YALA BLOCK 5 & 6 (Weheragala & Lunugamwehera) Safari Tour

When it comes to wildlife safaris in Sri Lanka, Yala National Park usually steals the spotlight with its iconic leopards and dense crowds. But for those seeking a more peaceful, personalized adventure, the YALA BLOCK 5 & 6 Safari Tour offers an alternative glimpse into the park’s quieter, less touristy sections. With a focus on serenity, expert guiding, and authentic wildlife encounters, this tour stands out for travelers who value both comfort and a more genuine connection with nature.

Based on numerous reviews and detailed descriptions, this tour seems to excel in offering a private, flexible experience that’s perfect for those who dislike hustle and want to enjoy wildlife at their own pace. The ability to explore Weheragala and Lunugamwehera with expert guides, without the crowds, really makes this safari a special choice. However, a potential consideration is that the park entrance fee isn’t included, which adds to the overall cost but also means you have to budget accordingly. This tour appeals most to visitors who want a relaxed, tailored safari with high chances of seeing elusive animals like leopards and sloth bears, especially during the golden hours of the day.

Key Points

• Exclusive, private experience with no crowded jeeps or rush
• Highly knowledgeable guides enhance wildlife spotting and understanding
• Flexible schedule allowing for customized stops and photo opportunities
• Includes transfers and refreshments for a seamless adventure
• Focus on lesser-visited park sections for more authentic sightings
• Cost-effective at $36, considering private vehicle and expert guidance

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the YALA BLOCK 5 & 6 Safari Tour

The YALA BLOCK 5 & 6 Safari Tour offers a different way to experience Yala National Park — focusing on the peaceful, often overlooked sections of Weheragala and Lunugamwehera. Unlike the busy main park, these blocks tend to have fewer visitors, making wildlife sightings more relaxed and less hurried. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want to avoid the typical tourist crowds but still get a full dose of Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife.

What makes this tour stand out is the customizable approach — you’re not herded into a large group but instead ride in a private safari jeep with a professional guide. From the reviews, guides like Dasani and Sasanka are praised for their excellent spotting skills and extensive knowledge, making animal encounters more likely and more informative.

The tour’s price of $36 per person is quite attractive, especially considering it includes transportation, refreshments, and a knowledgeable guide. That said, it’s important to remember the Yala entrance fee (~$40) isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for that separately.

A potential drawback is the early start, especially if you’re not a morning person — but most reviews agree it’s well worth the effort for the wildlife sightings.

This safari is best suited for those who appreciate a quiet, personalized wildlife experience and are comfortable with a flexible, private outing.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to be seamless from start to finish, with pickups available from six convenient locations in the Tissamaharama area. Once you’re picked up, your journey begins with a scenic drive towards the park, where your private guide will tailor the experience based on your interests and the animal activity patterns of the day.

Itinerary Breakdown

Yala National Park (4 hours)
Your main activity takes place in Yala’s less-visited blocks, mainly Weheragala and Lunugamwehera. The tour typically lasts between 5 and 12 hours, depending on your preferences and schedule. Expect to explore diverse environments — from open grasslands and scrub forests to shimmering lakes and wetlands, each offering unique opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Wildlife Encounters

• Leopards: While spotting the elusive leopard is never guaranteed, reviews highlight guides’ skill at locating them, sometimes at sunrise when animals are most active. One reviewer shared seeing two leopards early in the morning thanks to a guide’s keen eye.
• Elephants: You’re almost certain to see herds of elephants wandering through the grasslands, especially during the cooler parts of the day.
• Sloth Bears: Less common but still possible, the guides’ patience and knowledge improve your chances of witnessing these shy creatures.
• Crocodiles and Birdlife: Mugger crocodiles are often seen sunbathing near lakes, alongside vibrant bird species, including peacocks and various waterfowl.

Flexibility and Personalization
Unlike standard group safaris, your jeep allows for stops whenever you wish — perfect for photography or simply soaking in the views. Reviewers frequently mention how guides go out of their way to find animals and encourage questions, making the experience both educational and fun.

The Experience of the Guides and Vehicles

You’ll ride in a comfortable safari jeep with excellent visibility — crucial for wildlife spotting and capturing those Instagram-worthy shots. The guides are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and patient, often pointing out subtle animal signs that a novice might miss. One reviewer mentioned Sasanka and Thisura as “so good,” highlighting the personal attention provided.

The driver’s skill is also appreciated, especially given the varied terrain, from uneven dirt tracks to more open grassy areas. This enhances the overall comfort and safety of the experience, allowing you to focus on wildlife watching.

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The Value of this Tour

For $36, including hotel transfers, refreshments, and a private guide, this safari offers strong value. Many reviewers found it to be well worth the money, especially considering the exclusivity and expert guidance. The only additional expense is the park entrance fee of about 40 USD, which is standard for a Yala safari.

Compared to larger, crowded safaris, this private tour feels more personal and less rushed. You can spend as much time as you’d like observing animals or taking photos, making it a more memorable and meaningful experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

The pickup options are plentiful, catering to travelers staying across Tissamaharama, Kataragama, Weerawila, and nearby areas. Once on the road, the journey to Yala’s quieter blocks is scenic, often accompanied by local wildlife and rural landscapes.

In Yala Blocks 5 & 6, the landscape shifts from the busy, tourist-heavy zones to more tranquil, lush environments. These parts of the park are known for their light forests, grasslands, and wetlands, which provide a variety of habitats for diverse species.

Sightings are most likely during the early morning or late afternoon, as animals tend to be most active during cooler hours. The golden hours also offer stunning lighting for photography, making this tour ideal for wildlife photographers or anyone wanting to capture the park’s natural beauty.

The duration can be tailored — some guests prefer a short 5-hour trip, while others enjoy a full-day adventure. The flexibility is a big plus, as you can choose what suits your schedule and energy levels.

What Reviews Reveal About the Experience

Multiple reviewers praise the guides’ ability to spot animals and their friendly, professional attitude. One traveler from Australia mentions, “My guide Sasanka was incredible and ensured we saw two leopards at sunrise,” illustrating how knowledgeable guides can make or break the trip.

Others emphasize the peaceful environment — “No crowds, just us and the animals” is a common sentiment, which really highlights the quality of this tour for those wanting to avoid the busy park areas.

Many guests also note the value for money, with one saying, “This is a great deal for anyone visiting Yala,” and appreciating the inclusion of transportation and refreshments.

The Sum Up

This safari offers a personal, relaxed way to experience Yala’s wildlife outside the typical crowded routes. It’s perfect for travelers who value expert guides, flexible scheduling, and being in nature without the noise of large tour groups. The focus on lesser-visited blocks means you’re more likely to see animals in their natural state, making this ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.

The price point of $36, excluding the park fee, makes it a surprisingly affordable way to enjoy a high-quality safari. The careful organization, attentive guides, and tranquil setting combine to create a memorable Sri Lankan wildlife adventure.

If you’re after a more exclusive, peaceful safari that still offers excellent chances of spotting iconic animals, this tour delivers on those promises. It’s especially suited for those who crave authentic encounters and a truly personalized experience in the wild.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes free transfers from several pickup points in the Tissamaharama area, making logistics one less thing to worry about.

How long does the safari last?
The duration can range from 5 to 12 hours, depending on your preferences and schedule. The core activity in Yala lasts about 4 hours.

Are refreshments provided?
Yes, water and refreshments are included throughout the trip, keeping you hydrated during your wildlife adventure.

What animals are most likely to be seen?
Elephants, leopards, and sloth bears are the highlights. Crocodiles and numerous bird species are also common sightings.

Is the park entrance fee included?
No, the approximately $40 USD entrance fee is not included in the $36 tour price, so budget for this separately.

Can I customize the schedule?
Absolutely. The tour is flexible, allowing you to stop for photos, spend extra time watching wildlife, or adjust the schedule as you go.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While generally suitable, pregnant women are advised against taking this tour. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, binoculars if you have them, sunscreen, and a hat. Wear comfortable clothing suited to outdoor activities.

Can I see leopards?
While leopard sightings aren’t guaranteed, guides are skilled at locating them, and many guests report successful sightings, especially at sunrise.

This private safari in Yala’s quieter blocks offers a blend of comfort, authenticity, and adventure that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a wildlife fanatic, a photographer, or just seeking tranquility in nature, it’s a well-rounded choice for a Sri Lankan safari.

You can check availability for your dates here: