Yala: All Inclusive Overnight Glamping and Safari

If you’re dreaming of a night surrounded by the sounds of the jungle and the chance to spot elusive wildlife, this Yala glamping and safari experience might just be your ticket. Offered by Ceylon Pass, this overnight adventure combines the thrill of a park safari with the comfort of a stylish camp setup, all set in the heart of Sri Lanka’s most famous national park.

What we love about this experience is how it balances excitement with comfort. First, the safari tour promises the chance to see leopards, elephants, peacocks, crocodiles, and many native species—something that makes this trip stand out among typical day trips. Second, the glamping setup offers a cozy, yet authentic way to stay close to nature without sacrificing modern comforts like a pool and delicious meals. A potential drawback? The cost of $349 per person might seem steep for some, especially since transportation to the site isn’t included. Still, for wildlife enthusiasts or those looking for a unique Sri Lankan adventure, it offers real value.

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave a mix of adventure and relaxation, enjoy wildlife viewing, and appreciate comfort in the wilderness. It’s ideal for small groups or couples seeking an intimate experience, but less so for families with very young children or travelers with mobility issues.

Key Points

• Wildlife Viewing: Chance to see leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and more in their natural habitat.
• Comfort in the Wilderness: Stylish glamping tents with pool access, plus great food and drinks.
• Balanced Itinerary: Includes a half-day safari, delicious meals, and relaxing pool time.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 6) ensure a personalized experience.
• All-Inclusive Value: Park entrance fees, meals, drinks, and safari transportation are included.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for full refunds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience in Detail

This overnight adventure in Yala begins with a warm welcome at the campsite, where you’ll be greeted with a refreshing welcome juice. The first impression is one of thoughtful hospitality—setting the tone for a relaxed yet adventurous overnight stay. The campsite itself offers pool access, so even before the safari, you can enjoy a quick dip to unwind from your journey.

Once settled, your main activity is the half-day safari by Jeep—an activity that promises a close-up look at Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife. You’ll be driven through the park’s diverse landscapes, with chances to spot leopards, elephants, peacocks, and even crocodiles basking on the banks. The journey in itself is an experience, with the chance to witness animals in their natural environment, undisturbed and in motion.

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the safari’s timing and setup. Many reviews highlight how the safari is well-organized, and the small group size (capped at six participants) means you’re not just another number—this allows for better wildlife sightings and more personalized attention from guides. The midway breakfast is a lovely touch, served amidst the wilderness—an opportunity to enjoy the sounds of nature while fueling up for the afternoon.

As evening approaches, the highlight shifts to the BBQ dinner around the campfire. Here, you’ll savor fresh meats and the catch of the day, Fish, paired with hand-picked vegetables—a meal that’s hearty and makes the most of local flavors. To cap it all, you’ll be treated to ice-cold beers, served in buckets—an ideal way to unwind after a day of adventure.

The night at the glampsite is notably comfortable. The tents are designed to provide a cozy yet authentic outdoor experience, allowing you to fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle without sacrificing creature comforts. This setup is especially appealing for travelers who want to experience the wilderness without roughing it.

The next morning, after a relaxing breakfast by the pool, your jeep will return you to the park for a second safari—giving you additional chances to spot animals or revisit favorite sightings. The tour wraps up with a return to the campsite, where you can enjoy some downtime before heading home.

The Practicalities

Price-wise, at $349 per person, this tour is a significant investment but offers considerable value when you factor in the park entrance fees, meals, and guided safaris included. It’s worth noting that transportation to the campsite isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer or coordinate pickup if offered.

The small group size makes for a more intimate experience, with just a handful of travelers exploring together. This enhances wildlife sightings and allows guides to tailor the experience somewhat. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus for travelers with mobility needs, though the physical demands of outdoor activities and the campsite environment should be considered.

Timing is flexible; you can choose a 1- or 2-day option depending on your schedule and interest. Remember, booking at least 7 days in advance is recommended due to limited space—this isn’t a tour for spontaneous plans.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are essentials like welcome juice, overnight stay, BBQ dinner, four beers per person, a morning safari, breakfast and lunch, pool access, and park entry fees. The not included are transportation to the campsite and personal expenses, so plan accordingly.

Guests repeatedly mention the value of the included activities and meals, which make the experience seamless and more enjoyable. The “skip the ticket line” feature adds convenience, saving precious time at park entrances.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and relaxation lovers looking for a unique overnight in Sri Lanka. It’s especially appealing to those wanting a small group experience with personalized attention and authentic wildlife encounters.

However, it’s less suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or individuals with back, heart, or mobility issues due to the outdoor activities and campsite environment. Also, travelers should be prepared for weather conditions that can affect safari timing and visibility.

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Final Thoughts

To sum up, the Yala All-Inclusive Glamping and Safari offers a blend of adventure, comfort, and authenticity. It’s a well-rounded experience that allows you to see some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat, without sacrificing the pleasures of good food, comfy accommodations, and relaxing pool time.

If you’re a nature lover seeking a more intimate, guided experience with good food and some downtime, this tour hits the mark. It’s also quite a value considering what’s included, especially if you’re keen on wildlife sightings and want to spend a night in the midst of Sri Lanka’s wild beauty.

For travelers wanting to combine safari excitement with luxury camping, this offers a memorable and well-organized option. Just remember, booking early and arranging your transportation are key to making the most of this adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation to the campsite included?
No, transportation to and from the glamping site is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer or check if the provider offers a pickup service.

How many days does the tour last?
You can choose between a 1- or 2-day experience, depending on availability and your schedule. Check availability for starting times.

What animals might I see?
You could encounter leopards, elephants, peacocks, crocodiles, and many other species native to Yala National Park.

What’s the price per person?
The tour costs $349 per person. It includes all major components like meals, safaris, and park fees, providing good value for the experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years old, due to the outdoor activities and campsite environment, and for safety reasons.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and insect repellent. Be prepared for outdoor conditions.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the safari weather-dependent?
Yes, safaris are subject to weather conditions, which can affect visibility and animal activity.

What’s included in the meals?
You’ll enjoy a BBQ dinner with fresh meats and fish, along with breakfast and lunch the following day.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 6 participants for a more personalized experience.

This Yala overnight safari combines adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters — perfect for those looking to spend a night in the wild with a touch of luxury. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a curious traveler wanting a genuinely memorable Sri Lankan experience, this tour offers a lot for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here: