’s dusty roads throughout the day.

Even though waking up at 04.30 is pretty intense, it’s safe to say that it’s completely worth the struggle.

By joining a morning safari, you’ll get picked up at your accommodations around 05.00 with the mission to arrive at the entrance of the park before it opens at 06.00.

In my opinion, the best part of a morning safari is the exciting journey to the park whilst it’s still dark, knowing you’re about to witness exquisite wildlife while it’s still relatively quiet in the park.

BOOK | This extremely popular guided safari during the golden hour

Duration  | 05:00 – 10:00 with approximately 3 hours in the park.

AFTERNOON SAFARI IN YALA NATIONAL PARK

A great alternative for those that experience difficulties when waking up early is taking the slightly more popular afternoon safari in Yala National Park.

According to most Yala safari rangers, there isn’t a significant difference between the morning and afternoon safari when it comes to the sightings of wildlife.

I’ve seen a great variety of animals during my afternoon safari in Yala National Park, and found it a tranquil yet adventurous experience – plus I witnessed a magnificent sunset while leaving the park.

Duration  | 13:00 – 18:00 with approximately 3 hours in the park.

FULL-DAY SAFARI IN YALA NATIONAL PARK

Although it sounds pretty attractive, I personally wouldn’t recommend going on a full-day safari in Yala National park.

Being in the park for 12 hours straight is extremely exhausting – plus you should keep in mind that you’re in the park during the hottest part of the day. Believe me, this can be quite intense in Sri Lanka.

It is also not guaranteed that you’ll see more animals during a full-day safari than during a morning or afternoon safari in Yala National Park.

BOOK | This exceptional full-day safari with lunch

Duration  | 05:00 – 19:00 with approximately 12 hours in the park.

YALA NATIONAL PARK SAFARI COST

The price of a jeep safari is made up of the official Yala National Park entrance fee – plus the price that you’ll arrange with your safari tour operator.

The price of a safari tour operator varies and depends on the following elements: the duration of the tour, the tour operator and the number of people that join the safari tour.

The jeep safari tour prices are often per jeep, which can hold up to six persons, and are easy to organize at nearly every accommodation in Tissamaharama.

I made an insightful summary, so you’ll have a clear indication of the costs of a jeep safari in Yala National Park.

Yala National Park entrance fee | 7.000 LKR, ($21.50) per person.

Half-day jeep safari | 11.000 – 15.000 LKR, ($33.00 – 45.00) per jeep

Full-day jeep safari | 24.000 – 30.000 LKR, ($72.00 – 90.00) per jeep

YALA NATIONAL PARK OPENING HOURS

The Yala National Park is open daily from 06:00 till 18:00 and is pretty strict regarding the regulations of the opening hours.

If you’re joining a morning safari, the goal is to arrive at the gate well before it opens. Being one of the first in line provides the benefit to enter the park as early as possible.

It’s also essential that all jeeps are out of the park before it closes at 18:00. This is monitored by the official wildlife officers that note and check the license plates of the jeeps that enter and leave the park.

BEST TIME TO VISIT YALA NATIONAL PARK

Although you can visit the park year-round, the absolute best time to visit Yala National Park is during the dry season. This season runs from February to June, with February and March as the undisputed peak months to spot leopards.

It is said that it’s easier to spot wildlife during this period, mainly because of the deficient natural water resources that are available in the park. For that reason, animals get active to go out of their hideouts and drink from the accessible water ponds.

I personally visited Yala National Park during the offseason in September and had a great safari experience with an impressive number of animal sightings.

Do keep in mind that there is a great possibility you’ll find the park closed for maintenance in September.

HOW TO GET TO YALA NATIONAL PARK

The Yala National Park is slightly off the beaten path compared to other popular sights in Sri Lanka. This doesn’t mean you’ll have to be discouraged, it’s more than worth the extra effort.

The only gateway to the Yala National Park is a town named Tissamaharama, which is best reached by local bus or car.

The journey by bus can be quite long, intense and exhausting, but trust me, it’s one of the best ways to experience daily local life.

Do keep in mind that the local bus stops frequently and that you’ll need to change busses on several occasions to reach Tissamaharama.

The Yala National Park is usually visited after Mirissa, Ella or Arugam Bay.

FROM MIRISSA TO TISSAMAHARAMA

Bus journey | Mirissa – Matara – Tissamaharama Cost | 250 – 330 LKR, ($1.30 – 1.80) per person Travel time | Around 3.5 hours

FROM ELLA TO TISSAMAHARAMA

Bus journey | Ella – Tissamaharama Cost | 220 – 250 LKR, ($1.20 – 1.35) per person Travel time | Around 2.5 hours

FROM ARUGAM BAY TO TISSAMAHARAMA

Bus journey | Pottuvil – Monaragala – Wellawaya – Tissamaharama Cost | 350 – 380 LKR, ($1.90 – 2.10) per person Travel time | Around 6.5 hours

INSIGHTFUL TRAVEL TIPS FOR A VISIT TO YALA NATIONAL PARK

Photography gear | If you’re into serious photography you might want to bring your camera and zoom lens. See what’s in my camera bag here .

Sunscreen  | Even though the jeep is partly covered, the sun can be extremely harsh during a safari in Yala. Better safe than sorry.

Bug repellent | It’s always good to have a good bug repellent within hand reach.

Sweater  | Bring a warm sweater. This will be your best friend during a morning safari.

Drinking water  | Bring drinking water to stay hydrated throughout the day.

No toilets in the park | Do keep in mind that there are no toilets available inside the park.

Visit without expectations | Last but not least, lower your expectations before going on a safari. Every safari is unique and there is no guarantee that you’ll see all the animals you hope to see.

STAY SAFE IN SRI LANKA | TRAVEL INSURANCE

Though Sri Lanka is perfectly safe for travellers, I always strive to sort out my travel insurance before arriving in a foreign country, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.

Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury or an accident on the road. When that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here .

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

PLAN YOUR SRI LANKA ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES

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8 Impressive things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka’s lush mountain village

9 Incredible things to do in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka’s unexplored east coast

7 Awesome things to do in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka’s surfer paradise (2022 update)

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Yala National Park | Your Complete Yala Safari Guide

If you’re thinking of including a safari in your Sri Lanka itinerary , you won’t go far wrong with a Yala safari .

It’s up there with Udawalawe National Park as one of the most popular Sri Lanka national parks.  Some would say that Yala is the best national park in Sri Lanka, but it really comes down to personal preference.

The two parks are very similar, especially in terms of the wildlife you may see. It depends on the route you’re going to take during your Sri Lanka holiday as to which one you choose.

If you love safaris, maybe you’ll have time to squeeze in both! See here for an excellent Udawalawe safari .

The main difference between the two is that you may have a slightly higher chance of leopard spotting on a Yala National Park Safari , which has the highest density of leopard anywhere in the world.

Despite this, sightings are still not guaranteed. Udawalawe, on the other hand, has a large population of elephant and so elephant sightings on an Udawalawe safari are all but guaranteed.

This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through one, we may earn a small commission but this is at no extra cost to you.

Yala National Park leopard sighting

During a trip to Sri Lanka in 2010 we chose to do a safari in Yala National Park. We had just finished a 4 months overland trip through Africa.

We went on safari in Tanzania, the Okavango in Botswana, Etosha in Namibia and the Kruger in South Africa. They are some of the best safari destinations in Africa. You get the picture. We’d done a few safaris and were prepared to be underwhelmed with Yala.

We asked ‘how could it compare with the amazing safaris we’d just done?’. We booked it anyway because it was considered one of the highlights of Sri Lanka, and we’re very glad we did.

If you’re into wildlife, then Yala should definitely be included in your Sri Lanka itinerary. 

Yala National Park at sunrise

When is the best time to visit Yala National Park?

The best time of year to visit Yala is during the dry season between February and June.

There is less foliage around and it’s easier to spot wildlife. The best safari times for optimal wildlife spotting are between 6 am – 9 am and 3 pm – 6 pm.

Afternoon safaris in Yala are actually a bit quieter, and the leopards are also a bit more active towards late afternoon.

Accommodation in Yala

If you’re doing a morning safari in Yala, try to stay locally the night before to improve your safari experience.

If you are staying further away and have to get up in the middle of the night to get to the park for when it opens, you (and no doubt the kids) will feel so tired and probably not appreciate the experience as much.

There are plenty of accommodation options dotted around the edges of the park to suit every budget.

Luxury accommodation in Yala

Wild coast tented lodge  – all-inclusive luxury tented safari accommodation on the park borders and about as luxury as it gets (with pool).

Chena Huts by Uga Escapes  – (one for the bucket list if you’re travelling without children!) – all-inclusive cabin with your own plunge pool because who doesn’t love looking at luxury accommodation??

Jetwing Yala – this is an excellent chain hotel in Sri Lanka and you are right by the coast.

Cinnamon Wild – 5 minutes drive from Yala National Park, it has rooms with balconies and views of the jungle or the sea.

Mid-range accommodation in Yala

Avonil Resort Yala  – simple but clean accommodation with a lovely swimming pool. A little way from Yala National Park.

Budget accommation in Yala

LakeSide Cabana Tissamharama – rustic treehouse-style cabins with children’s playground.

Yala Hotel Lion – an air conditioned tented safari camp (no pool).

If you can’t see anything you like above, try a broader search on Booking.com which has the largest selection of Yala National Park accommodation 

Booking.com

How to choose a Yala National Park Jeep Safari

To find the best safari companies in Yala National Park, do your research online and speak to your accommodation.

We arranged a half day morning jeep safari through our accommodation. If you’re booking the tour yourselves, try to make sure that they have plenty of good reviews.

Not all Yala National Park safari companies are reputable.

This Yala safari tour lasts around 5 hours and they pick up from your accommodation in the Yala area – or you can meet them at Yala National Park entrance.

If you are staying in the south, this full day Yala Safari departs from Galle, Mirissa or Unawatuna.

The Cost of Half Day Safari in Yala National Park

If you are organising your safari yourself, this is just a guide so that you know roughly what to be charged:

• Private jeep  – around LKR 3500 (£15) for a half day
• Park entrance fees are $15 / £11.50 per adult and $8 / £6 per child (under 6 are free)
• LKR 250 (£1) jeep charge
• 15% VAT on top of everything charged by the park (excluding jeep fee).

You can check here for the most up to date park entrance fees :

Yala National Park entrance gate

How long is the ideal Yala safari with kids?

You can choose between full-day Yala safaris or half-day Yala safaris. Half day safaris are probably enough if you have young children as they last about 3 hours.

Any longer than this and we find that the kids start to get a bit tired, bored, restless or hungry!

Our guide had no problem cutting ours a little short when the kids started getting hangry.

If you’re staying in Yala for a couple of days, you could do a morning and an afternoon safari to see the park at different times of day.

Want to know what else there is to do in Sri Lanka for families? Make sure to read our recommendations for the best things to do in Sri Lanka with kids .

What do you take on a Yala safari?

The main thing to note is that there are no shops in Yala National Park which means that you need to take everything with you.

If you choose to do a half-day safari in the morning, the chances are you will have left your accommodation before breakfast. Make sure you have enough snacks and water with you to see you through to mid/late-morning.

We had cereal bars, bananas, rotis and breadsticks. It’s a good idea to take a bag for waste as you can’t leave any litter in the national park.

We always carry a refillable water bottle with us on our travels. We have both Chillys Bottle and CamelBak.

Here is a helpful guide on what to take on safari . The list is not exhaustive, so if you think of anything else, please let us know!

Our Yala National Park safari experience

We were picked up at 5.30am at our accommodation in a jeep and set off to the park to buy our tickets, and get in for as close to the 6am opening time as possible.

Once you’re through the gates and away from the other jeeps jostling to be the first to get in, you will start spotting wildlife.

It may be the ubiquitous peacock perched high in a tree, or it may be the elusive leopard. The beauty of a safari is the excitement of not knowing what you may see and looking carefully for any sign of movement for that first sighting.

In our experience, every time you go on safari you will have a unique experience. On this occasion, our unique experience was seeing a crocodile eating a leopard.

It was a pretty unusual sighting and not one we have ever seen on any of our African safaris.  We were so mesmerised by the sighting that we didn’t get great pictures but you can kind of get the idea.

Crocodile eating a leopard in Yala National Park

Unfortunately, we didn’t see a live leopard. We just missed out spotting a leopard because there were too many jeeps.

This is one of the drawbacks to Yala being so popular. We did see a huge number of Asian elephants which, incidentally, are much less intimidating than their African relatives.

We felt much more comfortable getting up close and personal with these elephants in Yala.

A docile Asian elephant enjoy its meal

We also saw more crocodiles, monitor lizards, water buffalo, spotted deer, bee eaters, egrets on elephants and egrets on buffalo.

Considering egrets are apparently a rare species, we did quite well on the egret front! Here are some of our wildlife spottings.

Crocodiles cooling down with their mouths open

Egret hitching a ride on a buffalo

As it turns out, we were so wrong to think Yala would be underwhelming, or compare unfavourably to a ‘real’ African safari .

We had a really memorable experience and a good thing to remember when travelling; always be open to new experiences.

The many and unique wildlife sightings was enough to convince us that a Yala safari was just as good as an African safari.

Yala national park safari tip

When going on safari, it is worth being prepared. Once you are in the park, there are no shops and no toilet stops (or they may not be very easily accessed).

Happy spotting!

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Ultimate guide to visiting Yala National Park in Sri Lanka

Visiting Yala National Park is a bit like stepping into a nature documentary. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who loves wildlife. 

Tucked away in the southeast of Sri Lanka, Yala National Park is a place where leopards prowl, elephants roam free and over 200 species of bird reside. 

But Yala isn’t just about spotting wildlife. Its raw, natural beauty comprises vast forests and grasslands, breathtaking beaches and ancient temples. 

In my guide to visiting Yala National Park, I share everything you need to know before visiting. Getting there, the best time to visit, where to stay, and pinpointing the must-dos – I’ve got the lowdown for you.

Plus, I’ll share a few tips to help you make the most of your visit. 

If you prefer video to a blog post then you can watch my vlog of visiting Yala National Park here:

This post contains affiliate links.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

How to get to Yala National Park

Getting to Yala National Park is part of the adventure. On our drive into the park, we saw a huge elephant on the side of the road, which was a great introduction to our visit!

Whether you’re coming from the buzzing capital city of Colombo or the serene highlands of Nuwara Eliya , you’ve got a few options to consider.

Here’s how you can make your way to this wildlife haven:

From Colombo to Yala

By bus: You can catch a bus from Colombo to Tissamaharama, the town closest to Yala National Park. The journey takes about 6-7 hours, depending on traffic.

Once in Tissamaharama, you can easily find local buses or tuk-tuks to take you to the park entrance. It’s a budget-friendly option and gives you a real taste of local life.

By car: Hiring a car with a driver is another popular option. It’s more comfortable than the bus and offers the flexibility to stop along the way.

The drive from Colombo to Yala takes about 4-5 hours. This is a great choice if you’re looking to combine comfort with the convenience of getting to Yala on your own schedule.

If you’d like the details of our driver, please feel free to DM me on Instagram and I’ll send over his details – he was brilliant!

By train: There’s no direct train to Yala, but you can take a train to Matara and then catch a bus or taxi to Tissamaharama.

The train journey offers gorgeous views, especially as you travel along the coast.

From Nuwara Eliya or Ella to Yala

By bus: There isn’t a direct bus from Nuwara Eliya to Yala, so you’ll need to make a transfer.

First, take a bus to Ella or Badulla, and from there, catch another bus to Tissamaharama.

It’s a bit of a journey, with the total travel time being around 6-8 hours, but it’s an opportunity to see more of the country’s beautiful landscapes.

By car: Driving from Nuwara Eliya to Yala with a hired car and driver is arguably the most comfortable option, and is what I personally did.

The journey takes about 4-5 hours and takes you through some breathtaking highland scenery before descending to the plains.

This option allows for flexibility in your itinerary and the chance to stop at interesting spots along the way.

By train and bus or car: You can take a train from Nanu Oya (near Nuwara Eliya) to Ella and then catch a bus or drive from Ella to Tissamaharama.

This combo was actually my intended plan, as I really wanted to experience the train.

However, I didn’t book tickets in advance so we couldn’t get on the train – don’t make the same mistake as me!

Organised day trips from Ella: You can also book an organised day trip or transfer from Ella. Some of the best options are as follows:

• Ella: Safari Day Trip to Yala & Udawalawe with Lunch
• Ella: Transfer to Mirissa/Galle/Hikkaduwa & Yala Safari Tour
• Ella: Yala National Park Thrilling Half-Day Safari

How many days to spend in Yala National Park

For the best experience at Yala National Park, I personally recommend dedicating around three days to your visit.

Not only does it allow you to completely disconnect from the hustle and bustle, it also enhances your chances of witnessing those once-in-a-lifetime wildlife sightings (i.e. those elusive leopards!).

Plus, three days gives you time to explore beyond a safari. You can explore the park on a bush walk, visit Sithulpawwa Temple, take your time with photography or spend an afternoon at the beach.

Where to stay in Yala National Park 

When visiting Yala National Park, finding the right place to stay is crucial for enhancing your experience.

I can wholeheartedly recommend a stay at the recently opened Hilton Yala Resort . We enjoyed a truly unforgettable stay here.

Nestled on the edge of the park, this luxurious resort offers the perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and proximity to nature, making it an ideal base for your wildlife adventures.

One of the highlights of staying at Hilton Yala Resort is the convenience it offers for organising all your activities. The amazing staff take care of everything for you.

The hotel can arrange guided tours of the park, whether a private jeep safari or a bush walk at dusk, as well as sunrise visits to Sithulpawwa Temple.

Other amazing hotels which have come highly recommended by friends and our driver are:

• Uga Chena Huts
• Wild Coast Tented Lodge
• Cinnamon Wild Yala

You can read my full review of Hilton Yala Resort here or discover more of the best luxury hotels in Sri Lanka .

Best time of year to visit Yala National Park

The best time to visit Yala National Park largely depends on what you’re hoping to see and do. But generally, the period between February and June is considered ideal.

During these months, the dry weather reduces the foliage and water levels in the park, making wildlife, especially leopards, more visible as they come out to the park’s waterholes to drink.

This is arguably the best time to see leopards, as the sparse vegetation makes these elusive creatures easier to spot.

Yala experiences a monsoon season from September to December, which can lead to parts of the park being closed due to flooding.

While the monsoon brings lush greenery and a rejuvenation of the park’s flora, it can make wildlife viewing more challenging.

For birdwatchers, the migratory bird season from November to April offers a fantastic opportunity to see a variety of bird species.

I personally visited in January and while it was a good time to visit, parts of the park were still closed due to flooding from the end of the monsoon season.

Sadly we also didn’t get to see any leopards, but we did see plenty of other wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles and water buffalo.

What to wear when visiting Yala National Park

I’d recommend opting for lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colours so that you blend in with the natural environment. 

Long sleeves, trousers and a hat can help protect against the sun and those pesky mosquitoes. 

If you’re embarking on a bush walk then you’ll definitely need some comfortable, closed-toe shoes for walking on dusty, uneven terrain. 

I’d also suggest bringing a scarf or cover-up that you can use to cover your mouth and nose for when the jeeps throw up lots of dust. 

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Things to do in Yala National Park

While going on safari is the obvious attraction of visiting, there are a handful of fun things to do in Yala National Park:

1. Safari tour

A safari tour is the highlight of any visit to Yala. With the chance to see leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and a myriad of other wildlife in their natural habitat.

I’d recommend opting for a morning or late afternoon safari for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

The park’s experienced guides can navigate the terrain and help spot the park’s inhabitants.

2. Bush walk

For those who want to stretch their legs and enjoy the park from a different perspective, a guided bush walk is a fantastic option.

It’s a chance to get up close with the smaller wonders of Yala, from its diverse plant life to the insects and birds that call it home. 

I have to admit, I did feel very nervous walking alongside where crocodiles were swimming and water buffalo were hanging out.

But our guide very much made us feel at ease and it was wonderful to explore the park from a different perspective.

3. Bird watching

With over 200 bird species, including migratory birds and endemic species, Yala is a bird watcher’s paradise.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned birder or a casual observer, the park’s feathered inhabitants are sure to captivate. Whether it’s the flamboyant peacock or the elusive jungle fowl.

Early morning is the best time for bird watching, as this is when many birds are most active.

4. Sithulpawwa Temple

Nestled within the park is the ancient Sithulpawwa Temple, a significant Buddhist monastery dating back over 2,000 years.

It offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

The temple is not only a spiritual site, but also provides epic views of the surrounding countryside.

We visited at sunrise and I’d definitely recommend doing the same – trust me, the 5am start was worth it!

Visiting so early meant we largely had the temple to ourselves, with not a single tourist in sight. It was incredibly peaceful and the views were just jaw-dropping.

Plus, you drive through the park to get to the temple, so you essentially get another safari as part of the experience!

5. Beach visit

The coastline that borders Yala National Park is breathtakingly beautiful and relatively untouched.

A visit to the beach offers a tranquil contrast to the rugged wilderness of the park.

Swimming is not advisable due to strong currents and the presence of wildlife.  But the beaches near Yala provide stunning settings for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or simply to relax and enjoy the sunset.

If you have any tips for visiting Yala National Park then please do let me know in the comments! Or watch my experience of visiting over on YouTube .

For more Sri Lanka content, you may also like: 

• 10 fun things to do in Nuwara Eliya
• 15 amazing things to do in Colombo
• Hilton Yala Resort hotel review
• 10 best things to do in Galle
• 12 beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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Safari in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka: Travel Tips & Guide

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links that I may earn a small commission from if you purchase something through them. This comes at no extra cost to you!

Yala National Park is the most visited national park in Sri Lanka , where diverse wildlife roams freely in their natural habitats and beautiful grasslands and wetlands dominate the landscape.

At a whopping 1268 km² it is the second largest park in the country and is home to lush green forests, lakes and tranquility. Yala boasts some of the most stunning scenery in Sri Lanka, but it also contains one of the largest densities of leopards in the world , a rare sighting that many visitors can only dream about.

As well as constantly scouring the land for the elusive leopards, visitors can watch monkeys and deer mingle together, get up close and personal with the many shy but gentle elephants, try to tell the difference between a rock and a sunbathing crocodile, and keep an eye out for the 200 different bird species in the area while venturing around the huge park. It really is like taking a drive through Africa, except for a fraction of the price!

In this guide I’ve explained everything you need to know before you go, including how to get around, what to expect, 12 handy tips and a review of my personal experience.

Table of Contents...

Useful information for Sri Lanka

• Capital : Colombo
• Population : 23 million
• Language : Sinhala, Tamil, English
• Currency : Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR): £1/$1 = 390/313 LKR
• SIM cards : I highly recommend getting a SIM card for your travels in Sri Lanka. This means you can use apps like Uber or Grab for cheaper taxi fares but it also means you never need to rely on WiFi for internet. Get an affordable E-SIM here:  Sri Lanka: eSIM Roaming Mobile Data Plan
• Visa info: Tourists are required to have a visa before arriving in Sri Lanka, called an ETA, for which the costs is $30 USD. Apply for an ETA online here .

Where is it

Yala National Park is located in the far southeast of Sri Lanka, about 20km from the town of Tissamaharama (also known as Tissa).

Check it out on the interactive map below.

How to get to Tissa

Online resources for travel around Sri Lanka are poor and the best way to get around this part of the country is to inquire about public transport in person. 

There are a couple of different ways to reach Tissa, although it can be quite tricky to get to.

Buses connect many popular Sri Lankan towns, but Tissamaharama doesn’t actually have very many links. 

In Ella you can arrange a bus to Kataragama and then transfer to Tissa, which is what I did. In total the journey from Ella is about 3 hours including the transfer time and is a fun and affordable experience. My bus from Ella to Katargama was just 220 LKR.

From towns on the south coast like Galle and Mirissa you can take a local bus directly to Tissa.

• Private driver

Hiring a private driver is the most convenient way to get around certain regions of Sri Lanka. 

You can reach Tissa from almost anywhere in the bottom half of the country in a few hours and a private vehicle will drop you at the door of your accommodation, some of which are far from the town centre.

Private drivers are on the costly side and will set you back close to $50 USD per day. They can be arranged at many accommodations and tour agencies in Sri Lanka.

Check out the tour below to combine your journey south from Ella with a stop at Yala.

How to get around Yala

To visit Yala you must book a safari. The driver will collect you from your accommodation on the day of the safari and take you to the national park.

• 4×4 Jeep safari

By far the best way to see all that Yala has to offer is in a Jeep with a local driver. Although they aren’t a traditional guide they’ll find many points of interest you would otherwise never see, such as snakes in the trees and sunbathing crocodiles.

Local drivers know their way around the park and where the animals will be at certain times of the day. They are also in constant communication with one another so if a driver spots a leopard, for example, he’ll let all the other drivers know.

The trucks are open air so you get a 360° view with no windows obscuring the stunning landscape and it allows you to get up close an personal with nosy elephants.

Safaris can be booked at your accommodation or at many places in Tissa the day before you plan to visit. Alternatively, here are links to three of the best Yala safaris online:

• Yala: National Park Safari Private All-Inclusive Day Trip
• Ella: Safari Day Trip to Yala & Udawalawe w/ Picnic Lunch
• Yala National Park Sharing Safari (5 Hours)

Expected costs for Yala

All things considered, it’s a pretty damn affordable place to do a safari!

As mentioned above, to see Yala in all it’s glory you’ll want to be in an open-top Jeep with a driver. My partner and I paid 8,500 LKR ($26 USD) each for a private car for the day but group tours will be much less than this. 

To save money try to find other travellers to share a car with and split the cost as the price is usually per vehicle.

• Opening times

Entrance is only permitted to Yala either when it opens at 6am or at 2pm in the afternoon.

The morning safaris are the most popular as these are the most active times for animals while they hunt and drink at first light before finding shade throughout the heat of the day.

• Best time of year

The best time of year to visit is from February to June (the dry season), with the peak season to spot leopards being between February and March. This is the recommended time as animals can be spotted more frequently at watering holes as the land gets dryer.

That said, prices are cheaper outside of peak season and the park won’t be as congested, so I guess it’s up to you. I visited in February and it was extremely busy even when it opened at 6 am – and I mean busy!

A successful visit to the National park has a lot to do with luck, and you’ll have to be very lucky to clasp eyes on certain creatures no matter the time of year.

How much time to allow

Safaris usually last 4 – 5 hours which is the perfect amount of time.

On a 6am safari you’ll be collected from your accommodation at around 4:30am and dropped off again around 12pm. Afternoon safaris last from 2pm to roughly 6pm plus driving time to Yala.

You can also stay in various accommodations inside the national park if you want to fully immerse yourself in this natural wonderland and spend as much time as possible in it.

12 Yala tips and FAQs

1. the five zones within yala.

Yala National Park is divided into five zones, only two of which are open to tourism.

The two zones that you can visit are zones 1 and 5, with the others being protected Nature Reserves that are closed to the public and used only for research purposes. It may sound like you’re missing out on seeing most of the park, but Zone 1 alone is a whopping 144 km² and it is in this huge area is where most of the wildlife can be found. 

From sprawling grasslands to watering holes, towering trees and even a beach, the two public zones have it all.

2. Wildlife to look for

One amazing thing about Yala is the abundance and diversity of wildlife inside.

There are certain animals that you’re almost guaranteed to see on a half-day safari, but also some that prefer to hide away from the busy dirt roads of the park. There’s no way around it – the animals you’ll see on safari in Yala largely relies on luck!

Here are the most notable animals that call Yala home:

• Deer (with beautiful white spots)
• Water buffalo
• Sloth bears
• Monitor lizards
• Over 200 bird species (eagles, peacocks and more)

You’ll get the chance to get up close and personal with some of these stunning animals, but there are some that understandably need to be viewed from a distance. Try and see if your accommodation can lend you some binoculars for the day!

The elephants are friendly and you’re guaranteed to see at least a couple of these gentle giants, however the leopards are notoriously elusive and many people who visit the park unfortunately don’t get to see any. The guides will try their best to find them throughout the day and keep you updated and entertained while you travel around.

3. Always be on the lookout

If it wasn’t for my driver I’d have missed so many animal sightings.

There’s always something to see close-by in Yala and you should always be on the lookout throughout the day. Keep one eye on the bushes and trees and one eye on your driver, who will be constantly scoping the lands and trying to point if he spots anything.

4. Aim for the 6am entrance

As previously stated, there are two times you can visit Yala: 6am or 2pm.

I really recommend visiting at 6am (when the park opens) to witness a sunrise you’ll never forget before starting the morning’s adventure.

The afternoon safaris will still be epic, but you’ll arrive in the hottest part of the day and potentially find that many animals are hiding in shaded areas or cannot be located. Not only is visiting early in the morning better to spot more wildlife as they wake and seek water and food, but it’s also best to avoid the biggest crowds and heat of the day.

5. Pack long sleeves

No matter what season you visit Sri Lanka in, it can be extremely cold before the sun comes out and it’s best to be prepared beforehand.

If you’re planning to visit Yala early in the morning, make sure you pack some warm clothes to combat the breeze in the back of the jeep. 

Remember, it’s a 20km drive in the dark from Tissa to reach the entrance gate!

6. Sun protection

On that note, once the sun does eventually make an appearance it can heat up real quick.

Make sure you pack sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to stay protected under the beating sun and heat of the day. Don’t underestimate how quickly the temperature can change!

7. Prepare for a bumpy ride

Another thing to know before you go is that the roads inside Yala are unpaved dirt roads that make for a bumpy ride, despite the capabilities of the off-road vehicles used.

Generally it’s smooth and comfortable but there will be occasions where you turn off the ‘main road’, at which point the surfaces tend to worsen. There isn’t a whole lot you can do about this, but its something to be aware of. Make sure you don’t drop your camera!

8. Manage your leopard expectations

The best piece of advice I could give is to not go to Yala expecting to see something in particular, especially a leopard. Everyone’s safari experience is different!

You have to be extremely lucky to see leopards here as there are only around 100 in the whole park and zone 1 is 144 km² alone, so it’s understandable that the chances are very slim. One could cross the road right in front of you, you might get to witness an extremely rare live kill, or on the flip-side there might not be a single sighting for a whole month!

I was lucky enough to spot two leopards through the trees towards the end of my morning, but my driver said that they saw none in the previous two days. It’s hit-or-miss and you don’t want to be disappointed, so best keep your expectations low so that they can only be exceeded!

9. Visit in shoulder season

To avoid the biggest of the crowds (and trust me, they can get damn big!) I recommend visiting in the shoulder seasons of December and July .

I visited in February which is technically the high season asit is fantastic for lots of animal sightings, but the conditions in the shoulder seasons are still ideal and far less crowded.

10. Consider a private safari

Although it’s more expensive, I’m so glad I went on a private safari as it meant I never had other people in the way of my pictures in the back of the Jeep. 

You’re free to switch seats, point your camera in any direction and enjoy the 360° view without obstruction which is definitely worth the extra coin.

Book a private safari here

11. Pack a zoom lens

Having a good travel camera with a zoom lens is an essential if you want to take high-quality and memorable photos of your time here.

Your phone camera simply will not be enough to capture some of the birds and monkeys hiding in trees, let alone a shy leopard deep in the forest. I had a 200mm lens during my Yala trip and still wished I could zoom even more!

12. Bring plenty of water

Perhaps this goes without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway – take lots of water!

Once you enter the gates you won’t find anywhere to fill up or buy more and the hot temperatures can make it a sweaty day even in the shade of the Jeep. 

Buy a refillable water bottle and stay hydrated throughout the day.

My experience in Yala

I visited Yala National Park in February 2020 and chose to do the sunrise safari, setting off around 5am and entering the park as the sun rose.

I’m so glad to say that I am one of the lucky people who have seen a leopard in Yala!  

I was very lucky and saw every animal I wanted to see here, which is a very rare thing in Yala. I saw crocodiles, buffalo, eagles, bores and even leopards, however I was a little surprised at how few elephants I saw during the entire morning. I only saw one lone gentle giant and no large herds on the grassy plains to fit the typical Yala scene. Still, I got up close with that one elephant in its natural habitat so I can’t really complain – it was awesome.

As it was February, there were a lot of other vehicles in the park and admittedly a lot more than I was expecting. Early in the morning a driver came over the radio saying they had spotted a leopard and I naively believed we were going to be one of the few lucky people who got the message. Well, seemingly every vehicle in the zone had got the message and it turned into a bit of a frenzy and a small traffic jam occurred. This is normal for Yala as every driver wants their passengers to have the best experience, but it did get a bit hectic for a few minutes and the true Sri Lankan driving styles were out on full display!

The leopards are super hard to spot but after around 15 minutes of sitting still and staring into the bushes I saw some movement and managed to spot two of them about 30 metres away. SO COOL!

Overall, it’s impossible to leave a surreal place like this disappointed. The animals roam freely and you are the guest. That’s a humbling feeling for sure.

This is an amazing stop in Sri Lanka, and one that everyone should have on their travel itineraries in the country.

Where to stay

The best place to stay to visit Yala National Park is the town of Tissamaharama.

Here there are loads of accommodation choices suitable for any budget, although most are mid-range rather than budget hostels etc. All of them will offer to help you book a safari.

I stayed at Thihawa Eco Huts which was fantastic and it felt like I was already in the national park with all the wildlife around.

Best tours in Yala

Happy travelling!

HELPFUL RESOURCES FOR PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Accommodation: Booking.com , Hostelworld

Tours : GetYourGuide , Viator , Klook , TripAdvisor

Transport : 12Go , Omio , Trip.com , Rome2Rio

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How to Take a Yala National Park Safari

Taking a Yala National Park Safari is the reason that we went back to Sri Lanka for our second month long trip.  We’d been here a few years back, and had a glorious, if very, very wet month, and didn’t get to Yala (there was a lot of flooding) so we made it this year.  Yala National Park is the most popular National Park in Sri Lanka, primarily because it’s the number one place to see leopards in Sri Lanka.  But there’s a lot more wildlife here in Yala than just leopards, as we came to find out.  Here’s our guide to taking a Yala National Park Safari, which we’ve now planned twice!

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

Where is Yala National Park?

Yala National Park is in the south-east of Sri Lanka, adjoining the stunning Indian Ocean.  The National Park is one of 26 National Parks in the country, which cover a total of 5,734 square kilometers (2,214 square miles).  The park straddles two of Sri Lanka’s provinces, Hambantota and Monaragala.

Yala is the second largest National Park in Sri Lanka, after Wilpattu National Park.  Yala is about 6 hours’ travel or 260 kilometers (161 miles) from Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo.  We traveled from Galle to Yala National Park, that journey is 190 kilometers (118 miles) and it took about 3 hours using the Expressway to drive to Yala from Galle.

EASIEST WAY TO VISIT

Full Day Private Yala Safari

This is a superb way to see Yala National Park, a full-day safari in your own private safari jeep, with lunch and a driver provided

How to Get to Yala National Park

If you search for Yala on a map it’s quite hard to figure out exactly where you have to get to to take a Yala National Park Safari.  Let’s make it really simple. 

The absolute easiest way to get to Yala National Park is to take a tour.  You can do this from Colombo, you can take a Yala National Park Safari from Ella, you can take a safari in Yala from Galle or you can take a safari in Yala from Tissamaharama. These are long days, but it’s a truly fabulous experience, and the transport is also comfortable. Here are the best tours to Yala

This tour from Ella includes a safari in Yala and Udawalawe too + lunch

If you’re staying in Tissamaharama , then this full-day private safari gets superb reviews.

You can visit Yala from Galle and also combine a safari to Udawalawe too

We chose to travel from Galle to Tissamaharama and stay in the town for two nights.  We stayed at the fabulous value Nehansa Resort and arranged our National Park Safari via our accommodation.  I wouldn’t say it was a resort as such, but we had a great room, the food was excellent, and it seemed like there were several members of staff all on hand at the same time.  The tour they arranged for us was excellent.

Our guide on how to go from Galle to Yalla National Park is here.

We planned to stay in Tissamaharama until we’d spent at least one full day in Yala, possibly longer if we didn’t see a leopard on that day.

While there are several entrances to the park, the entrance most used is via the town of Tissamaharama.  It’s about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Tissamaharama to the entrance of Yala and all Yala National Park Safari tours will pick you up from your hotel and take you into the park.  The further away you stay from the park, the earlier your pick-up.

To get to Yala National Park you need to transfer to Tissamaharama. 

Galle to Yala

You can take the slow local bus along the coast from Galle to Yala, but it will take you about 5 hours. We traveled from Galle to Tissamaharama and it took 3 hours in a taxi, that we booked through the PickMe app. You can make good use of your time in Sri Lanka and combine a visit from Galle to Yala and Udawalawe in a full day tour.

Ella to Yala

We left Tissamaharama and traveled to Ella.  There are currently no direct buses for this route, so rather than spend the entire day on several buses we took a taxi from Tissamaharama to Ella.  You can use the PickMe app in Sri Lanka to get an idea as to how much a taxi or a tuk-tuk should be. Alternatively, you can maximize your time and take a Yala Safar from Ella and return back to Ella

Mirissa to Yala

You can take a bus from Mirissa via Matara to Tissamaharama.  It takes about 3.5 hours.  A bus still costs around 350 LKR. 

Animals to see in Yala National Park

Yala National Park covers a variety of different landscapes – there’s jungle here, grasslands, lagoons, coastline, lagoons and lakes. 

This means it provides a habitat for a variety of different mammals and birds.  There are 44 species of mammals and 215 species of birds that call Yala home, plus 46 species of reptiles.

Just because the animals live here doesn’t mean that you’ll see them though, although it’s pretty safe to say that you’ll see peacocks, water buffalo, spotted deer, and monkeys.  You’re also highly likely to see elephants at Yala. 

Leopards, the animal that Yala is famous for are more elusive,

Leopards in Yala National Park

Usually the most asked question is “How many Leopards are in Yala National Park?”  The answer, of course, is mostly irrelevant.  As the answer that you’re interested in is if you’ll see a leopard in Yala National Park.

So here’s the situation on Yala National Park leopards.  Yala has the biggest concentration of leopards in Sri Lanka.  Yala isn’t fenced.  So they may or may not be there.  There are usually around 55 leopards in and around the park area.  However, leopards are elusive.  They’re most likely to appear at the beginning or the end of the day.  Leopards are both solitary and territorial, so you’re not going to see a big pack of leopards, but they usually go back to the same places.  That’s why the safari guides and drivers will gravitate to the same places to spot leopards.

Elephants in Yala National Park

The elephant herd of Yala National Park numbers between 300 and 350 animals.  However, while this seems like a large number Yala is also a large park.  Depending on the time of year you may or may not see elephants.  We saw several, all individuals, no herds.  And all in different places in Yala.

Other Animals in Yala National Park

It feels a little mean to group all the other animals – the 44 species of mammals into “other animals” in Yala National Park.  You’ll see deer here, and crocodiles, water buffaloes for sure. 

You may or may not see the Black Sri Lanka Sloth bear (they’re elusive too).  However.  Most people are coming to Yala to see the leopard and elephants. 

If you’ve taken a guide or have a great driver (we did), then they’ll point things out to you.  They’ll also have a book on animal and birdlife.  We saw lots of birdlife in Yala National Park

BirdLife to see in Yala National Park

For me, the fact that our driver, who spoke some English, but not a huge amount, had a book of Sri Lankan birds made all the difference.  Many of the birds were incredibly pretty, however many were also very small and very fast in flight. Also, many looked very similar, so having the book made a huge difference in identifying them.  There are 215 species of bird life in Yala.  That’s a lot to know about!

Yala National Park Entrances

There are 5 blocks or zones to Yala National Park, and you’ll get to visit one if you take a half-day trip. Two (possibly) if you take a full-day trip, although a full day trip is a bit of a misnomer.  Everyone, you, your driver, and the animals need a break, and so if you take a full day Yala Safari what actually happens is that you simply stop somewhere for your lunch, for a very long lunch.  It’s during the hottest part of the day, so your chances of seeing animals are pretty limited anyway.

And so while Yala National Park has 5 zones, and entrances to each of them, unless you’re hanging around and visiting Yala for multiple consecutive days, then you likely won’t have much of a choice on the zone that you visit.  You may not even know which zone you’re in.  Relax, don’t worry about it, and let your driver and guide point things out.  It’s very like when we went on a Tiger Safari in Ranthambore National Park in India, we *really, really* wanted to go to a certain zone, because we’d read that it was THE zone where all the Tigers went.  In the end, we just relaxed, went with the flow, and saw some amazing tigers.

The entrance to Yala is about 40 kilometers from Tissamaharama and what time you go through the entrance depends on how far away your hotel or camp is from the entrance, as well as if you choose a morning or an afternoon safari, and also if you’re taking a private or a shared safari.

Private Yala National Park Safari or Shared

Unless you are traveling on a severe budget, then I would definitely go for a private safari.  Why?  You’ll get all the seats in the jeep to yourself, which means you can slide around getting into the best possible place to avoid the sun/rain/weather and the best possible place to see the wildlife, instead of having to climb over someone else.

This is probably going to be the most budget-friendly place in the world for taking a private safari.  And no, it’s not expensive. We paid US$148 for a private full day Yala National Park Safari including lunch.  I’ll touch on that later, but it was well worth it.

Travel Tips for Exploring Sri Lanka

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Where to stay to Visit Yala National Park

You can stay either in the National Park or just outside the National Park.  Most visitors will stay in or around the town of Tissamaharama.  There are lodges managed by the National Park that you can rent to stay in, but they’re usually for bigger groups and you’ll need transport to get to them.  They’re basic.  You can also stay at tented camps inside or next to the National Park.  Or you can stay at a lodge, hotel, or hostel in Tissamaharama.  These are the places that we looked at to stay.  Our choice in the end came down to our poor planning.  And we booked what was available.  Traveling over the holidays means you NEED to book things in advance.

Cinnamon Wild Yala:   We put this on our list because of the views of the sea and the fact that it was just 5 minutes from the entrance to Yala National Park.  That and the fabulous reviews, of course, the sound of the waves and the jungle also drew me.  But they were full for days either side of our time in Yala.  Don’t make the same mistake we did, and book early.

Leopard Trails: We also looked at staying more in the jungle environment, and Leopard Trails comes top of the list for this type of property.  Tents are air-conditioned and some have plunge pools too. You can check availability here.

We managed to successfully book the fabulous value Nehansa Resort .  We were the only people staying here and the staff were fabulous.  It wasn’t luxurious, but felt very local.  When we needed to get cash from the ATM our host took us out, and then took us on a private wildlife spotting tour in his tuk-tuk – the night before our Yala Safari – and that was amazing.  You don’t need to go into the park to see wildlife, you just need someone who knows where to go!

The Best Time to Visit Yala National Park

I guess that your choice of when you visit Yala is going to be based on when you go to Sri Lanka unless you’re specifically coming here to come to Yala.  So, the best time to come to spot wildlife in Yala is during the dry season.   And the dry season in Yala is between February and June, although the best time to see leopards is from February to March.  We were here between Christmas and New Year (and yeah that’s why there was so little availability for accommodation!)           

Cost of Yala National Park Safaris

The cost of a Yala National Park Safari has several parts of it.  There’s a National Park fee to pay (and this differs, with exchange rates and the Sri Lankan government seems to make changes to it as well) and then there’s a jeep and driver fee and then if you choose to have a guide, there’s an additional fee for your guide.

If you’re taking a shared safari, then the shared costs of the driver, jeep, and guide will reduce the cost per person.  If you’re taking a full day safari (which is really a morning and an afternoon safari, as you do not leave the park in between – you just hang around having a long lunch),  then it’s less than the cost of booking separate morning and afternoon safaris.

If you want to save money, join a group.  You can get 6 people in a jeep.  If you want a better experience, then take a private jeep safari tour of Yala.

Cost of a half-day Yala National Park Safari

If you decide to take a half-day safari of Yala, then the cost – including the jeep, driver, and National Park fees will be about US$50 per person.  You can opt for a morning safari tour, or an afternoon safari tour.

Morning tours are scheduled to go through the gates when they open.  Yala National Park gates open at 06:00.  This means that you’ll be sat in a line of jeeps well before that.  The plan is generally to get to the front of the line.  A morning tour will finish at around 10:00 which means you’ll be driving back to your accommodation by then.

Afternoon tours of Yala go through the gates at 14:00 and finish at 18:00. 

So you’ll be picked up at a time confirmed by your hotel or safari organizer to be sat at the gate for those opening times. 

Cost of a full-day Yala National Park Safari

A full-day safari of Yala National Park is what we opted for.  We’d have kicked ourselves if we’d only taken the morning safari and not seen leopards.  We saw our leopard in the late afternoon.  And as we planned to hang around until we saw one, we might have still been there now if we hadn’t taken the full-day tour.

We paid US$148 for a private full-day Yala National Park safari.  We paid cash, in Sri Lankan rupees. And yes we tipped our driver, Ranga, when we were done.  Sri Lanka and its people have had a really, really rough time over the past few years.  He was a great driver, he was a great guide, even though he didn’t have to be a guide to us and he prepared us a fabulous tiffin lunch too – Sri Lankan Food is truly fabulous.  He picked us up at 04:40 and dropped us off after 19:00.  And tomorrow he’ll do it all again.  So long as he can find a customer.

Costs will vary depending on exchange rates, how you pay, and if you decide to take a private or a shared tour.  There are a limited number of jeeps that are allowed into the park for each safari time.  And of course, we were traveling at a major holiday time, so I felt very lucky that we got our private jeep and such a great driver.

What to take on a Yala National Park Safari

On the basis that we took a full day safari into Yala, we’d prepared, It was chilly when we got picked up, and when the jeep is racing along in the dark the wind is quite cold.  It was hot during the day.  No matter how much you stay out of the sun, it’s relentless, so sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen were necessary.  Insects weren’t so much of a bother, although I did have mosquito spray with me.  We took water with us, but our driver had brought way more bottled water than we could have drunk during the day.

Check with your safari organizer about what they’ll be providing.  We were given a small breakfast before we left the resort, and coffee or tea, but our driver had also provided snack bars, fruit, and a fabulous lunch.  Honestly, the amount of food was way, way too much for the two of us, and it was really, really good.

Our Yala National Park Safari Experience

We had planned to visit Yala on our first trip to Sri Lanka, but we didn’t get there.  On that 28 day trip, it rained for the full 28 days and Yala was underwater then.  And so it was a long-term dream to finally get there.

Yala is the top place in the world to see leopards. This Sri Lankan National Park has the highest density of leopards in the world. There are varying counts of how many – from 40 to 120, but I guess the only relevant count to you is how many you see.

We took an all day private safari. (Probably the only place in the world we can afford that!) – left the hotel at 04:40 (yes, ouch) and didn’t get back until 19:00 for US$148 for both of us, in a safari jeep to ourselves, along with driver and guide, Ranga. This included breakfast, lunch, National Park entry fees, and all transport.

Suitably fortified by the coffee provided by the team at our hotel, and loaded with enough breakfast and lunch to feed an army we set off.

We drove fast through the dark of the morning (it was cold and windy), and then stopped at the visitor center for Ranga to sort out our entrance fees, Nigel walked off into the dark to find the toilets and we waited for the sign to be able to head to the entrance gates.

And so we joined the line to enter Yala National Park.  The gates open at 06:00 on the dot and there is something of a race as the jeeps and drivers aim to get to where the animals might be (it’s quite a distance), along the rutted, bumpy, dusty roads. 

Ranga takes it easy.  We have all day.  And to be fair some of those jeeps look particularly uncomfortable with the way that everyone is getting bounced around!

The landscape here is glorious too.  It’s very flat in this part of the park.  And the early morning light is glorious.  We see the first of many peacocks.  Which you know, I really wasn’t expecting.

And water buffalo.  Both domesticated and wild. There are spotted deer too.

And it’s not long before we find our first elephant.  There are mongooses.  Reptiles.  Crocodiles. And Ranga’s book of birds comes in handy.

Elephants, deer, water buffalo, macaques, birds of all types, and yes, leopards were spotted. 

Spending a full day in the park means that we get to have our lunch inside the park and don’t need to take the time to drive back out, and that means we actually get a LOT longer on Safari than the half-day folks.  It’s 12:30 before we’ve arrived at our lunchtime.

Ranga has brought a set of tiffin boxes and we stop at (what the map says is) the Yala Mobile Leopard Camp for lunch.  There’s little more than a space under the trees, some concrete walls to sit on.  Well, there are toilets, which are basic (and responsible for the only insect bites I get all day).  And we tuck in.  Lunch is fabulous.

And then we chatted with an extended Indian family who are here for the Christmas break and having a great time.  We avoid the monkeys desperately trying to out-maneuver us to get at the remnants of lunch.  And then after a break, we’re back in the jeep for the afternoon session of our Yala National Park Safari.

The afternoon is more of the same.  Although it’s much warmer now.  There’s an elephant that we find on a massive rock, more deer, lots of birds. 

And then we stop for what seems like an age as another driver says he’s spotted a leopard at a distance.  We have binoculars, but none of us are sure.  Even Ranga says “Maybe”.  Which is Sri Lankan for “not a chance”.

And so as we head towards the exit, we’re rapidly getting towards sunset.

We come across an elephant on one side of the dirt track that all the jeeps are driving on.  It clearly wants to be on the other side of the track, but no one is willing to let it pass.  I want it to ram the jeeps.  This feels wrong the way it doesn’t have right of way and they’re not willing to let it pass as visitors glamour for photos.

Eventually, it finds a gap and I feel dirty, soiled, and voyeuristic.  And sad.  Very sad.

So I’m not in the best frame of mind when a few minutes later we stop.  And there is it.  Our leopard for the day.  It’s about 300 meters away.  My phone is my camera.  But it’s a leopard.  In a tree.  At dusk.  A leopard in Yala National Park.

Had I been willing to lug a proper camera with me, then the photos would be better, but these photos are from my Google Pixel. Not bad for the leopard being nearly 300 meters away. In a tree. At dusk.

And as we drive, through the increasingly darkening night, I realize that I adore this country, the landscapes, its food, and its people.

Please do come to Sri Lanka. This country needs you, they are struggling for tourism business in the wake of the pandemic and the financial crises of recent years.

History of Yala National Park

Cipriano Sanchez, a Spanish mapmaker noted the area that is now Yala in 1560, stating that it looked abandoned.  Under British rule, the forest here was used for hunting, and Yala finally became a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and then became a Sri Lankan National Park in 1938.

Yala National Park and the 2004 Tsunami

Yala National Park was hit directly by the Indian Ocean Tsunami in 2004.  I remember the devastation of the 2004 Tsunami from disjointed TV pictures. From videos that don’t seem real, where the water seems to flood so slowly and unrealistically. I remember, that my concern was for the Chairman of our company at the time, who was on vacation in Thailand (he was fine). The reality of this disaster, I truly don’t believe hit me until I arrived in Sri Lanka.

There were perhaps 50,000 people who died in Sri Lanka. I say perhaps because numbers are uncertain, thousands are still missing, and bodies have never been found. That number pales into insignificance when you consider the more than 200,000 Indonesians who died on the same day.

250 people died here in Yala National Park, where the waves were reported to be more than 6 meters high (20 feet).

This disaster is real to me because I opened a book – Wave – as I arrived for the first time in Sri Lanka.  Sonya Deraniyagala – a Cambridge-educated native Sri Lankan, married to an Englishman, with two sons lost her husband, both sons, her parents, and, for a while, her mind. The family was spending the Christmas holidays in Yala. Sonya wrote of her experience, her despair, and her desire to die. The book is a brutal, but enthralling read and I do recommend it whether you come to Yala or not.

Weeks after reading her account, my throat still clenched, and my hand still automatically went to cover my mouth when I think of it.  Her voice still, now, bounces off the inside of my head. And even now, 9 years after first reading the book I still feel her despair in the bottom of my stomach as I gaze out at the flat ocean off the beach on the coast here in Yala.

If you’re looking for other Sri Lanka National Parks to visit, then head to Horton’s Plain National Park and hike to World’s End. I wrote about it here.

Transport & Popular Routes in Sri Lanka

• Here’s our guide to travel and transport in Sri Lanka
• Here’s how to buy train tickets in Sri Lanka – online, on the phone and in person
• Want to know what Sri Lankan buses are like? Here’s our guide.
• How to go from Colombo to Galle
• Going from Galle to Yala National Park
• How to go from Nuwara Eliya to Colombo
• How to go from Colombo to Kandy
• How to get from Ella to Nuwara Eliya
• How to go from Jaffna to Anuradhapura
• How to go from Colombo to Jaffna

FAQS about taking a Yala National Park Safari

We had so many questions about taking a safari to Yala.  This was, after all the second time we’d planned it.  Thankfully, this time it came off.  So here’s our consolidation of all those questions.

Do I need a guide on a Yala National Park Safari?

It depends on the experience that you want.  A driver will point out what you’re seeing, or what you’re missing if you don’t see it. If you want to know more about the animals and the environment, then a guide will be invaluable.

Can I drive myself into Yala National Park?

Yes.  If you have a 4×4 you can drive yourself into Yala National Park.  However, most foreign visitors will neither be driving nor have a 4×4, and the roads are rutted, often underwater and not on a map.  Do yourself a favor and take a driver and jeep into the park.

Which Entrance Should I use for Yala National Park?

To be fair you probably won’t know which entrance you go in to the park.  Plan your accommodation near Yala, then book your safari and they’ll take care of all of that.

What animals will I see on a Yala National Park Safari?

You’re most likely to see water buffalo, deer, and elephants in Yala.  Everyone wants to see leopards, and you may be lucky to see them.  There are 44 species of mammals here and 215 species of birdlife.  However, this is the wild.  They don’t come out on demand.

How long do you need in Yala National Park?

If you’re short on time a half-day safari is the shortest trip that you can take into Yala.  You can take a full-day safari too.  We planned to stick around until we saw a leopard.  We were lucky and saw a leopard – at a distance – at the end of our full day Yala Safari.

What are the opening times of Yala National Park?

Yala National Park opens from 06:00 to 18:00.  All jeeps are supposed to be out of the park by 18:00.  This time is slightly flexible.  We left the park exit very late (!), as our driver had spotted a leopard in a tree at a distance and we were waiting to see if it moved.  So too were other jeeps. 

Are there toilets in Yala National Park?

Yes, there are toilets in Yala National Park, but they are few and far between.  You’ll only really get to use them if you’re taking a full day Yala National Park Safari, and when you stop for lunch.  They were really basic, and I blame using them for the numerous bites I got “on my lower body” that day.

Final Words on Taking a Yala National Park Safari

This trip has been more than 8 years in the making and I’m so glad we got there this time. Coming to Yala is the primary reason we came back to Sri Lanka. Wait, no, maybe it was the food. Or the people. Well, let’s say it was a big part of the reason we returned to Sri Lanka and it was a great decision. Our private Yala National Park Safari was a fabulous, extremely long day, we saw so much wildlife and birdlife, and, yes we saw our leopard too.

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Sarah Carter

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Yala National

Park safari.

Park Safari 

Book your Safari Now

Yala National Park Safari

Yala National park safaris provide a unique opportunity to explore one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka with the help of dedicated, knowledgeable guides. The safari jeep can carry up to six people and is well suited to make forays across the natural pathways and clearings across the forest.

The open-air jeep provides both comfort and safety as it traverses across the grasslands where you can get an up-close look at the flora and fauna that make up the national park. You are free to customize your experience whether you would like to visit for 3 or 4 hours or even spend a half or full day. Furthermore, our knowledgeable staff will help you hone in on the wildlife you may be more interested in encountering, be it deer or the various birds across the park.

While we recommend that the tours are booked for early morning in order to give you an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the park, the afternoon will also provide you with ample opportunity to encounter a herd of elephants, deer, or even a leopard.

Yala National Park Safari Information

While we recommend that the tours are booked for early morning in order to give you an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the park, the afternoon will also provide you with ample opportunity to encounter a herd of elephants, deer or even a leopard.

4 Hour Safari

Three hours are just enough to see basic animals. But this is not an ideal safari to see more animals and observe

the park well. It’s better to choose a half-day or full-day safari. This is a tour of finding animals in a huge forest. Better to have more time 

★ This rate is for the jeep.

Half-day Safari

In a half-day safari in Yala, You will be able to cover a considerable area of the park and will be able to see many 

different kinds of wild animals. This safari takes around 6 hours. This is a good safari for photographers.

Full-day Safari

Full-day safari is the ideal safari for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and explorers. This safari starts early

in the morning and you can stay the whole day in the National Park. in this safari, you will be able to cover a considerable area of the National Park. We recommend this safari if you are a wildlife enthusiast.

Why Book With Lepo Safari?

Experienced safari jeep drivers.

We have friendly drivers with good experience 

We provide you good condition safari jeeps

Jeeps with front-facing seats for a better view

Free hotel pick-up and drop-off

If you are in a nearby hotel we provide this.

We focus on your needs

Our drivers will support to fulfill your needs in the safari

No hidden charges

We don’t charge any additional fee at the end of the tour.

One of the best experiences I've ever had in my life. Sri Lankan Leopard is the main attraction and we've seen several leopard cubs during our last visit. You must visit. You can have the best experience if you book a full-day safari. Our driver was excellent.

Maciej Diaries

A five-star review simply for being ethical and cruelty-free. However, the place in itself could use a few tweaks of improvement and more wildlife in a larger span of ground, also with more knowledgeable guides

Rubina Rajaratnam

Isn't a topical safari that you do in Africa but still pretty cool. We've seen some elephant plenty of buffalo and lizards some crocodiles and many different birds. Our tour guide as knowledge and attentive.

Slawek Cisowski

Reservation

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Book your Yala safari with us now. We give the best service to our level best for you. Fill out this form now and our members will contact you soon through WhatsApp or Email.

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No of Adults

Hotel (Where you stay)

Entrance fee for Yala National park

Sri Lanka National park entrance fees have been increased for local and foreign tourists from the 1st of September 2022 (Gazette Notification No. 2292/11 Aug 2022).

You have to buy tickets before you enter the national park from the entrance gate. These tickets are issued by Wildlife and conservation department. Sometimes the entrance ticket counter is busy. our drivers will support buying tickets.

All tickets will be added 15% VAT, Service charges, and Other taxes.

* If you stay overnight in the National park this price will be doubled.

Peak season 

Off peak Season

 Foreign Adult (12+)

 foreign child (6-12), saarc country adult (12+), saarc country child(6-12), local adults (12+), local child (6-12), our rates include, safari jeep with experienced driver, free hotel pickup and drop, bottle of water, our rates do not include, entrance fee.

Wildlife Adventures in Sri Lanka: How to Plan a Safari in Yala National Park For All Budgets (2024)

Yala National Park in southern Sri Lanka is an amazing place to go on safari and hopefully see leopards in the wild. I recently had the privilege of exploring the wonders of Yala, and I’m excited to share my experiences with you. If you think you have to choose between a high-end, expensive, luxury private safari, or a bare-bones backpackers hostel, we’ve got great news for you- there is a middle ground! We’ll help you sort out where to stay to visit Yala National Park so you can book the best Yala safari in Sri Lanka for your family- whether that’s a luxury resort or a rustic camp where you feel in tune with nature.

Arranging a jeep safari in Yala National Park can be confusing and overwhelming. In this blog post, we’ll help you plan your own unforgettable safari in Yala National Park. From spotting elusive leopards to encountering elephants in their natural habitat, we’ll dive into the magic of this Sri Lankan wilderness together. We’ll cover how to book a park safari experience, which block in the park to visit, where to stay close to Yala, the best time of year to go on Yala safari, how to get to Yala National Park, and tips for enjoying your park safari once you a there.

This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase.   As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. All our recommendations are our own and are in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative.

At the bottom of this post,  download a free guide: 6 Safety Tips for Traveling with Kids: What You Should Know Before You Travel

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Table of Contents

Where is Yala National Park

Yala National Park is located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka. Its vast expanse covers a significant portion of the country’s southeastern lowland dry zone, making it a haven for diverse wildlife and breathtaking natural beauty. Yala National Park is about a 5-hour drive from Colombo, so it’s best to incorporate your visit to Yala into a larger two-week itinerary in Sri Lanka .

Yala National Park is divided into 5 blocks. Most safari tours visit Block 1 where the largest population of leopards live. Animals are free to wander among the blocks, so there is no guarantee of sightings, and they may change their patterns due to weather, mating season, or even the migration patterns of deer.

Once a British royal hunting ground, Yala National Park was designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, and a national park in 1938.

Is Yala National Park Worth Visiting?

Yes, Yala National Park is worth visiting! It’s a family bucket list experience that you won’t forget! Yala National Park has the world’s largest population of wild leopards- so you have the best chance of seeing one of these majestic and elusive creatures!

There is no guarantee that you will see a leopard, but even if you don’t see one, you’ll have a fantastic park safari experience and see lots of other animals including elephants, sloth bears, water buffalo, peacocks, wild boars, and more!

What Animals Will I See in Yala National Park?

There are 44 different mammals in Yala National Park as well as over 200 species of birds. Many people come hoping to see a leopard or a sloth bear, but there are also elephants, jackals, water buffalo, deer, boar, monkeys, and crocodiles. No animal sightings are guaranteed, but most are fairly easy to spot with the exception of the sloth bear and the leopard.

Note: If you are interested in elephant welfare and conservation, we recommend a visit to this elephant sanctuary in Cambodia .

What Happens If We Spot a Leopard?

When a leopard is spotted, your guide will call in the sighting. All of the other vehicles in the area will rush to the site to try and also see the animal. This creates a traffic jam.

Vehicles in Yala do not go off-roading-they follow strict rules which prevent drivers from getting too close to animals or harassing animals. This means that when vehicles line up and crowd into one location, it can be hard for any one vehicle to move.

Secondly, your guide will record and report the sighting. Guides are able to identify most leopards on site by their coloring and spots and will be able to tell you about the animal. Every sighting is recorded so that animal movements can be tracked.

When we visited Yala, our vehicle was the first to see a leopard- near the end of the afternoon we started Amber, a 9-year-old female who was resting in the ditch at the side of the road. She quickly headed into the tall grasses, and we were then able to watch her from far away as she ate a small animal, possibly a rabbit.

When we were finished attempting to watch her- even with binoculars she was tough to see as she would dip her head down below the grass level, we were not able to move for a while as other safari jeeps had blocked us in.

To learn more about the leopards in Yala, or to see photos and details about whichever individual you spotted, check the Yala Leopard Diary . They have updated information about the migratory patterns of each animal as well as a family tree, and lots of wonderful photos.

How to Book a Safari at Yala National Park

There are two ways to book a safari in Yala National Park- as part of a complete package, or by booking lodging close to the park and then arranging the safari separately. Often, even though the safari is not included in your room rate, your accommodations will be happy to help you arrange as many safaris as you like. There are both group safari tours and private safari tours available.

If you are staying in Tissamaharama there will be opportunities to book guides from town. We highly recommend booking ahead so you can arrange for both a driver and a guide for your safari.

A driver will simply drive, and while he will do his best to show you animals he usually doesn’t offer much guidance in terms of animal behavior. We found that our guide and driver worked well together, discussing routes and looking for animal tracks. You want to reputable guide who has years of experience with tracking- they should be able to hear animal alarms indicating the presence of predators and track animals using prints and scat.

Where to Stay Near Yala National Park

There are budget hostels, luxury camps, and a few mid-range camps to stay in near Yala National Park. When we started researching options, I was frustrated to keep seeing the same few luxury or high-ed jungle camps coming up in blog posts over and over- they just weren’t in our budget.

We’ve included some of these luxury camps below- if you have the budget, these camps will pamper you and make sure you have a vacation to remember. However, if these are not in your budget, we’ve rounded up other options so you can still see all the epic wildlife that Yala National Park has to offer.

Try to book lodging as much in advance as possible – many of these properties only have a handful of tents, cabins, or chalets, so they book up quickly.

Staying Inside Yala National Park

There are government-run bungalows available inside Yala National Park . I’ve seen several comments that they are not “up to standard”, but haven’t spoken with anyone who has tried using them. You can stay in these bungalows for up to 3 consecutive nights. You can see the facilities here , and reserve them online . Details are scarce- if you’ve tried one of these please let us know how they were!

Luxury Jungle Camps near Yala National Park

These luxury camps offer every amenity- and charge over 1K USD per night. If you are looking for an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime, five-star experience, these lodges are fantastic. These jungle camps are in the buffer zone around Yala National Park.

Uga Chena Huts

This is a five-star all-inclusive resort that has luxury cabins that are air-conditioned with private plunge pools. They describe the resort as “colonial expedition chic with contemporary design innovations”. Safaris and meals are included with the lodging. This place is absolutely stunning, and only a few minutes drive from Yala National Park.

“The location is amazing, no fences or electric to keep out wildlife so it’s wild and beautiful. You can walk to the beach and to a nearby waterhole from your accom (not after dark!) You do need to be careful but that’s half the attraction. Two daily (optional) safaris were included with our stay which were brilliant, we saw so much amazing wildlife both on these.” -Jenny (Read More Reviews )

Book Now: Uga Chena Huts

Wild Coast Lodge

This five-star all-inclusive jungle resort is built in the shape of a leopard’s paw, with open-air central buildings made from bamboo and other natural materials. Guests stay in luxury air-conditioned cocoons made with double-height, stretched fabric roofs looking over the Indian Ocean. They also have a family cocoon suite that has two attached pods for parents and kids to experience together, while still having some privacy. Meals and game drives are included.

“I turned around to see a giant elephant on its way to my watering hole…they said it could happen…but I really thought the reality was slim to none…boy was I surprised! Besides all that, all the food and drinks were delicious! And, it cannot be omitted…the coastline! WOW!” -JennIE (read More reviews )

Book Now: Wild Coast Lodge

Mid-range camps near yala national park.

These unicorns are in the buffer area of Yala National Park- so you’ll need to get a driver to take you there, but are much closer to the gate of the park, so you’ll have less of a drive early in the morning. Some of these camps also offer an additional bush walk to introduce you to the wildlife in the area around the camp.

Cinnamon Wild Yala

This eco-friendly resort is high-end and clearly has hosted a lot of bloggers because it comes up often. This resort is in a bit of its own category- it’s more expensive than most of our mid-range options- with rooms in the range of $300-400 USD per night. As a five-star property, it’s a bargain compared to the all-inclusive luxury options, but significantly more expensive than most of the mid-range. If you’re debating about splashing out on your stay near Yala, this could be just what you are looking for.

This camp is located very close to Wild Coast Lodge but for 10% of the price tag. Chalets here are air-conditioned with private balconies. Chalets each have one double bed, so they don’t have a great setup for larger families, though they do offer connecting rooms. The complex has a large pool and a rooftop terrace for guests to enjoy.

“The property is absolutely fabulous, the location is incredible. if your going there for animals this is the place to stay. In the resort we saw crocodiles and water buffalo down at the lake and lots of beautiful birds. An elephant went through the resort and was down at the lake twice.” -Emma (read more reviews)

Book Now: Cinnamon Wild Yala

Wild Trails Yala by Suri

Wild Trails Yala is where we stayed, and absolutely loved it. We stayed in a tent with one double bed and two beds, air conditioning, and our own bathroom. The “tents” at Wild Trails Yala are made of lovely hardwoods, with our own front deck. Once we arrived we went on an afternoon bush walk, then hung out by a watering hole in the later afternoon until dinner was served by candlelight. There is no pool or fancy amenities, here, it really is glamping.

In the morning, we woke in the dark, had a cup of tea and biscuits, and headed out on our full-day safari. By the time we arrived back at camp, it was after dark. We had arranged for a driver to take us to Hiriketiya Beach that evening. Looking back, we would have enjoyed relaxing at camp for a second night and not rushing out so fast.

The camp here is small and simple, but lovely, and with every convenience. They made arranging our safari easy, and the guide they provided was friendly and knowledgeable. He taught our girls a bit about tracking and answered all their questions about wildlife in Sri Lanka. He even pointed out where once there may have been treasure buried inside a rock!

“The tent was amazing; extremely comfortable and spacious with towels, water, AC and a fan as well as shampoo and shower gel as standard. Goshi arranged a fabulous guide to accompany us on our 2 safaris (small extra charge and well worth doing as it added a lot to the experience). The park entrance is 15 min drive from Wild Trails Yala by Suri.” -Elizabeth (Read more reviews )

Book Now: Wild Trails Yala by Suri

Jetwing Yala

This resort is a massive 38-acre complex , complete with a spa, a large outdoor swimming pool, and TVs in each room. This is not a camp, but a large, luxury hotel close to Yala National Park.

“Great location just outside the national park and on the beach. It’s a lovely property with an exceptional pool. The staff were extremely friendly and helpful and there was an excellent choice of food and drink. We had lovely massages in the spa.” -Julia (read more reviews )

Book Now: Jetwing Yala

Camp Leopard

This glamping resort is located near the town of Katagamuwa and uses the northern entrance into Yala National Park than the south entrance used by those lodgings closer to the coast. Visitors report that the ride into camp is a bit bumpy due to its remote location, but that using a different entrance means a quieter safari experience, and that the guides here are experienced and top-notch.

Tents here are canvas and have a more rustic feel, though they are air-conditioned. Hammocks are available in the shared lounge area. They have an onsite restaurant, and can also arrange a bbq by the lake.

“The staff at Camp Leopard are phenomenal. Very accommodating, knowledgeable, and friendly. They immediately treated us like friends and taught us about the animals, food, and culture.” -Brian (read more reviews )

Book Now: Camp Leopard

Budget Lodging near Yala National Park

The nearest town to Yala National Park is Tissamaharama. This is where you’ll find most of the budget hotels and hostels. From this town, you have about a 45-minute drive to the main gate of Yala National Park. The farther away you stay from the park, the earlier you’ll have to get up in the morning to be at the gate (and in line with the other cars) before the 6 am opening. These hotels generally charge well under $100 per night.

There are many more options in Tissamaharama, here are some of the hotels with the highest guest ratings, many of these offer family rooms with multiple beds:

– Moon Light Guest House : With a 9.9/10 rating, travelers report spacious rooms, a shared garden, and staff who cook a delicious curry!

– Village Mango Resort Yala : Looking out over rice fields, these comfortable rooms are run by a lovely family who takes special care of their guests. There are hammocks and bicycles for guests to use.

– Lavender Home Yala : Run by a lovely family, you’ll find comfortable family rooms with air conditioning, some with balconies on the upper story.

Safari Options at Yala National Park

When going on a Yala National Park safari you have the option of a half-day morning safari, a half-day afternoon safari, or a full-day safari.

Half-Day Morning Safari

Mornings are the best time to see animals. You’ll line up with a lot of other vehicles outside the main gate of Yala National Park as the sun comes up, once the gates open, you’ll want to be one of the first cars in, as the vehicles often scare off any animals that are nearby.

Expect a 4:30 departure if you are leaving from Tissamaharama and a 5 or 5:15 departure from one of the border area camps.

If you choose the morning half-day option, you’ll have about three hours of safari time, then head back to your accommodation by 10 am.

Half-Day Afternoon Safari

The afternoon safaris depart from your lodging for a 2 pm entrance to Yala National Park. You’ll have about three hours of safari time, focusing on the later afternoon hours when the sun is not so hot. All vehicles must exit the park before sunset.

Full Day Safari

A full-day safari is from 6 am when the park opens, until about 6 pm. We watched the sunset on the way back to our camp. This is a long day, but it gives you the best chance of spotting animals, without a lot of back-and-forth driving.

You will need a packed breakfast and lunch to eat in the park. Also, the park closes down from 12-2, and all the full day safaris stop for a long lunch break in designated areas. The park is really strict about this, as it gives the drivers and the animals a much-needed break. You’ll see the safari jeeps line up a few minutes before 2 waiting to leave the designated area, but they take this break very seriously.

With four of us in the back of the safari jeep with four bucket seats and a rear bench seat, we had plenty of room to move around and switch seats in and out of the sun over the course of the day.

We spent our lunch break at a stop with a bathroom right by the river. Our guides put down a blanket and set out lunch, then we were free to play in the river until it was time to go. There are a lot of monkeys here so the guides were focused on keeping them away from our food, and then ate once we had finished.

After lunch we drove around a bit, it did start to feel like we were going back over areas we had already visited. At 2 pm it is still hot, so there are not a lot of animals around. One of the kids fell asleep at this time, and we let her rest, figuring we could wake her for any big sightings. By late afternoon there is again more to see, and then as you head back to the gate for your evening exit.

How Much Does Yala National Park Cost?

The entrance fees to Yala National Park are charged by the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC)   depending on the number of foreigners in a jeep. Children below 6 are free of charge. Children 6-12 pay a child rate, anyone over 12 is considered an adult.

As of 2023, two adults in a jeep will pay a total of 71 USD in park fees. 2 adults and 2 children will be 106 USD. Generally, these fees are included when you book a vehicle with a driver and a guide.

Prices vary, and make sure to negotiate with your provider, but in 2023 we were quoted $150 for a half-day safari (private jeep, 2 adults 2 kids), and originally quoted $300 USD for a full-day, but were able to pay $175 USD. This included a packed breakfast and picnic lunch during our safari day, as well as an afternoon bush walk the day before our actual in-park safari.

How Much Should I Tip for a Safari in Yala National Park?

Deciding when and how much to tip is always a bit stressful, and depending on where you are coming from you may have different cultural associations or expectations around tipping. To clarify, we reached out to our host at Wild Trails Yala to learn about expectations around tipping your guide and your driver after a safari in Yala.

She advises planning to tip around $10 USD per vehicle to the guide for a half-day safari, and around $20 USD for a full-day safari. It is also recommended to tip the driver as well, though generally slightly less than the guide. Adjust as you feel comfortable based on your experience. This is not per guest but per safari vehicle in total.

Yala National Park Hours

Yala National Park opens at 6 am and closes at 6 pm. There is a mandatory lunch break from 12-2 for all vehicles that are staying for the full day.

Some years, the entire park closes for the month of September. However, in 2023, the park will not be closing unless a drought hits.

When is the Best Time to Visit Yala National Park

Yala can be visited year-round, but your chances of seeing different animals will vary by time of year.

February – July is the best time for spotting leopards. This is the dry season, so while the scenery is not as lush, the animals come out into the open to visit watering holes. We visited Yala in February and had great weather for animal spotting.

In August, the Palu trees bear fruit making it much easier to spot sloth bears who love to eat this fruit.

November to January and April are the rainy months when you are less like to see animals. Keep in mind that leopards, like other cats, do not like the rain, and will retreat into caves, so you are much less like to see one on a rainy day.

Often, Block 1 of Yala closes in September to give the park time to recover from the crowds. During this time, Block 5 is available for an alternate safari.

Which Block Should I Visit in Yala National Park?

There are five blocks in Yala National Park, but most are not open to the public. They are protected land, accessible only to those doing research, filming documentaries, or similar programs that get explicit approval.

This is the block that most tourists visit. The animals that spend time here are used to vehicles going through and are unfazed by the traffic, and therefore easier to spot. The traffic here can be intense, with lines at the gate before sunrise.

Block 1 is the most popular block because this is where the highest numbers of leopards live. We toured Block 1, and while the actual area is small, we did see almost all of the animals we were hoping for, with the exception of the sloth bear.

Block 5 is usually booked for safaris during October and November when Block 1 is closed due to drought and for restoration. There is less visible wildlife here, and much less traffic. The animals are shyer, and the terrain is drier. This is a great block for bird watchers, but not for seeing the larger animals. Some tourists report being very disappointed by tours of Block 5.

Blocks 2, 3, and 4

The other blocks are generally not open to the public, although some specialized tours may enter Block 3 specifically looking to see sloth bears.

How to Get to Yala National Park

While there are buses and trains that run through various parts of Sri Lanka, Yala National Park is not on any major bus routes. You can take a bus from the south coast beach towns to Tissamaharama, but if you are staying at lodging in the buffer area of the park you will need private transportation to get there from the center of town.

From Galle, take the bus marked Kataragama, Tissamaharama is just one stop before the final stop at Kataragama.

The easiest way to get to Yala is to hire a private driver for the journey which will drop you directly at your lodging which may be quite a distance from the town center.

Alternate National Parks in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has a massive amount of protected lands over 13% of the country is a national park, reserve, sanctuary, or similar protected space. In fact, Sri Lanka has 21 National Parks! If you can’t fit Yala National Park into your Sri Lanka itinerary, there are other parks that you should consider to see wildlife in Sri Lanka.

Wilpattu National Park : Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest preserve, with a dense forest cover. Close to the historical city of Anuradhapura.  Here you will look for elephants, leopards, and sloth bears.

Udawalawe National Park : This is one of the best parks to see herds of elephants. Drier than Yala, it is located more inland. Located south of Ella and northwest of Yala.

Bundala National Park : This is the most impressive park in Sri Lanka for bird watching. Located just down the coast from Yala, the wetlands here attract migratory birds, and the park boasts over 200 species.

Wasgamuwa National Park – This park in central Sri Lanka, just south of Sirigiya, has the largest population of sloth bears in Sri Lanka. You will also see elephants, deer, and crocodiles.

Tips for Enjoying Your Safari In Yala National Park

Here are some tips to help you be prepared and enjoy your safari in Yala National Park.

1. Keep Your Expectations Low. This is especially important with kids! You may see a wild leopard right away, and follow them for an hour, or you might not see one at all. You may be called to a sighting to find 30 other vehicles waiting in line to see the same animal that is now deep in the grass. You will see wild animals, but it’s best to keep your expectations low prior to your trip.

2. Bathrooms are hard to come by in Yala National Park. Your guide may be able to find a spot for you to squat in the bush, but the only official bathroom is at one of the lunch break locations, so be prepared for that reality.

3. The best time to see animals is in the early morning, so you’ll start before dark, and be lined up (with a lot of other vehicles) at the entrance to the park before dawn. Later afternoon, starting around 4 pm is the next best time to see animals.

4. The afternoons get quite hot, and the animals take cover. If you opt for a full-day safari, keep in mind that the afternoon will be slow. One of our kids fell asleep in the car during this time, and we let her sleep. To some extent, it felt like we were driving around just wasting the hours waiting for the cooler times when the animals might emerge.

5. Bring water and a packed lunch. Your lodging can probably help with this, but there is nowhere to buy water or food inside the park, so come prepared.

6. Bring sun lotion, bug spray, and a sweater for the cool morning before the comes up. Remember to bring extra battery packs or chargers for your camera or phone!

7. Communicate with your guide. If you’d like to stop and take a picture, let them know. If you are ready to move on, speak up! They want you to have a good time but don’t always know whether you want to stop to see the fourth peacock of the day and take photos, or just keep moving.

FAQ: Safari in Yala National Park

The more hours you spend in the park, the more likely you are to see a leopard or other hard-to-spot animal. We recommend either one full day or two half days to maximize your chances of seeing these elusive animals.

There are over 100 leopards in Yala National Park, with many of them roaming through Block 1. Your guide will be able to identify and report any leopard that you view on your safari.

Yala National Park is huge- it covers 979 square kilometers or 378 square miles. That’s nearly 130,000 hectares of land. It is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka, behind Wilpattu National Park.

Yes, you can stay inside Yala National Park, though most people stay outside the park in private lodges in the buffer area around the park. The bungalows inside the park are managed by the Sri Lankan government and have few amenities. You can see the facilities here , and reserve them online .

There are many animals and birds in Yala National Park including leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, peacocks, boars, deer, jackals are more. Birds include various storks, pelicans, and herons.

Leopards are wild animals, so they can be dangerous. Most leopards in Yala National Park as used to seeing safari vehicles all the time, and pay them no mind. However, never exit a safari vehicle unless your guide tells you that it is safe to do so. Leopards can become especially dangerous if hurt, or if their cubs are threatened. Here’s a fun article on how to survive a leopard attack .

Beginning in 2022, vehicles could no longer enter Yala National Park without a licensed guide. Currently, private vehicles cannot enter, you must be a registered tour vehicle.

You need a licensed vehicle and driver to visit Yala National Park. We strongly advise also hiring a guide who will help you track and spot animals, as well as give you guidance on their behavior.

There are supposedly a few buses that run from Ella to Yala National Park but they are not straightforward. We recommend booking a private transfer. You can ask for quotes from your hotel in Ellas as well as your camp near Yala to compare rates. We found that while everything is negotiable, most places offer fair rates based on the cost of fuel at the time. The drive time between Ella and Yala is about two hours.

Colombo is about a five-hour drive from Yala National Park. You can hire a driver to take you between the two cities, but you are better off enjoying other locations in Sri Lanka on your way to and from Yala. The southern beaches are only about a 1-2 hour drive from Yala.

There You Have It: Safari in Yala National Park

A safari in Yala National Park is a wonderful experience with wildlife you aren’t likely to see elsewhere! We’ve covered all the options from luxury to budget- whether you want to be pampered, or commune with nature. You’ve got everything you need to know to book your safari, from what to expect, and to what to bring with you to have an amazing safari. Make sure to add a safari in Yala National Park to your Sri Lanka itinerary, finger’s crossed you’ll see a leopard!

Continuing on to India? Don’t miss our guide to the Taj Mahal !

Cynthia Matthews von Berg is the founder of Sharing the Wander. She is a passionate traveler, mom, and travel coach specializing in long-term travel and family travel. She and her family embarked on a Family Gap Year in 2021, and haven't looked back.

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Safari at Yala National Park: 7 Things You Should Know (2024)

If you’re planning on going on a safari at Yala National Park, you have come to the right place! This guide includes everything you need to know.

Yala National Park is about 250 km (155 mi) from Colombo , the capital of Sri Lanka, and going on a safari here is a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime experience. This is Sri Lanka’s second-largest national park and it’s the country’s most popular one.

This park is famous for being a place where you might spot leopards as there’s a dense population of these animals here! There are many other animals at Yala too, though. Elephants , water buffalos and crocodiles , for example, are easier to spot.

But let’s dive into it, if you would like to include a visit to Yala National Park in your Sri Lankan itinerary , this guide will come in handy. It includes which safari to choose, the best time to visit Yala, where to stay and more useful information.

What You Should Know Before Going on a Safari at Yala National Park

1. Tissa is the nearest town

Tissamaharama , or Tissa in short, is the nearest town to Yala National Park. This town is a 30 km (18.6 mi) ride from the entrance and this is the place to head if you want to do a safari in Yala. This city is easily accessible by local bus or by private car and you will find plenty of hotels here.

It’s good to know that it’s also possible to stay inside the national park (although this is a little more costly), but you will read more on the topic later.

Alternatively, you can also go on a safari from the town of Ella , which is 70 km (44 mi) from Yala National Park. If you would like to go on a morning safari, it’s better to stay in Tissa, however.

2. The best time to visit Yala is between February and June

The dry season (February to June) is the best time to visit Yala National Park . At this time of the year, the animals come out to drink, so you will have a greater chance of spotting them.

It’s possible to visit Yala during the rest of the year too, and there will be fewer crowds (or jeeps) then. It will be more difficult to spot animals too, though, but it’s not impossible.

The park is closed from September to mid-October , so don’t come here at this time of the year.

3. There’s no guarantee that you will spot any animals (but you probably will)

Although there are 44 varieties of mammals, 215 bird species and 46 species of reptiles in Yala, wildlife is unpredictable, so keep in mind that there’s no guarantee of spotting anything.

This being said, it’s not too difficult to spot elephants , deer , water buffalos , peacocks , monkeys , wild boars , monitor lizards , crocodiles and many types of birds . If you’re lucky, you might also spot sloth bears and jackals , and if you’re really lucky, you might spot a leopard (you will read more about these animals in my next point).

During my visit to Yala, we spotted all of the animals mentioned above except for sloth bears, jackals and leopards.

Tip: If you would like to see sloth bears, Wilpattu National Park is the best place to do so.

4. There’s a chance that you will see a leopard

You might spot a leopard if you’re really lucky! It’s said that Yala is one of the best places in the world to spot these animals . There’s one leopard per square kilometre in Yala, which makes it the national park with the highest density of leopards in the world.

Leopards are very hard to spot, though. These animals often hang out in dense bushes or on trees and they mostly roam around during nighttime. So consider yourself very lucky if you do spot one.

I didn’t spot any leopards myself when I was in Yala (or during any other safari I did), but you might have better luck! After all, if there’s one place in Sri Lanka where you might spot these animals, it’s Yala National Park.

5. It can be pretty crowded

Yala is Sri Lanka’s most popular national park and, unfortunately, this means that it will be pretty crowded if you’re visiting during high season (February to June).

When I visited Yala in March, there were many jeeps driving around. On a few occasions, many of these gathered in one location to spot an animal (see picture below). This is the one thing I didn’t like during my visit to Yala, but overall, I had a great experience.

Tip: If you would like to visit a national park that’s more off-the-beaten-path and where you can spot bathing elephants, I recommend heading to Gal Oya . This park is located on the East coast of Sri Lanka and it’s one of my favourite places in the country.

6. You can go on a morning, afternoon or full-day safari

Yala National Park is open every day from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and jeeps enter the park twice a day – at 6 in the morning and at 2 in the afternoon.

According to the rangers, both times are good. Animals don’t like the heat, so you won’t spot many in the middle of the day. The early morning and late afternoon, however, are good times to spot wildlife.

Some people say that morning safaris are better, though, as the animals haven’t been disrupted by jeeps yet.

I went on a morning safari myself, which lasted for about 4 hours (3 hours inside the park). We left at 4:30 am to enter the park at 6 am and saw many animals in the first 2 hours. However, once it started getting warmer, there weren’t many animals around anymore.

Although a full-day safari may sound tempting, I wouldn’t recommend doing this as driving around the national park for an entire day is pretty intense. During a full-day safari, you will also be inside the park at the hottest time of the day. It gets pretty hot in Sri Lanka and you most likely won’t spot any animals around this time.

7. The cost depends on the company and tour

The price of a jeep safari at Yala National Park depends on the company you book it with. Prices also differ depending on the duration of the tour and the number of people who will join the safari.

You can expect to pay anything between $30 and $50 for a half-day safari and between $70 and $100 for a full-day safari . Tours can either be booked at your accommodation, through an agency or online.

You will find some affordable examples of tours that you can book online below:

• Half-day morning safari (private) with GetYourGuide
• Full-day safari with Viator

Note that you will also have to pay an entrance fee of USD 28 for foreign adults and USD 8 for foreign children in order to enter the national park. Most companies don’t include this in the price. So make sure to check with them so that you won’t have any unpleasant surprises.

Where to Stay in Yala

Tissa is the closest town to Yala (about 30 km or 18.6 mi from the entrance of the park) and you will find plenty of hotels and guesthouses here for any budget. It’s also possible to stay inside the national park, but you can expect to pay more here, although there are also some camping sites.

Here are my top recommendations for stays in Tissa and Yala:

• Hotel River Front (⭐ 9.6): Located in Tissa, Hotel River Front has beautiful rooms, a nice garden and an outdoor pool. This is a great place to stay and the best part is that it’s pretty affordable as well.
• Yakaduru (⭐ 9.3): This hotel is just a 5-minute drive from the entrance of Yala National Park. It’s set in a beautiful location and has an outdoor swimming pool too.
• Leopard Trails (⭐ 9.0): If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Yala, Leopard Trails is the one for you. The place is set in a beautiful location in the middle of nature and it offers luxurious, air-conditioned tents with all the amenities you will need.

Safari at Yala National Park: Final Thoughts

That was it! I hope that you have found exactly what you were looking for in this guide and that it will help you plan your visit to Yala National Park.

Going on a safari in Sri Lanka is an amazing experience and one that you will remember for a lifetime. There are plenty of animals that you can spot here and if you’re really lucky, you might even spot a leopard.

All in all, I had an amazing time during my morning safari at Yala National Park. We spotted elephants, water buffalos, crocodiles, deer, wild boars, peacocks, a monitor lizard and many birds, and our ranger did his best to offer us the best possible experience.

Check out my post with more bucket list ideas in Sri Lanka if you’re planning on traveling here!

Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or if anything is missing from this guide, as I’m updating it frequently.

Read more about Sri Lanka:

• Famous Landmarks in Sri Lanka
• The Ultimate 10-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary
• Places to Visit on the East Coast of Sri Lanka
• 14 Best Things to Do in Mirissa
• 15 Best Things to Do In Ella
• 16 Epic Things to Do in Sigiriya
• 16 Best Things to Do in Galle Fort
• 12 Best Things to Do in Arugam Bay

Sri Lanka Travel Planning Guide

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Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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The Ultimate Guide to Safari in Yala National Park

If you’re planning a safari to Yala National Park, you’re in for a treat! This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your trip. From the best time to visit to the must-see attractions, we’ve got you covered. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of Sri Lanka’s most stunning national parks.

Introduction to Yala National Park. Yala National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, it is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park covers an area of over 900 square kilometers and is known for its stunning landscapes, including dense forests, grasslands, and pristine beaches. Yala is particularly famous for its population of leopards, making it one of the best places in the world to spot these elusive creatures. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, Yala National Park is a must-visit destination.

Best time to visit Yala National Park. The best time to visit Yala National Park is during the dry season, which runs from February to July. During this time, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife. Additionally, the water sources within the park dry up, forcing animals to gather around the remaining waterholes, increasing your chances of seeing a variety of species. It is important to note that Yala National Park is closed for a period of time during September and October for maintenance, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.

How to get to Yala National Park. There are several ways to get to Yala National Park, depending on your starting point. If you are coming from Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, the most convenient option is to take a domestic flight to Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, which is located near the park. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a transfer to Yala National Park.

If you prefer to travel by road, you can take a bus or hire a private car from Colombo to Tissamaharama, which is the nearest town to the park. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours, depending on the traffic. From Tissamaharama, you can hire a jeep or join a safari tour to explore Yala National Park.

Another option is to take a train from Colombo to Matara, which is a town located about 2 hours away from the park. From Matara, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Tissamaharama.

It is important to note that the roads leading to Yala National Park can be bumpy and rough, especially during the rainy season. It is recommended to hire a 4×4 vehicle or join a safari tour with experienced drivers who are familiar with the terrain.

Overall, planning your transportation to Yala National Park in advance will ensure a smooth and enjoyable safari experience.

Accommodation options near Yala National Park. There are several accommodation options near Yala National Park to suit different budgets and preferences.

1. Luxury Resorts: If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, there are several high-end resorts located near the park. These resorts offer spacious rooms, world-class amenities, and stunning views of the surrounding nature.

2. Eco Lodges: For those who prefer a more eco-friendly and sustainable accommodation option, there are eco lodges available near Yala National Park. These lodges are designed to minimize their impact on the environment while providing comfortable and unique experiences for guests.

3. Safari Camps: To truly immerse yourself in the safari experience, you can choose to stay at one of the safari camps near the park. These camps offer tented accommodations with basic amenities, allowing you to be closer to nature and wildlife.

4. Guesthouses and Homestays: If you’re on a budget or prefer a more local experience, there are guesthouses and homestays available in the nearby towns. These options provide a comfortable stay with a more personal touch, allowing you to interact with the locals and learn about their culture.

It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best deals.

Safari options and booking tips. When planning a safari to Yala National Park, it’s important to consider the different safari options available and follow some booking tips to make the most of your experience.

1. Full-day Safari: Yala National Park offers both morning and afternoon safari drives. However, if you want to maximize your chances of spotting wildlife, consider booking a full-day safari. This will give you more time to explore the park and increase your chances of encountering elusive animals such as leopards.

2. Private Safari: If you prefer a more personalized experience, you can opt for a private safari. This allows you to have a dedicated guide and vehicle, giving you more flexibility in terms of itinerary and wildlife sightings.

3. Group Safari: Joining a group safari can be a more cost-effective option, especially for solo travelers or those on a budget. You will be sharing the vehicle with other safari-goers, but it can be a great opportunity to meet fellow wildlife enthusiasts.

4. Booking in Advance: Yala National Park is a popular destination, especially during peak seasons. It is advisable to book your safari in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Many tour operators and accommodations offer online booking options for convenience.

5. Experienced Guides: When booking your safari, ensure that the tour operator provides experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the park and its wildlife. A good guide can enhance your safari experience by providing interesting insights and helping you spot hidden wildlife.

6. Respect Wildlife and Environment: While on safari, it’s important to respect the wildlife and environment. Follow the park’s rules and regulations, maintain a safe distance from animals, and avoid littering or disturbing the natural habitat.

By considering these safari options and following the booking tips, you can have a memorable and enjoyable experience exploring the incredible wildlife of Yala National Park.

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The Best Guide to Visiting Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

World-renowned for leopard sightings, visiting Yala National Park is the best place in Sri Lanka to see a diverse number of species in their natural habitat. A Yala National Park safari is a must on anyone’s Sri Lanka bucket list . A Yala National Park Sri Lanka safari will have you spotting Asian elephants, spotted deer, crocodiles and bird species galore. 

To ensure you see as many animals as possible, give yourself time to take a morning and afternoon Yala safari in Sri Lanka. 

Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Yala National Park in Sri Lanka.

READ MORE |  This 3 weeks in Sri Lanka itinerary includes 2 safaris in Sri Lanka

* This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my  full disclosure  for further information.

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Yala National Park Safari Guide

About yala national park.

One of the most popular Sri Lanka national parks, Yala National Park at a size of 980 square kilometres is visited over 650,000 times a year. Yala consists of 5 different blocks, of which only block 4 is closed to the public to ensure the park animals and landscapes are protected from over-tourism.

The park runs from the inland jungle to the golden coastline of the Indian Ocean and features red earth, lakes and arid landscape vegetation. There are a total of 3 different entrances for visiting Yala National Park. 

Where is Yala National Park?

Yala Park is situated on the Southeast corner of the island of Sri Lanka and cradling the boundary of Uva and Southern Province. Yala national park is about a 4-hour bus ride from Ella or 6 hours from Galle Fort . 

Yala National Park Animals

Home to over 44 mammal and 215 bird species, you can expect to see large packs of Asian elephants (including babies!), sloth bears, spotted deer, peacocks, crocodiles and of course, the majestic Yala leopard. The wildlife in the park is plentiful.

The size of the park will affect how many animals you see on any given safari Yala. To ensure you see as much wildlife as possible, take a proper safari tour arranged by your Yala National Park hotel. 

NOTE | Yala National Park leopards are elusive creatures, so seeing one is not guaranteed. It’s common to see one every day for a month and then not see one for a week. I’d say you have about a 1 in 3 to 50/50 chance of spotting a leopard. 

Best Time to Visit Yala National Park, Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka has two distinct monsoon seasons, each striking the northeast and southwest coasts at opposite times of the year. The best time for visiting Yala National Park is during the driest months of May to August , but can be visited all year round due to the mild rainy season weather.

December and January are the busiest months in Yala National Park as international and domestic tourists alike flock to the park on various holidays. 

Weather in the southeast of Sri Lanka fluctuates only a couple of degrees (roughly between 29 and 31 celsius), so you can visit Yala National Park any month of the year. Bring a warm sweater with you for the early morning Yala safari jeep tour starts.

TIP | Be aware that in September and October, Yala Sri Lanka closes down for maintenance. 

Love food? Here is my guide to the Best Cafes in Southern Sri Lanka

How many days in Yala National Park? 

A one-night stay, arriving around lunchtime, should be the bare minimum you spend in Yala National Park. That allows time for an afternoon safari and then a morning safari the next day before heading off either west towards Mirissa, or North towards Ella. I

f you have time to spend 2 nights in the best national park in Sri Lanka that will ensure your visit is more successful.

How to Get to Yala National Park Sri Lanka

How to get from ella to yala national park.

Take the bus from Ella bus Station bound for Wellawaya, before changing to the bus bound for Tissa, about a 4-hour journey. If you’d like to quicken your pace by taking a taxi, it will cost you upwards of $30 USD.

How to get from Mirissa to Yala National Park

Take any bus from Mirissa heading to Matara. Alternatively, you can hire a tuk-tuk from Mirissa to take you the 25-minute journey. Once you’ve reached the Matara bus station, jump on the #32 ($0.50 USD) that will take you all the way to Tissa, one of the main hubs for accessing Yala National Park (a 3.5-hour drive).

If neither of those sound appealing, you can take this guided tour from Galle or Mirissa that will pick you up and drop you off from your hotel.

BOOK A TOUR | Yala National Park Safari from Galle or Mirissa

TIP | Make sure you have small denominations of Sri Lankan rupees available as the bus driver will not give you change until the end of your bus ride.

NOTE | Sri Lanka busses along the south coast are not air-conditioned, so you are in for a sweaty, yet authentic experience

Where to Stay near Yala National Park 

Sri Lanka Yala National Park has two main hubs for accommodation outside of the gates: Tissamaharama (Tissa) and Kataragama. These two towns are where the majority of visitors to Yala in Sri Lanka base themselves and most. of the Yala National Park hotels are located. If you want the ultimate safari experience and have the money to spend, book a stay inside the gates of the park at one of the luxury bungalow resorts. 

Where to Stay in Tissa + Karinda

Located close to the ocean at the southwest corner of Yala National Park, you will find the hub of Tissa and the adjacent village of Karinda. Here, there are plenty of safari camps to suit your budget, (ranging from $13 – 250 USD).

This is the main stop for most tourists along their Sri Lanka route with close proximity to block 1 and 2 along the coast. The main entrance is at Palatupana, a 21km drive from the centre of Tissamaharama, due east.

Here are a couple suggestions on where to stay in Tissamaharama or Karinda:

CINNAMON WILD YALA   | LUXURY

Located 5 minutes from the Palatupana entrance this luxury resort comes complete with individual chalets dotting the jungle right at the edge of the Indian Ocean. Spa, restaurant and daily excursions are all available on site.  

CHECK PRICES + AVAILABILITY

EKHO SAFARI TISSA | MID-RANGE

Located right on Tissa Lake, this beautiful hotel offers a pool with plenty of loungers, spacious bathrooms, and a buffet or a la carte breakfast.

HOTEL SENORA | BUDGET

Basic and clean rooms in the heart of Tissa.

 Looking for some Sri Lanka inspiration? Check out my Sri Lanka Bucket List

Where to Stay in Kataragama

A little less known than Tissa, Kataragama is located on the west side of the Yala National Park. Here you will find a smaller selection of safari camps to choose from, ranging from $12 – 170 USD, with access to the park through the Katagamuwa entrance, a 12km drive from the city centre of Kataragama.

Kataragama can also access the entrance gate at Galge, a 19km drive north of the town, with access to blocks 3 and 5. Animals in this area of the park are much warier than vehicles, making sightings here hit and miss, but still one of the best things to do in Yala.

TIP | This side of the park offers fewer elephant sightings but will give you a greater chance of seeing a leopard. I managed to see a mother and her two cubs at the end of my outing, which was a real shock, given that I hadn’t seen much wildlife other than a crocodile and some really cool birds. You will not always have my luck though, as leopards are an evasive mammal.

Here is a collection of accommodation options in Kataragama, Sri Lanka National Park Yala:

  BIG GAME – YALA  | LUXURY

A glamping accommodation just outside of Yala’s Katagamuwa Gate, Big Game Camp Yala offers enclosed tents with comfy beds, flush toilets and running hot water showers. A true Yala camping experience. They offer an evening bonfire experience with beverages and a 3-course meal.

TAMARIND LAK E HOTEL   | MID-RANGE

This midrange casual three-story hotel sits on a tree-lined property with a pool. Free parking is available on site.

SERENITY KATARAGAMA  | BUDGET

An economical motel-style accommodation in the heart of Kataragama that comes complete with refurbished air-conditioned rooms.

Yala National Park Safaris

There are two different times of day that Yala safari tours are allowed visiting Yala National Park, 6 am and 2 pm. Yala safari Sri Lanka tours usually last 3-4 hours and can access the park through one of the three park entrances: Palatupana (out of Tissa), Katagamuwa and Galge (out of Kataragama). Taking an organized safari tour can ensure you see as many animals in the park as possible. And having a park guide aboard your jeep to teach you about Sri Lanka national park animal life and habits is absolutely invaluable. The Yala National Park safari price depends on what inclusive safari tour you take (see below for options).

BOOK A SAFARI | Inclusive Yala National Park safari options

Looking for more to do in Sri Lanka? Peruse my guide on things to do in Weligama

Yala National Park Entrance Fee + Yala Safari Price

Yala National Park entrance fee is approximately 3,700 LKR , but this number can fluctuate based on what block you’d like to visit and if you are doing a half day or full day safari. 

An organized safari in Sri Lanka of Yala National Park arranged by your hotel can cost anywhere from 4,000 to 6,000 LKR, while larger outfits like Viator (great for solo travellers!) can charge from $40 – 75 USD depending on the length of your safari.

Driving with your Own Car in Yala National Park

Personal cars are allowed into Yala National Park, but only SUV-type vehicles that come equipped with 4 wheel drive. You will need to hire a tracker to be permitted into Yala, which can be done at the park gate and is a good idea for visiting any national parks in Sri Lanka.

Personal motorcycles or smaller cars are not able to enter the park due to safety issues (potholes and elephants!).

Yala National Park versus Udawalawe National Park

If you don’t have an abundance of time to spend adventuring in all of the national parks of Sri Lanka, it can be hard to choose which one to spend your valuable time in. 

It’s pretty simple, Yala National Park is known for leopard sightings, drier landscapes and Indian Ocean views, while Udawalawe is known for large herds of Asian elephants, is smaller and has a lusher landscape. You choose!

BOOK A TOUR | Visiting Udawalawe National park? Check out this guided tour

Don’t Visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Made popular by large travel influencers flocking to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to get a photo with elephants, it can be tempting to add this to your Sri Lanka bucket list . Just don’t. Since the media hype surrounding this place a few years back, the orphanage has started to withhold rereleasing elephants into the wild and keeping them on-site for the amusement of tourists instead. 

As a strong advocate for ethical animal treatment, I suggest you forgo the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and opt for a more authentic national park Sri Lanka experience where you can watch elephants in their natural habitat.

MORE ESSENTIAL GUIDES FOR SRI LANKA

Want to continue planning your trip to Sri Lanka?

Check out my  3 WEEK SRI LANKA ITINERARY  or if you prefer to determine the route yourself, read the specialized guides below for some of the best experiences in Sri Lanka:

SRI LANKA BUCKET LIST  | Get inspired by all that Sri Lanka has to offer. Here are my Sri Lanka highlights.

SRI LANKA TRAVEL TIPS  | Prepare for your Sri Lanka trip by reading my 21 top tips on what you should know before visiting the beautiful teardrop isle

KANDY   | Bustling market streets, quiet strolls around the lake, lush botanical gardens, and ornate Buddhist temples, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka has it all

ELLA   | Nestled in the green centre of Sri Lanka, this hiker’s paradise features trails with panoramic views of jagged green hills, deep valleys and rushing waterfalls.

WELIGAMA   | Where surf culture is alive and thriving, this central town is located on the golden south coast of Sri Lanka and offers the best surf beach for beginners, and an abundance of traditional and modern eateries.

MIRISSA   | A small surf town located 15 minutes away from Weligama, offers golden beaches, surfing, serene spas, and healthy food.

GALLE FORT  | Fortified stone walls, dutch and Portuguese style architecture, great food and shopping all culminate in this little town that was once a major Sri Lankan trading post.

SRI LANKA PACKING LIST  | Take the guesswork out of packing and easily check off my list to all things you will need for Sri Lanka’s warm climate

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Haley is the founder of the global travel blog, Haley Blackall Travel. She has travelled to 40+ countries across 5 continents over the last 15 years. She loves to share in-depth travel guides and recommendations to help travellers get the most out of their vacation time, including her favourite boutique hotels, things to do and travel itineraries.

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Sri Lanka travel guide

Ultimate Guide to Yala National Park

Best known for its variety of wild animals including gorgeous leopards , Yala is Sri Lanka’s most visited national park. Covering around 1,000 square kilometers, Yala is the second-largest national park in the country. Yala is quite famous as the best safari destination in Sri Lanka because it is home to the majestic Panthera pardus kotiya, the endemic leopard species. Most importantly, it boasts the highest density of leopards in the world. As such, Yala National Park attracts visitors from all corners of the world to watch these beautiful big cats.

Yala National Park was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1938. Not only for leopards, but also it is important for the conservation of Sri Lankan Elephants, Sloth bears, and many more species. Moreover, Yala harbors 215 bird species including six endemic species , and considers a perfect destination for bird watching . It’s not just only the wildlife you’ll see, the sceneries inside the park are pretty impressive too. You’ll find the natural scenic beauty inside the park is mind-blowing. Thus, a trip to Yala is a must-do activity in Sri Lanka for all wildlife and nature lovers.

How to reach Yala

Yala locates in the southeast region of the country and lies between the Southern and Uva Provinces in Hambantota city . The distance from the capital of Colombo is 260 km. If you use Mattala International Airport , it is quite easy to reach the park. There is only a 40 km distance from Mattala to Yala National Park.

The fastest way to reach Yala National Park from Colombo is by air . You can take a domestic flight to Mattala International Airport, which is a 45-minute flight, and then make the journey to Yala National Park.

If you intend to use public transportation from Colombo to Yala, it is quite disappointing for tourists. There aren’t any direct buses to reach Yala. You need to go to Colombo Fort central bus station and get a bus bound for Kataragama passing Tissamaharama. In the normal route, it will take around 7 to 8 hours to reach Yala. If you take a bus run in the southern expressway, it will take fewer hours than the normal route.

If you plan to take the train from Colombo, the southern coastal railway line runs only up to Beliatta. After that, there is more than 100 km to cover by other means of transport to reach Yala National Park. Thus, traveling to Yala by train isn’t a good option.

Using a private transfer or a taxi is the best way to reach Yala National Park conveniently. You can reach there within 5 hours from Colombo. Usually, the common travel plan of many tourists is to reach Tissamaharama on the first day and stay there overnight. Then you can visit Yala the next day with a fresh feeling.

Entrances of Yala

There are 3 entrances to the Yala National Park. They are located at Palatupana, Katagamuwa, and Galge. The Palatupana gate is the most popular entrance to Yala National Park. Entrance tickets can be purchased at any of these gates.

Remember that no public transport runs to either of these gates. Thus, you need to arrange private transport before visiting Yala National Park. Safari tours can be arranged through Yala official website , your hotel, or many private operators based in Tissamaharama.

The Galge entrance is located on the east side of Buttala – Kataragama Road, on the boundary of Blocks III and IV, 18km north of Kataragama. It services two separate gates on opposite sides of the main road. The eastern gate offers direct access to Block III and Block V. The western gate offers access to Lunugamwehera National Park.

Sections of Yala

Yala National Park consists of five blocks. Among them, only three sections, Block I, III, and Block V are open to the public.

Yala Block I

The main entrance to Block I is from Palatupana gate, which locates 15 km east of Tissamaharama. This entrance is the most popular one among safari-goers because Block I has the highest density of leopards in the world. According to the Yala leopard diary , over 100 leopards live in this area. Hence, there is a higher chance to observe leopards as well as other wildlife including many species of birds.

Moreover, you can enter Block I by the Katagamuwa entrance. This gate locates 30 km east of Tissamaharama. There are some advantages of entering Yala National Park through the Katagamuwa entrance. The Palatupana entrance is heavily crowded and there is a big traffic jam to enter the park.

On the other hand, Katagamuwa gate is less crowded and more convenient to access the park within a short time. Also, this area is outstanding for leopard sightings. You’ll reach the epic leopard-spotting areas without being in a race with other safari vehicles.

Yala Block II

Yala Block II is the zone between the Manik Ganga and the Kumbukkan Oya which is a designated strict nature reserve. It isn’t open for safari tours and access to this area is only through special permission.

Yala Block III

The main gate for Yala Block III locates in Galge, on Buttala-Kataragama road. This entrance isn’t crowded with safari jeeps and is less popular among visitors. But this area is quite beautiful and you can see a wide array of wild animals, including elephants, leopards, and bears, as well as lots of birds.

Yala Block IV

Block IV is in the Northern area and has a rainfall more than any of the other blocks of Yala. With a thick canopy and large trees, it is hard to see animals here. This Block is a strict nature reserve and it isn’t open to the public. Thus, no safari tours are available in this area yet.

Yala Block V

Block V adjoining Block III and Block IV locates in the Northern area of the park. The access to this area is through the Galge entrance. Since the Galge entrance locates just 18 km from Kataragama, it is easy to reach from there. With a lesser number of jeeps, you can always enjoy a private safari here.

According to the Yala leopard diary , there are around 25 leopards living in this area. Compared to Block I, leopard sightings are low due to the dryness in this area. But it has elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, and birds.

Climate of Yala

Yala National Park locates in a dry semi-arid region in Hambantota city . Despite its lush green appearance, the climate inside the park is quite hot. The temperature ranges from 26 to 30 °C. Thus, visitors need to take precautions to face the hot and humid climate. A hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and lots of water are the essential items to pack for your safari trip in Yala National Park.

The park is fed by Kumbukkan Oya from the eastern side and the Manik river and its tributaries from the west side. These streams flow across the park and provide important water sources in the dry season for wild animals. At the height of drought season, groundwater become rather scarce and it leads to close the park for several weeks.

Safari tours in Yala

There are three kinds of safari tours available in Yala National Park. They are morning, afternoon, or full-day safaris. Morning safaris consider great for bird viewings, while late afternoon ones are best for leopard and elephant sightings. To ensure you’ll see many varieties of wildlife, the best thing is to take a full-day safari in Sri Lanka. 

Best Time to visit Yala

The park receives most of its rain during the Northeast Monsoon that occurs around mid-October to late December. Moreover, there is inter-monsoons occur in April. The  best time for visiting Yala National Park is during the dry months from May to September. But it can be visited all year round due to the mild rainy season. The park becomes most beautiful in January to March and May to June due to the lush greenery after the rains.

The dry season starts in August and animals have to congregate in water holes. They often come to open plains and lagoons in search of water. As well, this is the time Palu trees ( Manilkara hexandra ) bear fruits. Sloth bears love to eat Palu fruits and often come out for feasting on these delicious fruits. Thus, it leads to an increase in sloth bear sightings and gives a wonderful chance to witness them.

After August, the drought season continues until October. Due to the extreme heat and scarcity of water, Yala Block I is closed from September 1 st until October 15 th . Other sectors of Yala such as Block V and adjacent Lunugamwehera and Bundala National Parks can be visited year-round.

Camping in Yala

Camping in Yala National Park is one of the best ways to enjoy nature itself. There are 7 government-run wildlife circuit bungalows inside the park. They call as Warahena, Mahasilawa, Ondaadtje, Heenwewa, Thalgasmankada, Old Buthawa, and New Buthawa bungalows. You can reserve them through the Sri Lanka Wildlife website. But you need to remember that the amenities in these bungalows are quite basic.

There are lots of privately-run camping spots around the Yala National Park. You can find fixed safari campsites and mobile tents which give you comfortable facilities with a boutique feel. Since these camping spots have all the modern amenities for tourists, it is better to reserve one of them to enjoy your stay in Yala National Park.

Although they aren’t located inside the park, these camps are quite close to wildlife habitats. Mahoora , Back of Beyond , Big Game , and Yala Leopard Mobile Camp are among the best camping spots with premium facilities.

Glamping in Yala

Luxury glamping in Yala is one of the most popular activities among tourists. This is a wonderful experience where you can stay in comfy tents with all modern facilities. Remember that none of these glamping sites are located inside Yala National Park. They are located in the buffer zone, just beside the park boundary in the lush wilderness.

Among the best glamping spots in Yala, Wild Coast Tented Lodge is a world-famous, truly wonderful place. Moreover, there are a number of top glamping sights including Yala Chena Huts , Jetwing Yala , Cinnamon Wild , and Leopard Nest with all the modern facilities.  In this way, you can enjoy the amazing wildlife in the Yala jungle whilst living in the luxury of comfort.

Most of these glamping spots in Yala are set in memorable scenic places around the park. They are quite close to wildlife habitats where you can get an amazing experience. Some glamping spots locate near the Palatupana beach in a picturesque setting. Definitely, glamping in Yala is a marvelous adventurous experience you shouldn’t miss in Sri Lanka.

Rules to follow in the park

Kindly be aware that you cannot get out of the jeep and walk in the park.  You must be inside the vehicle throughout the trip unless otherwise instructed by the wildlife tracker.

It is advised not to wear brightly colored dresses to avoid the distraction of animals. Light-colored costumes such as green, beige, khaki, or light brown are recommended.

Feeding wild animals inside the park is strictly prohibited. As well, you cannot bring any food or snacks for yourself, because animals may attract to the smell of the food.

Guns, knives, and other potential weapons are banned to bring inside the park. As well as, matches, drugs, cigarettes, alcohol, and anything that can harm nature are strictly prohibited.

The electronic devices must be used with care inside the park. Mobile phones should be used in silent mode. Some animals can clearly hear low frequencies, even at a reduced volume. So, switching off your mobile is the best thing you can do.

The use of cameras and video cameras is allowed, but flash photography is prohibited.

Littering inside the park is unacceptable. Also, plucking plants, and carrying soil, stones, or feathers aren’t allowed. Thus, you can bring back nothing other than sweet memories.

Important tips for you

Personal vehicles aren’t allowed to enter the Yala National Park. Only registered safari vehicles can enter the park. As well, hiring a local guide is quite important to learn many things about the jungle.

The average Yala National Park entrance fee per foreign adult is 35 USD and jeep hire includes in a separate ticket. Depending on the number of people in a jeep (2-6), you can share this jeep cost.

To sum up, visiting Yala National Park is one of the best things you can do in Sri Lanka. This guide shows everything you need to know before visiting the park. As a responsible tourist, remember to follow these guidelines and enjoy your safari trip . It is assured that you’ll meet majestic leopards, who are the kings and queens of the Yala jungle.  Welcome guys, visit Yala and enjoy the amazing wildlife in Sri Lanka.

Text by Magnificent Sri Lanka. Images from Wikimedia Commons, Facebook, Twitter & booking.com. All copyrights are reserved by the original authors.

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The Epic Yala Safaris Guide 2024 – A Must Read!

Yala might be the best safari you can do in all of Sri Lanka. We outline which Yala safaris we recommend and how to make the most of your day!

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12-Hour Yala Safari With Shehan Safari

We have been with Shehan Safari TWICE and both times were absolutely epic. You have to book with a registered tour provider to see Yala and Shehan Safari is a great choice. I highly recommend the 12-hour safari for reasons I go into in the article. Lastly, this is a private tour which is also recommended as you get much more say over the overall tour experience.

Yala Safaris

We loved going on the first of our Yala safaris so much that we went back for more. And considering the first time was literally incredible, I was surprised that the second trip lived up to our expectations!

Read More: Looking For Elephants? Read About The Best Elephant Safaris In Sri Lanka!

Even though we strongly recommend the 12-hour Yala safaris, we are also aware that this is not feasible for everyone. So, below we go into detail on all of the Yala safari options available to you in detail and provide you with the very best tour options available.

12 Hour Full Day Yala Safaris

Let’s get straight into the big one: the 12-hour full-day Yala safari option. Before I delve into a typical itinerary, let me explain why I believe this is the best way to go.

Let’s be completely honest, most people going on Yala safaris are hoping for one sighting above all; a leopard. I don’t blame you and that’s what we were most looking forward to as well.

However, it’s really not a guarantee that you’re going to get to see one. To be honest, the chances of a decent sighting are actually pretty low. When I say ‘decent’ I mean seeing the entire animal at a reasonable distance for a decent amount of time.

There is a pretty good chance of catching a glimpse or seeing one at a significant distance.

Anyway, the best time to see them is at dawn and dusk. And when I say the best time, you’re massively more likely to see them during this time than midday. They disappear into the bush to sleep in the trees and shade throughout most of the day because of the heat.

This is the main reason why morning and afternoon safaris exist and midday safaris do not; most of the animals are resting during this time.

If you go on a half-day tour then your driver is going to have a limited amount of time to make sure you see as much as possible. They rush around in a large group of jeeps trying to jostle for position and tick as many boxes as they can, no matter how good the sighting may be.

If you go for a full day safari then your driver can make much more professional decisions; like when to stop and wait.

Read More: I Know You Love Animals! So Have A Read Of Our Ultimate Guide To Whale Watching In Mirissa!

On our first Yala safari, our driver sat and waited for nearly 40 minutes in one place. All of the half-day jeeps zooming past and taking no notice. We were there for so long that I started to think it was a waste of time.

Eventually, he points to the left of the vehicle and a leopard slowly emerged from the bush and walks adjacent to the vehicle, crosses the road right in front of us and walks into the fields. Absolute perfection.

This was only possible because the driver did not have a strict time schedule and could make decisions based on that fact.

This was exactly the same on our second tour. We, unfortunately, didn’t have as good a sighting with a leopard but we had an incredible sighting of the much rarer sloth bear which was equally as incredible.

That was a bit of an essay to explain one thing… The 12-hour full day Yala safaris are by far the best way to go if you are able.

Read More: Not Convinced On Yala? Check Out All Of The Safaris In Sri Lanka Here.

Typical Itinerary

Hotel Pickup – Depending on pick up location. They will be arriving at Yala before 6 am so expect a pickup time of around 5.00 am if you are staying in Tissamaharama (which is recommended).

Drive To The Park Entrance – The driver will go and arrange entry to the park whilst all of the jeeps for the day are parked outside the entrance until the 6 am opening time. There are toilets here so if you need to go, this is your last chance until lunch.

Enter The Park – At 6:00 am the park opens and everyone enters the park!

First Game Drive – From 6:00 am until 12:00 your driver will point out all of the animals you can see throughout the park. They will also be using a phone/radio to communicate with other drivers about sightings.

12:00 – 2:00 pm – This is lunchtime. Yes, it is 2 hours long which is quite a long time. However, during this time the park is completely closed and no one is allowed to drive around. This will be the same with all operators. Lunch is actually served next to the beach within the grounds of the park so it’s a great location to enjoy this time.

2:00 – 6:00 pm – Second game drive. This will be your second opportunity to see the animals of Yala National Park.

6:00 pm – Drop off at your hotel, depending on how far the journey is.

We have used Shehan Safari for both of our 12 hour Yala Safaris and could not be happier with the experience provided. Check availability and prices here.

To see all of the 12 hour Yala safaris available to you then click here to see a full list.

Half-Day Morning Yala Safaris

There may be some very good reasons why you are unable or do not fancy jumping on a complete 12 hour Yala safari. These include; young children, budget and available time. If this is the case the 2nd best option available for Yala safaris is the morning half-day tours.

You will actually have a couple of options in this regard, the 5 hours and 7 hour morning tours.

The biggest difference between the two will be the animals that your tour guide will be trying to get you to see. the 5-hour tour will be an all-out search for a leopard. You will not stop to watch any other animals. You will see other animals as you drive around but the vehicle won’t stop.

Read More: The Perfect 10 Day Sri Lankan Itinerary , The 7 Day Itinerary OR The 5 Day Sri Lanka Itinerary.

The 7-hour tour will start in the same way but towards the end of the tour you will have a couple of hours to see other animals and the end will not be quite so speedy.

You will be amongst other jeeps in a sort of convoy or group for the entire duration of these tours as you all try your best to get to the confirmed sightings.

As I said before, we all want to see a leopard, so this is not necessarily a bad thing. I prefer the relaxed nature of the full-day tour but if you don’t particularly care about the peacocks and water buffalo then this might be the option for you!

Drive To The Park Entrance – The driver will go and arrange entry to the park whilst all of the jeeps for the day are parked outside the entrance until the 6 am opening time.

Game Drive – From 6:00 am until the end of your tour (either 5 hours or 7) your driver will do everything possible to make sure you see a leopard. They will be using a phone/radio to communicate with other drivers about sightings.

Throughout this article, you will see many recommendations for Shehan safari. They are brilliant and if they run the tour we will be recommending them. Click here to see availability and pricing. Remember to put your date in first and it will then give you the option to select the type of safari you would like.

To see all of the Yala safaris available to you then click here to see a full list.

Half-Day Evening Yala Safaris

This is, in my opinion, the 3rd best option for Yala safaris. It costs the same as the 5 hour morning safari and you get a slightly lower chance of seeing the leopards than the morning Yala safaris.

It’s still a pretty good chance but there are really only 2 reasons why you would choose this option.

• Arrival time near Yala National park and available time.
• You don’t fancy waking up at 4.30 am.

I completely understand if you are short on time and the afternoon is the only available time you have. Leopards are most active during dawn and dusk so you still have a decent chance of a sighting.

If you are sitting there thinking that you want a half-day tour and you don’t really fancy waking up, do yourself a favour and go for the morning tour. The animals are just a little more active then and your chances are a tiny bit better.

Apart from that, you only have 1 option for the afternoon Yala safaris and that is a 5-hour tour, unlike the 7-hour option you also have for the morning tours.

This tour is basically the exact same tour as the 5 hour morning tour where your driver will utterly prioritise the leopards and other rare sightings. You will not be slowing down for peacocks and water buffalo.

Read More: How To Backpack Sri Lanka On A Budget!

This is also not just ‘in my experience’. Tour operators actually state in their tour entries that it will be a full-speed safari, only concentrating on seeing the leopards. However, if you are looking for a slower-paced Yala safari but only want the 5-hour option, you can speak to your operator and they will alter the tour for your needs.

Read More: The Best Wildlife Tours In Sri Lanka

Hotel Pickup – 1:00 pm. This depends on where you are staying but the plan is to get to the entrance at 1:45 pm.

Enter The Park – At 2:00 pm you will enter the park.

Game Driver – From 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm you will drive around the park looking specifically for leopards.

Hotel Drop Off – Expect to be back at your hotel at around 6:30 pm depending on where you are staying.

Shehan Safari offers a 5-hour afternoon safari that will tick every box. Check out availability and prices here.

Overnight Yala Safaris (Yes These Are Immense!)

When I first went on a Yala safari, I teared up when the leopard walked past our car. It was so majestic and rare that the moment got to me. I knew, as it was happening, that it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Since then, Sri Lanka has made huge strides in the overnight options in Yala National Park. And I’m left thinking if my experience with the leopard was once in a lifetime, then what could this experience feel like?

I have found the 3 best options for overnight in Yala national park including 3 different price points for all budgets.

They all have an almost identical itinerary which I will outline below but come with a varying degree of accommodation quality and extras. You really just have to click on the 3 options above to compare them and see which one is the best for you.

Overnight Yala Safari Itinerary

Hotel Pick Up – There are a few cities in which pickup is offered. The whole plan is arranged so you are getting to Yala National Park at around 12:30 and your accommodation within the park at around 1 pm. This could be as far away as Colombo or Galle so expect a pick up quite early if you are a long way away.

Arriving At The Accommodation – This will be around 1 pm when you will be given a tour around the area and get comfortable.

Lunch – Before the afternoon game drive, you will be served lunch at the accommodation. This is all-inclusive, including alcohol.

Afternoon Game Drive – This will be your first game drive and will be from around 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm

Evening Meal – At around 6:30 pm you will arrive back at your accommodation and enjoy a brilliant dinner with a campfire under the stars.

Stay Overnight

Second Game Drive – 05:00 am on day 2 you will have breakfast and start your second game driver (or trek, depending on the experience you book). This will vary in length so definitely check out the options above for more details.

Hotel Drop Off – After this (around 12 pm) you will start your journey back to wherever you were picked up from.

The three tours we recommend can be found here.

• Beyond Escapes 1
• Beyond Escapes 2
• Shehan Safari

They have been chosen due to their varying prices so make sure to check out the prices by going through the links above.

What You Might See On Yala Safaris

Sri lankan leopard.

These majestic creatures are almost always at the very top of everyone’s wishlist for spotting. They are endemic to Sri Lanka and are one of the rarest big cats in the world because of this.

Asian Elephant

There are better national parks to see Asian elephants in Sri Lanka but you have a very good chance of seeing them here on Yala safaris.

Read More: See Even More Elephants On An Udawalawe Safari

Sri Lankan Sloth Bear

The rarest animal in Yala. We managed to see one on our 2nd full-day tour and the driver said it happens less than once a month and he is in the park nearly every single day.

The national bird of Sri Lanka and an animal that is very common in Yala. Try to get a picture of the male’s famous feather show!

Water Buffalo

These are everywhere in Yala national park and if you don’t see one then you have had your eyes closed. They are so much bigger than I ever realised.

Toque Macaque

As you drive around you may come across a pack of these playful monkeys. If you see one, you’ll probably see 50!

Spotted Dear

There will be very large herds of spotted deer throughout the park. Remember, these are the main source of food for the Sri Lankan leopard so if you can hear warning cries then a leopard is nearby!

Saltwater Crocodile

I am always in awe of these incredible beasts/ You don’t realise how big they are until you are up close with one and after that, you don’t want to be up close ever again…

Where To Stay For Your Yala Safari

I strongly recommend staying in Tissamaharama. This is close to the entrance of the park, all of the tours will provide free pick up from this town and you won’t have to get up at an even more ridiculous time to get to the park by 6:00 am.

Read More: Staying In Mirissa During Your Trip? Check Out The Lushest Villas That Mirissa Has To Offer

The Best Budget Accommodation – Hotel Birds View

Good location, good beds, good breakfast and beautiful location. All for a very affordable price. If you’re looking for somewhere to spend the night on a budget then this is definitely the best place in Tissamaharama. Check out availability here.

The Best Resort – Thaulle Resort

If you’re looking for some luxury then check out Thaulle Resort. This place has everything. Gorgeous pool, spa, fitness centre, restaurant and more. Going on a full day safari can be tiring, so why not recoup somewhere as peaceful and incredible as here. Check out pictures and costs here.

What To Bring On Your Yala Safaris

Don’t forget to pack these items to make your safari much more comfortable and fun!

This relaxed fit, strapback hat from Adidas is a classic that will keep the sun from your eyes and look decent whilst doing it. There's nothing special to see here, just a well made hat that gets the job done.

We all know what sunscreen is and we all know how important it is but why go with Sun Bum? They are cruelty-free and are compliant with the Hawaii 104 Reef Act meaning that you will be helping decrease the amount of damage sunscreens have to the environment that you are swimming in. If that hasn't convinced you then click through to find out even more.

These light and ergonomic binoculars are the perfect travel accessory. They're easy to hold and have a non-slip grip, and the rubber eyecups are comfortable even after long periods.

Do not let a brilliant experience be ruined by pesky insects biting you all over your body. Insect repellant is not expensive but not having it can affect much more expensive activities. Pick up a bottle of this Picaridin bug spray and enjoy your travel.

This will probably be the last selfie stick you ever buy! It has a sturdy aluminum telescopic 40" range, a tripod for propping your phone up in better locations, a detachable wireless shutter button so you can control when all pictures are taken, and extends down to a brilliantly compact size making it perfect for any type of travel.

We all know the benefits of antibacterial hand spray, even before the pandemic. These are especially important for backpackers as you will find yourself in situations where soap and water might not be at hand. These small spray bottles have been specifically designed for travel and can easily fit into luggage and day packs.

If you don't like the side effects many nausea-reducing medications create then you could try one of these electrode stimulator wristbands. This particular one is FDA-approved, is waterproof, and has up to 30 hours of battery life.

This is a true blessing on hot days, stuffy plane journeys and humid hikes. It has 3 speeds and only takes 3 hours to fully charge. You can hold it in front of your face, clip it to objects like umbrella handles and bus seats or just rest it on a table.

Camera Recommendation

The perfect travel companion! The Panasonic Lumix LX10 fits easily into your pocket, captures beautiful 20.1MP images, records gorgeous 4K footage, and does this all through the brilliant 24-72mm Leica lens. Level up your travel photography today!

If you already have a camera then make sure that you keep your shutter speed at least 1/1000 throughout the trip, especially when you are zoomed in. Animals can be unpredictable and fast. You don’t want blurry images ruining your memories.

History And Conservation At Yala National Park

Yala National Park became protected in 1938 and has only grown in size since then. However, it has had a rich history many years before this time. Check out the wiki if you’re interested in reading up a bit more.

Conservation is ongoing at Yala National Park but they face difficult challenges in some of the outer blocks where uncontrolled tourism, encroaching agriculture and poaching all pose issues.

If you’re interested in conservation then check out the official Sri Lankan conservation page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are yala safaris worth it.

In my opinion, this is the best thing to do in all of Sri Lanka. So yes…

What Yala Safaris Are Available?

Morning, evening and full-day tours are available. The best option for most is the full-day tour.

How Long Are Yala Safaris?

They range from 5 hours to 12 hours with options in between these durations.

Can I Stay Overnight In Yala National Park?

Yes! This is one of the best activities you can do at Yala National Park

What Is The Best Way To Explore Yala National Park?

A full day 12-hour safari coupled with an overnight stay at one of the safari accommodations. I cannot think of a better and more comprehensive way to experience this incredible place.

So that’s it! Everything you need to know about all of the Yala safaris. If this guide was helpful or you have anything to add then please let us know in the comments section below!

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Yala National Park Safari, Sri Lanka: What You Need to Know [Activity Review]

Posted on Last updated: July 22, 2021

When you think about Sri Lanka , chances are high that you immediately think about jeep safaris and spotting wildlife… Well, you’re right! During my week on the South Coast of the country , I had the chance to do a Yala National Park Safari with Cinnamon Nature Trails. 

Below you can read all about this safari and of course I’ve included everything you need to know to make your own visit to Yala National Park a success.

YALA NATIONAL PARK SRI LANKA SAFARI REVIEW

National Parks In Sri Lanka

Did you know that 13% of Sri Lanka is either a national park, reserve, sanctuary or jungle corridors? The Sinharaja Forest Reserve for example, is the country’s last area of tropical rain forest and it has even been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

In total, Sri Lanka has 21 National Parks, and they are:

• Wilpattu National Park (one of the oldest and most important of protected areas in Sri Lanka, lots of important cultural sites and wildlife such as elephant, sloth bear, water buffalo, leopards and spotted dear)
• Yala East (Kumana) National Park (this park is separated from Yala National Park and is a strict reserve, known for its migratory birds that visit the mangrove swamps)
• Wasgamuwa National Park (home to a vast array of animals, ancient sites and tanks + the highest density of bears than anywhere else in Sri Lanka)
• Gal Oya National Park (catchment area for Sri Lanka’s largest reservoir, the Senanayake Samudraya, the only national park where boat rides are allowed, you can spot swimming elephants here!)
• Udawalawe National Park (Sri Lanka’s closest example of Africa’s savanna reserves and the country’s premier elephant park)
• Lahugala Kithulana National Park (one of Sri Lanka’s smallest parks with a big importance to endemic animals in Sri Lankan like birds and the Sri Lankan elephant)
• Maduru Oya National Park (designed to protect the immediate catchments of five reservoirs and a refuge for wildlife)
• Horton Plains National Park (world heritage site and the catchment area for almost all of Sri Lanka’s major rivers, home to many animals & endemic plants in Sri Lanka + spectacular hikes)
• Bundala National Park (a paradise for migratory and resident birds due to many lagoons, wildlife spotting from elephant to the deer, the only park to spot both the Marsh and Seawater crocodile on the same safari trip)
• Lunugamvehera National Park (created primarily as a catchment area for the Lunugamvehera reservoir)
• Minneriya National Park (despite being one of the smallest, this park is a haven for elephants and endemic birds of Sri Lanka)
• Kaudulla National Park  (this park revolves around an ancient tank and is considered as an important elephant corridor, offering regular sightings)
• Hikkaduwa National Park (one of the two marine parks in Sri Lanka, featuring fringing coral reefs showcasing a bio-diversity spectacle)
• Pigeon Island National Park (the second marine park in the country, a spectacular small island home to a showcase of colorful corals and tropical fish)
• Horagolla National Park (biologically the most diverse and significant patch of forest in the wet zone of Sri Lanka, and a natural refuge for manyendemic species in Sri Lanka that are extremely rare/extinct in other parts of the island)
• Galways Land National Park (the only national park located within city limits, a beautiful population of birds and colorful floral species of native and foreign origin, the most significant birding site in Sri Lanka)
• Ussangoda National Park (this park is believed to be the place where Ravana landed his mythical flying chariot, known for the red soil in the area, this park is a haven for turtles)
• Angammedilla National Park (established to protect the drainage basin of the giant Parakrama Samudra reservoir)
• Flood Plains National Park (a corridor for wildlife migration between grazing lands in Wasgamuwa and Somawathiya National Park)
• Somawathiya National Park (within the park, you can find the Somawathiya Chaitya, a stoepa said to be containing a relic of the tooth of the Buddha)
• Yala National Park (the oldest and most known national park in Sri Lanka, best place for leopard spotting)

Road Block!

History Of Yala National Park

Yala nationalpark Sri Lanka is one of the oldest and most well-known national parks in the country: it was designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and designated as national park in 1938. Under British rule, however, the park was initially used as a hunting ground, if you can believe it!

With about 1297 km2 (129,700 ha), it’s also the largest of protected areas in the country. The park plays an important role in the conservation of a large number of flora and fauna in Sri Lanka and you can also find a couple of historical, religious and archaeologically important places in the area.

The terrain of Yala park Sri Lanka is very diverse and consists of light riverine, thorn and dry monsoon forests, scrub jungle, fresh and brackish water wetlands, open planes of grasslands, tanks, lagoons and even sand dunes. Special to Yala is the coastal wilderness and it’s the only place in the world where you can see Asian elephants right next to the coast (and sometimes even ON the beach!).

Where To Go In Yala Sri Lanka?

What you should know about Yala, is that it’s divided into 5 blocks and also consists of adjoining sanctuaries and national parks such as Lahugala, Lunugamvehera and Kumana National Park, the Yala Strict Nature Reserve and the Kataragama, Katagamuwa, and Nimalawa sanctuaries. Between the different national parks there are jungles, so elephants have corridors to move from Yala to the other parks in the area.

Not every block and sanctuary is accessible for visitors (only Block 1 and 5 are open at the moment, the others are more used for research and documentary filming) and -here comes the deal- not every block gives you an equal chance of actually seeing wildlife.

Another very important thing to note is that Blocks 1 and 2 will be closed for 6 weeks in September and October . Yala safari Sri Lanka companies will then take you to either Block 5 or Lunugamvehara National Park. Of course, during the time that we visited, the park had literally just closed, so we were off to Block 5, which we didn’t know beforehand. Below you can read the impact that had on our overall experience.

Block 1 is the most popular area of the park (in the South) and because it’s one of the oldest, the animals are somewhat ‘used’ to people being around, so you have the best chance of spotting wildlife. This part of the park has the highest concentration of leopards as well (over 30 at the moment), so if you want to see them (and who doesn’t), you have to go to Block 1 for sure. But remember that they are still wild animals, so you might not spot anything regardless.

This block is almost exclusively used for safaris, so expect quite a bit of traffic going around.

Block 2 is at the most Southern and remote part of Yala. Wildlife here is less frequently observed, and therefore quite shy.

Block 3 in the North of Yala features a wilderness with hardly any visitors… and also hardly any wildlife because of the dry Yala weather. That said, in the dry season, this block is where specialized afternoon safaris run to photograph the Sloth Bear.

Block 4 of Yala is located in the North. The area is a dry zone and features a tall canopy and forest with huge trees, compared to the more open landscapes in the South and East of Yala National Park. There is a lot of rainfall in this part of the park, almost double than the more Southern parts of the park. Because of the wilderness, there are almost no visitors here and block 4 Yala national park animals are a lot more shy because of that.

Block 5 lies in the North of Yala and just like block 3 and 4, there will be not a lot of visitors here, and also not a lot of wildlife because of the dry conditions and the fact that they are much more shy than in Block 1 for example. It’s perfect if you are looking for a private nature experience and are crazy about birds, but definitely don’t expect much larger wildlife, for that you really, really have to visit Block 1.

You can see why most people on our tour (who were expecting to see heaps of elephants and perhaps even leopards) were mildly (read: VERY) disappointed that we got diverted to Block 5. At the Wild Yala National Park hotel, we were given the lovely map of Block 1 (see above), with all the animals we could see there… but we never did.

Just to show you again what the difference between Block 1 (green arrow) and Block 5 (red arrow) is, this map tells it all:

Where To Book A Yala National Park Safari?

We did our Safari with Cinnamon Nature Trails , which is related to the Cinnamon Wild Yala nature resort and is one of Sri Lanka’s leading eco-companies. They have worked together on photo and video productions of no others than National Geographic, BBC Natural History and The Discovery Channel.

On our tour, we entered the park around 3 PM (it was about half an hour drive from the Yala Safari Hotel, since we had to go to Block 5 instead of Block 1, which is right next to the hotel) and had to exit the park again at 6 PM. On this tour, they say you get a minimum of 3 hours in the park.

There is a maximum of 6 people per Yala safari jeep and no matter where you are seated, you will have a window spot. Well, more a ‘viewing spot’, since there are no windows in the jeep, haha.

Half-Day Safari

For an adult, if you’re travelling with a minimum of 2 people, you pay USD $90. Children 5-12 years pay USD $40 (under 5 free of charge).

Full-Day Safari

For an adult, if you’re travelling with a minimum of 2 people, you pay USD $180. Children 5-12 years pay USD $60 (under 5 free of charge).

There are different times for the Yala national park tours: Morning / Full Day (departure at 5:30 AM) and Evening (departure at 2:30 PM)

Again: make note that in general, Yala National Park Block 1 & Block 2 will be closed from the 1st of September until the end of October. As an alternative the safari will be taking you to either Yala Block 5 or Lunugamvehara National Park. This will GREATLY reduce your chances of seeing larger wildlife. Just so you are warned. 

To book this safari, please check out the Cinnamon Nature Trails website

What Animals Can You Spot In Yala National Park?

In Yala, you can find 44 varieties of mammal and 215 bird species.

The animals that most people come to Yala for are the elephant and most of all the leopard. In the Southern Blocks of 1 and 2, and also in the East of Yala, you’ll find quite a large number of lone elephants. For the bigger herds, you have more luck in the Northern Blocks of 3, 4 and 5. There are about 250-300 elephants in Yala, broken up into small families and lone males.

Yala has the world’s biggest concentration of leopards, and to see them best, head over to Block 1.

There is also a large population of Sloth Bear (they feed on fruit between April and June) and other wild animals such as crocodiles, spotted deer and sambar deers, jackals, peacocks and a lot of other birds, including raptors, waders and shorebirds.

We spotted moneys and a lot of spotted deer

How MASSIVE is this bees nest?

Behind the Scenes

We didn’t spot any large wildlife in Block 5 until perhaps 10 minutes before we had to leave the park at 6. By this time we were still quite a bit of distance from the gates, and our drivers were rushing (read: definitely going over the speed limit here) to make it back in time. I suppose there is a fee for them if they stay out too late, but they should know by now how big the park is, no?

Anyway, when we were rushing through the park, suddenly someone shouted “ELEPHANNNNNTTTTSSS!!!” and we made a sudden stop, almost having the car behind us crash into us. Uhm ok. But there they were…. really far away (I have a 200 zoom lens and then cropped the image below to see things properly). But hey, they were elephants, even with a little baby! The fact that we only got to look at them for less than 5 minutes is something I’m just going to forget.

And if you can believe it, on the way back in the bus from Block 5 to our resort, guess what we saw? Scroll down for the answer…

Yes, that’s right. You spend 3 hours on safari driving through stunning landscapes looking for elephants, only to spot several of them on the road, eating fruit that someone clearly left there for them. *sigh*

What Is The Best Time To Visit Yala National Park?

The best time to visit the park is between February and July. During this time, the water levels of the park are quite low, so the animals have to get out into the open to reach water sources. The Northeast Monsoon occurs around mid-October to late-December. During this time, it’s perfect to see the arrival of migratory birds from central Asia and the Himalaya.

Because Yala National Park is located in the “dry zone” of Sri Lanka, the climate here is hot and occasionally humid. Average temperatures range between Min 20°C (68°F) and Max 33°C (91°F).

Cinnamon Wild Yala

Where To Stay In Yala National Park?

During my time in South Sri Lanka, I stayed at the Cinnamon Wild Yala safari lodge. This resort features individual bungalows and includes a lake filled with wildlife from birds to buffalo’s and crocodiles!

To read more about this incredible Yala National Park accommodation, check out our complete review here .

How Long To Visit Yala National Park?

We spend two nights at the Cinnamon Wild Yala hotel, but we only got to go on just one afternoon safari. If I would have booked this trip myself, I would have definitely stayed another night and try and go on at least one more safari early in the morning! The experience is just too unique to cheap out on this and what are the chances you’ll be back in Yala anytime soon?

Also, make sure to get to the opening of the park as early as possible. Especially when you’re in Block 1 and things get busy, you don’t want to be the last car in line!

Weheragala Reservoir

Driving through Block 5, which borders Lunuamvehera National Park, we stopped briefly at the Weheragala Reservoir. This reservoir and dam was built in 2009 to block the Menik Ganga (river) and to provide water to the farmer in the South and the pilgrims who travel annually and seasonally to Kataragama for religious purposes. It also provides drinking water to the wild animals in the park, especially during the dry season.

The reservoir can hold 75 million m 3 of water and covers 3500 acres! The dam itself is 2 km long, 23 m high and 18 m wide. It’s really quite impressive!

Birdwatching Sri Lanka

If you’re wondering, the national bird of Sri Lanka is a “junglefowl”. It looks like a rooster, but then with gorgeous blue tail feathers and a red and yellow comb. We didn’t spot one of them on our safari, but we did see many other gorgeous birds, that you can see below.

If you are a lover of bird watching, perhaps consider to (also) book the bird watching trip to Bundala National Park (about 35 km from the Cinnamon Wild Yala Resort). Cinnamon Nature Trails offers a tour that will take you to the first wetland that was declared as a “Ramsar site” in Sri Lanka and a UNESCO designated biosphere reserve. This park is considered an “Important Bird Area” (IBA) and is home to 197 species of birds of which 58 are migratory.

You have the chance to see for example: the Black Headed Ibis, Black Tailed Godwit, Painted Stork, Terns and many other bird species along with mammals, amphibians, butterflies and reptiles.

For an adult, if you’re travelling with a minimum of 2 people, you pay USD $110. Children 5-12 years pay USD $45 (under 5 free of charge)

This tour leaves at 7 AM.

You can book this bird trip on the Cinnamon Nature Trails website

To see some great footage from Yala National Park (and all the animals you could have seen), we recommend to check out this video by our friends Dave & Deb from The Planet D:

Leopard Conservation Project

As Sri Lanka holds the highest density of leopard population in the world, the cattle of local farmers have been under many attacks in the past. The leopards especially prey on their young calves. Of course, the farmers were less than happy about this and their anger triggered many revenge attacks, which in return left the leopards in great danger.

That’s when the John Keells Foundation, in collaboration with Cinnamon Wild Yala founded “Project Leopard”. This project provides cattle farmers with steel pens to secure their calves at night, when the animals are most vulnerable.

The success of the project paved the way for the “Leopard Research Project” to be initiated. Here, weather proof trail cameras were installed in Yala to monitor the behaviour of the leopards and estimate their population.

Check this video to find out more:

Besides the fact that we got send to Block 5 and therefore not seeing as much big wildlife as we could have and the rushing of the drivers at the end of the trip, I would still say that my experience going on a jeep safari in Sri Lanka was a positive one.

The rush of being in an open vehicle with so many wild animals around, the excitement of spotting really amazing birds, deer, monkeys and in the end (even though very far away) elephants, is something I believe everyone should experience once.

One thing that I would have expected more from was the driver/guide on our trip. He did point out some of the animals we saw, but didn’t give us a lot of information about them, as I believe his English wasn’t great. If we would have someone on the trip that was a great storyteller and provided us with a lot of background on the animals and the park, this would have definitely been a better experience for us.

If I would ever come back to Sri Lanka, I would 100% go when Block 1 is open and give myself at least 2-3 drives depending on the wildlife we get to see. But overall, I thought this was a really cool bucket-list worthy experience, especially if you’ve never been on a jeep safari before like I have! Definitely in combination with a stay at the Cinnamon Wild Yala Resort, this part of my trip to Sri Lanka has been my favourite and I would highly recommend visiting!

Time Zone in Sri Lanka? UTC + 5.30

Currency in Sri Lanka? Sri Lanka Rupee (LKR). Check the latest exchange rate here .

Electrical Plugs in Sri Lanka? 230V, Type D, M & G. We recommend getting [amazon_textlink asin=’B01KLMW9GY’ text=’a universal travel adapter ’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’thetraveltester-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’1798619a-ecb8-11e8-8af7-5980e1425c5f’] to never worry about having the right plug on your travels!

Languages Spoken in Sri Lanka?  Sinhala, Tamil and English

Best time to visit Sri Lanka?  Sri Lanka has warm temperatures throughout the year, but the dry season is from April to October (mild temperatures and little rain). The Monsoon season is from November to March (high temperatures and humidity).

Visa Requirements Sri Lanka? If you’re from the USA, UK, Netherlands or Australia, you are required to apply for an electronic visa (ETA) prior to arrival. This visa allows you to enter and stay in the country for 30 days.

Insurance for Sri Lanka? Make sure to get travel insurance! We recommend checking out worldnomads.com

Vaccinations for Sri Lanka? You should always check your doctor’s recommendations on vaccinations before you travel, but you should definitely have the basic immunizations such as Tetanus and Diphtheria up to date.

How to get to Sri Lanka?  You can only get to Sri Lanka by flying. There are no ferries between India or other nearby countries. I flew from London with Sri Lankan airlines, as there are daily direct flights from Heathrow to Colombo . This took about 10 hours. While flying economy is always a bit uncomfortable long-haul, I did like the food and entertainment options on my flight and the staff was super friendly. The flight from London was packed, so 100% make sure to book your seats in advance to prevent yourself ending up in middle seats. You can even bid for business class seats, a friend of mine got hers for as low as 100 pounds!

For the best deals on flights to Sri Lanka, check skyscanner.com .

How to get around Sri Lanka?  Most of the sights in Sri Lanka can be reached overland, for example by bus (budget, pay fare to assistant driver), trains (scenic routes: Colombo <> Kandy , Kandy <> Ella and Ella <> Nuwara Eliya ) or private driver (comfort, around $200-350 USD for a week + additional tip). You can also opt for domestic flights, Cinnamon Air Sri Lanka has small 8-seater planes to give you some scenic flight fun! And don’t forget to use the tuktuk in the cities (negotiate your price before you get in!)

Colombo to Yala national park is about 285 km, which is around 5,5 hours driving. It is recommended if you’re not seeing anything else on the south coast, to take a flight here! Cinnamon Air flies to the airport in Tissa, which is 53.3 km from the park.

Which organised tours to do in Sri Lanka?  We highly recommend organised tours with Gadventures. These are the tours they offer:

• Sri Lanka Land & Sea
• Sri Lanka Encompassed
• Sri Lanka & Maldives Adventure
• Sri Lanka Express
• Discover Sri Lanka
• Discover India and Sri Lanka
• Sri Lanka on a Shoestring
• Discover Kerala and Sri Lanka

Tourism Website Sri Lanka:

• Have a look over at  srilanka.travel

Accommodation in Sri Lanka: 

• Cinnamon Grand Colombo [ see the best deals on booking.com ]
• Cinnamon Bey Beruwala [ see the best deals on booking.com ]
• Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon [ see the best deals on booking.com ]
• Cinnamon Wild Yala [ see the best deals on booking.com ]
• Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort [ see the best deals on booking.com ]

Make sure to check out our other articles on Sri Lanka:

• 10 Best Things to Do in Sri Lanka that Will Make you Grow as a Person
• One Day in Galle Fort, Sri Lanka ? Complete Guide To A Perfect City Break!
• Cinnamon Sri Lanka Hotel Review : Is This the Best Accommodation on the South Coast of the Country?

To read more about other national parks in Sri Lanka, check out these blogs by our blogging friends:

• Kaudulla National Park : Spotting Elephants on a Jeep Safari in Sri Lanka [ wonderfulwanderings.com ]
• Sri Lanka Trekking [ globalhelpswap.com ]
• Mesmerised by the wild elephants in Kaudulla National Park , Sri Lanka [ globalhelpswap.com ]
• Yala or Udawalawe : Which is the Best Safari in Sri Lanka? [ nomadicboys.com ]
• Leopard Spotting at Yala National Park , Sri Lanka [ theplanetd.com ]
• Sri Lanka Safari – The Best of Yala National Park [ theplanetd.com ]

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Disclaimer:  I was kindly invited by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, The Professional Travel Bloggers Association, SriLankan airlines and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau to be part of this trip to the South Coast of Sri Lanka (part of TBC Asia 2018). All photos and opinions are, as always, 100% my own!

• Plan Your Trip

Yala Safari Glamping

Guided Jeep Safaris, Glamping, and Camping in Yala, Kumana, and Lunugamvehera National Parks.

Camp Leopard Sustainable Safari Tours in Yala and service excellence has been recognized by many awards and has been listed on Best Glamping Sites in Sri Lanka  and Best Places to Stay in Yala.

Looking for the Best Yala Jeep Safari and Glamping Tour?

Guided Private Safaris

“Lux Wild” Safari Tour – Camp Leopard X Grand Tamarind Lake

Yala Unplugged – Two Nights 3 Safaris

Why Camp Leopard ?

We are a small Safari Camp renowned for our best practices in Sustainable Safari operations and service excellence, AC Glamping Tents with creature comforts, and experience-oriented exclusive tours. All our tours are carried our with a minium footprint on nature, sustainably, professionally and ethically.

Our tours are curated to cater any traveller’s budget and time frame from young backpackers to groups and families with children visiting Yala National Park, Sri Lanka.

We also happen to have a very high success rate in leopard sighting on multi night tours across different blocks  (sectors) of Yala, off the beaten track, since 2016.

Questions? Get in Touch!

Camp leopard 5 star features.

It’s Rustic and Homely, yet Professional and Sustainable. Truly an Authentic Sri Lankan Safari Glamping Experience with the Best Private Safari Rangers on the Island.

Professional & Sustainable Guided Safaris

Guided Yala Jeep Safaris with the island’s top, professional, ethical/sustainable, and experienced safari guides (Private safari rangers)

Elevated Air Conditioned Tents

Semi-permanent structures yet without compromising the guest creature comforts and safety

Ensuite Bathrooms & Toilets

Tents are attached to permanent structured ensuite tiled bathrooms with running hot and cold water.

Located away from the Crowds

Access to off-the-beaten track, less crowded entrance gates of Yala for different blocks; Katagamuwa (B-1), Galge (B-3), Weheragala (B-5), and Dambakote (B-4).

Excellent English Communication

Our Team speaks excellent English. Making it an  exciting and effortless experience in planning and take part in tours. Get in touch with us on WhatsApp

Feels like Homestay in the Jungle

Authentic Sri Lankan ambiance makes you feel homely and cozy in the jungle. We are small; operate only 3 tents to ensure personalized service for each guest.

Tours & Itineraries

Camp Leopard Experience

#yala #safari #glamping whether it is..,.

• Wanting to see a Leopard  or other flora & fauna,
• Spend a romantic time in the bush with riverside picnics, river dips, and candlelit dinner under the stars,
• Have your family have an amazing time as simple as staying in a safari camp where your kids can toast marshmallows over the campfire and learn about nature with our rangers,
• Getting a gaggle of teenagers more interested in the experience than their latest post on social media,

Camp Leopard got you covered!

What is Yala National Park?

Yala National park is the oldest and the second largest national park in the Country. It is a secondary growth of the forest where used to be an ancient kingdom over 2000 years ago.

Yala is home for an array of wildlife while the different blocks (sectors) of the park fall under multiple climate zones, changing landscape, vegetation and animal densities different between each block.

Yala is renowned for its highest density of leopards in the world making it the world’s best destination to see a leopard in the wild, even ousting Africa. 

Collaborative research carried out by frequent visitors of Yala has identified and profiled over 100 individual leopards in Block 1 it self over 5 years time.

As in climate zones While block 2 of Yala falls under the arid zone, block 1 falls under semi arid and block 3-4-5 extends into intermediate and dryzone. Therefore vegetation in Yala extends from shrub jungles of thorny bushes to dual layered riparian gallery forest with a tree canopy.

Yala National Park Map

• Yala Park Entrance Fees
• Best Times to Visit Yala

What animal to see in Yala National Park?

When it comes to exciting big animals, all of the terrestrial Ceylon big five, elephants, leopards, bears, wild water buffalos, and wild bores can be encountered in Yala national park.

Also a lesser known top-fact of Yala is that it is also the highest density of mugger crocodiles in the world.

For birding in Yala national park, is like birders paradise! The great yala complex is home to over 200 species of resident birds with over another hundreds of migrant and vagrant species in winter months. There are several bird species endemic to the park itself.

The Greater Yala Complex

Alone, Yala National Park area extends over 96,000 ha (hectares) among 5 blocks or sectors.

But the Great Yala complex is a bigger nature reserve in the country  combining; Yala (Ruhunu), Lunugamvehera (Yala West or Block 6), Kumana (Yala East) National Parks, along with Kataragama, Katagamuwa, Panama-Kudumbigala wildlife sanctuaries and a  a Tier 1 protected area called  Yala strict nature reserve.

We are Ranked No 1 on TripAdvisor with a 5 Star Review Score in Yala

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Travel Guide

Everything you need to know, yala & udawalawe.

Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Parks are situated in the dry zone of Sri Lanka and the climate is hot and humid. The mean annual temperature is 27 degrees Celsius, although in the dry season temperatures can reach 37 Celsius during the hottest part of the day. Rains bring relief to the fauna and flora during the North east monsoon from November to January. The rain often comes in short and dramatic bursts before clearing up. Some of the best photographic opportunities present themselves when the jungle takes on a richer color palette during the monsoon with seasonal flowers and lush green vegetation. Unpredictable inter-monsoonal rains occur in March or April. This period from October to April can be the best time of year to view elephants and migratory birds. The birds fly thousands of kilometers to avoid the harsh winter conditions from as far north as Siberia to Yala, one of the most southern points of their migration.

The main dry season spreads from May/June to October. The park is particularly dusty during this time of year and many water holes dry up and others become concentrated with fish allowing the birdlife and crocodiles to make easy pickings. Leopards and other mammals with distinct ranges can be forced to come to specific waterholes to get a drink. This time of year is ideal to spot elephants, buffalo, spotted deer, wild boar, eagles, owls and kingfishers whilst you are on a safari.

Leopards and other wildlife can be viewed all year round in Yala and Udawalawe, we recommend visiting Yala or Udawalawe at any time of the year. Unlike parks in India and Africa it is possible to visit and travel around Yala or Udawalawe during the wet season. The possibility of rain should not dampen your spirits. During sunshine hours after heavy rainfall many animals such as leopards may come out into the sun to dry themselves.

Located in the lowlands of Hambatota district about 250 km southeast of Colombo, Bundala National Park falls within the arid zone where the climate is hot and dry. The average annual rainfall is relatively low, ranging from 9,000 to 1,300 mm, and the driest season is between May and September.

The park consists of five shallow, brackish lagoons; interconnecting channels, saltpans, marshes and beaches. The vegetation is mainly dry thorny shrubs, but the biodiversity is immense.

Travel Insurance

Clients are required and responsible for arranging a travel insurance covering illness, injury, death, loss of baggage and personal items incl. theft, cancellation and curtailment. By confirming your booking, you confirm to us that you have arranged such insurance. Shehan Safaris cannot be held responsible for any of the above.

Take Care of your stuff

Always keep your money and all important documents in a safe place (the best are special travel pouches/wallets which you can keep under your clothes). Never live your money in the hotel rooms, tents, cars, unless there is a safe box available. This applies for travelling all over the world. It is wise to have photocopies of all important documents which should be kept away from originals.

Sri Lanka - The unit of currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee - LKR

The best is to change the money upon your arrival to the airport in Colombo or Mattala. There are many Forex Bureaus, Banks there and they normally offer good rates. With this step you will release yourself to think on about where to change the money next. Away from the towns is more difficult to change money and the rates are much lower. There is just one think to be careful in case you will carry US$: Please don’t bring old bills (printed before year 1997) – many Forex Bureaus will not accept them at all! Also try to bring US$ 50 or 100 bills with you, not smaller ones – the exchange rate is much lower for the smaller bills. Credit Cards are accepted in big hotels and modern shops. ATM machines are found in all towns.

Tipping your driver/guide after your journey is normally part of the experience in Sri Lanka, particularly as they are trying very hard to make your trip memorable. This is all at your discretion. The average tips are from US$ 5-50 for driver/guide per day. This tip is dividable among the member of your group. Tipping is not a mandatory, but somehow expected and highly appreciated. For this purpose keep in the pocket some change. Small tips are also expected in the restaurants, as well for the staff in hotels and lodges.

Packing List

Soft, lightly colored clothing that blends with nature Sunscreen Jumper for Morning drives Good camera Binoculars Extra memory cards, batteries Sun glasses Sun hat or cap Scarf or Dust mask for dust protection Swimwear (For Full day safaris and choose to swim in the river) Personal items

Photography

Any modern digital camera manufactured in the last several years is capable of taking excellent photos of wildlife and you do not need to buy the most expensive camera in order to take good pictures of your safari.   Getting good pictures is far more about thinking carefully about composition and using some of the techniques outlined below, than spending a small fortune on the latest top of the range camera.

In general terms, a dSLR (digital Single Lens Reflex) camera with interchangeable lenses is the best option.  The best lenses for wildlife photography are in the range of 200-400mm, while those wishing to take close ups (eg of insects), landscapes or shots of animals in their environment should if possible also bring wide angle lenses in the range of 24-100mm.  We do not advise you to bring cumbersome flash units or tripods but we do advise that at least one member of your group has a video camera available, although many dSLRs now have these built in.  Bring plenty of batteries and a charger so you don’t run out of power!  Cameras get dirty easily in dusty safari environments so bring plenty of cleaning equipment like cleaning cloths and a blower brush.  Finally bring plenty of memory cards – you will be surprised how many shots you may end up taking.

Each person should ideally have their own pair of binoculars as they are essential to see the birds and animals in the distance. The best size is 8/10 x 40 and, again, they don’t need to be the most expensive top of the range binoculars.

EQUIPMENT LIST FOR SAFARIS

• Telephoto lenses (ideally covering 24-100mm and 200-400mm range)
• Lens cleaning equipment
• Extra batteries
• Battery charger
• Memory cards
• Zip lock bags (to protect equipment from dust)
• Beanbag (to provide stability for your camera)
• A notebook to record your day’s adventures while it’s still fresh!

BEFORE YOUR SAFARI – PRACTICE!

Particularly if you have a new camera, or if you don’t use your camera frequently, try to spend some time before you depart for your safari familiarizing yourself with the camera, and taking some practice shots.  Any subject matter will do, such as birds in your garden, your pets, or anything else that moves.

Also, have you read the manual?  They are not great reads admittedly but when you get on safari it helps to quickly know how to operate the camera.  You will not have time to read the manual as animal behavior unfolds in front of you – the action will be over by the time you have found the right page and read it!

Ideally you want to be able to make key adjustments to your camera (eg. Exposure settings) without lifting your eye from the viewfinder.

BE PATIENT!

When it comes to observing wildlife on safari no two days are the same.  Some days you will see very little while others there will appear to be animals everywhere.

Some people rush around trying to ‘tick off’ as many different animals as possible, taking a quick picture or two before asking to move on. But unfortunately animals will not pose for you on demand, and professional photographers will spend many hours with a subject waiting to get a great shot.

On a typical safari this isn’t really possible but you will often find that if you show a little patience and stay with a subject a little longer, something more interesting might happen that you can get a shot of.

This advice is equally true for general game viewing not just photography.  Try and be patient, spend some time with and get to know your subject, and often you will be rewarded.  If nothing else it makes for a more relaxing safari!

The most atmospheric and inspiring nature photography tends to benefit from great light.  This is often referred to as the ‘golden light’ that occurs in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is lower in the sky.

At this time your photos will benefit from a softer warmer ‘golden’ light. During the middle of the day the sun is overhead and tends to result in harsh shadows that rarely provide for flattering pictures.

During the ‘golden hours’ animals also tend to be more active as it is cooler, increasing the chances of not only seeing wildlife but catching them doing something more interesting than sleeping in the shade! 

Now you know why we get you up so early on a morning!

Composition – the “Rule of thirds” A really important aspect of good wildlife photography is composition.  This relates to the position of the subject(s) within the frame. The “rule of thirds” is a well known compositional technique that can make a big difference to the impact of your photos and require little if any technical skills.

If you think about your picture frame being broken down into thirds (both horizontally and vertically) so that you have 9 parts, the best wildlife photographers often deliberately place the subject at the points where the lines cross, or along the lines themselves.  Most of the time your photos become more aesthetically pleasing to the human eye by applying the rule of thirds.

DON’T FORGET YOUR ENVIRONMENT

Often when you have long telephoto lens the temptation is to fill the frame with your subject at every opportunity.  

This can provide for great portrait photos and you will see some wonderful wildlife photographs that use this approach.  

But sometimes, it is good to pull back a little on your telephoto lens and try to take in some of your subject’s environment. 

The Yala has some wonderful landscapes and trying to incorporate some of this into your photographs will enhance your photo collection and give your friends and family a sense of what the Yala actually looks like. 

If you always fill the frame with your subject they will never know! You can also be creative in the opposite sense, by getting really close up shots of a lion’s eye, or an elephant’s trunk, for example.

TRY TO CAPTURE SOME ACTION.

In addition to capturing portraits of your favorite animals try and add some variety to your photo collection by capturing some action.  Most African wildlife are social creatures and will spend some of their time playing, grooming each other or interacting in other ways.  Capturing these moments will make your photographs more interesting as you will be capturing their behavior. As explained above, while this often requires a bit of patience (particularly with sleepy lions!) the rewards can be well worth it.

One of the most underrated techniques for capturing great wildlife photography is to position yourself for a low angle of view.  

Many safari vehicles are fitted with pop up or removable roofs to allow people to stand up and see wildlife from a higher position.  This can be advantageous, for example when an animal is in longer grass. But taking a picture of an animal that is close by to your vehicle and sat down, while you are stood shooting downwards is generally not the most flattering. You will get a much more impactful picture by photographing sat down to get a lower angle of view – by getting eye level to your subject.

PORTRAITURE AND DEPTH OF FIELD

If you’re trying to capture a close up view of a single subject focus on getting the eyes pin sharp, and try and get a diffused (blurred) background. This requires careful use of depth of field – a shallower depth of field (helped by using a lower ‘f’ stop) will help blur the back ground and make your subject stand out in the photo.

The downside is that the shallower depth of field that helped blur the background will also narrow the area of sharpness often to just a few inches – hence be careful to focus on the eyes as they may be the only ‘pin sharp’ element of the picture. On a related point, when looking at your subject through the viewfinder often we forget to look at distractions above, below and to the side of the subject.  Odd looking twigs, other safari vehicles in the background and other ‘clutter’ can often weaken a picture but can often be avoided by moving very slightly the position from which you take the picture.  Try and get as clean and uncluttered surrounding to your subject as possible so it stands out in the frame.

SHUTTER SPEED

To freeze the movement of a moving animal you will need to keep the shutter speed high, ideally around 1/1000 of a second or higher depending on the speed of movement and the actual subject. For example, trying to freeze a bird in flight will require much higher shutter speeds.  An alternative approach is to use the panning technique where you try to follow the movement of the animal so it stays sharp in the picture but the background is blurred.  For this try somewhere between 1/8 to 1/30 second shutter speed.

And finally – try to take pictures in both portrait and horizontal orientation.  And to give the appearance of the animal moving, don’t centre your shots. Leave space left, right, above or below for the animal to move into.

General Information

Nearest town to Yala – Tissamaharama is the nearest town to Yala and the distance is 22Km.

Driver from Colombo –  It takes about 6-8 hours.

Park opening hours –  6a.m to 6p.m

Mode of game drive –  By Jeep

How we can arrange the transportation from hotels away in Yala? We can arrange taxi for you. Don’t worry if you are staying far away from Yala, we can pick up from your hotels for safari. Our friendly drivers will pick you up and drop you off from air port, any hotel or anywhere inside the island. Please contact us for arrange taxi service.

Can we definitely see leopards?  Yala Block 1 – Where we run our Yala safaris – has the highest density of leopards in the world, so there is no better place on earth to see leopards. This being said, there is no guarantee in the wild. We cannot promise you a leopard sighting, but your best chances of one are in Yala.

Is the Sri Lankan leopard a subspecies? Yes, the Sri Lankan Leopard (panthera pardus kotiya) is a subspecies, and it is actually the largest leopard in the wild.

Why is it easy to see leopards in Sri Lanka? Because in Sri Lanka they are the top predator (Because there are no tigers, lions or cheetahs they have to hide from).

Why don’t the Sri Lankan elephants have tusks? Only 6% of male Asian elephants have tusks, which is why it is rare to spot a tusker in Sri Lanka

What should we wear on the safari? Light clothing in natural colors is best for the safaris. A jumper for the early morning drive can also be useful as sometimes it can be a little chilly. Don’t worry too much about shoes, flip flops will do just fine since you will be in the jeep the whole time

I’m traveling with children; will it be too boring for them? We find that children generally enjoy their safaris as much as adults. Experiencing the jungle can be a fascinating and educational experience for kids and we try to make it as fun as possible for them.

What is the maximum number of people in each jeep? The maximum number of people in each jeep is 6.

Are there any do’s and don’ts whilst on safari? Don’t wander off by yourself, don’t wear perfume or perfumed products as the smells can really affect the animals, do have fun!

Are we allowed to smoke at the Park? No, smoking is prohibited inside the park.

ONE LAST WORD OF ADVICE

Some of Sri Lanka’s charm is its slower, more relaxed pace of life. Local people are generally polite, hospitable and always eager to assist, however, may not always understand everyhting in your terms. If you always remember your patience and sense of humor, you will depart with wonderful lasting memories.

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