Sri Lanka Yala National Park Wildlife Private Tour
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Sri Lanka Yala National Park Wildlife Private Tour

Active
4h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enter Yala National Park at dawn and experience the “Golden Hours” when wildlife is most active. With one of the highest leopard densities in the world, Yala offers an unforgettable chance to see leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 species of birds. Travel in a private 4x4 jeep with a knowledgeable local driver who shares insights about the park’s ecosystems. Safe, comfortable, and designed for wildlife lovers, this safari offers an authentic encounter with Sri Lanka’s wild side.

Available options

Full-Day Yala Safari Tour

Duration: 12 hours<br/>Water Bottle<br/>4x4 Jeep<br/>Pickup included

7-Hour Yala Safari Tour

Duration: 7 hours<br/>4x4 Jeep<br/>Pickup included

4-Hour Yala Safari Tour

Duration: 4 hours<br/>4x4 Jeep<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
Safari Jeep (max 6 pax)
For the Full Day Safari - Mineral Water Bottle Per Person
Experienced Driver/Guides, licensed from the Wildlife Department of Sri Lanka
If you're staying in a place beyond given area, we can arrange pickup with extra charge. Contact us

Detailed itinerary

1

4-Hour Yala Safari Tour (Half-Day – Morning or Afternoon)

Start your adventure with a pickup from your hotel in Tissamaharama or Kataragama at 5:00 AM for the morning safari or 2:00 PM for the afternoon safari. This 4-hour experience takes you into Yala National Park during the “Golden Hours” when wildlife is most active. Explore prime leopard and elephant habitats, with chances to see leopards on rocky outcrops, elephants grazing in herds, crocodiles in lagoons, jackals, deer, and a rich variety of birdlife.

All safaris are conducted in private 4x4 jeeps with knowledgeable local drivers who act as guides, and guiding is included free of charge. You will return around 9:00 AM (morning safari) or 6:00 PM (afternoon safari). This option is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want the thrill of a Yala safari.

2

7-Hour Yala Safari Tour (Extended Half-Day – Morning Only)

This extended morning safari begins with a pickup at 5:00 AM from your hotel in Tissamaharama or Kataragama. The 7-hour experience allows you to go deeper into Yala National Park than a standard half-day safari. You will travel through diverse habitats including grasslands, lagoons, and forests, spending more time in each area to increase your chances of spotting elusive species such as sloth bears and migratory birds. A mid-morning break with time to relax and enjoy snacks or water is also included (meals can be pre-arranged if required).

All safaris are conducted in private 4x4 jeeps with knowledgeable local drivers who act as guides, and guiding is included free of charge. The safari concludes around 12:00 PM. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a more immersive experience without committing to a full-day safari.

3

Full-Day Yala Safari Tour

The full-day safari begins with a pickup at 5:00 AM from your hotel in Tissamaharama or Kataragama. Over approximately 12–13 hours, you will explore Yala National Park in depth, covering multiple blocks and routes for maximum wildlife sightings. Witness the park throughout the day, from dawn activity to mid-day gatherings at watering holes, and the hunting behaviors of predators in the late afternoon. With extended time in the park, there is a high chance of spotting leopards, elephants in herds, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 species of birds. A picnic lunch is provided inside or outside the park, depending on conditions.

All safaris are conducted in private 4x4 jeeps with knowledgeable local drivers who act as guides, and guiding is included free of charge. The tour finishes around 6:00 PM. This option is designed for wildlife photographers, enthusiasts, and travelers who want the most comprehensive and unforgettable Yala safari experience.

What's not included

Meals
Pay at the Yala national park gate

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting Point:
Blue Sky Hotel Yala
Sandagirigama Road, Mahasenpura, Tissamaharama, 82600, Sri Lanka

Please search “Blue Sky Hotel Yala” on Google Maps for the exact location. Our team will meet you at the hotel entrance or reception area before departure.

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

Adults
Age 0-120
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 6
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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