The Southern Province’s two premier safari destinations – Yala and Bundala National Parks – offer authentic wildlife experiences without the tourist traps. Yala stands out for its excellent leopard-spotting tours, with skilled guides who know exactly where these cats hang out. Bundala’s all-inclusive safaris are perfect for bird enthusiasts and those wanting a less crowded experience.
I’m especially fond of the private jeep tours in Yala because they allow flexibility with timing and route choices – crucial for wildlife photography. The half-day tours at Bundala are another favorite, offering great value and plenty of wildlife sightings without taking up your entire day.
Let’s explore the top safari tours worth your time and money in Southern Sri Lanka.
Good To Know
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Yala National Park offers diverse safari experiences, including guided leopard safaris, private tours, and full-day/half-day options starting from $30 per person.
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Bundala National Park provides an all-inclusive safari tour at $69 per person, as well as a combined Yala and Bundala National Parks tour at $230 per person.
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Comprehensive safari packages in the Southern Province offer full-day experiences starting at $180 per person, including transportation, jeep, meals, and accessibility options.
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Safari tours in the region cater to travelers with varying fitness levels, with some experiences not suitable for those with limited mobility.
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Pricing and cancellation policies vary, with most tours offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Guided Leopard Safari in Yala National Park in a Land Rover Defender
One of the premier safari experiences in the Southern Province, this guided leopard safari in Yala National Park offers travelers the chance to spot the elusive big cats in their natural habitat.
Lasting 4-6 hours, the tour traverses the park in a safari-modified Land Rover Defender, providing 100% traveler satisfaction based on 10 reviews.
Included in the 30 USD per person cost are bottled water, binoculars, and snacks, as well as free hotel pickup if within 5 km of the park gate.
While the entrance ticket isn’t included, the safari itself boasts a 5.0-star overall rating, making it a must-do for any visitor to the region.
Read our full review: Guided Leopard Safari in Yala National Park in a Land Rover Defender Review
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Private Safari in Yala National Park Morning or Evening
Travelers seeking a more intimate and personalized safari experience in Yala National Park can opt for the private morning or evening tour offered by Ceylon Leopard Safari.
With a maximum group size of just your own party, this experience provides a customized adventure in a comfortable Toyota Hilux or Land Rover jeep. The tour includes an experienced safari driver and bottled water, though entrance tickets must be purchased separately at the park’s entrance.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers with a strong fitness level.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation, this private safari is an excellent choice for exploring Yala’s diverse wildlife in a personalized setting.
Read our full review: Private Safari in Yala National Park Morning or Evening Review
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One Day Safari Tour to Both Yala and Bundala National Parks
Offering a comprehensive wildlife experience, this one-day safari tour takes adventurers through the diverse ecosystems of Yala and Bundala National Parks in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province.
Starting at 5:30 AM, the private tour includes transportation, park entry fees, a picnic lunch, and bottled water. Visitors will have the opportunity to spot a range of animals, from elephants and leopards in Yala to migratory birds in Bundala.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
At $230 per person, the non-refundable tour has received positive reviews, though no 5-star ratings.
Read our full review: One Day Safari Tour to Both Yala and Bundala National Parks Review
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Private Safari at Yala National Park
Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife destinations, offers travelers a private safari experience to enjoy the natural wonders of the region.
The park is one of the largest and most visited in the country, known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive leopard.
Visitors can choose between early morning and afternoon departures, with round-trip transportation, bottled water, and a knowledgeable driver/guide included.
The safari is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for those with certain physical limitations.
With positive reviews and flexible booking options, the private safari at Yala National Park is an excellent way to explore Sri Lanka’s stunning Southern Province.
Read our full review: Private Safari at Yala National Park Review
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Yala Safari Tour Yala National Park Full-Day/HalfDay
Nestled within Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, Yala National Park beckons visitors with its diverse wildlife and captivating landscapes.
Home to leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and more, the park offers a range of safari options. Travelers can choose from half-day, full-day, and morning tours, with early departures to avoid crowds.
The tours include entrance fees, water, snacks, and hotel transfers, with the full-day option also providing lunch. Guests can enjoy a private safari experience, exploring the park with a knowledgeable guide and driver in an exclusive Jeep.
With a 98% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, Yala National Park safaris provide an unforgettable encounter with Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Yala Safari Tour Yala National Park Full-Day/HalfDay Review
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Special Leopards Safari – Yala National Park – 04.30 Am to 11.30 Am
Though nestled within Yala National Park, the Special Leopards Safari offers an opportunity to witness the elusive big cats at the prime time of day.
Operated by Yala Osha Safari, this 04:30 am to 11:30 am excursion provides a luxury safari jeep experience with an experienced driver/guide. Priced at $28 per person, the tour includes a Sri Lankan breakfast and binoculars.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, the safari offers personalized attention and flexibility in locating leopards. Boasting a 97% traveler recommendation, the tour’s excellent track record is evident in its Badge of Excellence recognition.
Whether you’re seeking an early morning leopard sighting or a broader park exploration, this special safari is a must-consider option in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province.
Read our full review: Special Leopards Safari – Yala National Park – 04.30 Am to 11.30 Am Review
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Yala Safari Tours
What makes Yala Safari Tours a standout option for exploring the diverse wildlife of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province? For starters, the tour boasts a stellar 4.5-star rating based on 15 reviews, with 93% of travelers recommending the experience.
The tour includes all fees, taxes, breakfast, private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and national park fees, ensuring a seamless and worry-free adventure. Flexibility is also a key feature, as the tour can be arranged as a private activity for your group, with infant seats available.
Plus, the early 7 AM start time and WhatsApp communication for jeep and driver details demonstrate the operator’s commitment to providing a top-notch safari experience.
Read our full review: Yala Safari Tours Review
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Bundala National Park Safari (ALL INCLUSIVE) PRIVATE TOURS
Yala Safari Tours’ strong reviews and comprehensive inclusions have established it as a premier option for exploring Sri Lanka’s wildlife.
Bundala National Park Safari (ALL INCLUSIVE) PRIVATE TOURS is one of their standout offerings. Priced reasonably at $69 per person, this tour provides an all-inclusive experience with cool drinks, bottled water, entrance tickets, and the expertise of experienced drivers and guides.
The tour is accessible to most travelers, with infant seats available, and offers the convenience of nearby public transportation.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, this private safari tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive wildlife experience in Bundala National Park.
Read our full review: Bundala National Park Safari (ALL INCLUSIVE) PRIVATE TOURS Review
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Jeep Safari to Yala National Park With an Expert Of Wild Life
One of Yala Safari Tours’ popular offerings is their Jeep Safari to Yala National Park With an Expert Of Wild Life.
For $105 per person, this private tour includes an expert wildlife tracker, all fees and taxes, private transportation, snacks, bottled water, and use of binoculars.
The tour offers hotel pick-up and drop-off, and is accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and infants.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, this safari is a great option to spot the diverse wildlife of Yala National Park.
Read our full review: Jeep Safari to Yala National Park With an Expert Of Wild Life Review
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Yala National Park Safari | Jeep With Tickets
Yala National Park’s captivating safari experience allows visitors to explore the park’s diverse wildlife aboard a private 4×4 Jeep.
This safari offers a maximum of 6 passengers per Jeep, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. The park entrance fee is included, and each guest receives a complimentary water bottle.
Pickup and drop-off services are available within a 5 KM radius from the Palatupana Park Gate, with additional fees for locations outside this radius.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
Pricing starts from €100.15 per person, with free cancellation and rescheduling options up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Safari | Jeep With Tickets Review
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Situlpawwa Temple Visit With Yala National Park Outside Safari
The captivating Situlpawwa Temple, nestled near the borders of Yala National Park, offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Operated by Yala Dreams Wild Safari Tours, this tour provides an exhilarating combination of a temple visit and a Yala National Park safari. Priced at €31.78 per person, the tour includes complimentary cool drinks, bottled water, and the expertise of experienced drivers and guides.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, this tour offers a hassle-free and affordable way to explore the beauty of southern Sri Lanka.
Accessible to most travelers, the tour isn’t wheelchair-friendly but does accommodate infant seats and service animals.
Read our full review: Situlpawwa Temple Visit With Yala National Park Outside Safari Review
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Half-Day Private Safari Tour in Yala National Park
Immersing visitors in the untamed beauty of Yala National Park, the Half-Day Private Safari Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of this renowned wildlife sanctuary.
Guests embark on a flexible journey from 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM, accompanied by a private guide and transportation in a customized 4×4 vehicle. The tour includes essential amenities like bottled water, binoculars, and refreshments.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the experience caters to most travelers, excluding those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
With a reasonable price tag of €77.04 per person and a free cancellation policy, this private safari tour promises an unforgettable adventure in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province.
Read our full review: Half-Day Private Safari Tour in Yala National Park Review
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Leopard Safari in Yala National Park With an Experienced Guide
Embarking on an exhilarating Leopard Safari in Yala National Park, visitors can expect an unforgettable encounter with the elusive big cats, guided by experienced trackers.
Priced from $311.13 per person, this private safari offers a comprehensive experience, including an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and Wi-Fi.
Pickup and drop-off at hotels around Yala are included, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Guests can reserve their spot with the flexibility to pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
With moderate physical fitness required, this Leopard Safari promises a thrilling wildlife adventure in Sri Lanka’s stunning Southern Province.
Read our full review: Leopard Safari in Yala National Park With an Experienced Guide Review
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Yala National Park Jeep Safari With an Expert Of Wildlife
A remarkable Yala National Park Jeep Safari offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to witness the diverse wildlife of Sri Lanka’s stunning Southern Province.
This private tour, available for your group only, includes all entry fees, refreshments, and equipment like binoculars. Pickup is provided from hotels in the Yala, Tissamaharama, Kirinda, and Kataragama areas, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
With prices starting from $105 per person, it’s a fantastic value. Confirmation is received at booking, and you can even reserve now and pay later.
Most travelers can participate, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience. It’s an exceptional way to explore Yala’s renowned leopard population and other incredible fauna.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Jeep Safari With an Expert Of Wildlife Review
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All Inclusive Yala National Park Full Day Safari
Visitors looking to explore the wonders of Yala National Park can embark on an all-inclusive full-day safari. Starting from $180 per person, this private tour includes private transportation, a 4×4 jeep with a guide, and all entry fees to the national park.
The package also covers lunch, coffee/tea, snacks, fresh coconut, and fruits. Guests can use complimentary binoculars and enjoy hassle-free transportation from hotels around Yala, Katharagama, and Tissamaharama.
The tour is wheelchair-accessible, and most travelers can participate. With a confirmation at the time of booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this safari offers a flexible and convenient way to discover Yala’s diverse wildlife.
Read our full review: All Inclusive Yala National Park Full Day Safari Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Yala National Park?
The best time to visit Yala National Park is during the dry season from June to September when wildlife is more easily spotted and the weather is drier and cooler.
Can I See Other Wildlife Besides Leopards on a Yala Safari?
Yes, visitors on a Yala safari can see a variety of wildlife besides leopards, including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. The park’s diverse ecosystems provide habitats for an array of flora and fauna.
What Should I Bring on a Yala National Park Safari Tour?
When visiting Yala National Park on a safari tour, it’s recommended to bring sun protection, insect repellent, comfortable clothing, binoculars, and a camera to capture the diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, deer, and a variety of bird species.
How Reliable Are the Tour Guides for Yala National Park Safaris?
The tour guides for Yala National Park safaris are generally reliable, with extensive knowledge of the park’s wildlife and habitats. Tourists report high levels of satisfaction with the guide services, which contribute to an enjoyable and informative safari experience.
Are There Any Age or Physical Restrictions for Yala National Park Safaris?
There are generally no age or physical restrictions for Yala National Park safaris, though some tour operators may have guidelines for young children or those with mobility challenges. It’s best to check with individual tour providers for their specific requirements.
The Sum Up
Southern Province of Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of safari tours, catering to various preferences. From private excursions in Yala National Park to comprehensive full-day safaris, visitors can enjoy the region’s abundant wildlife and scenic landscapes. These tour options provide an opportunity to spot majestic leopards, diverse bird species, and other captivating fauna, making them a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.