Yala National Park Private Safari

Amazing. Recommend highly. Our guide was a legend.

We did the afternoon safari from 2-6pm and it was a great experience. We saw a leopard, elephants, water buffalo, deer, peacocks all in their natural environment. Whilst there were quite a few tours operating at the same time, the safari did not feel intrusive. Four of us including 19 and 21 yr old went and this exceeded all our expectations

The booking was easy with Lakpura and changing the pickup point was no problem.Thej 2jeeps were modern with experienced driver/trackers.Because of heavy rain during the drive did not see many animals.The whole visit was well organized and the wait at the entrance was only 15 minutes due to online booking. Thank you Mewan Maduranga

Well worth the the $, our guide/driver knew all the spots where we could catch a glimpse of Elephants and Leopards etc.

Excellent !! Loved it. Would recommend to all to try and use it. Loved seeing elephants and deers and peacocks ...wonderful experience

I booked this Safari trip online via Viator which was confusing because I thought it included the travel from our hotel to the Safari Park but it didn’t the 12 hours that I booked was just for being in the Safai park. I asked the operator to reduce the time to 4 hours. Luckily they refunded me part of my expenses. The Safari itself was a little disappointing. The animals were so far away there were far too many Safari jeeps. I had to tell the driver to slow down because of the rough tracks and to speak to the driver I had to knock on his window for him to wind it down and I could talk to him. The marketing of the experience and the national park is excellent but in reality it’s a money pit but I guess that money pit goes to keeping out the developers. I would recommend it to keep the environment from development.

Excelente tour - Guide waited for us even if we were running late; was trying to show as many animals as possibe

We recently did the full day safari at Yala National Park and are so glad we booked via Lakpura. We had friends that did it through another company and had a terrible time. Our driver, Galappaththi from Panchi Safaris, was amazing, such a lovely guy. He clearly loved showing off the animals and the park. He got just excited as us when we spotted something, despite doing safaris for 15 years. I lost count of all the animals we saw throughout the day and we rarely felt crowded, despite the amount of jeeps around, thanks to Galappaththi. We just had the best day and didn’t want it to end

We got picked-up at right time and spend the day in Yala. We made a break in the middle. Our driver was showing us to an animal if he saw one. Unfortunately we booked 6hours, but we got 5 hours. Picked up at 5, back at hotel at 10. Because of all the trees and bushes it’s hard to find a lot of animals. So don’t expect a lot.

One of the worst wildlife experiences of my life and I’m well travelled. The jeep and our guide were faultless, but the park itself is a traffic jam of diesel spewing jeeps. Queued to get in and out of the main gate. When we saw an elephant we enjoyed it in the company of the 20 other jeeps. It’s madness. You’d be better off going to Windsor Safari Park. There are so many better ways to spend a half day in nature in Sri Lanka.

Our guide was fabulous, he had the eyes of a Hal and we saw so many animals which were camouflaged by the trees - we weren’t lucky enough to see leopards but he did find their paw prints. Yala is very unspoiled and the animals are unconcerned by the safari jeeps . We loved it

As of now, it looks like your favourite park will remain open throughout 2023! While visitors may be familiar with the park usually being closed in September, no such decision to close the park this year has been made. Any decision to close the park, if at all, will be if a severe drought occurs. So, let’s hope for the best!

We went on a morning Safari in August, starting at 6am - 9am. Our hotel booked a safari visit for us which cost $150 - which we later found out was very steep! In the park we saw lots of animals including deer, buffalo, wild boar, crocodiles, stalks and a few elephants (though only from quite far away). Our favourite moment was sitting at the lake watching the birds and crocodiles searching for and eating fish. Unfortunately we did not see a leopard and it was difficult to understand our guide as he didn’t speak clear English. We did three safaris in Sri Lanka (Kaudulla and Udawalawe too) and this was our least favourite though we may have just been unlucky! If you’re deciding between morning or afternoon, go in the afternoon!

1 / 1 It was a unique experience during your visit to Yala last week. The drought conditions might have indeed influenced the behavior of the animals and the overall environment. Drought can impact the availability of water sources, which in turn affects the movement and behavior of wildlife. Animals often congregate around limited water sources during such times, so it's possible that you observed fewer animals than usual due to the water scarcity. The presence of a lot of dust could also be attributed to the dry conditions caused by the drought. Reduced vegetation and lack of rainfall can lead to dry and dusty environments, especially in areas like Yala that are prone to seasonal droughts. Despite the challenges posed by the drought, experiences like these offer a unique perspective on how ecosystems and wildlife adapt to changing conditions. It's a reminder of the delicate balance in nature and how various factors, including climate patterns, can impact the lives of animals and the environment as a whole.

We visited on 1st August 2023 and did the afternoon safari. We had never done anything like this before so probably had unrealistic expectations, based on the marketing material, posters etc. and were therefore disappointed. In the 4 hours we were driving around the National park we saw 2 elephants ( one in the distance and one closer, just visible through the trees), a few water buffalo, three deer and some peacocks and other birds. As we left the park we saw monkeys just outside. Unfortunately there were no leopards to be found on this occassion and even the jeep driver expressed disappointment that more animals couldn’t be found. All in all a pleasant experience but when you book you need to be aware that the advertised animals may not be visible. Binoculars would have been useful too so if you have them - take them with you.

The highlight of sri lanka was for sure the safari in Yala national day park. Me and my friend were so amazed about all the animals we saw and we were so happy that we had the safari car to ourselves with the two guides. We saw elephants swimming, monkeys, buffalos, pigs, peacock, eagles, a crocodile in distance and so on. One of the main attractions were when we saw the leopard in the end. Krish our guide was very nice and helpful and drove as back and forth. The only thing that we missed a little was someone who could tell more about the animals, give us some facts about the animals we saw but besides that, the safari was 5 of 5 🫵

we had a fantastic time. we booked the afternoon safari which was 2.30 pm to 6 pm. The driver and the guide were superb. we saw many animals and birds up close. spotted a Leopard at the last minute. The highlight was the baby elephant and it's mother. We were surprised to see so many crocodiles. it was a fabulous experience and would love to visit this place again.

Beautiful experience watching animals and birds up close. The sceneries too were breathtaking. Had a great safari!

We had a superb time at the safari with this company. Easy and efficient hotel pickup from tissa straight to the national park for 6am when gates open. Nissanka was an excellent tour guide, we went on a wet day and he pulled out all the stops to help us try and find a leopard but during wet, loomy conditions it’s extremely rare so that’s the one thing we didn’t see. Apart from that which no one can control (weather) nissanka was thoroughly knowledgeable about all the wildlife and even trees. So thank you to Mewan and Nissanka for an unforgettable experience. My friend and I thoroughly recommend choosing these guys for the best price and if you get Nissanka, the best guide around.

We had Nissanka as guide and it had been the best experience ever! We booked a whole day safari trip. Nissanka was the best. He is super friendly and prepared! He explained us everything (included the sound of the animals running away from the leopard). He also knows all the best spot in the park and we saw not only all the elephants but also the three leopards all together that is super super rare! Thank you very much for this great experience Nissanka!!

The place is horrible!! We went there and only saw 3 animals (wild pig, deer and buffalo) along with crocodiles and some birds. All of this for 130 USD!! There are no leopards and we were told that people stay there for around 3 or 4 days to catch a leopard but they never see it. There was no single elephant in the whole park!!! The park is not prepared for cars at all. The road is not properly paved and you just feel sick and all your bones ache from riding. My husband and I were literally counting minutes to leave that terrible place. We were soooo excited to see animals and elephants and instead we saw nothing!! Soo disappointed! Not worth a penny!! A scam for tourists.

Perfect experience. We got picked up in Mirissa at our hostel. Then a two-hour ride to Yala where we started off with great and very cheap lunch at a local restaurant. Then we headed to the national park and saw everything we had hoped to see; leopards, crocodiles, elephants and more. Also a great and very kind driver in the jeep.

Our experience was great. They made it so easy from start to finish as our driver picked us up from our accommodation and then dropped us back afterwards. We were able to see so many different animals including elephants, crocodiles, buffalo and our personal favourite was the leopard! Couldn’t recommend enough!

We had a great time! I went there with 3 friends, pickup from our hotel and drop off later was exactly like planned. We had some incredible moments in the park, our driver/ guide was always trying to give us a great experience. He gave us time to enjoy moments, but also hurried when elephants or leopards were spotted! All in all we were really glad that we chose this Private tour!

My girlfriend and I had a private tour with Sisira Kumara. He was incredibly passionate and had great knowledge of Yala. We did both an evening and morning safari and managed to see an array of animals including elephants, buffalo and crocodiles. On the morning safari we were fortunate enough to spot two leopards hunting a buffalo calf, only to be fended off by the adult herd and chased up a tree. It was a truly memorable experience that neither of us will ever forget and we would definitely recommend this safari service to anyone visiting Yala.

Yala park is incredible. And to top it off we had a fantastic driver who gave us an excellent tour. When we return we will definitely be coming back and using the same company!

The terms “jeep” “safari” are very loose terms. The “jeep” is an early 2000s Toyota (or equivalent) truck with a metal structure of stadium seats attached. The safari is hardly that. I’d compare it more to a zoo experience. We didn’t see much and the drive was wildly uncomfortable. Trust me, you’ll need a massage after hours of insane bumps and unkept roads.

We really enjoyed our tour. We saw everything we wanted to see, including a leopard. The driver was amazing and very aware. Would definitely recommend this company.

The safari Is super cool ! But there was one scary moment the an elephant attacked us… I were screaming and the elephant just wanted some food

It was amazing ! I had a very nice experience and great time !! Thanks a lot . Very comfortable and well organised!

We took the half day experience and was picked up at 5AM, returning at noon. It was fantastic to see so much of the park, and naturally so many animals. We particularly enjoyed seeing a family of elephants with their new born. Our driver was extremely caring, attentive and passionate. He made extra effort to find new animals and keep the experience private, away from other vehicles. This made it a fantastic safari experience.

Guide was very good, met us early in the morning and they were flexible with timing because we had originally booked an afternoon tour and decided to change to sunrise last minute. We saw loads of animals in the park and the driver/guide stopped and allowed us time for photos and observation before asking if we wanted to move on. Minor thing is there is only one water bottle per person provided when invoice promises 2 so might be worth bringing your own in case you need extra during the tour. We had an awesome time and got to get very close up to an elephant crossing the road!

The whole experience was wonderful from the driver who took us to the destination and its fauna and flora

The best travel agents I have been with and they were very helpful in booking the tour for my parents. I would recommend to anyone

Yala National Park was one of the top expectation of our visit to Sri Lanka. Final we were very much disappointed as we could not watch so much wild animals. No word to visit

I enjoyed my visit to Yala very much. The only reason I didn't give it an excellent rating is that the ride was very rough. I wish someone had warned me it would be like that. The roads are rough and the drivers move very quickly over them so you bounce a lot. But the driver was so great at making sure I saw all of the animals (only one I didn't see was the Jaguar, but not his fault - cats are shy). He made sure to tell me all about whatever it was that I was seeing. It was truly wonderful. I would go again if I am ever there again. Please note that the visit date on the review is wrong - I was at Yala in 2017, but that was not available for me to choose.

Yala is magical with it's pachyderms, leopards, peacocks and vast array of fauna and Flora. Spend atleast 2 days here to soak in it's flavors. One of the rare national parks which boasts a beach and beautiful shoreline.

Couldn't see a single leopard, But overall the safari was interesting and enjoyed the morning ride through Forest.

Great experience on the safari, got so close to the elephants and driver was really knowledgable and informative.

Saw lots of elephants!!! They came very close to the truck which was amazing. Driver was great and made stops when we requested to take photos. Beautiful park!

The safari drive with Donavon was excellent. He is a very knowledgeable and friendly guide. We saw lots of animals but loved the lion cubs. The meal was excellent as well. We thoroughly recommend it. Gina d Neil Marshall.

My husband and I spent a wonderful night in Yala safari park, to hear all the sounds of wildlife around was amazing, an experience that we’ll never forget. The safari to the park was fantastic, I was fortunate enough to see a leopard. The staff couldn’t do enough and were so helpful and friendly. I would definitely recommend a stay.

Yala National Park Safari were really great. They were prompt in picking us up, and we had the whole safari car to ourselves which made the time fantastic. We also had our own spotter who informed us about the Sri Lankan wildlife. There are a lot of other cars from other companies so sometimes when you see an elephant or leopard you may be crowded in by the other vehicles. I highly recommend this company.

Although we did not spot a leopard, due to the rain, it was very good. Apart from the leopards we spot nearly everything including elephants, crocodiles, mongooses, junglefowls and much more. The driver was very pleasant and spotted a lot.

We saw bears, elephants, deer, crocodiles, monkeys, buffalo and birdlife, unfortunately, we had seen these elsewhere and so reason and focus to visit Yall was Leopards. In a six-seat (apparently Luxury) vehicle, a Toyota ute with seats bolted in comfort was not an option. As it poured soon after we got into the park there was not a leopard to be seen. The guide tried hard driving over through and sometimes we think under rough terrain and should have known that rain equals no leopards today and got us back to dry safe hotel.

What an experience this was! I would recommend it to everyone! First of all it’s lovely to see the animals in their natural habitat! You have to pay attention and look like almost everywhere to see some animals, but luckily your driver has an eye for that. They see the animals very fast and they help you look for it. Our driver was also very friendly and kind. It was really fun with him! Thanks again!

Excellent guide managed to find us a leopard plus numerous elephants and crocodiles he was really informed about all the beautiful birds. Spoke excellent English and was really helpful would recommend him highly

I couldn't have imagined this much. Seeing everything live is a completely different experience. I was very happy and had fun. Many thanks to everyone involved. With love and respect

It was interesting, but very few animals seen. We haven't seen any leopards. It is best to go there after rain.