Embark on an exhilarating full-day Yala Safari from Hambantota Harbour and learn about Sri Lanka’s stunning wildlife. This excursion promises an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking Yala National Park, where you’ll have the chance to spot majestic elephants, vibrant birdlife, and other captivating fauna. Savor a delightful picnic lunch amidst the serene natural surroundings, accompanied by knowledgeable English-speaking trekkers. With transportation and a maximum group size of 15, this safari offers an intimate experience tailored for wildlife enthusiasts seeking adventure and memorable encounters. But what unexpected treasures might this excursion uncover?

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Full-Day Tours In Hambantota.

Key Points

  • A full-day safari tour taking visitors from Hambantota Harbour to Yala National Park, known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants.
  • The tour includes a picnic lunch served within the national park and transportation to and from the harbor.
  • A knowledgeable English-speaking trekker accompanies the group, which is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers.
  • Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour is not recommended for certain medical conditions or those with mobility issues.
  • Previous customer reviews mention disappointing service and limited safari time, with positive comments about elephant sightings but a lack of leopards.

Tour Overview

Full Day Yala Safari With Picnic Lunch From Hambantota Harbour - Tour Overview

The Yala Safari with Picnic Lunch is a full-day excursion that departs from Hambantota Harbour in Sri Lanka.

The tour takes visitors on a safari through Yala National Park, where they can spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants. A picnic lunch is provided inside the park.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Hambantota Harbour, as well as the services of an English-speaking trekker. Participants will also receive bottled water and snacks.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, as moderate physical fitness is required.

The maximum group size is 15 travelers.

Inclusions

Full Day Yala Safari With Picnic Lunch From Hambantota Harbour - Inclusions

The Yala Safari with Picnic Lunch includes several key components to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers will enjoy a picnic lunch served right inside the national park, providing a unique dining setting amidst the natural surroundings.

Pickup and drop-off from Hambantota Harbour is included, ensuring seamless transportation.

The tour also covers the national park fees, allowing access to explore the diverse wildlife.

An English-speaking trekker will accompany the group, sharing their knowledge and expertise.

Bottled water and snacks are provided for refreshment throughout the day.

Gratuities are also included, making for a hassle-free experience.

Pickup Information

Port pickup is available on last-minute bookings, which are defined as reservations made less than 7 days before arrival.

The meeting point for this tour is Hambanthota Harbour in Hambantota, Sri Lanka. At the end of the experience, the tour returns to the same meeting point.

  • Pickup and drop-off from Hambantota Harbour are included in the tour.
  • The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
  • Infants must sit on laps, but infant seats are available.
  • The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
  • The maximum group size for this tour is 15 travelers.

Health and Safety Guidelines

Full Day Yala Safari With Picnic Lunch From Hambantota Harbour - Health and Safety Guidelines

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Infants must sit on laps, but infant seats are available.

The safari isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.

The maximum group size is 15 travelers.

These health and safety guidelines are in place to ensure the well-being of all participants.

It’s important for guests to honestly assess their physical capabilities before booking this tour to have the best possible experience.

Booking Details

Full Day Yala Safari With Picnic Lunch From Hambantota Harbour - Booking Details

Prices for this Yala Safari with Picnic Lunch tour start from $150.00 per person, with the final cost varying based on group size.

Booking details include:

  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
  • Confirmation received at the time of booking
  • Reserve now, pay later option available
  • National Park fees are included in the price
  • Group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers

This tour offers a convenient pickup from Hambantota Harbour, and the experience returns to the same meeting point at the end of the day.

Travelers can expect an informative guided safari within Yala National Park, along with a picnic lunch served inside the park.

Customer Reviews

According to the information provided, this Yala Safari with Picnic Lunch tour has received a total of 2 customer reviews so far.

One review noted disappointing service due to delays, limited safari time, and lack of a separate wildlife guide. However, the review did mention positive elephant sightings, though no leopards were observed.

Explore Yala National Park

Yala National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife destinations, known for its diverse and abundant animal populations.

Visitors can expect to see:

  • Majestic Asian Elephants roaming the grasslands
  • Elusive Leopards prowling through the dense foliage
  • Vibrant Bird Life including Peacocks, Storks, and Kingfishers
  • Crocodiles basking on the riverbanks
  • Herds of Spotted Deer and Wild Boar grazing across the landscape

The park’s varied ecosystems, from coastal wetlands to dense forests, provide a thrilling safari experience.

Guided tours offer the best chance to spot Yala’s iconic wildlife, with knowledgeable trackers adept at reading the subtle signs of animal movement and behavior.

Memorable Safari Experience

A Yala safari with a picnic lunch offers visitors a truly immersive wildlife experience. Guests embark on an exciting journey through Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s premier safari destinations.

The tour includes pickup from Hambantota Harbour and a guided exploration of the park, spotting diverse fauna like elephants, crocodiles, and potentially the elusive leopard. Enjoying a picnic lunch amidst the stunning natural surroundings adds to the overall experience.

While some past travelers have noted minor issues with delays and limited safari time, the opportunity to witness the park’s incredible wildlife in its natural habitat is a memorable highlight.

With moderate fitness required, this tour provides an engaging and enriching encounter with Sri Lanka’s remarkable biodiversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Animals Are Typically Seen on the Safari?

Visitors on the Yala Safari typically see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, wild boar, deer, and a diverse array of birds. However, sightings of the elusive leopard are not guaranteed, as noted in the customer reviews.

How Long Does the Actual Safari Drive Usually Last?

The safari drive usually lasts around 3-4 hours. This allows enough time for travelers to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, though leopard sightings are not guaranteed based on the customer reviews.

Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration for an Additional Fee?

There is no mention of an option to extend the safari duration for an additional fee. The tour’s details indicate the safari is a full-day experience, though the actual safari drive time may be limited based on previous customer reviews.

Can We Request a Private Safari Vehicle Instead of a Shared One?

Yes, travelers can request a private safari vehicle for an additional fee. This provides a more exclusive experience and allows for greater flexibility in the safari itinerary. The tour operator should be able to accommodate this request.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Videography During the Safari?

The tour does not mention any restrictions on photography or videography during the safari. Travelers are generally free to take photos and videos of the wildlife sightings, though they should be mindful of not disturbing the animals.

Recap

Embark on an unforgettable full-day Yala Safari from Hambantota Harbour and learn about Sri Lanka’s captivating wildlife. Venture through the picturesque Yala National Park, spotting majestic elephants, vibrant birdlife, and other fascinating fauna. Enjoy a delightful picnic lunch amidst nature, accompanied by knowledgeable English-speaking trekkers. With transportation and a small group size, this safari offers an intimate, adventure-filled experience, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts seeking to discover Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity.