Colombo , Sri Lanka

Yala Safari Experience

Active

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

Look for leopards and other animals on an overnight safari in Yala National Park, including two game drives. Travel to Sri Lanka’s second-biggest wildlife park, home to the world’s highest density of leopards; and after lunch, watch for these magnificent big cats, elephants, crocodiles and more on a late afternoon game drive with a qualified ranger. Enjoy a starlit dinner and sleep in a private, luxury tent before a dawn game drive and breakfast the next morning. Your trip includes round-trip transfers from different locations, plus three meals and accommodation.

Available options

Yala Safari Experience

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

National Park fees

Lunch

Dinner

Breakfast

Local taxes

Coffee and/or Tea

Overnight accommodation

Transport by private vehicle

Professional guide

Bottled water

Snacks

Fuel surcharge

All activities

Environmental Management Charge (Reef Tax)

What you'll see

Day 1: You will be picked up from your hotel in the selected cities (see Departure Point for details) at 7:30am and transferred to Yala. On your way you will visit Mulkirigala Temple. It is an imposing rock with remarkable cave temples located 21km (13 miles) north of Tangalle town in the district of Hambantota.

Upon arrival at the campsite you will have some time to refresh before lunch. It will be served at the camp along with short introduction by the camp manager on everything you need to know about the campsite. After lunch you can relax and unwind by taking a nap in the hammock or checking books about wildlife in the library. Late in the afternoon game ride will start. Late in the evening enjoy your private Alfresco shower followed by drinks and appetizers around the campfire or in your lounge tent.

Dinner will be served at 9pm at one of many locations available through the camp. Dine under the stars for an unforgettable evening meal in the jungle experience. You will stay overnight at "The Naturalist campsite" that redefine the original tented safari with convenient modern-day amenities while staying true to the romantic ambiance of a British colonial era filled with adventure. Mobile camping is the most authentic form of safari, a true immersion into the sights and sounds of the wilderness.

Day 2: Wake up at dawn around 5:00am to freshly brewed Ceylon tea or coffee. Then leave on morning game drive at 5:30am. Return from morning game drive at 9-10am to freshly squeezed juices from seasonal fruits followed by breakfast. You will check out at 11:00am and be transferred back to your hotel in the selected cities (see Departure Point for details).

What's not included

Excess luggage charges (where applicable)

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

Dress code is smart casual

The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Each traveller is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on bag. Oversized or excessive luggage (e.g. surfboards, golf clubs or bikes) may have certain restrictions, please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage is acceptable

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Be prepared for uneven surfaces at the sites visited which may be difficult for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair

Important notes

• Dress code is smart casual

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

About Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.

Top Attractions

Galle Face Green

A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

National Museum of Colombo

Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

Museum 2-3 hours LKR 1,000 (foreigners)

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Beira Lake

A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.

Shopping 1-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.

Main Dish Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.

Dinner/Snack Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.

Main Dish Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Popular Activities

Hiking Water sports Wildlife safaris Beach activities Spa treatments Yoga Temple visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo

By train

Colombo Fort Station

By bus

Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colombo Fort Cinnamon Gardens Galle Face Pettah

Day trips

Kandy

115 km • Full day

Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.

Galle

120 km • Full day

Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

Negombo

35 km • Half day

Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.

Festivals

Vesak • May (full moon day) Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day) Christmas • December 25

Pro tips

Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat