Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s southern province, Yala National Park is a natural wonder that beckons adventurous travelers. With a private safari tailored to their preferences, visitors can enjoy the park’s diverse ecosystem, guided by expert naturalists who know the terrain inside out. From morning to afternoon excursions, or a full-day adventure, the flexibility of this offering ensures an unforgettable experience. As you embark on this journey, prepare to encounter a remarkable array of fauna, from majestic elephants to elusive leopards, all while savoring the park’s breathtaking landscapes. But the real question remains – what captivating sights and encounters await you in this untamed wilderness?
Key Points

• Private safari experience in Yala National Park starting at $120 per person, with flexible duration options from 4 to 10 hours.
• Guided by experienced drivers and naturalists, offering opportunities to spot diverse wildlife including leopards, bears, and elephants.
• Full-day safari includes a picnic lunch in natural surroundings, providing an immersive experience with the region’s biodiversity.
• Comprehensive package includes private safari jeep, national park entry fees, and complimentary pick-up and drop-off from various locations.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows changes up to 24 hours in advance, and a ‘reserve now & pay later’ option is available for convenience.
Overview and Pricing

The Yala Safari from the Yala and Tissamaharama area provides a private, exclusive experience for visitors looking to explore the renowned Yala National Park.
Priced from $120.00 per person, the safari can range in duration from 4 to 10 hours, offering flexibility to suit various travel plans.
Guests can enjoy the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as the option to reserve their spot and pay later.
With this all-inclusive package, travelers can expect a hassle-free safari adventure, exploring the diverse wildlife of Yala in the comfort of a private jeep.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Sri Lanka
Safari Experience

Embarking on the Yala Safari, visitors can explore the renowned Yala National Park in search of a diverse array of wildlife, including leopards, bears, elephants, crocodiles, and more.
The safari offers flexible options to suit various preferences – morning, afternoon, or full-day excursions.
During the morning and afternoon safaris, guests will venture into the park, guided by experienced drivers and naturalists, on the lookout for the elusive leopard and other captivating creatures.
For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, the full-day safari provides the opportunity to enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning natural surroundings while continuing the wildlife exploration.
Regardless of the chosen option, the Yala Safari promises an immersive and unforgettable encounter with the region’s remarkable biodiversity.
Inclusions and Logistics

As part of the all-inclusive Yala Safari package, visitors can expect a private safari jeep, comprehensive national park entry fees, and a delectable picnic lunch for the full-day excursion.
Conveniently, the safari provider offers complimentary pick-up and drop-off services from various locations, including Yala, Tissamaharama, Kirinda, Kataragama, and Weerawila.
Morning safaris depart as early as 5:30 am or 6:00 am, while afternoon safaris commence at 1:30 pm. For those opting for the full-day safari, pick-up times are also scheduled for 5:30 am or 6:00 am.
This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and comfortable experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the wonders of Yala National Park.
Participant Suitability

Yala Safari’s adventurous activities cater to a wide range of participants, accommodating adults aged 11 to 99, children aged 5 to 10, and even infants 4 years and younger.
However, the safari provider doesn’t recommend the experience for pregnant women due to potential risks and discomfort associated with the off-road nature of the excursion.
The participant suitability for this safari includes:
-
Adults (ages 11-99) can fully enjoy the thrilling wildlife encounters and rugged terrain.
-
Children (ages 5-10) are welcome, with the safari designed to provide a safe and engaging experience for younger explorers.
-
Infants (4 years and younger) are also accommodated, allowing families to share this unforgettable adventure together.
Customer Feedback
Overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants highlight the exceptional customer service and unforgettable experiences that define Yala Safari’s offerings.
The company boasts an impressive 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews, with customers praising the communication, comfort of the jeeps, and overall excellence of the service.
Notable experiences include the opportunity to witness diverse wildlife, such as leopards, bears, and elephants, as well as enjoying a picnic lunch during the full-day safari.
While a few challenges with jeep breakdowns were encountered, the team effectively handled these situations, further enhancing the overall experience.
Yala Safari’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in the glowing feedback, making it a trusted choice for those seeking an exceptional wildlife adventure.
Safari Options

Yala Safari offers a range of safari options to cater to the diverse preferences and needs of its guests, allowing them to customize their wildlife adventure. Guests can choose from:
-
Morning Safari: An early start at 5:30 am or 6:00 am offers the best chances of spotting nocturnal animals as they retire for the day.
-
Afternoon Safari: A mid-day departure at 1:30 pm is perfect for those seeking a more leisurely pace and an opportunity to witness the park’s wildlife during the heat of the day.
-
Full-Day Safari: For a comprehensive Yala experience, the full-day safari combines the morning and afternoon excursions, including a picnic lunch, ensuring guests can maximize their chances of encountering the park’s diverse fauna.
Pickup and Dropoff
Complimentary pick-up and drop-off services are available from various locations surrounding Yala National Park, including Yala, Tissamaharama, Kirinda, Kataragama, and Weerawila.
Guests can select their preferred departure point, with morning safaris typically starting at either 5:30 am or 6:00 am, and afternoon safaris commencing at 1:30 pm.
For full-day excursions, the pick-up time is the same as the morning safari.
This convenient service ensures a seamless start and end to the safari adventure, allowing guests to relax and fully enjoy the incredible wildlife sightings within Yala National Park.
Cancellation and Booking

With a flexible cancellation policy, guests can cancel their Yala safari reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Plus, the ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option allows travellers to book their spot without any upfront payment, simplifying the planning process.
This safari experience offers several convenient booking options:
-
Secure your safari spot immediately and pay later when you arrive.
-
Take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to your scheduled departure.
-
Make changes to your reservation as needed, ensuring a stress-free safari planning experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Specific Safari Guide?
Yes, customers can typically request a specific safari guide. The tour operator will accommodate this request if the preferred guide is available for the selected date and time. This ensures a personalized and familiar experience for the customer.
Is It Possible to Combine This Safari With Other Activities?
Yes, it’s possible to combine this safari with other activities. Many tour operators offer package deals that bundle the safari with additional experiences like cultural tours, hiking, or visits to local villages, providing a more comprehensive Sri Lankan adventure.
What Is the Dress Code for the Safari?
The dress code for a safari generally consists of lightweight, neutral-colored clothing that blends in with the natural surroundings. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes and sun protection like hats or sunglasses are also recommended to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Are There Any Special Requirements for Photography?
There are no special requirements for photography on the safari. Guests can bring their own cameras and capture the wildlife freely. However, it’s advised to be mindful of the animals and avoid disturbing them during the safari experience.
Can I Make Modifications to the Standard Safari Itinerary?
Yes, customers can typically make modifications to the standard safari itinerary. Most providers offer flexibility, allowing guests to customize their experience, such as extending the duration, altering the schedule, or focusing on specific areas of interest within the park.
Recap
Yala National Park’s private safari is an immersive experience that allows visitors to witness the region’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
With expert naturalist guides, flexible scheduling, and seamless logistics, this all-inclusive package ensures an unforgettable adventure.
Travelers can choose from morning, afternoon, or full-day excursions, catered to their preferences, making the most of Yala’s renowned biodiversity.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Safari Adventures in Sri Lanka
More Tour Reviews in Sri Lanka
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Sri Lanka we have recnetly reviewed
- 2 Best Guided Tours In Sri Lanka
- 2 Best Dining Experiences In Sri Lanka
- 3 Best Full-Day Tours In Sri Lanka
- 5 Best Private Car With Driver Services In Sri Lanka
- 7 Best Lunch Experiences In Sri Lanka
- Arugam Bay to Ella Shuttle & Upper Diyaluma Waterfall Hike
- Highlights Of Sri Lanka | 7 Days
- PADI Rescue Diver
- Pigeon Island Snorkeling Tour in Trincomalee
- Colombo to Polonnaruwa Ancient City Visit and Safari
- Jeep Safari and Sigiriya Tour Review
- Fun Dives For Certified Divers
