Tissamaharama: Yala National Park Buffer Zone Night Drive

Tucked away in the buffer zone of Yala National Park, the enchanting Tissamaharama night drive offers a unique opportunity to witness the wonders of Sri Lanka’s nocturnal wildlife. As the sun dips below the horizon, guests embark on an intimate 2-hour journey, led by a knowledgeable guide, in search of elusive creatures like leopards and sloth bears. With a maximum of six participants, this exclusive tour promises a thrilling experience, where visitors can observe the behavior of diverse species, from birds to reptiles, under the glow of the starry sky. Refreshments are provided, adding to the overall enchantment of this unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

• A 2-hour night drive tour in the Yala National Park buffer zone, focused on observing nocturnal mammals, birds, and reptiles.
• High probability of spotting spotted deer, with medium chances of seeing leopards and sloth bears.
• Includes pick-up and drop-off in a safari jeep, with bottled water, snacks, and an English-speaking local guide.
• Limited to 6 participants for an intimate wildlife experience, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Recommended attire includes comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and insect repellent for the remote and cooler evening environment.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Tissamaharama Night Drive offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Yala National Park‘s buffer zone after dark, with prices starting from $60.00 per person.

This 2-hour tour allows guests to witness nocturnal mammals, birds, and reptiles in their natural habitats. The tour starts at 7:30 PM and concludes at 9:00 PM, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Guests can take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off in a safari jeep, cover charges, bottled water, snacks, and refreshments, as well as the services of an English-speaking local guide.

Group size is limited to 6 participants for an intimate experience.

Wildlife Experience

Witnessing nocturnal mammals, birds, and reptiles in their natural habitats is the highlight of the Tissamaharama Night Drive, offering a unique glimpse into Yala National Park’s buffer zone after dark. Guests can expect to spot a variety of species, from prowling leopards to scurrying civets and owls silently gliding overhead. The tour starts at 7:30 PM and concludes at 9:00 PM, ensuring maximum sighting opportunities during the prime viewing hours.

Potential Sightings	Probability
Leopard	Medium
Sloth Bear	Medium
Spotted Deer	High

This exclusive experience provides a thrilling adventure for nature enthusiasts, allowing them to enjoy the nocturnal world of Yala’s captivating wildlife.

Itinerary

Beginning at 7:00 PM, guests are picked up from their hotel in Yala or Tissamaharama to commence the night wildlife tour.

The safari jeep then departs for the Yala National Park buffer zone, arriving at the starting point by 7:30 PM to begin the immersive nocturnal experience.

Over the next two hours, the tour explores the park at night, offering the chance to witness an array of nocturnal mammals, birds, and reptiles in their natural habitats.

The tour concludes at 9:00 PM, with guests then being dropped off back at their hotel or the designated drop-off location.

Inclusions

This night wildlife tour includes pick-up and drop-off by safari jeep, covering all charges for the jeep.

Plus, bottled water and snacks, as well as refreshments, are provided during the safari.

On top of that, the service of an English-speaking local guide is included, and all government taxes are covered.

The tour is limited to a small group of 6 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

While gratuities are recommended, any other expenses of a personal nature aren’t included in the price.

This comprehensive package allows visitors to fully enjoy the nocturnal wonders of the Yala National Park Buffer Zone without worrying about additional costs.

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Participant Guidelines

The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. This small-group format allows for greater flexibility and allows the guide to cater to the specific interests and needs of each guest.

Pregnant women are advised not to join this excursion. While gratuities for the guide are recommended, any other expenses of a personal nature aren’t included in the tour price.

Participants can expect a safe and engaging wildlife experience in the buffer zone of Yala National Park, with the opportunity to spot a variety of nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat.

Highlights of the Tour

During the Tissamaharama Night Drive, participants can expect to witness a diverse array of nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitats within the buffer zone of Yala National Park.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to spot elusive mammals like the sloth bear, leopard, and spotted deer.

Birdwatchers will delight in sightings of owls, nightjars, and other nocturnal avian species.

The safari jeep provides an up-close and personal experience, allowing guests to observe the animals’ behavior without disturbing their natural activities.

With an experienced local guide, participants can learn about the park’s ecology and conservation efforts.

The night drive promises an unforgettable adventure, immersing visitors in the captivating world of Yala’s nocturnal wildlife.

Preparing for the Night Drive

Participants should dress appropriately for the night drive, wearing comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes to protect against any potential wildlife encounters or uneven terrain.

Bringing a light jacket or sweater is also recommended, as temperatures can drop in the evening.

Plus, insect repellent may be useful to ward off mosquitoes and other insects during the safari.

It’s important to bring any necessary personal medications, as the tour may venture into remote areas.

Participants should also ensure they’ve a fully charged camera or phone to capture the stunning nocturnal sights.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking the Tissamaharama Night Drive can be done conveniently online or by contacting the tour operator directly.

Customers have the option to reserve their spot and pay later, providing flexibility in planning their trip. Cancellations are also straightforward, with a full refund available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

The night drive is priced at $60 per person and lasts for 2 hours, allowing participants to witness an array of nocturnal wildlife within the Yala National Park Buffer Zone.

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off, cover charges, bottled water, snacks, and the services of an English-speaking local guide. With a maximum of 6 participants per group, the experience offers an intimate and personalized wildlife encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Safety Precautions Are in Place During the Night Drive?

The night drive has several safety precautions. The vehicle is equipped with proper lighting to navigate the terrain safely. Experienced guides lead the tour and provide instructions to participants on staying inside the vehicle at all times.

Can Children Participate in the Night Drive?

Children can participate in the night drive, but it’s not recommended for young kids. The tour operator advises that the experience may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with limited mobility due to the nature of the activity.

What Types of Wildlife Are Commonly Spotted During the Tour?

Participants can often spot a variety of nocturnal wildlife, including mammals like leopards, elephants, and sloth bears, as well as birds and reptiles in their natural habitats during the Yala National Park Buffer Zone Night Drive.

Are Photography Opportunities Available During the Night Drive?

The night drive offers excellent photography opportunities. While low light conditions can be challenging, guests can capture images of nocturnal wildlife when they’re most active. The tour guide provides advice to help maximize photographic success during the safari.

Can Guests Request Any Specific Wildlife Sightings?

Guests can request to see specific nocturnal wildlife, but the tour operator can’t guarantee sightings. The night drive give you a unique wildlife experience, though the visibility and sightings depend on various factors beyond the operator’s control.

Recap

The Tissamaharama night drive in the Yala National Park buffer zone offers an enchanting opportunity to witness the wonders of nocturnal wildlife.

With a knowledgeable guide and a comfortable safari jeep, visitors can spot elusive creatures like leopards and sloth bears, as well as a variety of birds and reptiles, in their natural habitats under the stars.

It’s an intimate tour that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check if your dates are available here: