Kalutara/Bentota/Kosgoda/Ahungalla/Hikkaduwa: Yala Safari

Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife sanctuary, beckons visitors from the nearby coastal towns of Kalutara, Bentota, Kosgoda, Ahungalla, and Hikkaduwa. The Yala Safari offers an exhilarating opportunity to spot elusive leopards, majestic elephants, and a diverse array of avian species. With convenient transportation and flexible booking, this safari experience promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the island’s natural wonders. But what lies in store for those who embark on this captivating adventure?

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Key Points

Yala National Park offers a 10-12 hour safari experience costing €113.56-€119.53 per person with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife including leopards, elephants, and crocodiles.
The safari package includes private air-conditioned transportation for hotel pickup/drop-off and an English-speaking guide, but park entry fees are an additional cost of approximately $40 USD per person.
The safari covers areas such as Kalutara, Bentota, Kosgoda, Ahungalla, and Hikkaduwa, with flexible booking options and a 24-hour cancellation policy for a full refund.
Customer reviews highlight positive experiences with the transportation quality but mixed feedback on the guide experience and wildlife visibility during the safari.
Confirmation of tour availability and starting times is recommended before booking to ensure a smooth Yala Safari experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Yala Safari Experience

The Yala Safari experience offers travelers a chance to explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of Yala National Park, the second-largest wildlife reserve in Sri Lanka.

Explore the diverse wildlife and natural splendor of Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s second-largest wildlife reserve.

Taking place in Kalutara, Bentota, Kosgoda, Ahungalla, and Hikkaduwa, the safari lasts 10-12 hours and can be booked for €113.56-€119.53 per person.

Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The safari includes a jeep tour led by a professional guide and opportunities to spot leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and more.

Transportation and park entry fees are additional costs.

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Safari Details

On the Yala Safari, guests embark on a jeep safari through Yala National Park, the second-largest wildlife park in Sri Lanka. Led by a professional, English-speaking guide, the safari offers opportunities to spot a diverse array of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, sloth bears, jackals, mongoose, spotted deer, wild boars, sambhur, and hare. The safari also provides a chance to observe over 50 species of butterflies and various bird species. The experience includes private transportation and highway toll fees, though entry fees to the park are not covered in the package price.

| Wildlife Sightings | Birdwatching |

|——————-|————-|

| Leopards | Butterflies |

| Elephants | Various birds|

| Crocodiles | |

| Buffalo | |

| Sloth Bears | |

Transportation and Inclusions

The Yala Safari package includes private air-conditioned transportation for hotel pickup and drop-off from specified areas.

The safari also covers the highway toll fees and provides a professional live English-speaking guide.

While the entry fees to Yala National Park aren’t included in the package, the price covers the jeep safari itself.

Customers will have the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.

The overall transportation experience receives positive feedback, though the quality of the guide has received mixed reviews from previous participants.

Important Information

Entrance and service fees to Yala National Park aren’t included in the package price, amounting to approximately 13,000 Sri Lankan Rupees or $40 USD per person.

Visitors should confirm tour availability and starting times before booking, as these may vary.

The Yala Safari experience lasts 10-12 hours, covering the areas of Kalutara, Bentota, Kosgoda, Ahungalla, and Hikkaduwa.

Travelers can take advantage of flexible booking options, with the ability to reserve now and pay later.

The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing additional peace of mind.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

Based on the 5 reviews collected, the Yala Safari experience earned an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

However, the feedback was mixed on certain aspects:

While the transportation quality was consistently praised, the guide experience received average ratings of 3 out of 5.
The value for money aspect also had mixed reviews, with a 3.5 out of 5 rating.

Notably, some customers expressed disappointment in the wildlife visibility and overcrowding, though others highlighted the attentive drivers and knowledgeable guides as positive experiences.

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Exploring the Diverse Wildlife of Yala National Park

Though renowned for its thriving leopard population, Yala National Park boasts an abundance of diverse wildlife that captivates visitors. Spotting majestic elephants roaming the grasslands, crocodiles basking in the sun, and elusive sloth bears foraging in the dense foliage are just a few of the park’s thrilling encounters. Visitors can also observe a wide array of birds, from vibrant peacocks to migratory species, as well as a variety of deer, jackals, and other smaller mammals. Yala’s rich biodiversity makes each safari an unforgettable experience, leaving visitors in awe of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

| Wildlife | Chances of Sighting |

| — | — |

| Leopards | High |

| Elephants | High |

| Crocodiles | High |

| Sloth Bears | Moderate |

Navigating the Safari Experience

Setting out on a Yala safari requires careful planning and consideration. From navigating the entry fees to managing wildlife encounters, the experience demands thoughtful preparation.

Key elements to consider include:

Securing park entry permits well in advance to avoid delays
Choosing a reputable tour operator with experienced guides for the best chance of spotting elusive wildlife
Being flexible and adaptable, as safari conditions can be unpredictable, with factors like weather and animal movements affecting the day’s events

Navigating the Yala safari with care ensures a memorable and rewarding wildlife adventure.

Tips for an Unforgettable Yala Adventure

To make the most of a Yala safari, travelers should pack essentials like sun protection, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.

Arrive early to beat the crowds and increase wildlife sightings. Reserve a window seat in the safari jeep for unobstructed views.

Listen closely to the guide’s expertise on animal behavior and habitats. Be patient and quiet during the safari, as sudden movements can scare the wildlife.

Bring a camera, but avoid using flash as it may disturb the animals.

Most importantly, embrace the unpredictability of the wild and enjoy the incredible natural beauty of Yala National Park.

Common Questions

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

Customers can bring their own food and drinks on the safari. The package includes transportation, the jeep safari, and a guide, but does not cover the cost of entry fees or personal provisions.

How Are the Restroom Facilities During the Safari Tour?

The safari tour typically includes restroom breaks at designated rest areas along the way. However, toilet facilities may be basic, so it’s recommended to plan accordingly and bring any necessary personal items.

Can I Request a Customized Safari Itinerary?

Customers can request a customized safari itinerary, though this may incur additional costs. The tour operator can work with guests to adjust the schedule and activities to meet their specific preferences and interests.

Are There Any Additional Charges or Hidden Fees?

The package price doesn’t include the Yala National Park entry fees, which are around $40 USD per person. There may also be additional charges for activities, meals, or transportation outside the standard safari itinerary.

Can I Take Photographs During the Safari?

Absolutely, taking photographs during the safari is allowed. Guests are encouraged to capture the stunning wildlife and scenery they encounter throughout the experience. However, caution should be exercised to avoid disturbing the animals or compromising the safety of the safari.

The Sum Up

The Yala Safari from Kalutara, Bentota, Kosgoda, Ahungalla, and Hikkaduwa offers an exciting opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s vibrant wildlife. With professional guides, private transportation, and flexible bookings, it’s a convenient choice for nature enthusiasts. While experiences may vary, the overall positive feedback suggests a memorable journey for many travelers exploring the diverse ecosystems of Yala National Park.

You can check availability for your dates here: