Experience the thrill of a Yala National Park safari from Bentota. Explore Sri Lanka’s stunning wildlife on this 10-hour adventure in a 4×4 jeep. Sightings may include majestic elephants, elusive leopards, and diverse birds. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, plus air-conditioned transport, this tour promises unforgettable moments. While the entrance fee isn’t included, the expertise of a local guide ensures an adventure you won’t soon forget.

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Key Points

This 10-hour excursion offers an immersive wildlife experience in Yala National Park, with hotel pickup and drop-off, and transportation in air-conditioned cars.
The tour includes a guided safari in a 4×4 vehicle, where visitors can expect to spot iconic wildlife like elephants, crocodiles, and leopards.
While the tour price excludes the entrance fee (around $40 USD per person), free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour has received an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback on the excellent wildlife sightings and the expertise of the local guide.
Guests should be aware that the bumpy ride through the park may not be suitable for those with back problems.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Yala National Park Safari Jeep Tour is a 10-hour excursion that takes visitors on an immersive wildlife experience.

Priced from $126.40 to $120.08 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and transportation by air-conditioned car.

Though the entrance fee isn’t included, guests can reserve their spot and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

During the safari, a local English-speaking guide provides insights about the park’s diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, crocodiles, leopards, and over 50 butterfly species.

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Transportation and Logistics

For the Yala National Park Safari Jeep Tour, guests are provided with hotel pickup and drop-off from the Bentota, Beruwala, Kosgoda, and Kalutara areas. They travel in air-conditioned cars to and from the national park. The entrance fee to Yala National Park is not included in the tour price, which is approximately 13,000 Sri Lankan Rupees (around 40 USD) per person.

| Transportation | Pickup | Entrance Fees |

| — | — | — |

| Air-conditioned Car | Hotel Pickup and Drop-off | 13,000 LKR (≈$40 USD) |

| From Bentota, Beruwala, Kosgoda, Kalutara | | Not Included in Tour Price |

Safari Experience

During the Yala National Park Safari Jeep Tour, guests can expect to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, leopards, sloth bears, jackals, and an abundance of bird species.

A local English-speaking guide provides insights about the park’s diverse fauna and flora, enhancing the overall experience. Guests can savor the aromas of the dry earth and lush forests as they traverse the park in an air-conditioned Jeep.

Though the ride may be bumpy at times, it offers a thrilling and immersive journey through this renowned wildlife sanctuary, allowing visitors to connect with Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

Park Details

Yala National Park is the second-largest wildlife park in Sri Lanka, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity.

Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s second-largest wildlife park, is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity.

This protected area is home to a diverse array of indigenous animals, including:

Axis deer, known for their graceful movements and spotted coats.
Wild boars, rugged creatures that thrive in the park’s rugged terrain.
Sambar deer and hares, all of which can be spotted in their natural habitats.

Yala National Park’s significance extends beyond its wildlife, as it’s also an important sanctuary for around 50 butterfly species that flutter through the lush forests.

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Wildlife Sightings

Visitors on the Yala National Park Safari Jeep Tour can expect to catch glimpses of a diverse array of wildlife. The park is home to an array of species, including iconic predators like leopards and sloth bears, as well as herbivores such as axis deer, wild boars, and sambar deer. Travelers may also spot crocodiles basking on the banks and a variety of bird species soaring overhead. The table below outlines some of the key wildlife sightings possible during the tour.

| Animal | Probability of Sighting | Viewing Tips |

| — | — | — |

| Leopard | Medium | Scan rocky outcrops and dense vegetation |

| Elephant | High | Listen for trumpeting and look for movement in the trees |

| Crocodile | High | Check riverbanks and waterholes |

| Sloth Bear | Low | Move quietly and watch for movement on the ground |

Guide Expertise

The local English-speaking guide plays a vital role in enhancing the safari experience. Their expertise provides valuable insights that deepen visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the park’s wildlife and ecosystem.

The guide’s knowledge is showcased in three key ways:

Identifying species: The guide can quickly spot and identify various animals, from elusive leopards to vibrant bird species, enhancing the chances of memorable wildlife sightings.
Explaining behaviors: By sharing their understanding of animal behaviors and habitats, the guide helps visitors interpret the observed activities, creating a more immersive experience.
Navigating the park: The guide’s familiarity with Yala National Park’s terrain and routes ensures a smooth, efficient safari, maximizing the time spent observing the diverse flora and fauna.

Customer Feedback

Customers have provided an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars for the Yala National Park Safari Jeep Tour based on 4 reviews.

Highlights of the tour include positive comments on the excellent wildlife sightings and the expertise of the local English-speaking guide.

Excellent wildlife sightings and the expertise of the local English-speaking guide are highlights of the Yala National Park Safari Jeep Tour.

However, some travelers noted the bumpy rides may not be suitable for those with back problems.

Plus, customers should anticipate additional costs for the park entrance fees, which aren’t included in the tour price.

Practical Considerations

While some travelers noted the bumpy rides may not be suitable for those with back problems, there are a few other practical considerations to keep in mind.

First, the entrance fee to Yala National Park isn’t included in the tour price, costing approximately $40 USD per person.

Secondly, it’s recommended to bring sun protection, such as hats and sunscreen, as the safari can expose visitors to direct sunlight for extended periods.

Finally, carrying water and snacks is advisable, as the tour can last up to 10 hours without stops for refreshments within the park.

Common Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari Tour?

There are no stated age restrictions for the safari tour. The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, though some physical fitness may be required for the Jeep ride through Yala National Park.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, visitors can bring their own snacks and drinks on the safari tour. The tour operator encourages bringing refreshments to enjoy during the safari experience in the national park.

What Should We Wear for the Safari?

Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes for the safari. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun. Dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable during the excursion.

Is There a Possibility of Seeing a Leopard?

There’s a good possibility of seeing leopards on the Yala National Park safari. The park is renowned for its high leopard population, and spotting these elusive cats is often a highlight for visitors.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Safari?

Yes, you can extend the duration of the safari. The tour operator offers flexible options, allowing you to customize the length of your safari experience in Yala National Park based on your preferences and desired wildlife encounters.

The Sum Up

The Yala National Park Safari Jeep Tour from Bentota promises an exhilarating adventure amidst Sri Lanka’s stunning wildlife. With convenient transportation, expert guidance, and the chance to spot magnificent elephants, elusive leopards, and diverse bird species, this 10-hour excursion offers an unforgettable experience. Though the entrance fee is not included, the tour’s captivating sights and thrilling moments make it a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting the region.

You can check availability for your dates here: