Nature lovers looking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity will find that Yala National Park is one of the best places to visit. If you’re exploring this rich green expanse for the first time, here are 7 things you should know for an enriching experience.
1. Location and Expanse
The Yala National Park is located in Sri Lanka’s southeastern region. It is around 281 kilometres from Colombo ( a 4.5-hour drive) and 142 kilometres from Mirissa ( a 2.5-hour drive). It is often a top destination for tourists staying in hotels located in the southeast, including Cinnamon Wild Yala. Yala is also the second-largest national park on the island, covering 979 square kilometres, split across five blocks. However, only blocks 1 and 5 remain open for public visits.
2. The Best Time to Visit
Yala can be visited at any time of the year, but there are select periods when the experience is made so much better. The period from May to August ensures the best weather for visiting the park, when there’s plenty of sunshine and warm weather, ideal conditions for an engaging safari. However, the peak season lasts from December to March, when the animal sightings are higher, although you’re likely to encounter more tourists.
The best time of day to visit the park is early morning, when the animals are up and about. Most safaris start at 4.30 am for passenger pick up and arrive at the park entrance in time for the gates to open at 6 am.
3. The Wildlife & Biodiversity
Yala National Forest is made up of several different ecosystems, including jungle terrain, light forests, marshes, grasslands and even a sprawling coastline. The park’s primary attraction is its leopard population, although these spotted wild cats are rather elusive. The sloth bear is another rare species worth looking out for. Moreover, elephants, monkeys, water buffalo, crocodiles and peacocks are among the park’s other inhabitants.
4. The Best Tours
There are several types of wildlife tours and safaris available at Yala National Park. The Leopard Safari is one of the top things to do in Yala, available in both full-day and half-day arrangements. The all-inclusive Yala Camping Safari is another great option for those looking for an immersive experience, where you’ll get to stay the night in a pre-arranged tent after your daytime adventures. The Yala Group Safari is also an option if you’re visiting with family or friends. It follows the same set-up as a standard safari, but with a cheaper rate per person.
5. What to Expect
Visiting Yala National Park on a safari is a thrilling experience. These safaris often include an experienced guide who will take you to the best spots for animal sightings while also giving you plenty of information about each species and their behaviour. Additionally, don’t be surprised if you encounter other safari jeeps – Yala is one of the most visited national parks in the country. But this isn’t a bad thing, as guides are in constant contact and will alert each other whenever a rare sighting is spotted. It is also important to follow the park’s rules and regulations – passengers are not allowed to leave their vehicles and are not allowed to feed or interact with the animals.
6. What to Pack
The roads at Yala are quite dusty with plenty of safari vehicles driving around, so it’s best to wear clothes you wouldn’t mind getting dirty. But the weather can also get quite warm, so wear something comfy and lightweight. Close-toed shoes or sandals are ideal footwear as you won’t be getting out of the jeep at point during your safari. Also, remember to pack sun protection essentials – a hat, sunglasses and some sunscreen. Most tours provide water, but it won’t hurt to pack a few extra bottles and some snacks to keep you energised.
