Yala National Park delivers Sri Lanka’s best wildlife viewing, with skilled guides who know exactly where to spot elephants, leopards, and other exotic creatures. Two standout tours make the most of your time here: The Half Day Safari ($89) includes transportation and lunch while keeping groups intimate, and the Special Half Day Safari ($90 per group) offers the luxury of a private jeep – though you’ll need to pay park entrance fees separately.
We especially love the Special Half Day option for its flexibility and personal attention from expert guides who share deep knowledge of the park’s ecosystems. The standard Half Day Safari is also excellent, providing great value with its all-inclusive pricing.
Let’s explore the top safari tours at Yala National Park:
Key Points
- The Half Day Safari Guided Tour offers a 5-star rated, 3-hour private jeep experience with a personal guide to explore Yala National Park.
- The Special Half Day Safari provides a group-based, 3-hour private jeep tour with a personal guide, excluding entrance fees, at a cost of $90 per group.
- Guided tours enhance the chances of wildlife sightings, including elephants, monkeys, and diverse fauna, as well as provide access to Yala’s unique ecosystems and scenic landscapes.
- The Half Day Safari and Special Half Day Safari have moderate fitness requirements, with alternative options available for accessibility needs.
- Booking early is recommended to secure preferred tour dates, and group discounts may be available upon inquiry.
Half Day Safari Guided Tour
What better way to start your adventure in Yala National Park than with the Half Day Safari Guided Tour? This 5-star rated tour offers a private, guided experience through the park.
Priced at $89 per person, the tour includes private transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and all taxes. The tour begins at 5:30 AM with pickup from the Best Hostel Yala and returns to the same meeting point.
Explore Yala’s diverse wildlife and landscapes on this convenient half-day excursion. Just be aware that it’s not recommended for those with back problems.
Read our full review: Half Day Safari Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Special Half Day Yala Safari With Guide
This 3-hour Special Half Day Yala Safari with Guide allows visitors to explore Yala National Park‘s diverse wildlife and landscapes in a private jeep.
Led by a personal guide, the tour offers the chance to spot elephants, monkeys, and other animals in their natural habitat.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Tissamaharama and nearby areas.
While the tour price is $90 per group, entrance fees of $30 per person plus tax and VAT aren’t included.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate fitness level.
Read our full review: Special Half Day Yala Safari With Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Yala National Park offers a variety of guided tours that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you opt for a half-day safari or a more comprehensive excursion, experienced guides can provide insights into the park’s diverse wildlife and ecosystems. With these guided tours, visitors can maximize their chances of spotting iconic Sri Lankan animals like leopards, elephants, and sloth bears during their time in this renowned natural wonder.