Yala National Park
All Yala National Park Experiences
Overnight Safari & StayThese are full-board accommodation that includes your stay, meals and activities
Top Picks for Yala SafarisOur fave ways to spend time at Yala - with expert guides with a lot of heart
Browse Collection
Visiting Yala National Park
Why go
Yala National Park is one of the best places in the world to see leopards in the wild. Without any natural predators at Yala, over-200 leopards thrive here, and they often emerge for a drink at the water tank. Yala is also home to large game such as the endangered Asian Elephant, playful sloth bear and many endemic species of birdlife.
What to do or see here
You can do a half day jeep safari (morning or evening), or a full-day safari here. To maximise your chances of seeing wildlife, we would recommend a full-day safari!
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit is between February and July when the park is open for visitors and the weather is dry. During this time, the animals are more likely to come out of hiding to find water and are easier to spot around their usual watering holes. The park is generally closed during the months of September and October for maintenance (other than Block 5).
Who is it for?
- Yala is for those who don't have a lot of time in Sri Lanka, and wants to see wildlife. Yala is popular as it's easy to spot wildlife here, and it's convenient to get to from Colombo.
- If you DO mind the crowds, and if you have time to go further out to Wilpattu, we wouldn't recommend coming here.
Top Tips
- Yala is crowded. If you do see a leopard, there may be 30-40 jeeps right there with you. If you're looking for a quieter national park experience, you can consider Wilpattu which has the same number of wild leopards, but only 5-6 jeeps at any encounter.
- Yala has 5 blocks. Note that leopards hang out most in Block 1 so most of the jeep safaris take place here.
Top things to see & do
Helpful Questions
What is Yala National Park known for?
Yala National Park is known for its diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species. The park is also home to a variety of ecosystems, including dense forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Yala National Park is the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka (after Wilpattu!) and is considered one of the best places in the world to see leopards in the wild. It is also famous for its jeep safaris, which offer visitors the opportunity to explore the park and observe its wildlife up close.
When is the best time to visit Yala National Park?
The best time to visit Yala National Park is between February and July when the park is open for visitors and the weather is dry. During this time, the animals are more likely to come out of hiding to find water and are easier to spot around their usual watering holes. The park is closed during the months of September and October for maintenance, and the monsoon season in November and December can make the park difficult to access and observe wildlife.
How can I book a safari in Yala National Park?
There are many tour operators and hotels that offer safari tours in Yala National Park. It is important to book your tour with a reputable operator and make sure they have the necessary permits and licenses to operate in the park. You can book a safari through the park's official website or through a travel agency. Most tours include transportation to and from the park, a guide, and park entrance fees. Some tours may also include meals and accommodations. It is recommended to book your safari in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
