Yala National Park Safari from Tissamaharama

Yala National Park , Sri Lanka

Yala National Park Safari from Tissamaharama

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This safari takes you on a wonderful wildlife experience in Yala National Park, the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka. Get a chance to see the elusive Sri Lankan Leopard. Drive past grazing wild elephants. Glue your eyes to your binoculars to identify the hundreds of aquatic birds that nest at the reserve. Feel that rhythm of nature in the movements and colors of the wildlife you get to see.

Available options

Transport + No Tickets (3 hrs)

LK50C05C00: Yala National Park Private Safari including Jeep with No Tickets (3 hrs) Pickup included

Transport + No Tickets(12 hrs)

LK50C05L00: Yala National Park Private Safari including Jeep with No Tickets (12 hrs) Pickup included

Transport + No Tickets(6 hrs)

LK50C05F00: Yala National Park Private Safari including Jeep with No Tickets (6 hrs) Pickup included

Transport + Tickets (12 hrs)

LK50C05L01: Yala National Park Private Safari including Jeep with Tickets (12 hrs) Pickup included

Transport + Tickets(6 hrs)

LK50C05F01: Yala National Park Private Safari including Jeep with Tickets (6 hrs) Pickup included

Transport + Tickets (3 hrs)

LK50C05C01: Yala National Park Private Safari including Jeep with Tickets (3 hrs) Pickup included

What's included

Experienced Driver (Also your tracker).

Free Pickup/Drop off from/to your hotel in Tissamaharama.

Private Safari Jeep (Maximum of 6 Passengers per jeep).

500 ml bottle of water per person.

Detailed itinerary

Tissamaharama, located in southern Sri Lanka, is a historic town steeped in ancient heritage and natural beauty. Renowned for its archaeological sites dating back to the Kingdom of Ruhuna, it is a treasure trove of Buddhist relics and ruins. The centerpiece is the Tissamaharama Raja Maha Viharaya, a revered temple believed to have been built in the 2nd century BCE. Surrounded by lush greenery and serene lakes, Tissamaharama offers visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history and spirituality.

The safari will take you on a short game drive through the wilds of Yala. With a variety of natural habitation types and their rich ecology, you will not lack wonders to feast your eyes upon. From elephants to leopards, and from crocodiles to sea birds, you will be able to immerse yourself in experiencing the sensations of raw nature with all the proper safety measures.
You will be traveling in rough terrain (4WD) game vehicle. The safari takes serious consideration of your safety and therefore, with regards to the wild elephants and other larger wildlife, and while the vehicle may stop at intervals, it is strongly advised that you do not descend from your jeep for safety purposes (especially when coming upon lone elephants, which may get aggressive when disturbed). You are also asked to follow the advice of your safari guide at all times during the safari.

What's not included

Entrance fees for Jeep-only bookings (entrance fees to be paid in cash)

Food and drinks.

Gratuities.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

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.