From: Ella/ Bandarawela/ Wellawaya – YALA Wildlife Safari

Set out on a thrilling wildlife adventure with the YALA Wildlife Safari, departing from the charming towns of Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya. This captivating experience promises an up-close encounter with the highest density of leopards in the world, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Yala National Park. Explore diverse landscapes in rugged 4×4 vehicles, keeping your eyes peeled for a glimpse of majestic elephants, elusive sloth bears, and a wealth of other captivating species. With an early start and a full day of exploration, this safari promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you yearning for more. Get ready to embark on a journey unlike any other.

Good To Know

• The YALA Wildlife Safari offers pickup and drop-off from Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya, ensuring convenient transportation for guests.
• The safari experience focuses on sightings of leopards, sloth bears, elephants, and other diverse wildlife during dawn or dusk drives in YALA National Park.
• The tour is priced at a starting rate of €88.87 per person for an 8.5-hour safari and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
• The safari is conducted in small groups of up to 12 participants, ensuring personalized attention and an intimate wildlife encounter.
• The safari vehicles are Toyota Hilux 4x4s, providing access to the park’s rugged terrain and ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.

Tour Overview and Pricing

Starting at just €88.87 per person, this 8.5-hour YALA Wildlife Safari offers an immersive encounter with Sri Lanka’s remarkable fauna.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and the convenience of reserve now, pay later booking.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya, ensuring a seamless experience.

With small group sizes limited to 12 participants, travelers can expect personalized attention and the best possible sightings of leopards, sloth bears, elephants, and more during the dawn or dusk game drives.

Safari Experience

Venturing into the heart of YALA National Park, visitors embark on an unparalleled safari experience.

The park boasts the highest density of leopards globally, with an estimated 100 individual big cats roaming its rugged terrain. Sightings of these majestic predators, alongside elephants, sloth bears, and a diverse array of wildlife, create awe-inspiring moments.

The best viewing times are at dawn and dusk, when the animals are most active. The safari is conducted in a small group size, limited to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized encounter.

Traversing the park’s off-road conditions, the robust Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicles provide unparalleled access to the heart of this natural wonder.

Itinerary Details

The day begins with an early 3:00 a.m. pickup from the designated locations of Ella, Wellawaya, or Bandarawela.

After the transfer to the safari vehicle, an exhilarating 5:30 a.m. drive takes you directly into the heart of YALA National Park.

Venturing into the wilderness aboard a rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4, you’ll embark on two thrilling hours of game drives, searching for the park’s diverse wildlife, including the elusive leopard.

Afterward, enjoy a refreshing break at the picturesque Patanangala Beach before an optional stop at the stunning Rawanaella Waterfall.

This meticulously planned itinerary ensures an immersive wildlife experience, optimizing your chances of encountering nature’s magnificent creatures.

Pickup and Transportation

At the crack of dawn, the tour company’s air-conditioned vehicles arrive to pick up guests from their accommodations in Ella, Wellawaya, or Bandarawela.

These specially-equipped Toyota Hilux 4×4 SUVs are built for the off-road conditions of Yala National Park. The journey to the park entrance is smooth and comfortable, allowing guests to relax and prepare for the exciting safari ahead.

The vehicles feature:

1. Ample space for up to 12 guests and their belongings.
2. High ground clearance and all-terrain capabilities.
3. Panoramic windows for unobstructed wildlife viewing.
4. Professional drivers cum guides who provide commentary throughout the transfer.

Upon arrival at the park gates, guests are seamlessly transitioned to the specialized safari vehicles, ready to embark on an unforgettable encounter with the diverse wildlife of Yala.

Safari Vehicle and Conditions

Upon entering the park, guests are ushered into the rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4 safari vehicles specially designed for the off-road terrain of Yala.

These sturdy and capable 4x4s ensure a smooth and comfortable journey, conquering the unpaved paths with ease. The high clearance and all-terrain capabilities allow the vehicles to navigate through the diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to dense forests, providing an immersive safari experience.

With ample space and seating, the safari vehicles accommodate up to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized encounter with Yala’s incredible wildlife.

This specialized transportation is the perfect complement to the thrilling game drives, allowing guests to explore the national park in complete comfort and safety.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

This safari tour includes an array of essential components to ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

The tour price covers pickup and drop-off from Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya, as well as a professional driver cum guide and all entrance fees to Yala National Park, which cost approximately $37.

Additional costs include:

1. Breakfast options for $8, ranging from Sri Lankan to Western fare.
2. A Sri Lankan rice and curry lunch for $10.
3. Gratuities, which aren’t included in the tour price.
4. A discounted rate of 50% for children aged 5-12, while those under 5 can join for free.

Important Information for Guests

Guests must pay the entrance fees to Yala National Park in cash (Sri Lankan Rupees) or by credit card. A minimum of two guests is required for booking, and the safari is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Important Information
Entrance Fees	Cash or credit card
Minimum Guests	2
Pregnancy/Disabilities	Not suitable
Children	Must have adult
Further Inquiries	Email or WhatsApp

For further inquiries, guests can contact the tour provider via email or WhatsApp at +94777905532.

Contact and Booking Details

To book the YALA Wildlife Safari, guests can reach out to the tour provider via email or WhatsApp. The team is quick to respond and eager to assist with all inquiries.

Once booked, guests can look forward to an unforgettable wildlife adventure:

1. The tour has a minimum of two guests required for booking, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

2. Entrance fees to YALA National Park can be paid in cash (Sri Lankan Rupees) or by credit card, providing convenient payment options.

3. For further inquiries, guests can contact the provider at +94777905532 on WhatsApp.

4. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users, ensuring guest safety and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Safari?

The dress code for the safari is casual and comfortable. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that can protect against the sun and insects. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are recommended for the bumpy terrain. Bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is also advised.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?

You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on the safari. The tour operator encourages this, as it allows you to enjoy the experience at your own pace and comfort level.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Safari?

Participants can freely take photos during the safari, capturing the incredible wildlife sightings. However, flash photography is not permitted to avoid disturbing the animals. Guests are advised to bring their cameras and capture memorable moments from this thrilling safari adventure.

How Often Do the Safari Vehicles Stop for Breaks?

The safari vehicles make a brief 20-30 minute stop at Patanangala Beach, allowing guests to stretch their legs and take in the coastal scenery. This rest break provides a refreshing respite during the exciting game drive through Yala’s diverse wildlife habitats.

Can We Customize the Itinerary Based on Our Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to suit your preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust the schedule, add stops, or focus on specific wildlife sightings during your YALA National Park safari adventure.

The Sum Up

An unforgettable Yala Wildlife Safari from Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya is a thrilling adventure to witness leopards, elephants, and sloth bears in their natural habitat. Explore diverse landscapes in rugged 4×4 vehicles, learn about intimate wildlife encounters, and marvel at the park’s breathtaking views. This safari promises an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.