Best Things to Do on a Yala National Park Safari

Go on a Yala National Park safari to see wild leopards, elephants and crocodiles — Sri Lanka's most visited wildlife park, with entry fees, timing and tips.

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Yala National Park Safari

Highest leopard density in Asia

Yala's Block 1 is widely cited as having one of the highest leopard population densities of any park in the world.

Diverse dry-zone wildlife

Beyond leopards, expect elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, spotted deer and a huge range of resident and migratory birds.

Two safari sessions daily

Morning safaris typically run 6-10 AM and afternoon safaris 2:30-6:30 PM, timed around when wildlife is most active.

Plan your visit

Base yourself in nearby Tissamaharama, or explore Yala National Park itself. For quieter alternatives, see Udawalawe or Wilpattu. Background: Yala National Park on Wikipedia.

Morning leopard safari

Dawn game drives through Block 1's scrub jungle and rock outcrops, when leopards are most likely to be seen moving or resting on boulders.

Elephant and bird spotting

Yala's lagoons and grassland support large elephant herds and one of Sri Lanka's richest bird checklists, including painted storks and peafowl.

Sithulpawwa rock temple visit

An ancient rock temple within the park boundaries, combining a short climb with wildlife-park scenery and archaeological history.