7 days
Photo: Sachin Kaveesha Fernando, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia CommonsYala National Park
The south and its national parks
Yala's dry scrub, rocky outcrops and lagoons hold elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles and a dense population of leopards. Block 1 is the most visited; quieter blocks and Lunugamvehera next door have fewer jeeps.
Planning your safari
- Go at dawn. Gates open around 6 am; leopards are most active early.
- Check the closure. In 2026 the main blocks closed from 14 September to 15 October. Dates change each year.
- Choose a good operator. Pick one that keeps a respectful distance; sightings attract crowds of jeeps.
- Compare parks. See our safari guide.
Where it is
Multi-day tours that visit Yala National Park
Every tour here includes Yala National Park in its itinerary. Best rated first.
7 days
8 daysNegombo
8 Days tour in Sri Lanka with privet driver and accommodations
4.9(551)Free cancellation
from$665
8 daysNegombo
8-Day Sri Lanka Private Tour |Sigiriya, Kandy' Ella, Yala |Hotels
5.0(169)Free cancellation
from$788
5 days
8 days
12 days
10 days
9 days
8 days
8 days
12 daysNegombo
12-Day Sri Lanka Private Tour|Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella & Yala Safari
5.0(25)Free cancellation
from$1,222
9 daysColombo
Sri Lanka 9-Day Private Tour: Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella & Yala
5.0(22)Free cancellation
from$900$810
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Yala National Park: questions
What are the chances of seeing a leopard in Yala?
Good, especially on a full day or two safaris, but never guaranteed.