Yala Safari Tours
A Yala Safari Tour is one of the most exciting adventures you can experience in Sri Lanka. Yala National Park is world-famous for its dense leopard population, but also offers encounters with elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, buffalo, spotted deer, and over 200 species of birds.
At Exclusive Yala Safari, we ensure your journey is safe, comfortable, and memorable with expert naturalists who understand animal behavior, giving you the best chance to see wildlife up close.
Start your day with an exciting Yala Safari, the best time to witness the park’s wildlife at its most active. The cool morning air makes it easier to spot predators like leopards returning from their nighttime hunts, as well as elephants, deer, and diverse bird species. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the magic of Yala before the sun gets too hot.
If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, the Extended Morning Yala Safari Tours offers additional hours of exploration. With more time on the trails, your chances of spotting rare wildlife and unique bird species increase significantly. This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers seeking extended opportunities to capture the beauty of Yala.
As the day cools down, Yala’s wildlife becomes more active again. The Evening Safari provides a golden opportunity to witness animals emerging from their daytime shelters. From elephants grazing near waterholes to sloth bears foraging for food, this tour offers a spectacular end to the day. The mesmerizing sunset over Yala’s vast landscapes adds an extra layer of beauty to your safari experience.
For the ultimate yala safari tours, the Full-Day provides an all-encompassing wildlife adventure. Covering both morning and evening peak hours, this tour maximizes your chances of witnessing the park’s incredible biodiversity. With picnic breaks inside the park, you’ll have ample time to explore Yala’s hidden trails, spot rare animals, and enjoy a truly immersive safari experience.
Yala National Park opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM, ensuring a well-managed and ethical wildlife experience. Whether you choose a half-day or full-day safari, every tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Book your safari today and explore Sri Lanka’s most spectacular wildlife destination!
1. What is the best time of year to do a Yala Safari?
There is no single best time — you can enjoy a safari in Yala every day of the year. The park is open year-round and wildlife is always active.
Only in rare cases, like heavy rains or flooding, might certain areas close for safety. Otherwise, every season offers unique sightings, from lush greenery to dry landscapes that attract animals to waterholes.
2. What animals can I see on a Yala Safari?
The top highlight is the Sri Lankan leopard, the park’s star attraction. You can also see elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, water buffalo, wild boar, spotted deer, monkeys, mongoose, and over 200 species of birds.
3. How long does a Yala Safari last?
• Morning safari: ~5 hours (5:30 AM – 10:30 AM)
• Evening safari: ~4 hours (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
• Full day safari: ~12 hours (5:30 AM – 6:00 PM), including a lunch break.
4. What is the difference between a morning and evening safari?
5. Is it safe to do a safari in Yala?
Yes. All tours are conducted by licensed drivers and trackers who follow park regulations. You stay inside the jeep at all times, ensuring safety for both guests and wildlife.
6. How many people fit in a safari jeep?
Typically, our jeeps seat 6 guests comfortably, allowing everyone a clear view. We also arrange private tours if you prefer a more personal experience.
7. Are your safari tours private or shared?
At Exclusive Yala Safari, most of our tours are private, so you have the jeep and guide to yourself (ideal for couples, families, friends, photographers). We do not provide shared tours.
8. What does the safari price include?
9. Can you pick us up from our hotel?
Yes. We offer pickups from hotels around Yala, Tissamaharama, Kirinda, and Kataragama. Let us know your hotel name when booking.
10. How do I book a safari with you?
You can book via WhatsApp us at +94 77 925 5759, or call directly. Early booking is recommended, especially in peak months.
11. What should I wear on a Yala Safari?
Wear light, breathable clothes in neutral colors (like beige, olive, brown) to blend into the environment. Avoid bright colors. A hat and sunglasses help with the sun.
12. Should I bring a camera or binoculars?
Absolutely! Yala is a paradise for photographers and wildlife lovers. Binoculars will enhance your experience, especially for birdwatching.
13. Are there restroom facilities inside Yala Park?
There are basic toilet stops at designated points inside the park. For full day safaris, your guide will plan breaks accordingly.
14. Will I definitely see leopards?
Yala has the highest leopard density in the world, but they are wild animals — sightings can never be guaranteed. Our experienced drivers maximize your chances by tracking fresh signs.
15. Is there a best block to visit in Yala?
Block 1 is the most popular and well-known for leopards and elephants. That’s where most of our safaris operate.
16. Are children allowed on safari?
Yes, safaris are family-friendly. Parents should ensure children follow safety instructions and remain seated.
17. Can we bring snacks?
Yes, though we provide refreshments. We encourage you to avoid plastic packaging to help protect the park.
18. Do you offer birdwatching tours?
Yes! Yala is home to over 200 bird species. We can arrange specialized birdwatching safaris with expert guides.
19. Do your jeeps have a canopy?
Yes. Our jeeps are open-sided with sun canopies for shade, designed to maximize wildlife viewing.
20. Is Yala open every day?
Yes. Yala National Park is open daily, except during unusual weather events like flooding
21. What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, bank transfer, and most major cards. Payments can be settled before your tour or at pickup
22. How early should we book?
At least 3-5 days in advance, especially during holidays and from December to April. Last-minute bookings are possible if jeeps are available.
23. Do you arrange safaris from Ella or Mirissa?
Yes. We can coordinate transfers from popular tourist areas like Ella, Mirissa, Tangalle, and Galle with additional charges.
24. What happens in case of rain?
Safaris continue unless there are extreme conditions. Light rain can actually increase animal activity. We provide rain covers.
25. Is tipping required?
It’s not mandatory, but tips are greatly appreciated by our drivers and trackers who work hard to give you the best experience.
26. Do you provide multi-day safari packages?
Yes, we can arrange multi-day safaris combined with stays at hotels or lodges around Yala. Contact us for a customized itinerary.
27. Are there restrictions on what we can take into the park?
Yes. No drones, no loud music, and no feeding animals. Alcohol and smoking are also prohibited inside the park.
28. Do you offer other safaris besides Yala?
We can arrange safaris to Udawalawe, Bundala, and private reserves on request.
29. Can I combine my Yala safari with a cultural tour?
Absolutely! Many guests combine their safari with visits to Kataragama Temple or ancient sites in Tissamaharama.
30. How can I contact you for more details?
•Email or direct call (listed on our website).
