Sri Lanka’s Southern Province offers two standout national park experiences. Yala National Park delivers exceptional wildlife viewing with its skilled English-speaking guides – you’ll likely spot leopards and elephants in their natural habitat. The budget-friendly safari tours run throughout the day with hotel pickup included. Bundala National Park‘s morning game drives are equally impressive, featuring 197 bird species (including seasonal flamingos), plus chances to observe elephants and crocodiles up close. Both parks excel in reliability, value, and authentic wildlife encounters.
I love these tours for their skilled guides, convenient scheduling, and consistent wildlife sightings. The early morning timing at Bundala is perfect for bird-watching, while Yala’s flexibility lets you choose your ideal safari window.
Let’s explore the top national park tours in Southern Sri Lanka.
Key Points
- Yala National Park offers 4-hour safaris starting at $30.59 per person, with the opportunity to spot leopards, elephants, and other wildlife.
- Bundala National Park provides 3-4 hour all-inclusive tours at €95.88 per person, showcasing diverse birdlife, including migrating great Flamingos.
- Tours in both Yala and Bundala National Parks include transportation and English audio commentary, tailored to elusive leopard and shorebird sightings.
- Flexible scheduling and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make the national park tours in Southern Province Sri Lanka accessible and convenient.
- The national park tours cater to nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers, with considerations for safety and accessibility.
Yala National Park Budget Safari
Explore the stunning Yala National Park on a budget-friendly safari. For just $30.59 per person, you can embark on a 4-hour adventure that allows you to spot a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.
The safari includes pickup from your local hotel or the park entrance, so you don’t have to worry about transportation.
Once you’re on the safari, you’ll be able to see leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and a host of other animals, including water buffalo, sambars, jackals, and peacocks.
Your expert guide will provide English audio commentary, focusing on the best spots to see the elusive leopard during the ‘Golden Hours’ of the day.
Whether you choose the morning tour starting at 5 am or the afternoon tour from 2 pm until sunset, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, booking this budget-friendly Yala National Park safari is a no-brainer.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Budget Safari Review
Book now: Check availability
All-Inclusive Morning Game Drive at Bundala National Park
This all-inclusive morning game drive at Bundala National Park offers an opportunity to witness the stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife of this bird paradise. Priced at €95.88 per person, the 3-4 hour tour includes hotel pickup from Yala or Tissamaharama, an experienced guide, entrance fees, and light refreshments.
Guests can enjoy a sunrise game drive starting at 5:00 AM, exploring the park’s 197 species of birds, including the migrating great Flamingos. The tour also provides the chance to observe elephants, spotted deer, sambar, langurs, mongooses, wild boar, jackals, monitors, and crocodiles.
Between October and March, visitors can witness over 10,000 shorebirds feeding. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or individuals with back problems, and large luggage, non-folding wheelchairs, and pets aren’t allowed.
Roundtrip transportation is available from select hotels. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this morning game drive at Bundala National Park is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts.
Read our full review: All-Inclusive Morning Game Drive at Bundala National Park Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Yala National Park and Bundala National Park offer budget-friendly safari options for travelers exploring the southern province of Sri Lanka. These parks are home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and migratory birds. Visitors can choose between morning game drives or all-inclusive packages to make the most of their wildlife-viewing experience in this stunning region.