Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your Yala safari — timings, park fees, vehicles, what to bring and how to book.
What is the best time of day for a Yala safari?
The evening safari (2:00 PM – 6:30 PM) offers the highest chance of spotting leopards, as animals come to the waterholes to drink in the golden hour. The morning safari (5:00 AM – 10:00 AM) is best for bird watchers and for seeing sloth bears foraging.
Which Yala safari packages do you offer?
We offer a Morning Safari (5:00 AM – 10:00 AM) with a breakfast stop by the beach inside the park, an Evening Safari (2:00 PM – 6:30 PM), and a Full Day Safari (5:00 AM – 6:00 PM) that explores Block 1 and Block 2 with a picnic lunch and a swim break.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes. Every safari includes free pickup from your hotel and drop-off after the drive, with no hidden fees.
Are Yala National Park entrance fees included?
Park entrance tickets are purchased at the gate. We organize the tickets and tracker for you and can calculate the exact cost in LKR or USD before your safari.
Which safari jeeps can I choose from?
You can choose a Toyota Land Cruiser (luxury choice with an A/C option and camera bean bags), a Toyota Hilux 4x4, or a Mahindra Bolero (best value). Each vehicle seats up to 6 guests and has open sides for photography.
How many people fit in one safari jeep?
Each of our safari jeeps seats up to 6 passengers.
Will we see a leopard in Yala?
Yala National Park has one of the highest leopard densities in the world, and our naturalists know where to look, but wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed. The evening safari gives the best odds.
What should I wear and bring on safari?
Wear neutral colors such as green, beige or brown and avoid bright colors, which can scare animals. Bring a hat and sunglasses. For photography a zoom lens of 300mm or more is recommended.
Do you offer Udawalawe safaris and taxi transfers?
Yes. As well as Yala, we run elephant safaris in Udawalawe National Park and private island-wide transfers, including from Ella, Colombo, Arugam Bay, Weligama and Hiriketiya.
How do I book a safari?
Use the booking form on our website, message us on WhatsApp at +94773076524, or email book@yalaprivatesafari.com. We reply within 30 minutes.
Where are you located?
We are based at No 321, Palatupana Road, Tissamaharama, Sri Lanka — the closest town to the main entrance of Yala National Park.
Still Have Questions?
Message us on WhatsApp or send a booking request — we reply within 30 minutes.