2 Nights All Inclusive Luxury Camping in Yala with Return transfers

If you’re considering a stay in Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park, a tour offering all-inclusive luxury camping with multiple game drives might just be what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this journey, extensive reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a truly special experience. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the jungle, exploring abundant wildlife with expert guides, and unwinding in plush tents after exciting days—all arranged for you.

What we love about this package are its combination of comfort and adventure, the expert naturalist guides leading each game drive, and the inclusion of all meals and drinks, which simplifies the planning. The opportunity to relax on a private beach and enjoy a BBQ dinner under the stars adds a special touch to an already premium experience.

However, one consideration is the 3-day duration, which might feel a bit short for some travelers wanting a deeper immersion. This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts, comfort seekers, and those new to safaris looking for a balanced blend of luxury and adventure in Sri Lanka’s wild heart.

• Luxury Tents & Amenities: En suite bathrooms, outdoor showers, and spacious tents ensure comfort in the wild.
• Expert Naturalists: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insightful wildlife spotting.
• Multiple Game Drives: Four carefully curated drives increase your chances of spotting leopards, birds, and other wildlife.
• All-Inclusive: Meals, drinks (including alcohol), and snacks are included, making it hassle-free.
• Additional Experiences: Lake treks, bird watching, and a beach BBQ provide variety beyond safaris.
• Convenient Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off from Colombo or nearby cities streamline your journey.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins early, with pickup around 7:30 am from your hotel in Colombo, Negombo, or nearby locations like Mount Lavinia, Wadduwa, or Galle. The group size appears to be private, which means a more tailored experience. The drive to Yala takes approximately 4-6 hours, depending on your pickup point, offering a chance to settle in and get excited about the adventure ahead.

The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle designed for safari viewing ensures you travel in style and convenience, with plenty of room for your gear and snacks. Based on reviews, the transfer aspect is well-organized, helping to set a relaxed tone before you even arrive.

The Leopard Nest Camping Setup

Arriving at the Leopard Nest camp in the early afternoon, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome. The camp’s focus on luxury is evident—large en suite tents with outdoor showers, cozy communal spaces, and thoughtful touches that make you feel at home amidst nature. Food is plentiful, including delicious local Sri Lankan cuisine, with options for vegetarians if needed. The camp manager provides a brief orientation, giving you tips on wildlife sightings, camp rules, and activities.

Guests have highlighted the friendly atmosphere and the great service provided by staff like Krishan and his team, who go out of their way to ensure a memorable stay. The camp’s location is perfect for wildlife viewing, just a short drive from the park.

Wildlife Game Drives

The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the four game drives led by skilled naturalists, including detailed explanations of flora and fauna. The vehicles are designed for optimal game viewing, photography, and comfort. Expect to venture into the park in the early morning, late afternoon, and evening—prime times for spotting wildlife.

One reviewer, Grant_J, mentions the “amazing service” and “friendly atmosphere” at the camp, emphasizing the personalized attention they received from the guides. The guides are praised for their knowledgeability—sharing not just facts, but engaging stories of wildlife encounters, which enhances the experience.

During the drives, you’ll likely see leopards, as the area is famous for its large feline population, alongside elephants, deer, wild boars, and various bird species. The reviews mention bird watchers’ paradise, with over 197 bird species in the nearby Bundala Park, and the guides’ expertise makes bird spotting a rewarding activity.

Lake Trek and Bird Watching

One of the more unique aspects of this tour is the early morning trek to Nimalawa, starting around 5 am with fresh Ceylon tea or coffee. The trail takes you through dense bush to a serene lake, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to observe endemic and migratory birds, butterflies, and land monitors. We loved the idea of bird watching at dawn, which is often the best time for sightings, and the guide’s stories add to the adventure.

Guests report that the wildlife encounters during this walk are rewarding, with possible sightings of elephants, deer, and various small mammals. It’s a peaceful, immersive experience that balances the thrill of safaris with quiet moments of connection to nature.

The Beach BBQ and Sunset

After a full day of wildlife exploration, you’ll spend the late afternoon on a private beach near Yala, enjoying some leisure time and a wine in an exclusively private area. The dinner here is a 4-course BBQ served around a bonfire—an experience that feels both luxurious and authentic. The setting sun, soft sand, and flickering flames make it a highlight, especially for those who love winding down in style after days of adventure.

Guests describe the dinner as “illuminated” and “unforgettable”, with the natural environment adding to the overall charm. It’s an excellent way to unwind and reflect on the day’s sightings.

Final Day: Dawn Game Drive and Return

The last morning starts with an early wake-up and a quick game drive at 5:30 am, again led by knowledgeable guides. The early start is promising for spotting elusive wildlife or perhaps catching a glimpse of a leopard. Returning by 9 am for breakfast, the final drive offers one last chance to enjoy the park’s sights.

Afterward, you’ll check out and journey back to your next destination, with drop-off provided to hotels in Ella, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, or Colombo. The transfer logistics are straightforward, and the reviews commend the smoothness of this part of the experience.

This tour goes beyond a simple safari—it’s a luxury adventure that combines wildlife viewing, cultural experiences, and comfortable lodging, making it ideal for travelers who want to experience Yala without sacrificing comfort. The all-inclusive approach means you won’t need to worry about meals or drinks, which is a real plus when exploring remote areas.

The knowledgeable guides are a major asset, providing insights that turn a regular game drive into an educational encounter. The luxury tents and amenities such as outdoor showers elevate the camping experience, giving you a taste of glamour amidst the jungle.

While the cost of $930 per person may seem high, when you factor in the all-inclusive meals, drinks, multiple game drives, and private transfers, it provides excellent value for a hassle-free, immersive wildlife experience.

This tour is best suited for wildlife lovers, comfort seekers, and first-time safari adventurers who want to see the best of Yala with minimal fuss. It’s also perfect for those interested in bird watching, photography, or simply relaxing in a stunning natural environment.

This 2-night luxury camping experience in Yala combines the thrill of wildlife encounters with the comfort of high-end amenities. The inclusion of multiple game drives, guided by experts, maximizes your chances of spotting iconic animals like leopards and elephants. The all-inclusive meals and beach BBQ add a special flavor to the trip, offering moments of relaxation and awe under the Sri Lankan sky.

While it’s a relatively short adventure, the thoughtfully curated activities and beautiful settings make it feel like a well-rounded safari escape. The camp’s friendly staff, especially guides like Krishan, ensure you’ll be well cared for and entertained.

If you’re after a luxurious yet authentic safari experience in Sri Lanka, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want to combine wildlife, comfort, and cultural moments into one seamless package.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from selected cities including Colombo, Negombo, Mount Lavinia, Wadduwa, Galle, and others.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 days, including travel, game drives, and leisure time at the camp and beach.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and drinks (including alcohol and soft drinks) are included, making it a hassle-free experience.

Can vegetarians be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian options are available. Just advise at the time of booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; children must be accompanied by an adult. Specific age limits aren’t mentioned, but check with the provider for details.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Mainly leopards, elephants, deer, wild boars, and a wide variety of bird species, especially in Bundala Park.

How many game drives are included?
Four game drives are scheduled, providing ample opportunity for wildlife sightings.

What amenities are available at the camp?
Large en suite tents with outdoor showers, communal lounges, and outdoor dining options.

What is the cost of this experience?
The price is $930 per person, which covers accommodation, activities, meals, drinks, and transfers.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and culture. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a rewarding wildlife experience without sacrificing luxury. Whether you’re a seasoned safari enthusiast or a first-timer, the combination of expert guides, beautiful scenery, and thoughtful amenities makes this a memorable trip in Sri Lanka.