Budget Yala Safari 1 Night Hostel stay & Meals in Tissamaharama

Yala National Park , Sri Lanka

Budget Yala Safari 1 Night Hostel stay & Meals in Tissamaharama

Active

10h - 14h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience Sri Lanka’s best wildlife adventure with our Budget Yala Safari – a perfect mix of comfort, nature, and local hospitality. Stay overnight at Go Yala Hostel in Tissamaharama, enjoy a home-cooked Sri Lankan rice and curry dinner, and join an exciting shared jeep safari in Yala National Park. Wake up early to the sounds of nature, head into the jungle, and enjoy breakfast served in the wild during your safari.

Our friendly local driver-guides know the park and its animals well, giving you the best chance to spot elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and colorful birds. After your safari, relax in the hostel’s garden or by the lake, meet other travelers, and enjoy the peaceful village atmosphere.

Perfect for backpackers, couples, and nature lovers, this experience offers real Sri Lankan charm, great food, clean accommodation, and an unforgettable Yala wildlife experience at a budget price.

Available options

Budget Yala Safari: 1 Night Hostel stay & Meals in Tissamaharama

full day safari with accomadat

go yala hostel<br/>yala full day safari

What's included

Traditional Sri Lankan rice & curry dinner on the first night

Welcome drink upon arrival

Professional driver-guide for the safari

Shared jeep safari in Yala National Park (half-day or full-day)

Free Wi-Fi and access to common areas at the hostel

Light snacks for half-day or full-day safaris

Breakfast and lunch (depending on safari option selected)

Access to the farm and peaceful lakefront surroundings

Bottled water during safari

1-night stay at Go Yala Hostel (air-conditioned dorm or private room)

Detailed itinerary

Experience Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife park with this budget-friendly Yala safari package. Perfect for backpackers, this 2-day, 1-night adventure combines a thrilling jeep safari with a cozy stay at Go Yala Hostel and authentic local meals.
Stay in air-conditioned dorms or private rooms surrounded by peaceful lakeside farmland in Tissamaharama. Enjoy Wi-Fi, relaxing common areas, and a traditional Sri Lankan dinner on arrival.
Choose your safari:
• Morning (5:00 am–12:00 pm) – includes breakfast in the park.
• Afternoon (12:00 pm–6:00 pm) – includes light snacks.
• Full-day (5:00 am–6:00 pm) – includes breakfast and lunch.
Travel in an open-top jeep with a professional guide to spot leopards, elephants, bears, crocodiles, and more. The package includes accommodation, meals, safari, bottled water, and snacks—offering unbeatable value and unforgettable adventure.

What's not included

Yala National Park entrance fee (approx. LKR 13,000 / USD 43 per person, payable at the park gate)

Transportation to/from the hostel outside Tissamaharama (can be arranged at an additional cost)

Drop-off to other destinations after safari (available at extra cost)

Extra nights at the hostel beyond the package (bookable separately)

Optional Cultural Tuk-Tuk Village Tour (temples, lakes, and bat watching)

Additional food and drinks not mentioned in inclusions

Personal expenses and tips

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Guests must check in at Go Yala Hostel, Tissamaharama on the booking day from 2:00 PM. The safari is provided the next day (Morning, Afternoon, or Full-Day). Transfers from Galle, Ella, Mirissa, Tangalle & more can be arranged at extra cost.

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.