Yala National Park: Leopard Safari Full Day Tour With Lunch

Yala National Park, renowned for its high leopard density, beckons wildlife enthusiasts to embark on an exhilarating full-day safari. This tour offers a chance to witness a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants and sloth bears, amidst the park’s stunning landscapes. With expert guides leading the way, travelers can look forward to a scenic picnic lunch and unforgettable moments in nature. From the convenient morning pickup to the free cancellation policy, this safari promises an exceptional experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Key Points

This full-day safari tour in Yala National Park lasts 12 hours and costs between $60.01 to $63.16 per person, including pickup.
Yala National Park is known for its high density of leopards, as well as diverse wildlife like elephants, sloth bears, and more.
The tour includes a scenic picnic lunch and opportunities to witness flora and fauna in their natural habitats, guided by experts.
Entrance fee to Yala National Park is an additional cost of around $40 USD, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback highlighting unforgettable leopard sightings and an amazing lunch by a lake.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The full day safari tour in Yala National Park offers visitors a chance to explore the natural habitats of a diverse array of wildlife.

The 12-hour tour costs between $60.01 and $63.16 per person, with pickup included from nearby areas. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can expect to see leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and other creatures in their natural environments, traversing light forests, scrubs, grasslands, and monsoon jungles.

A picnic lunch at a scenic spot is included during the safari, conducted in a modified Jeep for optimal wildlife viewing.

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Wildlife Experience

Yala National Park is home to one of the highest densities of leopards globally, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to witness these elusive predators in their natural habitats.

Along With leopards, the park is a haven for diverse wildlife, including elephants, sloth bears, toque monkeys, wild boar, water monitors, and marsh crocodiles.

Travelers will traverse through a variety of landscapes, including light forests, scrubs, grasslands, lagoons, and monsoon jungles, ensuring an immersive and diverse wildlife experience.

With an expert guide leading the way, guests can expect to encounter a vast array of flora and fauna during their safari adventure.

Itinerary Highlights

Around 5:00 AM, guests receive morning pickup from their local accommodations to begin the safari tour.

The day starts with a game drive in a modified safari Jeep, providing optimal wildlife viewing. Afterward, guests enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot:

Soak in the tranquil ambiance of the surrounding nature.
Refuel with a delectable spread of local cuisine.
Spot diverse wildlife during the afternoon safari exploration.
Traverse light forests, scrubs, grasslands, lagoons, and monsoon jungles.
Focus on spotting the park’s abundant leopard population and other native fauna.

Entrance Fees and Considerations

Entrance to Yala National Park requires a per-person fee of Sri Lankan Rupees 13,000, which is approximately $40 USD. This fee isn’t included in the tour price, so it’s an additional cost visitors should be aware of.

It’s recommended to wear light, cotton clothing in neutral colors that blend with the environment. Hats and sun protection are advised.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women. Overall, visitors should be prepared for an exciting wildlife experience in Yala, while being mindful of the necessary fees and appropriate attire to ensure a comfortable and memorable safari.

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Recommended Attire and Precautions

While on the Yala National Park Leopard Safari Tour, visitors are recommended to wear light, cotton clothing in neutral colors that blend well with the natural surroundings. This attire not only helps to camouflage participants but also keeps them comfortable in the warm, tropical climate.

Additional important considerations include:

Wearing a hat or cap to protect against the sun
Bringing sunscreen and lip balm for sun protection
Packing a lightweight, breathable rain jacket in case of unexpected showers
Wearing comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain
Avoiding bright colors or patterns that could startle the wildlife.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Yala National Park

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Customers have provided generally positive feedback on the Yala National Park Leopard Safari Tour, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 22 reviews.

The guide received a 3.8 rating, while the transportation earned a 4.5. Reviewers noted the tour as an "unforgettable day" with leopard sightings and a "wonderful experience" with a knowledgeable guide.

One customer highlighted the "amazing lunch by a lake". The tour offers good value for money, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Travelers can book the Yala National Park Leopard Safari Tour online or through their local accommodations. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Key booking and cancellation policies:

Tour price: From $60.01 per person, with up to 5% savings.
Pickup: Included from select areas around Yala National Park.
Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.
Not suitable for: Pregnant women.
Entrance fee: $40 per person, payable on the day.

Getting to Yala National Park

Yala National Park is situated in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka, approximately 300 kilometers from the capital city of Colombo.

To reach the park, visitors can opt for various transportation options. Private transfers and shared shuttle services are available from major cities and airports. Self-driving is also possible, with well-maintained roads leading to the park’s entrance.

Visitors can reach Yala National Park via private transfers, shared shuttles, or self-driving along well-maintained roads from major cities and airports.

For those relying on public transportation, buses and trains connect to nearby towns, requiring a short onward transfer. The tour provider typically arranges pickup from select locations, ensuring a seamless start to the safari adventure.

Visitors should confirm their pickup arrangements prior to the tour.

Common Questions

What Time Does the Tour Start and End?

The tour starts around 5:00 AM with pickup from local accommodations and ends in the late afternoon, with the total duration being approximately 12 hours.

How Many People Are Typically in a Safari Group?

The group size for safari tours typically ranges from 2 to 6 people. The exact number can vary depending on the tour operator and the vehicle capacity. Groups are kept small to ensure an intimate wildlife viewing experience.

Are Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

During the safari tour, there are typically restroom facilities available at designated rest stops or picnic areas. Travelers should plan accordingly and inquire with the tour operator about the availability and location of restrooms along the itinerary.

Can Guests Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a picnic lunch is provided as part of the itinerary, so bringing additional items may not be necessary. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no mention of an option to extend the tour duration. The tour overview states it’s a full-day safari lasting 12 hours, so guests would need to book an additional tour if they want to extend their time in the park.

The Sum Up

The Yala National Park leopard safari is a thrilling full-day adventure that offers unparalleled wildlife viewing. With expert guides, a picnic lunch, and a modified safari Jeep, travelers can enjoy the stunning landscapes and spot a variety of animals, including the elusive leopard. This tour provides a convenient and memorable way to experience the natural beauty of Yala, making it an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts.

You can check availability for your dates here: