Yala National Park (block 5 & 6) Safari PRIVATE Tours

Taking a safari in Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park is often at the top of travelers’ bucket lists—and for good reason. The chance to see elusive leopards, majestic elephants, and a host of other wildlife in their natural habitat is captivating. This particular private tour by Yala Dreams Wild Safari Tours offers a tailored, intimate experience that promises to bring you closer to Sri Lanka’s wilderness than most group tours can.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, it scores a perfect 5.0 from 12 reviews, with 100% recommending it. We love that it combines visiting both Lunugamwehera (Yala block 6) and Weheragala (Yala block 5) under a single ticket, which translates into more wildlife sightings and diverse scenery. The expert guides, who are praised for their tracking skills and extensive knowledge, help maximize your chances of seeing iconic animals like leopards and sloth bears. The tranquility of the park—not crowded or noisy—lets you really feel immersed in nature.

A possible consideration? The price point of $36 per person is quite competitive, but note that national park entry tickets are not included in the price, so you’ll need to purchase those separately at the entrance. This is typical for safaris, but worth considering when planning your budget. Lastly, the duration varies from 5 to 12 hours, so you can tailor the experience based on your energy level and interest—longer safaris tend to be more rewarding.

This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone wanting a quieter, more authentic jungle experience. If you’re after a hassle-free, well-organized safari with knowledgeable guides and the chance to see Sri Lanka’s most iconic animals, this might be perfect.

Key Points

• Excellent value for a private safari with high-quality guiding.
• Both Lunugamwehera and Weheragala can be visited with a single entry ticket.
• Wildlife sightings such as leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and crocodiles are highly likely.
• Expert guides are praised for their tracking skills and knowledge.
• Quiet, less crowded park areas facilitate better wildlife viewing.
• National park entry fees are not included in the booking price.

Exploring Yala’s Unique Appeal

Yala National Park is famous for its impressive density of leopards, but it’s also a treasure trove of other animals and scenic landscapes. This private tour takes you into blocks 5 and 6, which are known for being peaceful and less busy—ideal for avoiding tourist crowds and spotting animals more freely.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start point: Tissamaharama — From here, your journey begins with a comfortable private jeep, equipped with luxurious seating, bottled water, and free binoculars. The guides, who are highly experienced, are key to the success of your safari. Several reviewers mention guides like Janaka, who seem to have an uncanny knack for hearing distant alarm calls or knowing where animals are likely to be found.

Yala Block 5 & 6 — These areas are part of the same forest, but each offers a slightly different experience. Block 6 (Lunugamwehera) is particularly praised for its silent, undisturbed environment. It’s a place where wildlife feels less threatened by humans, so animals behave more naturally. One reviewer mentioned that “you can get the real wildlife experience here” because of the lack of crowds and noise.

Expect to see leopards, often spotted by guides who listen for their alarm calls or look for signposts like scratched trees or fresh tracks. As one reviewer put it, “The moment we saw a leopard will forever be etched in our memories.” This underscores how guided patience and local expertise can turn a good safari into an unforgettable one.

Wildlife Highlights — Besides the elusive leopard, you might spot majestic elephants, sloth bears, deer, monkeys, and crocodiles. Several reviews mention the diversity, with one noting, “Within minutes, we saw herds of deer and wild boar, and as we went deeper, the variety just increased.”

Scenery & Birdlife — Yala isn’t just about animals; the landscapes are stunning. Expect to see open grasslands, dense jungle, freshwater lakes, and coastal lagoons. Early morning mist, the golden hour light, and peaceful water bodies make for some fantastic photo opportunities, especially for bird enthusiasts. Over 200 bird species can be expected, adding another layer of richness to the experience.

The Experience in Practice

Duration flexibility allows you to choose between a quick 5-hour trip or a full-day adventure lasting up to 12 hours. Longer safaris tend to give more opportunities to see a wider range of animals and enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

Transport quality is highly praised. The luxurious jeeps are designed for comfort, allowing you to focus on the wildlife instead of the bumpy ride. The private transportation means you won’t be crammed in with strangers, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Guides and Drivers — Many reviews praise the guides’ deep understanding of animal behavior and their ability to track animals based on sounds and footprints. For instance, one reviewer said, “Our guide wasn’t just driving—we were tracking, listening, observing, and learning.” Their knowledge genuinely elevates the experience from a simple ride to a captivating wildlife adventure.

Pricing and Value — At $36 per person, plus the cost of entry tickets, this safari offers excellent value. Considering the level of personalized guiding, private transportation, and the chance to see rare animals like leopards and sloth bears, it’s a good deal in comparison to more commercialized options.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guides and Tracking Skills

Multiple reviewers highlighted guides like Janaka, who know the park intimately and can find elusive animals based on subtle signs or distant alarm calls. This insider knowledge significantly boosts the chance of sightings, especially of the park’s most sought-after species.

Serenity of the Park

Unlike some busy safari parks, Yala’s quieter areas mean animals are less startled and behave more naturally. This is evident from reviews that describe the park as “very silent and no busy,” helping visitors enjoy an authentic wildlife experience.

Visiting Both Blocks 5 & 6

Having access to both Lunugamwehera and Weheragala under one ticket is a major plus. This increases the diversity of habitats and animals you might see, making your safari more rewarding without doubling the cost.

Authenticity and Natural Beauty

Reviewers appreciated the scenic landscapes—from golden dawns to lush green jungles—and felt these played a crucial role in making their safari special. The views and natural sounds create a peaceful, immersive environment.

Practical Tips for Your Safari

• Book in advance—the tour is popular, often booked 33 days ahead.
• Prepare for weather—safari days can be hot or rainy, so bring sun protection and rain gear just in case.
• Purchase your park entry tickets upon arrival, as they are not included in the $36 fee.
• Bring a camera and binoculars—the free binoculars provided are helpful, but additional camera gear will enhance your wildlife photography.
• Wear comfortable clothing and be ready for a full day if you opt for the longer safari.
• Listen to your guide; their experience often leads to memorable sightings.

The Sum Up

This Yala National Park private safari provides a well-rounded, authentic wildlife experience for those seeking a quieter, more personalized adventure. The combination of expert guides, diverse landscapes, and the chance to spot big cats and rare animals makes it a standout option in Sri Lanka’s safari scene.

It’s particularly suited for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and travelers wanting a more intimate connection with wildlife. The value is strong considering the level of guidance and comfort, though travelers should factor in the entrance fees separately.

If your goal is to see Sri Lanka’s iconic animals in a peaceful, well-organized setting, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a chance to observe animals behaving naturally, with the guidance of local experts ensuring you don’t leave without an unforgettable story.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the park entrance tickets included in the price?
No, the entrance tickets are paid separately at the park entrance. The tour price covers the private safari service, guide, and transport.

What is the typical duration of the safari?
The tour lasts from approximately 5 hours up to 12 hours, depending on your preference and how long you want to explore.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, especially if they enjoy wildlife and outdoor adventures. It’s best to check with the provider if you have specific age considerations.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $36.00 per person, which is quite reasonable given the private and guided nature of the safari.

Does the tour pick me up from my hotel?
Yes, complimentary pickup is offered from various locations including Yala, Kirinda, Tissamaharama, and surrounding areas.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Leopards, elephants, sloth bears, wild boar, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species are common sightings.

Are the vehicles comfortable?
Yes, the safari jeeps are described as luxurious, ensuring a comfortable ride during the long hours of wildlife spotting.

Can I book this tour on short notice?
It’s recommended to book about 33 days in advance, but last-minute availability may depend on demand and season.

Is the safari guided?
Absolutely. The guides are highly experienced and passionate about wildlife, and their tracking skills greatly enhance the chances of sightings.

What should I bring for the safari?
Bring your camera, binoculars (or use the free binoculars provided), sun protection, rain gear if needed, and comfortable clothing for a full day outdoors.

In sum, this private Yala safari offers a balanced mix of expert guidance, serene environment, and chances to see Sri Lanka’s most iconic wildlife. Perfect for those who want a more tranquil, authentic experience without sacrificing quality or wildlife encounters.