Yala National Park , Sri Lanka

Yala National Park Private Safari

Active

(5 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Once you get into your Safari Jeep from your hotel at Tissamaharama/Yala or Park Main Entrance your driver/tracker will escorted you to the Yala National Park through the main entrance. Thereafter the game drive will begin, your driver/tracker will drive you around the park while listing to the sounds and moments of deers and monkeys to show you the big cats (leopards) at the same time your driver will take you to show Sri Lankan elephants,Sloth bears, wild water buffalos,deers, cats, crocodiles and this safari will give better chances to spot a considering number of birds for bird watching enthusiast.

And this Safari will give you the best chances to experience the variety of ecosystems Your driver/tracker will ensure that you will get the better chances of experience this unique wildlife.On completion of the Safari you will return to the Hotel/Park Gate

Available options

Morning Half-Day with Tickets

Pickup included

Afternoon HalfDay with Tickets

Pickup included

Full Day Safari All Inclusive

Pickup included

What's included

Park Entrance Fees ((With Tickets Bookings & Full Day Safaris Only)

Lunch , Soft Drinks (For Full Day Safaris Only)

Experienced English Speaking Driver/Tracker

Transportation by a Toyota Hilux Luxury Safari Jeep

Binocular

Free Hotel pickup and drop-off from/to Tissamaharama and Yala Hotels

Detailed itinerary

Yala National Park is a huge area of forest, grassland and lagoons bordering the Indian Ocean, in southeast Sri Lanka. It’s home to wildlife such as leopards, elephants and crocodiles, as well as hundreds of bird species.

Merganser Holidays is an inbound tour operator in Sri Lanka (Formerly known as Sri Lanka Private Guides) designed to offer you an extraordinary travel experience that is like no other. Our team comprises of trained professionals who have years of experience and our tour packages are curated and designed to offer you with experiences that will leave you inspired and awestruck. We offer a wide range of solutions for all your travel needs. Anything from package holidays, car and driver hire, safari experiences, airport taxi, day tours to exciting tailor made tours.

What's not included

Entrance fees for Jeep only Options

Foods and Drinks (Half Day Safaris)

Gratuities (Recommended)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

A maximum of 6 people per booking

Not recommended for participants with serious medical conditions

Meeting point

We do offer free pick-up/drop-off from/to any Yala and Tissamaharama Hotels

Important notes

• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for participants with back problems

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.