YALA National Park – Full Day Safari With Lunch & Breakfast

Set out on a thrilling safari adventure at Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife destinations. Boasting the world’s highest density of leopards, this remarkable reserve promises an unforgettable encounter with a diverse array of fauna, from majestic elephants to vibrant birdlife. Spend a full day immersed in the park’s stunning natural beauty, enjoying three game drives during the optimal "Golden Hours" for spotting wildlife. Indulge in a delectable picnic breakfast and lunch featuring traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, all while navigating the rugged terrain in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle with expert guides. Get ready to be captivated by the wonders of Yala National Park.

Good To Know

• A 14-hour full-day safari in YALA National Park showcases diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and sloth bears, with three game drives scheduled during optimal viewing times.
• The safari package includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a professional driver cum guide, rugged 4×4 vehicles, and traditional Sri Lankan picnic breakfast and lunch.
• YALA National Park is known for its high leopard density, with around 100 individuals, and is home to a variety of other wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, and over 130 bird species.
• Guests can enjoy a safe and memorable wildlife adventure with Ajith Safari Jeep Tours, an authorized operator with over 30 years of experience in the park.
• The safari experience provides an opportunity to immerse in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage through the traditional Sri Lankan cuisine served during the tour.

Safari Overview and Pricing

A full-day safari in YALA National Park provides the opportunity to encounter Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife, including the iconic leopard, majestic elephants, and elusive sloth bears.

Priced from €73.98 per person, this safari offers a reserve now and pay later option, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The 14-hour experience, including pickup and drop-off, promises an unforgettable adventure.

Explore the park’s abundant wildlife during three game drives, with the best viewing opportunities during the "Golden Hours" from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Transportation in rugged 4×4 vehicles and traditional Sri Lankan meals complete this immersive wildlife experience.

Itinerary and Schedule

Starting at 4:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m., the safari operators provide pickup from hotels in the surrounding towns, ensuring a timely arrival at the YALA National Park entrance by 5:30 a.m. Once inside, the first game drive begins at 6:00 a.m. and lasts until 8:00 a.m., allowing guests to witness the park’s wildlife during the "Golden Hours." After a 30-minute breakfast break at Patanangala Beach, the second game drive commences from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., followed by a lunch break. The final game drive runs from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. before the group departs the park and is dropped off at their hotels between 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Time	Activity
4:30 a.m. – 5:00 a.m.	Hotel pickup
5:30 a.m.	Arrive at YALA National Park
6:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.	First game drive (2.5 hours)
8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.	Breakfast break
10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.	Second game drive (3 hours)

Wildlife Experience

YALA National Park is home to the highest leopard density in the world, with approximately 100 individuals prowling the rugged landscapes.

Visitors can expect to spot these elusive big cats along with a wealth of other wildlife. Elephants roam the park in search of food and water, while crocodiles sun themselves on the banks of the lagoons.

Sloth bears, with their distinctive long snouts, forage for insects and berries. Over 130 bird species, from vibrant peacocks to stately storks, fill the air with their calls.

The "Golden Hours" of early morning and late afternoon offer the best chances to witness this incredible array of fauna in their natural habitat.

Inclusions and Vehicle Details

The safari package includes pickup and drop-off from select hotels, along with a professional driver cum guide who’ll lead the full-day wildlife experience.

Guests will travel in rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicles, ensuring optimal viewing and comfort throughout the three game drives.

A picnic breakfast and lunch featuring traditional Sri Lankan dishes are also included, providing a delightful culinary experience.

The entrance fees to YALA National Park, which are around $37 USD, must be paid separately at the park entrance.

With over 30 years of experience, Ajith Safari Jeep Tours is authorized to operate in this renowned wildlife reserve.

Important Information and Restrictions

Guests interested in joining the YALA National Park safari should be aware of a few important details and restrictions.

First, the entrance fee to the park isn’t included in the tour package, and guests will need to pay this directly upon arrival.

Plus, a minimum of two guests is required per booking. While children aged 5 and under can join for free, those between 5 and 12 years old receive a 50% discount.

However, the safari isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users.

With over 30 years of experience, Ajith Safari Jeep Tours is authorized to operate in YALA National Park, ensuring a safe and memorable wildlife adventure.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

Convenience and flexibility are key elements of the YALA National Park safari experience, as the tour provider offers pickup and drop-off services from several convenient locations. Guests can be picked up from their hotels in Tissamaharama, Kirinda, Weerawila, Palatupana, Bundala Junction, Weligatta, and Yoda Kandiya, ensuring a seamless start to their adventure.

Pickup Location	Arrival Time
Tissamaharama	4:30 – 5:00 am
Kirinda	4:30 – 5:00 am
Weerawila	4:30 – 5:00 am
Palatupana	4:30 – 5:00 am
Bundala Junction	4:30 – 5:00 am

This comprehensive service allows guests to focus on the excitement of the safari, without the hassle of transportation arrangements.

Traditional Sri Lankan Cuisine

During the safari breaks, guests savor the vibrant flavors of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. The picnic breakfast features traditional Sri Lankan dishes, including fresh tropical fruits, fragrant rice, and curries bursting with aromatic spices.

The lunch spread showcases the diversity of Sri Lankan culinary delights, with a selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Spicy lentil dals, flavorful vegetable curries, and succulent meats are served alongside fluffy rice and freshly baked roti breads.

The meals are a true celebration of Sri Lanka’s rich gastronomic heritage, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the country’s vibrant culture and its celebrated cuisine.

Authorized Safari Operator

Ajith Safari Jeep Tours, the authorized operator of this YALA National Park safari, boasts over 30 years of experience navigating the park’s rugged terrain.

Their fleet of Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicles is specially designed for optimal wildlife viewing, ensuring a comfortable and immersive safari experience.

With a team of professional drivers and guides, Ajith Safari Jeep Tours provides personalized attention to each guest, sharing their deep knowledge of YALA’s diverse ecosystems and impressive wildlife.

Adhering to strict safety protocols, the company is licensed to offer this unforgettable safari, guaranteeing a seamless and memorable adventure in one of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular natural havens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Spot Leopards?

The best time to spot leopards in YALA National Park is during the "Golden Hours" from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., when these elusive cats are most active and visible.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages on the Safari?

You can’t bring your own food and beverages on the safari. The package includes a picnic breakfast and lunch featuring traditional Sri Lankan dishes, which are provided to ensure a seamless and enjoyable wildlife experience.

What Is the Maximum Group Size Allowed per Vehicle?

The maximum group size allowed per vehicle is 6 people. Ajith Safari Jeep Tours offers transportation in rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicles, ensuring an optimal wildlife viewing experience for guests during their exciting YALA National Park safari.

Can I Extend the Safari Duration Beyond the Standard Package?

Guests can extend their safari experience beyond the standard package, though additional fees may apply. The tour operator is flexible and can customize the itinerary to accommodate special requests, ensuring an unforgettable wildlife adventure.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes I Should Be Aware Of?

There are a few additional fees and taxes guests should keep in mind. The national park entrance fee isn’t included in the package price and must be paid separately upon arrival. Guests can expect to pay around $37 USD for this fee.

The Sum Up

Set out on a thrilling full-day safari at the renowned Yala National Park, where you’ll witness the park’s diverse wildlife and the highest leopard density in the world. With expert guides, delectable local cuisine, and convenient transportation, this immersive experience promises an unforgettable adventure amidst Sri Lanka’s stunning natural beauty. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the wild wonders of this remarkable destination.