Yala National Park , Sri Lanka

Afternoon Safari to Yala National Park

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About this experience

This afternoon Game drive to Yala National Park is a 3 hours game viewing opportunity with MICE Team. Yala is home to 44 varieties of mammal and 215 bird species. Among its more famous residents are the world’s biggest concentration of leopards. The leopards are more elusive and primarily nocturnal in other countries but are easier to spot in Sri Lanka than any other place in the world.

14:00 - You will be picked up from your hotel in Yala or Tissamaharama and driven to the National Park.

15:00 - You will start your game drive at Yala National Park. During this 3 hours game drive, you will be able to witness animals like Elephant, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Hanuman Langur, Toque Monkey, Stripe-necked and Ruddy Mongooses, Wild Boar, Golden Jackal, Land and Water Monitor and Marsh Crocodile in addition to the leopard. We provide light refreshments and water bottles during the safari.

18:00 - You will be taken back to your hotel.

Available options

Afternoon Safari to Yala National Park

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pick up and drop off by safari jeep

Government taxes

Refreshments & water bottles

Cost of safari jeep

Entrance fee to the national park

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked-up from your hotel in Yala or Thissamaharama by a safari jeep around 02:00 pm and then driven to the Yala park entrance to proceed with an exciting afternoon game drive in Yala national park with MICE Team. On completion of the game drive, you will be dropped-off at your hotel.

What's not included

Gratuities

Expenses of personal nature

Available languages

Guide guide

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.