Yala travel guide

About Yala

Yala National Park is Sri Lanka’s best-known wildlife reserve and one of the best places in the world to see leopards in the wild. Its mix of scrub jungle, lagoons and rocky outcrops is also home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles and hundreds of bird species.

Most visitors stay near Tissamaharama and take a morning or afternoon jeep safari. Yala fits neatly between Ella and the south coast beaches.

Best time to visit

February to July is usually best for wildlife. The main part of the park often closes for a few weeks between about September and October, so check dates before you book.

How long to stay

1–2 nights: arrive in the afternoon, safari the next morning and continue your journey.

Getting there

About 5 hours by private car from Colombo airport, via the Southern Expressway.

Region

South-east

Things to do in Yala

1. 1

   Jeep safari in Yala

   Look for leopards, elephants, deer, crocodiles and water buffalo. Morning safaris start before sunrise, when animals are most active.

2. 2

   Udawalawe National Park

   Open grasslands with some of the most reliable elephant sightings in the country, about 2 hours away.

3. 3

   Bundala National Park

   Wetlands and lagoons for birdwatchers, with flamingos and migratory birds in the cooler months.

4. 4

   Kataragama

   A sacred town visited by Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, especially lively during the evening puja.

5. 5

   Tissamaharama Lake

   A peaceful reservoir with birdlife and sunset views close to most Yala hotels.

Local tips for Yala

• Choose a responsible jeep operator that keeps a respectful distance from the animals.
• Bring binoculars, a hat and sunscreen.
• Leopard sightings are never guaranteed. A full-day or second safari improves your chances.

Private transfers to Yala

• Ella to Yala: about 90 km, 2½ hours