Décover the wild splendor of Yala National Park in Sri Lanka 🌿🐆

Enter a wild and captivating world by exploring the Yala National Park in Sri Lanka. Between the mysteries of nature and unexpected encounters, immerse yourself in the heart of fascinating biodiversity. Prepare to be amazed by the wild beauty of this unspoilt island gem! 🌿🐆 #YalaNationalPark #SriLanka #WildNature

Discover the Yala National Park, a haven of biodiversity #

Located in the southeast of Sri Lanka, the Yala National Park is a true jewel of biodiversity. Renowned for his captivating safaris, Yala offers an unparalleled chance to observe spectacular wildlife, starting with the majestic Sri Lankan leopard. With the highest density of leopards in the world, this park provides an ideal playground for nature and photography enthusiasts.

Dive into the history of Yala #

Established in 1938, Yala is the second oldest national park in Sri Lanka. Originally a British game reserve during the colonial era, it has since been transformed into a national sanctuary, spread over approximately 979 square kilometers. It extends between the Southern and Uva provinces, some 300 kilometers from the capital Colombo.

The park areas and its diverse landscapes #

The park is divided into five distinct areas, surrounded by six other national parks and three wildlife sanctuaries, making it one of the most preserved areas on the island. The landscapes vary from dry forests and grassy savannahs to lush marshes and to rocky coasts.

Embark on an exciting safari #

A safari in Yala is an immersive experience where you will travel along red dirt tracks at dawn. Prepare to enter a world where leopards, THE elephants, THE crocodiles, and even the astonishing sloth bear reveal all their splendor. THE open roof jeeps are the ideal option for optimal observation.

Exceptional birdlife #

Birdwatchers, rejoice! Yala is a bird paradise with over 215 species recorded. You might see:

The Blue Peacock
The Fishing Eagle
The Blue-backed Kingfisher
The Indian Roller
The Great Great Hornbill
The Malabar Hornbill
The Oriental Bee-eater
Indian Tantalum
The Gray Heron

Enjoy a relaxing moment at the beach #

Don’t miss Patanangala Beach during your visit. Most safaris stop there for breakfast, the ideal opportunity to enjoy this idyllic setting, with your feet in the water.

Tips for avoiding crowds #

One of the disadvantages of safaris in Yala is the presence of too many jeeps grouped around animals. Plan your visit early in the morning to maximize your experience and avoid rush hour.

Practical information for your visit #

Admission price

$20 (low season) to $25 (high season) per adult
$10 (low season) to $15 (high season) per child
$10 per jeep

Best time to visit

The best time to explore Yala is between February and April, during the dry season. During this period, animals gather around water points, making them easier to observe.

Business hours

Yala opens its doors at 6 a.m. and closes around 5 p.m. Arrive before opening to purchase your tickets and maximize your chances of seeing the leopard early in the morning.

Accommodations nearby #

There are several nearby accommodation options for visitors looking to explore Yala at dawn. The village of Tissamaharama, with accommodation such as the Resort Kithala, is an ideal option, offering comfortable rooms and a swimming pool to relax in after the safari.

Visit the village of Tissamaharama #

Tissamaharama, locally called Tissa, is a charming village offering a serene ambiance and picturesque landscapes. THE Lake Tissa Wewa is an excellent place for a walk or a pedal boat trip. Don’t miss the dagoba of Tissamaharama, a Buddhist stupa dating from the ancient Ruhuna Kingdom period.