From: Mirissa/ Matara/ Koggala – YALA Safari -Drop Off: Ella

Setting out on a thrilling journey, adventurers will discover the untamed beauty of Yala National Park. From the coastal towns of Mirissa, Matara, or Koggala, this small-group safari whisks travelers into the heart of Sri Lanka’s wildlife wonderland. For just under $100 per person, the exhilarating 8.5-hour experience promises an up-close encounter with the park’s famous leopards, elephants, and more. But the adventure doesn’t end there. Along the way, the tour tempts with optional picnic meals and a stop at the captivating Ravana Waterfall, setting the stage for an unforgettable conclusion in the charming town of Ella.

Good To Know

• The YALA Safari Drop Off tour departs from pickup locations in Mirissa, Matara, or Koggala and ends with a drop-off in Ella.
• The 8.5-hour small-group tour (max 12 participants) offers the opportunity to spot wildlife such as leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and sloth bears in Yala National Park.
• The tour includes a scenic countryside journey, a 30-minute jeep ride to the park, and an optional stop at Ravana Waterfall before the Ella drop-off.
• The tour package covers pickup/drop-off, a professional driver-guide, and park entrance fees, with optional add-ons like picnic meals.
• Restrictions apply for pregnant women, individuals with back issues, and wheelchair users, and a minimum booking of two guests is required.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This YALA Safari Drop Off tour offers a thrilling opportunity to explore the wild heart of Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park. Priced at just $94.75 per person, the 8.5-hour adventure promises an unforgettable small-group experience limited to 12 participants.

Enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve your spot now with the option to pay later.

Whether you choose the morning or afternoon safari, you’ll embark on a remarkable journey filled with the chance to spot elusive leopards, majestic elephants, and a wealth of other captivating wildlife.

With seamless pickup and drop-off service, this tour is a must for nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive exploration of Yala’s untamed beauty.

Pickup Locations and Timings

Across Sri Lanka’s southern coast, the tour’s pickup locations span a scenic stretch from Dondra to Mirissa, offering convenient access for travelers.

Whether you’re staying in Weligama, Koggala, Ahangama, Matara, Talalla, or Mirissa, the tour can accommodate you.

The morning safari departs at 3:00 a.m., while the afternoon option leaves at 11:30 a.m. or 12:00 p.m.

After a 2-hour drive and a 30-minute jeep ride, you’ll enter Yala National Park, enjoying approximately 3 hours of wildlife viewing across two game drives.

An optional stop at the picturesque Ravana Waterfall precedes the drop-off in Ella around noon.

Journey to Yala National Park

After the pickup, the journey to Yala National Park begins. The van winds through scenic countryside, passing paddy fields, villages, and palm groves.

As the road narrows, the landscape becomes more rugged and wild. Climbing a winding road, the group finally reaches the park entrance.

Here, they transfer to an open-air jeep or SUV for the final 30-minute drive into the reserve. The excitement builds as the vehicle bumps along the dusty tracks, the sound of birdsong and rustling leaves all around.

Entering Yala, the sights and sounds of the untamed wilderness come alive, setting the stage for an unforgettable safari experience.

Wildlife Viewing Experience

As the jeep rumbles deeper into Yala National Park, the wildlife viewing experience truly comes alive.

Scanning the horizon, guests spot elephants grazing peacefully, their massive forms silhouetted against the golden savanna. Suddenly, a leopard slinks across the path, its spotted coat blending seamlessly with the dappled shadows.

Crocodiles bask on the riverbanks, their jaws agape, while sloth bears amble through the brush, searching for termites. The air is thick with the cries of peacocks and the snorts of buffaloes.

With the highest leopard density globally, Yala offers unparalleled opportunities to witness these magnificent predators in their natural habitat.

As the safari continues, a sense of awe and privilege fills the air, leaving lasting impressions on all who experience it.

More Great Tours Nearby

Inclusions and Optional Extras

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off from the specified areas, as well as the services of a professional driver cum guide.

Entrance fees to Yala National Park, approximately $37 per person, are payable in cash or by credit card. Guests can opt for a morning picnic breakfast ($8 per person) or an afternoon lunch ($10 per person) to enhance their safari experience.

While gratuities aren’t included, they’re appreciated by the dedicated staff who strive to make the day memorable.

Guests should be aware of certain restrictions, such as the tour’s unsuitability for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.

Restrictions and Age Policies

This safari experience may not suit all travelers. It isn’t recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users due to the rugged terrain and bumpy jeep rides.

However, children under 5 can ride for free, and those aged 5-12 receive a 50% discount, making it an excellent family-friendly activity.

Keep in mind that a minimum of two guests is required to book the tour. Entrance fees must be paid in cash or by credit card, so be prepared.

With these restrictions and age policies in mind, this safari is tailored for adventurous travelers seeking an immersive wildlife encounter in Yala National Park.

Payment and Refund Policy

How flexible is the payment and refund policy for this YALA Safari experience? Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, allowing them to keep their plans flexible. On top of that, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. See the details below:

Payment Options	Entrance Fees
Cash (Sri Lankan Rupees)	11,000 LKR (approx. $37)
Credit Card	11,000 LKR (approx. $37)

Cancellation Policy	Full Refund
Up to 24 hours in advance	Yes
Less than 24 hours	No

This ensures guests can book confidently, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

Highlights and Key Information

A thrilling safari adventure awaits at Yala National Park, where visitors can witness the park’s famed high density of leopards roaming the lush landscapes.

This 8.5-hour tour offers:

1. The chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and buffaloes.
2. Two game drives with a professional driver-guide, ensuring an immersive and informative experience.
3. An optional stop at the stunning Ravana Waterfall, providing a refreshing break from the safari.
4. Convenient pickup and drop-off services from the specified areas, making the journey hassle-free.

This small-group tour, limited to 12 participants, provides a personalized and unforgettable glimpse into the wonders of Yala National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Safari Tour?

The safari tour has a small group experience, with the group size limited to 12 participants. This intimate setting allows for a more personalized and immersive wildlife viewing adventure.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Safari?

The safari provides limited restroom facilities during the wildlife viewing in Yala National Park. Participants have access to basic pit stop facilities at designated checkpoints, though access may be limited given the remote nature of the park.

Can We Make Any Additional Stops Along the Way to Ella?

The Yala Safari tour typically does not include any additional stops between the park and Ella. However, guests may request a brief stop at Ravana Waterfall if desired, subject to time constraints.

Is There a Guide or Naturalist Accompanying the Safari?

The safari includes a professional driver cum guide who accompanies the group, providing expert commentary on the wildlife and ecosystem of Yala National Park throughout the journey. Their knowledge enhances the immersive safari experience.

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

Travelers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for the safari. However, the tour operator also offers optional picnic breakfast and lunch packages for a convenient and authentic wildlife experience in Yala National Park.

The Sum Up

The YALA Safari Drop Off tour offers an unforgettable adventure. From the scenic drive to the exhilarating jeep ride, it’s a thrilling journey through Sri Lanka’s lush countryside. With the chance to spot leopards, elephants, and more, it’s an immersive wildlife experience. Whether you opt for a picnic lunch or a stop at Ravana Waterfall, this small-group tour promises an unforgettable day, culminating in the charming town of Ella.

You can check availability for your dates here: