Yala National Park Leopard Safari
Active
6h - 7h
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 an adventure in Yala National Park, located in the southeast of Sri Lanka. Ride in a soft-top Jeep and view the natural wonder of the park with the roof open. Watch the sky bloom at dawn or fade to dusk, depending on your preference, and search for wild animals. Hotel pick-up and drop off is included during this full-day, morning, or evening adventure.
Available options
Jeep + Tickets
LK50C03001
Jeep Only
Safari for 1 - 6 Persons in a Safari Jeep: Safari from - 05.30 am to 12.00 pm
What's included
1-Water bottle per person.
Service of an English speaking tracker.
Private Safari Jeep.
Park entrance tickets are included when "Jeep + Tickets" selected.
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet at the gate of Yala National Park at 6:00am to begin your safari adventure. Yala National Park is one of the preeminent spots in Sri Lanka to view a broad variety of wildlife.
Admire fan-tailed peacocks in the woods where monkeys leap and chatter. If you’re lucky, gaze at distinct Sri Lankan leopards, which can be seen throughout the park. Yala National Park’s Block 1 has recorded the highest density of leopards among the populations scattered in the wildlife parks of Sri Lanka.
View the large population of elephants that wander the park. Yala National Park is also rich in bird life, with around 130 species. Catch sight of raptors, including crested serpent eagles and white-bellied sea eagles.There are 32 species of mammals in the park, including threatened species such as sloth bears, leopards,wild boars, spotted deers, sambars, and golden jackals.
After a thorough exploration of all the wildlife, the park has to offer, end your tour at the departure point.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off if outside of 5km of park entrance gate.
Park entrance tickets are excluded when "Jeep Only" selected.
Food And Drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.0
1 reviews
5★
0
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A maximum of 6 people per booking
Not recommended for child aged 5 years or under
Meeting point
Palatupana Park Gates of Yala National Park
Important notes
• Not recommended for child aged 5 years or under
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
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
