Hambantota Port Cruise: YALA Wildlife Safari (6 Hours)

Exploring the diverse wildlife of YALA National Park is an exhilarating experience, and this 6-hour safari from Hambantota Port promises an unforgettable adventure. Departing from the port, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to the park, setting the stage for a guided tour where you might spot majestic leopards, gentle elephants, and prehistoric-looking crocodiles. With a stopover at Patanangala Beach and optional picnic breakfasts, this tour offers a well-rounded excursion that’s perfect for nature enthusiasts and families alike. What awaits you in the heart of Sri Lanka’s wilderness?

Key Points

• A 6-hour YALA Wildlife Safari exploration of YALA National Park from Hambantota Port, priced at €80.71 per person with free cancellation.
• Includes pickup, professional driver/guide, 3 hours of wildlife safari, and entrance fees, with optional picnic breakfast available for $8 per person.
• Departure times are between 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. or 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., with a 1.5-hour drive to the park and a 2-hour guided safari.
• YALA National Park is known for its high leopard density, with opportunities to spot various wildlife such as elephants, crocodiles, and sloth bears.
• Safari may not be suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users, and all fees must be paid in Sri Lankan Rupees or by credit card.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The YALA Wildlife Safari is an activity that allows visitors to explore the YALA National Park from Hambantota Port.

Visitors can explore the YALA National Park from Hambantota Port through the YALA Wildlife Safari activity.

The 6-hour tour is priced from €80.71 per person, with free cancellation 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off near the port, a professional driver/guide, 3 hours of wildlife safari, and entrance fees to the park.

An optional picnic breakfast is available for $8 per person.

Children under 12 receive a 50% discount, while those under 5 can join for free when accompanied by an adult.

Pickup and Transportation

As the tour begins, the driver will be waiting with a placard at the Hambantota Port entrance, ready to greet participants.

The group will be transported in an air-conditioned car, van, bus, or Toyota Hilux safari vehicle.

Travelers should notify the tour provider via email or WhatsApp if there are any delays, as the pickup times will be adjusted based on the cruise arrival.

The transportation will depart from the port or nearby hotels, ensuring a seamless start to the wildlife safari adventure.

Itinerary and Activities

Depending on the selected departure time, the tour either departs from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. in the morning or from 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the afternoon.

After a 1.5-hour drive to YALA National Park, guests enjoy a 2-hour guided wildlife safari, spotting leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and more.

After a 1.5-hour drive to YALA National Park, guests enjoy a 2-hour guided wildlife safari, spotting leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and more.

Then, visitors take a 30-minute break at the scenic Patanangala Beach before embarking on a final 1-hour game drive.

The tour culminates with a return to Hambantota Port, providing an unforgettable adventure and a chance to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife in its natural habitat.

• Spot leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and sloth bears

• Explore YALA National Park, known for its high leopard density

• Capture stunning photos at the picturesque Patanangala Beach

Wildlife and Conservation

YALA National Park is renowned for its high leopard density, with approximately 100 individual leopards roaming the park’s diverse landscapes.

As a premier wildlife destination, YALA is committed to eco-friendly safari operations that support local communities.

The safari experience offers guests the opportunity to spot a variety of species, including elephants, crocodiles, and sloth bears, as well as a diverse array of bird life.

However, the safari may not be suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users due to the rugged terrain and off-road nature of the wildlife drives.

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Inclusions and Important Information

The YALA Wildlife Safari from Hambantota Port includes pickup and drop-off in the vicinity of the port, as well as the services of a professional driver/guide.

The 3-hour wildlife safari provides the opportunity to spot:

• Leopards, the highest density globally

• Elephants, crocodiles, and sloth bears

• Diverse bird species in the park

Entrance fees to YALA National Park are included, and an optional picnic breakfast is available for an additional $8 per person.

Children aged 5-12 receive a 50% discount, while those under 5 are free when accompanied by an adult.

All fees must be paid in Sri Lankan Rupees or by credit card.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Customers can book the YALA Wildlife Safari from Hambantota Port directly through the tour provider’s website or by contacting them via email or WhatsApp.

Bookings can be made in advance, and customers have the option to pay later. The tour has a free cancellation policy, allowing a full refund if canceled 24 hours before the scheduled departure. This policy provides flexibility for travelers.

Guests are advised to notify the provider of any delays or schedule changes, as the pickup times can be adjusted based on cruise arrival.

What to Bring and Wear

When embarking on the YALA Wildlife Safari, visitors should dress comfortably and bring essentials to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable experience.

Wear lightweight, neutral-colored clothing that provides coverage and protection from the sun. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended for navigating the park’s terrain.

Plus, remember to pack:

• Sunscreen and a hat to shield from the sun’s rays

• Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other bugs

• Binoculars to enhance wildlife viewing and observation

Packing these items will help make the safari experience more comfortable and memorable.

Contact and Additional Information

Where can one get additional information about the YALA Wildlife Safari?

Visitors can contact the tour operator via email or WhatsApp. The email address is provided on the tour description and booking page.

Visitors can contact the tour operator via email or WhatsApp, with the email address provided on the tour description and booking page.

They also offer a WhatsApp number for quick inquiries and updates. The tour company encourages contacting them for any special requests, dietary needs, or mobility concerns.

Notifications about delays or changes to pickup times should be sent via email or WhatsApp.

Detailed instructions on the meeting point and parking are available upon booking confirmation.

Travelers can reach out with any other questions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable wildlife safari experience.

Common Questions

How Do I Communicate With the Tour Operator During the Safari?

The tour provider encourages communicating via email or WhatsApp to notify them of any delays. They’ll adjust pickup times based on the cruise arrival to ensure a smooth experience.

What Happens if I Encounter Motion Sickness During the Safari?

If you experience motion sickness during the safari, notify the driver/guide immediately. They can provide anti-nausea medication and ensure you take frequent breaks to recover. Don’t hesitate to speak up so they can accommodate your needs.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the safari. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour provider as they may have picnic options available. Proper disposal of any personal items is expected to maintain the park’s cleanliness.

Is There a Dress Code or Any Special Requirements for the Safari?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, light clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Avoid bright colors that may startle the wildlife. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat are also advised for the safari.

How Flexible Is the Safari Schedule in Case I Have Special Requests?

The safari schedule is flexible to accommodate special requests. The tour operator can adjust pickup and drop-off times and customize the itinerary based on guests’ needs, subject to park regulations and availability.

The Sum Up

The Yala Wildlife Safari from Hambantota Port offers an unforgettable 6-hour adventure. Priced at €80.71 per person, the tour includes a scenic drive, guided safari, and beach break, with the opportunity to spot leopards, elephants, and crocodiles. Family-friendly discounts and optional picnic breakfasts are available, making this an ideal excursion for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: