Every major national park in Sri Lanka delivers excellent safaris with distinct strengths. Kumana shines with convenient half-day jeep tours from Ella, perfect for fitting wildlife viewing into a tight schedule. For the best elephant encounters, Udawalawe’s private safaris consistently deliver, offering expert guides and uncrowded viewing conditions. Meanwhile, Yala stands out for its leopard sightings and well-organized full-day excursions.
Based on decades of wildlife viewing experiences, we especially love Udawalawe’s morning safaris – the guides know exactly where to spot elephants in their natural habitat, and the small-group format allows for intimate wildlife encounters. Kumana’s afternoon tours also earn high marks for their expert naturalists and good value.
Let’s explore the top-rated safari tours across Sri Lanka’s national parks…
Key Points
- Kumana, Yala, and Udawalawe National Parks offer diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, with options ranging from half-day to full-day safaris.
- Safari tours in these parks provide knowledgeable guides, transportation, and entry fees, with pricing starting from $19.91 to $170 per person.
- National park tours contribute to conservation efforts by promoting responsible tourism and raising awareness of endangered species like elephants and leopards.
- While most tours are not wheelchair accessible, private tours accommodate up to 6 travelers for a more personalized experience.
- Flexible booking and cancellation policies, as well as recommended preparation items, ensure a comfortable and enjoyable national park experience in Sri Lanka.
Kumana National Park Half Day Jeep Safari
The Kumana National Park Half Day Jeep Safari offers travelers a chance to explore one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife reserves.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour is a top choice for nature enthusiasts. Priced from $88 per person, the safari includes private transportation, all fees, and bottled water.
While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Reviews praise the friendly driver and ample time to enjoy the park.
This half-day excursion departs from Arugam Bay, with pickup options available, and returns to the starting point upon completion.
Read our full review: Kumana National Park Half Day Jeep Safari Review
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From Ella : Kumana National Park Safari Jeep Tour (5 H)
Why not embark on the captivating 5-hour Kumana National Park Safari Jeep Tour from the charming town of Ella? Priced at just €170.90 per person, you’ll save up to 30% on this incredible experience.
The tour includes live English-speaking guides, audio guides, and transportation by air-conditioned luxury vehicles. Spot an array of wildlife, from leopards and elephants to deer and bears, and witness over 200 bird species.
Explore the park’s lush mangrove swamps, serene lagoons, and vast grasslands, all while contributing to responsible tourism and conservation efforts.
With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour isn’t to be missed.
Read our full review: From Ella : Kumana National Park Safari Jeep Tour (5 H) Review
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Udawalawe National Park Safari
Udawalawe National Park Safari is a captivating wildlife experience that allows visitors to explore the diverse ecosystems of this Sri Lankan treasure.
Guests can choose from morning, evening, or all-day safaris, each led by experienced drivers who double as expert trackers. The 4×4 safari jeeps accommodate up to 6 passengers, ensuring an intimate and personalized adventure.
With a badge of excellence and 97% traveler recommendation, this tour offers the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including the iconic Asian elephant.
Pickup, entrance fees, and water are included, while food, beverages, and gratuities are extra. Flexibility is key, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari Review
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Safari Adventure: Yala National Park Afternoon Expedition
Yala National Park, renowned for its impressive leopard population, offers an unparalleled afternoon safari adventure. Priced at $55 per person, this exclusive 3.5-4 hour expedition includes hotel pickup, roundtrip transportation, and a 3-hour game drive.
Visitors can expect to spot a diverse array of wildlife, including 44 mammal species and 215 bird species. The park is particularly renowned for its high concentration of leopards, making this an excellent opportunity for sightings.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour is both flexible and accessible. Wheelchair users are also accommodated, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience.
Read our full review: Safari Adventure: Yala National Park Afternoon Expedition Review
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Private Half Day Safari in Udawalawe National Park
Explore the abundant wildlife of Udawalawe National Park on a private half-day safari adventure.
This 4WD tour offers the chance to see elephants, jungle cats, mongooses, and bandicoots in their natural habitat.
With an experienced driver and tracker, you’ll have a personalized experience with a maximum group size of 6.
The safari includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as entrance fees.
Though not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, this tour is highly rated, with 100% of travelers recommending it.
At just $30 per person, it’s an excellent value for the opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife.
Read our full review: Private Half Day Safari in Udawalawe National Park Review
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Udawalawe National Park Private Safari With Naturalist
For those seeking a more immersive wildlife experience in Udawalawe National Park, the Private Safari with Naturalist offers a personalized adventure.
Priced from $43.55 per person, this 4-hour tour provides free cancellation and reserve-now-pay-later options. Accompanied by an English-speaking naturalist with over 10 years of experience, guests can enhance their knowledge of animal behavior and spot endemic species like the Sri Lankan Jungle fowl.
The tour includes a 4×4 private safari jeep, water, and hotel pickup and drop-off. While not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, the safari is ideal for families, friends, and solo travelers seeking an intimate wildlife encounter in Sri Lanka.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park | Private Safari With Naturalist Review
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UDAWALAWA National Park ALL INCLUSIVE Tour With PICK up INCLUDED
Travelers seeking an immersive wildlife encounter at Udawalawe National Park can opt for the all-inclusive tour that includes pickup.
This tour offers morning, afternoon, and full-day options, allowing visitors to explore the park’s diverse fauna, including jungle cats, wild elephants, and bandicoots.
Conducted in sturdy 4WD vehicles with a private guide, the tour is recommended by 96% of travelers, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5.
Included in the tour are national park entry fees, Elephant Transit Home entry fees, private transportation, and lunch with bottled water.
Pickup is available from the Hotel Niwahana in Udawalawe, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.
Prices start from €117.18 per person, with a maximum of 30 travelers per tour.
Read our full review: UDAWALAWA National Park ALL INCLUSIVE Tour With PICK up INCLUDED Review
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Udawalawe National Park Safari and Elephant Transit Home
Those seeking an immersive wildlife experience in Sri Lanka often opt for the Udawalawe National Park Safari and Elephant Transit Home tour.
Priced from $42.66 per person, this 5-hour excursion offers a private safari led by an experienced guide. Explorers can expect to spot a variety of animals, including elephants, leopards, and diverse bird species, while traversing the park’s stunning grasslands, forests, and wetlands.
The tour includes 4×4 transportation, water, and admission to both the national park and the Elephant Transit Home. Flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, makes this an accessible and enticing option for wildlife enthusiasts visiting Sri Lanka.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari and Elephant Transit Home Review
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Kumana National Park Full Day Safari
Kumana National Park offers a full-day safari experience that immerses visitors in Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife. Recommended by 98% of travelers, the tour starts at 5:00 AM for optimal wildlife viewing.
Guests have the opportunity to see over 200 species of birds and other diverse fauna. The safari includes a traditional Sri Lankan meal by the river and transportation in a safari jeep with all park fees covered.
Pickup and drop-off from accommodations in Arugam Bay and Pottuvil are complimentary. With a Badge of Excellence and starting at $170.00 per person, this experience promises an unforgettable exploration of Kumana’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Kumana National Park Full Day Safari Review
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Yala National Park Wildlife Safari From Kaluthara
The Yala National Park Wildlife Safari from Kaluthara offers an immersive journey into one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned wildlife reserves. Priced at €95.91 per person, this 7-hour excursion promises encounters with an array of fascinating creatures, including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a diversity of bird species.
Guests will embark on a jeep safari led by experienced guides, traversing the park’s lush forests, arid plains, and coastline. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, a stop for lunch, and the opportunity to witness one of the world’s highest leopard populations.
Participants are advised to come prepared with comfortable attire, cameras, and essential supplies for an unforgettable wildlife adventure.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Wildlife Safari From Kaluthara Review
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Udawalawe National Park Entrance Ticket
Visiting Udawalawe National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife reserves, starts with securing the necessary entrance tickets.
Travelers can buy admission tickets online and even pre-book a 3-hour Jeep safari to ensure a hassle-free experience.
The park offers the chance to spot wild elephants, crocodiles, lizards, and a diverse array of birds in their natural habitats.
The safari is led by an experienced driver-tracker, and an upgrade option for a 3-hour tour is available.
While entrance fees and Jeep safari tickets are required, other inclusions like hotel pickup and drop-off, food, and drinks aren’t covered.
Visitors should also note the park’s accessibility limitations and review the flexible cancellation policy.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Entrance Ticket Review
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Yala National Park With Safari Jeep & Tickets From Ella
Travelers seeking an unforgettable wildlife adventure can embark on a captivating Yala National Park safari from the picturesque town of Ella.
Priced from $117-$130 per person, this 8.5-hour tour includes hotel pickup, 3 hours within the park, and the chance to spot rare leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and diverse bird species.
Led by experienced drivers, the safari offers scenic views of forests, plains, and lakes, as well as picturesque sunset photography opportunities.
Included are park entry tickets and a 4×4 jeep, while food, drinks, and personal expenses are excluded.
Guests should come prepared with comfortable attire, sun protection, and binoculars to enhance their wildlife viewing experience.
Read our full review: Yala National Park With Safari Jeep & Tickets From Ella Review
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Private Tour: Yala National Park Safari
Exploring the captivating Yala National Park on a private safari offers adventurers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife.
This tour, rated 5.0 from 12 reviews, provides customized soft-top Jeeps for optimal viewing and experienced driver/guides to assist with wildlife spotting.
Binoculars are provided to enhance the experience, and guests can choose from morning, afternoon, extended morning, or full-day tours, with the latter including two picnic meals.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, national park entrance tickets, and a private tour experience, this offering from Ajith Diamond Tours provides an immersive and personalized way to explore the park’s famous leopards, sloth bears, buffalo, elephants, and storks.
Read our full review: Private Tour: Yala National Park Safari Review
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Yala National Park Sharing Safari (5 Hours)
Yala National Park’s sharing safari offers an excellent opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife in a cost-effective and efficient manner. Priced from $19.91 per person, the 5-hour tour provides a chance to explore the park’s light forests, scrubs, grasslands, and lagoons in search of leopards, elephants, and sloth bears.
Utilizing the ‘Golden Hours’ for optimal viewing, the tour includes a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, free cancellation, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
With 44 mammal species and 215 bird species, the park is a wildlife haven, and the tour’s customer reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and the scenic landscapes.
Whether visiting in the morning or afternoon, this sharing safari offers a memorable Yala National Park experience.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Sharing Safari (5 Hours) Review
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Udawalawe National Park Safari With Private Driver-Jeep and Enter Ticket
For those eager to witness Sri Lanka’s majestic elephants and other diverse wildlife, the Udawalawe National Park safari offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Guests can choose from a private guided half-day or full-day Jeep safari, with the chance to spot elephants, leopards, jackals, and water buffalo.
The tour accommodates up to six travelers and provides hotel pickup and drop-off for locations outside 5km of the park entrance.
While food and drinks aren’t included, visitors can opt to have park entry fees bundled.
With a 5.0 overall rating, the Udawalawe safari ensures a professional and organized experience, though communication may be challenging due to the driver cabin separation.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari With Private Driver-Jeep and Enter Ticket Review
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Yala National Park Wildlife Safari From Tangalle
Situated on the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, Yala National Park is a renowned wildlife sanctuary renowned for its high leopard population and diverse array of fauna.
Visitors can embark on an 8-hour wildlife safari from Tangalle, priced from $105 per person. The safari includes a 3-hour game drive led by experienced guides, where travelers may encounter elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Booking is flexible, with a reserve-now-pay-later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The safari package includes transportation, entrance fees, and bottled water, though food, drinks, and gratuities are excluded.
Proper attire and safety precautions are advised for an unforgettable experience in this natural wonderland.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Wildlife Safari From Tangalle Review
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Udawalawe National Park Safari With Elephant Transit Home Visit
Udawalawe National Park, renowned for its large elephant population, offers an unforgettable safari experience.
The park is home to the Elephant Transit Home, a crucial sanctuary for young elephants before their release. Visitors are guaranteed sightings of baby elephants during feeding times and can observe them up close.
The jeep safari provides an intimate encounter with elephants and other wildlife like water buffalo, mongoose, eagles, peacocks, and leopards. With a maximum of 6 passengers per jeep, the tour ensures a personalized experience.
Included in the starting price of $24 per person are all entrance fees, transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off, making it an excellent value.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari With Elephant Transit Home Visit Review
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Yala National Park Half Day Safari
Visitors to Yala National Park can embark on a half-day safari to spot an array of wildlife. Priced from $62.22 per group (up to 6 people), the safari includes hotel pickup and drop-off, park entrance ticket, water, and food.
With a duration of 6 hours, the tour offers the chance to see leopards, elephants, buffalo, snakes, sloths, jackals, crocodiles, and diverse birds. The experience is led by an English, Russian, Dutch, French, or Spanish-speaking guide using a luxury 4WD vehicle and headsets.
Participants must be between 1 and 95 years old and bring a passport or ID card. While reviews are mixed, the safari promises close-up wildlife encounters and a comfortable ride.
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Udawalawa National Park & Orphanage Visit From Hambantota Port
Exploring Udawalawe National Park, the largest animal reserve in Sri Lanka, is a must-do activity for visitors arriving at Hambantota Port.
This safari-style tour in a 4×4 vehicle offers the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, led by a private driver and guide. Priced from €58.59 per person, the tour includes park entrance fees and an optional visit to the Elephant Transit Home.
While most travelers can participate, the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible. With free pickup and drop-off, free cancellation, and a mix of positive and negative reviews, this tour provides a convenient and immersive wildlife encounter for those visiting the region.
Read our full review: Udawalawa National Park & Orphanage Visit From Hambantota Port Review
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Bundala National Park Sunrise Wildlife Expedition
Bundala National Park, a protected wetland ecosystem in southern Sri Lanka, offers a captivating sunrise wildlife expedition.
This 3-hour tour provides an opportunity to explore the park’s diverse birdlife, including the notable greater flamingos and other unique avian species.
The morning game drive allows visitors to witness Bundala’s importance as a wintering ground for migratory water birds.
With 197 documented bird species, the park is a birdwatcher’s delight.
The tour includes hotel pickup, park entrance fees, refreshments, and Jeep hire, all for a starting price of $110 per person.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a private group option make this expedition an accessible and flexible wildlife experience.
Read our full review: Bundala National Park Sunrise Wildlife Expedition Review
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Yala National Park Wildlife Safari From Bentota
Travelers departing from Bentota can embark on a captivating 7-hour Yala National Park wildlife safari. Priced from $145 per person, the tour offers the chance to spot elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and an abundance of bird species.
Yala is renowned for its high leopard population, and the thrilling jeep safaris are led by experienced guides. Following pickup, guests travel 3.25 hours to the park, enjoy a 3-hour game drive, and have lunch at a local restaurant.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” option, this immersive wildlife experience is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts visiting Sri Lanka.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Wildlife Safari From Bentota Review
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Yala National Park Wildlife Safari From Mirissa
One captivating option for nature enthusiasts visiting Sri Lanka is the Yala National Park wildlife safari departing from Mirissa. Priced from €115.09 per person, this 7-hour excursion promises an unforgettable encounter with the park’s renowned leopard population, as well as elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and diverse bird species.
Led by experienced guides, the jeep safari allows guests to enjoy Yala’s rich biodiversity and conservation efforts. The tour includes hotel pick-up, transportation, park entrance fees, and bottled water, though meals and personal expenses are excluded.
Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning wildlife sightings.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Wildlife Safari From Mirissa Review
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Kumana National Park : Morning Afternoon Safari ( 6 H )
Kumana National Park’s morning and afternoon safari offers nature enthusiasts a captivating 6-hour adventure. Guests can save up to 40% and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes hotel pickup, a live guide, and audio guide in English, as well as travel in luxury safari jeeps. Kumana, also known as Yala East, is famous for its diverse birdlife, with over 200 species.
Visitors may spot elephants, leopards, deer, and crocodiles, and explore the Kumana Villu mangrove swamp and Kumbukkan Oya river. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, but it boasts an impressive 5/5 rating based on customer reviews praising the early morning visits, knowledgeable guides, and memorable wildlife sightings.
Read our full review: Kumana National Park : Morning Afternoon Safari ( 6 H ) Review
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Yala National Park Wildlife Safari From Hambantota
The Yala National Park wildlife safari from Hambantota offers a thrilling 7-hour adventure. Priced from $100 per person, this tour promises encounters with Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a vast array of bird species.
Travelers embark on a 1-hour car ride from Hambantota to the park, followed by a 3-hour game drive in a shared jeep. Led by experienced guides, the safari provides opportunities to spot the park’s renowned fauna in their natural habitats.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, park entrance fees, and bottled water. Participants should come prepared with appropriate attire, sun protection, and other recommended items for an immersive wildlife experience.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Wildlife Safari From Hambantota Review
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Yala National Park Wildlife Safari From Galle
Setting out on a Yala National Park safari from Galle offers wildlife enthusiasts an exhilarating 7-hour adventure. Priced from $100 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, a shared air-conditioned vehicle, and a guided jeep safari through the park.
Highlights include sightings of leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and diverse bird species. After a 2.5-hour drive, visitors enjoy a 45-minute lunch at a local restaurant before the 4-hour jeep safari.
The tour is led by experienced experts, providing thrilling wildlife viewing opportunities in Yala’s natural habitats. Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the memorable encounters.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this safari is a must-do for nature lovers visiting Sri Lanka’s southeastern coast.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Wildlife Safari From Galle Review
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Sum Up
Sri Lanka’s national parks offer diverse wildlife viewing experiences. Kumana, Udawalawe, and Yala National Parks provide opportunities to spot elephants, leopards, and an array of bird species. Safari tours depart from various locations, allowing visitors to tailor their experience. Whether you’re seeking a half-day adventure or a more comprehensive excursion, Sri Lanka’s national parks promise memorable wildlife encounters.