Yala Full day Leopard Safari Tour with Picnic Lunch
Active
10h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Spend the day exploring Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park on a private leopard safari with a driver and guide. Cruise through the park with your small group (up to four people) as you look for leopards, elephants, sloth bears, golden jackals and many other unusual species. Enjoy a picnic and time to relax on the beach and leave the logistics to your guides who have a deep knowledge of the animals who live in the park, and how best to spot them.
Available options
Yala Full day Leopard Safari Tour with Picnic Lunch
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water and Soft Drinks
Lunch
Service of an English Speaking local guide
Detailed itinerary
1
5:30: You will be picked up by your guide from your hotel and driven to Yala National Park. Yala Park is situated in the Dry Zone in Sri Lanka, comprising of a range of habitats including scrub jungles, water reservoirs, brackish lagoons and riverine habitats. Yala has one of the highest leopard densities in the world. Its elephant heard is of about 300-350. This is the best park in the country to see and photograph leopards, elephants as well as mammals such as Sloth Bears, Black-naped Hare, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Hanuman Langur, Toque Monkey, Stripe-necked and Ruddy Mongooses, Wild Boar, Golden Jackal. You can see the reptiles, Land and Water Monitor and Marsh Crocodile. 12:00 – 13:00: We will deliver the picnic lunch to the location where you will enjoy your lunch. 13:00 – 14:00: Relax and enjoy the beach. 14:00: Start your evening game drive for searching leopards. If you are really lucky, you may be able to witness few of them during this game drive. 17:00: Leave the National Park 18:00: Arrive at your hotel
What's not included
Gratuities
Entrance Fees
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.9
10 reviews
5★
9
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Yala National Park
Yala National Park is the most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka, renowned for its high density of leopards and diverse wildlife. It offers a thrilling safari experience through its varied ecosystems, including forests, scrublands, and coastal lagoons.
Top Attractions
Leopard Safaris
Yala National Park is famous for its high density of leopards. Jeep safaris offer the best opportunity to spot these elusive big cats in their natural habitat.
Wildlife
3-4 hours
Moderate (Approximately LKR 3,500 to LKR 5,000 per jeep)
Kumana National Park
Adjacent to Yala, Kumana is a smaller park known for its birdwatching opportunities and scenic beauty. It's a great place to see migratory birds and other wildlife.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate (Approximately LKR 1,500 to LKR 3,000 per jeep)
Sithulpawwa Rock Temple
This ancient Buddhist temple is located within Yala National Park and is a significant religious site. It offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (Donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rice and Curry
A traditional Sri Lankan dish consisting of rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetables, meat, and fish.
Main Course
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.
Breakfast
Vegetarian (can be made vegan).
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made from chopped roti dough, vegetables, and meat, stir-fried with spices.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.
Popular Activities
Jeep safaris
Hiking
Birdwatching
Boat rides
Beach visits
Nature walks
Temple visits
Festivals
Best Time to Visit
February to August
This is the best time to visit Yala National Park as the weather is dry and ideal for wildlife spotting. The park is open for safaris, and the chances of seeing leopards and other wildlife are high.
28°C to 32°C
82°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Yala National Park and its surrounding areas are generally safe for travelers. However, it's important to follow park rules and regulations, and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed guides and operators for safaris.
- • Agree on prices before starting your journey.
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
Getting there
By air
- Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 100 km (62 miles)
By train
Tissamaharama Railway Station
By bus
Tissamaharama Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Taxis are available for transport to and from the park but are not used for safaris within the park.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Tissamaharama
Kataragama
Day trips
Bundala National Park
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
Bundala National Park is a wetland park known for its birdwatching opportunities and diverse wildlife. It's a great place to see migratory birds and other wildlife.
Morawewa Lagoon
30 km (19 miles) • Half day
Morawewa Lagoon is a scenic lagoon known for its birdwatching opportunities and peaceful atmosphere. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Festivals
Esala Perahera Festival • July or August (depending on the lunar calendar)
Pro tips
- Book your safaris in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best guides and jeeps.
- Wake up early for your safaris to increase your chances of spotting wildlife, especially leopards.
- Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens for the best wildlife viewing and photography experience.
- Dress in neutral-colored clothing that blends in with the natural environment to avoid drawing attention to yourself.
- Respect the park's rules and regulations, and follow your guide's instructions for a safe and enjoyable experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
