Setting out on a thrilling wildlife adventure, travelers can explore Yala National Park from the comfort of Ella or Bandarawela. This captivating safari offers a chance to spot leopards, elephants, and other diverse fauna. Guests will enjoy air-conditioned transportation to the park, followed by a three-hour safari in rugged 4×4 vehicles. After an exhilarating day, visitors will be conveniently dropped off at their hotel in Ahungalla, seamlessly continuing their Sri Lankan journey. But the experience doesn’t end there…

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Key Points

YALA Safari offers pickup locations in Ella and Bandarawela and drops off guests at their hotel in Ahungalla after the safari experience.
The safari includes 3 hours of wildlife viewing at YALA National Park with two game drives in rugged 4×4 vehicles.
The safari is priced at $123.60 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests may spot a variety of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and sloth bears, during the dawn or dusk guided tours.
Additional costs include the YALA National Park entrance fee ($37) and optional picnic breakfast ($8) and traditional Sri Lankan lunch ($10).

You can check availability for your dates here:

Safari Overview and Pricing

The YALA Safari offers an exciting wildlife experience starting at $123.60 per person.

Experience an exciting wildlife adventure at YALA Safari starting at just $123.60 per person.

The 9.5-hour safari provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Pickup locations include Bandarawela, Ella, and Wellawaya, with morning and afternoon safari options.

The safari vehicle is a rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4, and the transfer vehicle is an air-conditioned car or minivan.

The package includes 3 hours of wildlife viewing at YALA National Park with two game drives, known for its high leopard density and diverse species.

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Itinerary and Schedule

The YALA Safari offers a well-structured itinerary and schedule to ensure a seamless wildlife experience.

Pickup locations include Bandarawela, Ella, and Wellawaya. The morning safari departs at 3:00 a.m., while the afternoon safari leaves at either 11:15 a.m. or 11:45 a.m., including lunch.

Travelers are transported in air-conditioned cars or minivans on a shared basis and taken on the safari in a rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4 with individual seats.

The safari includes 3 hours of wildlife viewing with two game drives within YALA National Park.

Wildlife Experience

YALA National Park is renowned for its highest leopard density in the world, with approximately 100 individual leopards. During the safari, guests have the opportunity to spot a variety of other wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, buffaloes, and over 130 bird species. The guided tours at dawn or dusk provide optimal viewing conditions for these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

| Animal | Sighting Probability |

| — | — |

| Leopard | Very High |

| Elephant | High |

| Crocodile | Moderate |

| Sloth Bear | Low |

The diverse ecosystem of YALA National Park offers a thrilling wildlife experience for all safari-goers.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

For the YALA Safari, pickup locations are offered in Bandarawela, Ella, and Wellawaya.

After the safari, guests are dropped off at their hotel in Ahungalla.

The air-conditioned transfer vehicle provides a comfortable journey, with the 4×4 safari vehicle used exclusively within the national park.

This ensures a seamless experience for guests, who can relax and enjoy the drive to and from the safari location.

The drop-off at Ahungalla is convenient for those staying in the area, allowing them to easily continue their Sri Lankan adventure after the exciting wildlife encounter.

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Transfer Vehicles and Safari Cars

Two types of vehicles are utilized for the YALA Safari experience. Guests are transported to the safari grounds in air-conditioned cars or minivans on a shared basis.

Once at the park, they board rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicles for the wildlife safari. These safari vehicles are also shared, with individual seats provided for each guest.

The 4×4 design ensures a comfortable and safe journey through the park’s terrain, allowing guests to spot the diverse range of wildlife, including the renowned leopards, elephants, and more.

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Meal Options and Additional Costs

Aside from the safari experience, YALA Safari offers optional meal choices for guests.

YALA Safari offers optional meal choices for guests, allowing them to customize their safari experience.

They provide a picnic breakfast for $8 per person, with both Sri Lankan and Western options. For lunch, guests can enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan meal for $10 per person.

Plus, there’s an entrance fee to YALA National Park that costs 11,000 Sri Lankan Rupees (around $37) per person, payable in cash or by credit card.

These optional add-ons allow guests to customize their safari experience according to their preferences and dietary needs.

Booking Requirements and Restrictions

Although a minimum of two guests is required for booking the YALA Safari, children aged 5 or below can join for free.

Children aged 6-12 pay 50% of the adult price. However, the safari isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users. Guests are advised to check these restrictions before booking.

Customer reviews highlight the tour’s excellent service and experienced drivers, providing a memorable wildlife experience.

The YALA National Park is renowned for its high leopard density, offering opportunities to spot elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and over 130 bird species.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Overwhelmingly positive customer reviews highlight the YALA Safari’s exceptional service and experienced drivers, who provide a memorable wildlife experience.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who share insights about the park’s diverse flora and fauna.

Many note the smooth, comfortable transportation and efficient organization, allowing them to maximize their safari time.

Reviewers also comment on the stunning natural scenery and the thrill of spotting iconic Sri Lankan wildlife like leopards, elephants, and crocodiles.

Common Questions

What Accessories Are Provided for the Safari Experience?

The safari experience provides binoculars, insect repellent, and wet wipes for guests. Umbrellas and ponchos are also available if needed. Comfortable seating and individual window views are offered in the rugged 4×4 safari vehicles.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari Tour?

The safari tour has some age restrictions. Children aged 5 or below can join the tour for free, while those aged 6-12 can participate at 50% of the regular price. However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users.

Are There Any Rainy Season Discounts or Special Offers?

The safari tour doesn’t offer any rainy season discounts or special offers. However, it has a free cancellation policy and a reserve now, pay later option for flexible booking.

Can I Request a Private Safari Instead of a Shared One?

Yes, you can request a private safari. The operator offers private safaris in addition to the shared safaris. The private option provides a more personalized experience with a dedicated vehicle and guide.

What Should I Bring for the Safari to Have the Best Experience?

For the best safari experience, it’s recommended to bring binoculars, camera, sun protection, insect repellent, water, and comfortable clothing. The operator can also provide a checklist to ensure guests are prepared for the wildlife adventure.

The Sum Up

The YALA Safari offers an exhilarating wildlife experience, with comfortable transportation from Ella or Bandarawela and a convenient drop-off in Ahungalla. Guests can expect to spot a diverse range of fauna, including leopards and elephants, during the three-hour safari in rugged 4×4 vehicles. This tour provides a seamless way to explore YALA National Park as part of a broader Sri Lankan journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: