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Most Popular Safari

Minneriya national park evening jeep safari (Half day)

Minneriya, Sri Lanka | Duration : 05 hours 

From $45 : Per Person 

Kaudulla national park evening jeep safari ( Half day)

Habarana Hurulu eco park evening jeep safari ( Half day )

Habarana, Sri Lanka | Duration : 05 hours 

From $40 : Per Person 

Sigiriya lion rock & evening jeep safari (Full day)

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka | Duration : 05 hours 

From $80 : Per Person 

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Dambulla Cave Temple

Minneriya ,Kaudulla and Hurulu Eco National Park

Polonnaruwa

Anuradhapura

• Dambulla, Sri Lanka

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Book a Sri Lanka safari for ultimate wildlife safari

Complete, Safari guide to sort out which national park to do your Safari tour in Sri Lanka like a travel pro, and Plan your wildlife holiday to Sri Lanka that includes leopards, elephants, sloth bears, whales, and many other animals. Know how to reserve your safari.

Sri Lanka is your ultimate location for wildlife Safari experience and wildlife Safari tours & camping

Sri Lanka is a small country, yet teemed with wildlife. It has 26 national parks, The most famous ones are Yala, Wilpattu, Udawalawe, and Minneriya. Holding Eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Sinharaja Forest biosphere reserve, designated by UNESCO. It covers only a small portion of the island, 88.64 km2 to be precise, but they're home to half of all endemic and native species, including elusive cats and slender loris.

When it comes to Sri Lanka safari wildlife tours, the island nation is most famous for majestic Asian elephants and leopards, (one of the five "big cats"). This small island holds the world record for the highest leopard density in the world, here leopards are super large since they are the highest-ranking formidable predators on the island, they have evolved more like a jaguar with more muscular, more powerful maybe even more powerful than a jaguar, they roam National parks proudly with no idea of fear whatsoever. Not to mention the country has the highest density of elephants in Asia. Also, the world's largest elephant gathering happens here in Minneriya. This miracle island is not ready to stop there and push its limits to the Indian ocean and making it possible to witness the world's largest whale gathering.

If you are looking for a leopard safari, Yala and Wilpattu are the best in terms of spotting leopards mainly due to their leopard density. Yala has its prime advantage because it is more like a savanna, mostly scattered with shrubs, grasslands, and occasional big trees. If you are into elephants best parks are Udawalawe and Minnariya.

In general, Sri Lankan National parks harbor lots of animal species, including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and Invertebrates. so contact us, for more info. We provide all-inclusive private jeep tours with free meals and do free pick-up and drop-off from close by areas to the national park. we even can tailor-make your itinerary and we provide camping in Sri Lanka as well

Best time slots to reserve a safari

MORNING GAME DRIVE

AFTERNOON GAME DRIVE

FULL DAY GAME DRIVE

Yala Safari

Yala is the most famous NP on the island because it is very likely to spot animals since it has more open areas and most of the plants are bush-like plants

Wilpattui Safari

Wilpattu NP is most popular for its leopard density, also it's a top national park in the world for its leopard, 75% of the Wilpattu NP is covered with thick jungle

Udawalawe Safari

Udawalawe NP provides Natural habitat for Srilankan elephants, Many elephants are attracted to the park because of the Udawalawe reservoir

Minneriya Safari

Witness the world's largest elephant gathering, elephant herds from 150 to as high as 700 Can be seen in Minneriya NP during the dry season

Jeep Tours In Lesser-Known National Parks In Sri Lanka

Bundala is located close to Yala, but a less-popular safari destination, if you are a bird lover this is a not to miss bird paradise and also a good place to avoid the tourist crowd, Bundala harbor not only birds, occasional leopard, elephants, reptiles, amphibians, and many other faunae. Park consists of five Lagoons providing wintering ground for migratory waterbirds, not to mention the park's harbors 197 species of birds.

Kaudulla NP

If you are a bird-watcher Kaudulla is a good place to visit. Apart from the birds, you can spot elephants, Sambar deer, chevrotain, wild boar, Axis deer, sloth bear, and occasional Leopard. The centerpiece of the park is the Kaudulla tank built by King Mahasen, surrounded by lowlands, hills, scrubland, and forest. Even you can do a boat ride in the Kaudulla tank while bird watching. Best to visit from June to September.

Wasgamuwa NP

The Wasgamuwa is the Best place to see sloth bears, highest density when compared to other parks on the island, Wasgamuwa park is a dry evergreen forest located in Sri Lanka's dry zone, the park holds More than 150 floral species and 23 species of mammals, including Elephants and many other faunae including 143 species birds, 15 species of amphibians 35 reptiles and lots of butterflies can be spotted. Also a very less-crowded park.

If you are a nature lover and like a peace of mind, Gal Oya Park's boat ride will give you a wonderful experience on your wildlife tour. Popular for its spectacular view of nature combined with man-made gigantic reservoirs to create heavenly beauty. Gal Oya National Park lies southeast of the island and is famous for a boat safari. 32 terrestrial mammals and more than 150 species of birds have been recorded in Gal Oya.

Lunugamvehera NP

The Lunugamvehera is an important habitat for elephants and water birds, also it serves as a catchment area of the Lunugamvehera reservoir and surrounding wildlife areas. Park is a vital corridor for elephants to migrate between Udawalawe and Yala. Park provides a home for 43 mammals, 12 amphibians, 21 fish species, 183 birds, and 33 reptiles. Lunugamvehera is packed with amazing views and is good for bird watchers.

The Kumana is famous for its birds and elephants, and the density of other animals remains low, however, it’s not rare to spot a leopard, along with crocodiles, wild buffalo, white cobras, and turtles. Tourist numbers on any given day remain extremely low throughout the eyer, even during high season. Ornithological rich mangrove swamp attracts birds, turning into a good place to do bird watching. There have been sightings of Black-necked stork, and tons of other birds.

Lahugala Kitulana NP

Situated in the Ampara District and is one of the smallest parks on the island. Due to its remote location, the park has almost no visits at all. Despite its size and unpopularity park has lots of endemic birds and mammals. Rusty-Spotted cat, Fishing cat, Toque Macaque, Tufted Gray Langur, Golden Jackal, Wild boar, and Axis deer are some of them. Park's Physical features consist of flat terrain and occasional rocky outcrops, with a thick jungle.

Kalawewa NP

Kalawewa was Declared recently as a National park in the year of 2015 and became more popular in the year 2019. A man-made humongous reservoir built by King Datusena in 307 B.C, Capable of holding 123 million cubic meters of rainwater which feedback to local farmlands, During the season reservoir attracts lots of elephants that reside in nearby vegetation. Safaris only can be done when water levels declined, the best time to visit will be June to July, however, this could vary depending on weather patterns. The park is also home to many birds which makes it a good place to do birdwatching as well.

SRI LANKA BIG 5 ANIMALS

1: The blue whale

2: the sperm whale, 3: the srilankan leopard, 4: the srilankan elephant, 5: the srilankan sloth bear, sri lanka safari.

By- Zanita Careem-Features editor Featured in Sunday island newspaper

Things you need to know about Safaris, beforehand.

Sri Lanka is a must-visit Safari destination in the world. A small island nation filled with hundreds of endemic species is a big draw to do a safari. The best way to have a wildlife encounter is to take a Safari Game Drive in a National park in Sri Lanka. Below you can find some of the most valuable information that nobody tells beforehand. I am sure this will clear any doubt you having what to expect on the tour itself.

It is definitely a bumpy ride.

Well, This is wilderness, so do not expect a comfortable ride like you are on an expressway, jeeps have comfortable seats with local standards and have pretty good suspensions, however, they can't absorb a sudden jerk as high-performance vehicles handle shocks.

So hold on to something and do not forget to have a good grip on your camera, unless you want it to fly away into the wilderness.

If you are on a wildlife photography tour, let Go4safri know about it beforehand. They will make arrangements for that.

Just sitting in the front row will reduce the shocks to a great extent, and the last row will have the exact opposite reaction. The last row is directly over the wheels so you will experience lots of bouncing effects. teenagers might like it.

While you are on a narrow trail watch out for tree branches, most come with thorns.

What to wear during the Safari.

It's not like Man vs Wild appeared on the Discovery channel, you are not crawling through mud with elephants, anyway, you are not allowed to step outside of the vehicle, in most locations, unless your park ranger permits you to do so, it's park rules.

However, your clothes, hair, and face might get dusty, If you prefer to stay clean no matter what, do not forget to bring a wet wipe to clean off your face.

The big picture about what you can wear is, that you can wear whatever you want, consider the blazing sun when you select your clothes.

You may get sun sunburn.

Do not forget to have sunscreen or shades. Locals can endure the heat, but not you. most of the vehicles (jeeps) have a roof, but the sun won't stay on top, most of the time.

Other important things that you should know about.

If you want to take photographs coordinate with your driver for stopping the vehicle while it is moving or you want to get into a perfect spot for your photograph, Put your camera on sport mode and keep it ready at all times, you don't know when you will encounter amazing wildlife in its natural habitat.

You will have bathroom breaks when you have your picnic breakfast and picnic lunch, if you need any additional bathroom breaks just tell the driver, but it will disrupt the Game-Drive so only drink adequate liquids.

One more thing, you will not be the only vehicle doing the tour, popular national parks have more jeeps, having the same goal as you, so you have to take it easy about the traffic jam, for the sake of the country’s incredible wildlife, you are about to witness.

Enjoy thrill-seeking wildlife tours presented by Go4Safari that let you experience the majestic attraction of nature while resting your eyes on the wilder living beings in the world of fauna and flora.'Our wildlife tours are probably the most comprehensive nature expedition in Sri Lanka said, Sameera Gamage.

Srilanka's wildlife tours are popular all over the world. From leopard safaris in Yala National Park to walking wildlife tours in the highlands of Horton Planes National Park, the experiences will always be etched in your mind – Enjoy! – The world's best destination for rich wildlife tours. Book early and enjoy your tour.

Minneriya Safari

Watch the world largest elephant gathering, with minneriya safari tours, witness the largest elephant gathering in asia, minneriya national park minneriya jeep safari, the biggest concentration of wild asian elephants in the entire world may be found in sri lanka’s minneriya national park, which is home to a wide variety of species. nearly 31,000 hectares make up minneriya national park. nearly 170 bird species and other animals are also found in the area. jeep safaris are a popular way for visitors to go through the park, increasing their chances of seeing park animals in their natural habitat at twilight., why choose us.

• We are locals, Live in Minneriya & Habarana
• Focused on your needs
• Easy & safe payments
• No hidden fees. Good value for money
• More flexibility to change
• Certified safari jeep drivers

Latest News

Sigiriya lion rock.

Sigiriya Lion Rock is an ancient rock castle with a gigantic rock column that rises

Pidurangala Rock

Known as the “eighth wonder of the world,” Sigiriya is a “must-see” destination on any

Dambulla Rock Cave Temple

The Dambulla cave temple has an unique atmosphere. Its stone sanctuaries are among the oldest,

Park open for Foreigners

> Wear a face mask > Use Sanitizer

• We are locals, Live in Minneriya
• Easy & Safe Payments
• No Hidden fees. Good value for money
• Certified Safari game Drivers
• Free Backup Jeep when a breakdown

Minneriya Morning Safari

• Safari Jeep (Private)
• Professional Safari jeep Driver
• Park Entrance Fee
• Jeep & Driver Entrance Fee
• Park Service Fee + Park VAT Tax
• Hotel Pickup & Drop off (Minneriya / Habarana / Sigiriya / Polonnaruwa / Dambulla & Kandalama)

Morning Tour give you a chance to see mostly Birds like Peacock, Eagle, Pelicans, Parrots, Crane, Parakeet, Owl, Hornbill & etc. Can see about 20% of Elephants. Also other animals like Monkeys, Deers, Wild Rabbits, wild boar & a Fox if you are lucky. 

Minneriya Evening Safari

Evening Jeep Safari Tour give you a chance to see mostly Larger Elephant gathering than Morning Jeep Safari Tour. Also other animals like Deers, water Buffalo, Crocodile, Iguana, Monkeys as well as birds like peacock, pelican, Eagles & etc…

Try Half & Full Day SAFARI

Explore the minneriya park relaxly by half day or full day safari. touch the various areas for track elephants, animals and birds., hurulu half day safari.

Find more Elephants at their natural places.

Minneriya & Hurulu Full day

Visit 2 parks in one day!

Minneriya Half day Safari

Track more animals at their native place.

Try Half and Full Day SAFARI

Explore the park relaxly by half day or full day safari. touch the various areas for see more animals and birds., minneriya & hurulu full day safari.

” Large numbers of Sri Lankan elephants are attracted to grass fields on the edges of the Minneriya Tank during the dry season. The Minneriya tank contributes to sustain a large herd. Elephants gathered at Minneriya National Park is numbering around 150-350.”

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popular Safari Tours

Minneriya Half day

Half day safari.

Minneriya Full day

Kaudulla Safari

Hurulu Eco park

Hurulu eco park.

Minneriya & Kaudulla Full day Safari

Kaudulla Safari Morning / Evening

Hurulu eco park safari morning / evening, popular tours.

Polonnaruwa Ruins & Safari

Village Tour & Safari

Pidurangala & Safari

Whale watching Trincomalee

Explore Polonnaruwa Ruins & Evening Safari

Hike Pidurangala & Safari

Whale & Dolphin watching Trincomalee

What our guests think.

Who recommend Minneriya Safari Tours?

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Plan your safari, sri lanka safari by local wildlife specialists.

Experience the wild side of Sri Lanka with our tailor-made wildlife tours. Designed by local wildlife enthusiasts, guides, and photographers, we offer an authentic journey into Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity. From the elephant gatherings at Minneriya National Park to bird watching at wilpattu National Park and yala national park sri lanka our tours cover the best of Sri Lankas wildlife. Stay at unique lodges like tented safari camps, tree houses in the wild, and rustic wildlife safari lodges for an immersive experience. As local wildlife specialists, we leverage our knowledge and secrets to ensure your tour is not just another off-the-shelf experience, but a true wildlife journey in Sri Lanka.

POPULAR SRI LANKA SAFARIS

Hey there! Fancy an adventure? Picture this: you’re on a thrilling sri lanka safari exploring the country’s top national parks. Imagine spotting a leopard in the wild at Yala National Park, or discovering diverse wildlife and bird species at Wilpattu National Park, the largest and one of the oldest parks in the country. And don’t forget about Minneriya National Park,kaudulla nationala park and eco park where you can witness the spectacular sight of the annual elephant gathering. Each park offers a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and join us for a memorable journey into the wild side of Sri Lanka! It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss.

Embark on a Wilpattu Safari journey! Full Day, Morning, and Evening Safaris reveal nature's wonders. Our private Jeeps, expert guides, and extras promise a seamless adventure. Join us in crafting your unforgettable safari tale!

Discover Minneriya's enchantment! From vibrant Morning to twilight Evening Safari, our private Jeep tours promise wildlife wonders. Join us for an extraordinary adventure!

Explore Yala's wildlife with Yala Safari's Full Day, Morning, and Evening Safaris. All include park fees, a private jeep, guide, water, fruits, and hotel pick-up. Full Day extends from 5:00 am to 6:00 pm, featuring a picnic breakfast and lunch.

Sri Lanka Biodiversity

Sri Lanka boasts remarkable biodiversity with lush rainforests, diverse ecosystems, and unique wildlife. Its rich flora includes orchids and medicinal plants. The island is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a variety of endemic species, making conservation efforts crucial for the preservation of its natural treasures.

Bird Paradise Sri Lanka:

Renowned as a bird paradise, Sri Lanka hosts over 450 bird species, including endemics like the colorful Sri Lankan junglefowl. Important bird areas like Sinharaja Forest Reserve attract birdwatchers with vibrant species like the Sri Lanka blue magpie. The island's varied landscapes offer diverse habitats for avian life.

Mammals of Sri Lanka:

Sri Lanka's mammalian diversity is fascinating, featuring both land and marine species. The elusive Sri Lankan leopard, slender loris, and Asian elephant roam its jungles. Coastal waters teem with marine mammals like dolphins and whales. Conservation efforts focus on protecting these diverse and unique mammals.

Big 4 Sri Lanka:

The "Big 4" of Sri Lanka's wildlife are the Asian elephant, Sri Lankan leopard, sloth bear, and sperm whale. These charismatic megafauna represent the country's iconic wildlife. Conservation initiatives aim to safeguard their habitats and ensure the survival of these majestic species, contributing to Sri Lanka's natural heritage.

Wilpattu national park

Imagine yourself traversing vast plains dotted with the ancient ruins of forgotten civilizations. Wilpattu, Sri Lanka's largest national park, beckons with a unique blend of wilderness and history. Here, leopards stalk the undergrowth, casting enigmatic glances from beneath tangled vines. Elephants trumpet their presence, quenching their thirst at age-old villus, shimmering like emeralds in the sunlight. As you navigate the park's diverse landscapes, from dense jungles to open grasslands, keep your eyes peeled for sloth bears lumbering through the brush, spotted deer grazing serenely, and over 200 bird species flitting across the sky. Wilpattu is not just a safari; it's a journey through time, where the whispers of forgotten empires mingle with the roar of untamed nature.

Full day safari

Dive into a day-long Wilpattu adventure, 5:30 am to 6:00 pm. Explore diverse landscapes in a private Safari Jeep with an English-speaking guide. Encounter rare wildlife moments, from dense forests to expansive lakes. Immerse in nature's canvas.

Morning safari

Witness the magic of dawn in Wilpattu from 5:30 am to 10:00 am. Traverse the park in style with a private Jeep and expert guide. The vibrant sunrise backdrop enhances your untamed wildlife encounter, heightened by the beauty of nature.

Evening safari

Embark on an Evening Safari, 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Glide through Wilpattu in an exclusive Safari Jeep. Expert guidance unveils the twilight transformation. Savor bottled water and fresh fruits, adding a refreshing touch to your safari adventure.

Yala national park

Step into a realm where biodiversity reigns supreme. Yala National Park, a tapestry of six distinct habitats, pulsates with a vibrant energy that will leave you breathless. In the dry plains, leopards, the elusive monarchs of the wild, stalk their prey with unwavering focus. Elephants roam in majestic herds, their trumpeting calls echoing through the valleys. Sloth bears lumber through the undergrowth, their shaggy coats camouflaged against the dappled sunlight. In the verdant forests, monkeys swing from branch to branch, while vibrant birds, from majestic hornbills to playful bee-eaters, splash the air with color. Yala is a haven for adventure, offering exciting jeep safaris, thrilling leopard-spotting expeditions, and even the option to camp under the starlit sky, surrounded by the symphony of the jungle. So, are you ready to unlock the secrets of this wildlife wonderland?

Explore Yala from 5:00 am to 6:00 pm, a full-day adventure with optional picnic breakfast and lunch. Encounter wildlife wonders in a private jeep with an English-speaking guide. Free hotel pick-up and drop-off from various areas.

Morning safai

Witness Yala's dawn magic from 5:00 am to 10:00 am. A private jeep and expert guide enhance your wildlife experience. Included are the National Park entrance, VAT tax, water, and fruits. Hotel transfers ensure a seamless journey.

Embark on an Evening Safari from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Glide through Yala in a private jeep, guided by a professional English-speaking driver. National Park entrance, VAT tax, bottled water, and fruits are all included. Hotel pick-up and drop-off add to the convenience. Each tour promises a unique exploration of Yala's biodiversity.

Udawalawa tours sri lanka

Embark on a journey where nature’s diversity is the star of the show. Udawalawe National Park, a mosaic of diverse ecosystems, hums with a dynamic vitality that will captivate you. In the arid grasslands, water buffaloes, the titans of the terrain, graze with a serene intensity. Elephants wander in stately processions, their resonant trumpeting reverberating across the plains. Wild boars forage through the scrub, their bristly coats blending seamlessly with the sun-dappled shadows. In the lush greenery, monkeys leap from limb to limb, while resplendent birds, from regal eagles to sprightly kingfishers, paint the sky with a riot of colors. Udawalawe is a sanctuary for thrill-seekers, offering exhilarating jeep safaris, heart-pounding water buffalo sightings, and even the chance to camp under the twinkling stars, enveloped by the harmonious melodies of the wilderness. So, are you prepared to uncover the mysteries of this natural paradise?

Experience Udawalawe’s sunrise spectacle from 5:10 am to 10:00 am. A personal jeep and knowledgeable guide enrich your safari adventure. Included are the National Park entry, VAT tax, water, and fruits. Hotel pick-ups and drop-offs guarantee a smooth expedition.

Half day safari

Explore Udawalawes midday to dusk charm from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm. A private jeep and experienced guide amplify your wildlife quest. Included are the National Park admission, VAT tax, water, and fruits. Hotel transfers ensure a convenient voyage.

Discover Udawalawe’s twilight allure from 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm. A dedicated jeep and skilled guide heighten your wildlife journey. Included are the National Park fee, VAT tax, water, and fruits. Hotel transfers ensure a hassle-free adventure.

Sri lanka safari jeeps

Experience the thrill of wildlife like never before with our tailor-made jeep safari tours in Sri Lanka. Our tours are designed by local wildlife enthusiasts, guides, and photographers, offering you an authentic journey into Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity. Travel in our specially equipped safari jeeps to witness the majestic elephant gatherings at Minneriya National Park, bird watching at Wilpattu National Park, and the diverse wildlife at Yala National Park. Our safari jeeps are designed to provide the best viewing experience, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action. Stay at unique lodges like tented safari camps, tree houses in the wild, and rustic wildlife safari lodges for an immersive experience. As local wildlife specialists, we leverage our knowledge and secrets to ensure your tour is not just another off-the-shelf experience, but a true wildlife journey in Sri Lanka.

Land cruiser

Toyota hilux.

Mahendra bolero

Recommended wildlife tours itineraries in sri lanka.

Step into a hidden paradise brimming with avian wonders. Hurulu Eco Park, a haven for birdwatchers, boasts a dazzling array of over 180 bird species, including vibrant Sri Lankan endemics like the crimson-backed sunbird, the Sri Lankan blue magpie, and the majestic crested hawk-eagle. As you navigate the park's varied landscapes, from dry forests to seasonal wetlands, listen to the melodic chorus of birdsong fill the air. But Hurulu's treasures extend beyond feathers. Keep your eyes peeled for spotted deer, monkeys swinging through the trees, and even the occasional elephant grazing on the grasslands. This eco-park is a haven for responsible tourism, promoting sustainable practices and offering unique experiences like nature walks and boat safaris, all designed to minimize environmental impact.

Hurulu eco park

Immerse yourself in the diverse beauty of Hurulu Eco Park. This sanctuary, rich in biodiversity, offers a unique spectacle of wildlife and nature. Traverse through its landscapes, witness the harmony of flora and fauna, and experience the magic of its ecosystem. A journey through Hurulu is a step into the heart of Sri Lanka’s natural splendor.

Kaudulla nationa park

Experience the vibrant life of Kaudulla National Park. This refuge, teeming with biodiversity, offers a unique showcase of wildlife and nature. Navigate its terrains, observe the interplay of flora and fauna, and marvel at the magic of its ecosystem. A trip through Kaudulla is a journey into the core of Sri Lankas natural wonder.

Minneriya nationa park

Step into the diverse ecosystem of Minneriya National Park. This haven, abundant in biodiversity, presents a unique display of wildlife and nature. Journey through its landscapes, witness the synergy of flora and fauna, and experience the enchantment of its ecosystem. A voyage through Minneriya is an exploration into the essence of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Kumana national park

Embark on an adventure through Kumana National Park, a sanctuary of natural beauty. Traverse its diverse landscapes, witness the harmony of flora and fauna, and experience the magic of its ecosystem. Kumana is a haven for birdwatchers, with hundreds of species flocking during migratory season. A journey through Kumana is a step into Sri Lanka’s natural splendor.

Bundala national park

Embark on an adventure through Bundala National Park, a sanctuary of natural beauty. Traverse its diverse landscapes, witness the harmony of flora and fauna, and experience the magic of its ecosystem. Bundala is a haven for birdwatchers, with hundreds of species flocking during migratory season. A journey through Bundala is a step into Sri Lanka’s natural splendor.

Yala nationa park

Embark on an adventure through Yala National Park, a sanctuary of natural beauty. Traverse its diverse landscapes, witness the harmony of flora and fauna, and experience the magic of its ecosystem. Yala offers a variety of safaris, each providing a unique opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity. A journey through Yala is a step into nature’s splendor.

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Ajith Safari jeep tours

Exploring Sri Lanka’s magnificent wilderness is a dream come true for anyone.

We are here to make sure that your experience treading through the beautiful landscapes of Sri Lanka is a truly memorable one.

We at Ajith Safari Jeep Tours have a legacy of serving clientele from around the world for over 25 years. We are committed to offering the very best in comfort, enjoyment and adventure as you discover Sri Lanka in all its glory. We are a brand that believes in safeguarding the nature and make every effort to make our operations green and ecofriendly. Our team consists of driver-guides and tour designers that have years of experience exploring the wild habitats of Sri Lanka. Their expertise and instinct play a crucial role in making every safari we provide exceptional. Whether you have been looking forward to have a close encounter with an incredible Asian elephant or catch a glimpse of a truly mesmerizing Sri Lankan leopard or simply witness the many awe inspiring fauna and flora in the country, we promise to make every effort to make your life long dreams come true.

Extended safari hours

All inclusive service

Online booking and free pickup

Added benefits such as picnic meals

Safari packages

Half day tour | 7 Hours tour | Full day tour

Choose any tour of your choice to explore the beauty of Yala. Dotted with a variety of habitat types, Yala welcomes a spectrum of species throughout the year.

Explore the wonders of Sri Lanka’s prime destination for witnessing wild elephants and a number of other native species.

LUNUGAMWEHERA

Lunugamwehera

Experience a beautiful destination that is home to a wide variety of water birds, leopards and herds of elephants. A true haven anchored by a serene reservoir.

Witness unbelievable sighting of migratory birds in this wintering ground sought out by species from around the world.

Yala Tented

An exquisite destination to unwind and relax amidst the wilderness of Yala. The camp brings together the luxury longed for by the modern-day traveler and the magic of nature under one roof.

Ajith Safari

Situated in close proximity to three national parks and a range of cultural attractions around Tissamaharama, this is the ideal choice of accommodation for anyone looking to explore the wilderness of Sri Lanka.

Experiences

We offer a range of truly unique experiences that allow you to immerse yourself in local culture making your holiday unlike any other.

Indulge in the goodness of home grown local flavors.

Connect with

Experience the warm hospitality of the real Sri Lanka.

Discover wonders around you.

Sri Lanka’s Best

Curated diamond.

Our diamond tours are designed for those who want to embrace the diverse experiences and attractions that Sri Lanka has to offer. Our diamond tours include fixed itineraries, day tour itineraries as well as tours that our tailor made as per your requirement.

Some of the fixed itineraries we currently offer include beach, cultural and heritage tours as well as tours specifically designed for families and couples celebrating their honeymoon.

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+94 (0) 777 905 532 Email : [email protected]

984/B, Debarawewa, Tissamaharama, Sri Lanka.

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A guide to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s best safari destination (Update 2023)

Looking to do a jeep safari in Yala National Park? Here’s my guide to Sri Lanka’s best safari destination, including what to see and do, the jeep safari price, and insightful travel tips.

For me, someone who never went on a wildlife safari before, Yala National Park was, without a doubt the most rewarding and exciting adventure during my trip to Sri Lanka.

It’s an exhilarating happening to embark on a jeep safari, knowing you’re about to observe extraordinary animals in their natural habitat while driving along the bumpy roads of the wildlife park.

Especially if you realize that Yala National Park is considered the most popular wildlife park on Sri Lanka’s teardrop-shaped island.

This excellent reputation is due to its dynamic landscape, great variety and density of wildlife – plus the fact that the park is acknowledged as one of the best places in the world to see leopards in the wild.

Here’s my guide to Yala National Park, featuring what to see and do, which safari to choose, and where to stay – plus insightful travel tips, including costs, the best time to visit, and how to get to Yala National Park.

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WHERE IS YALA NATIONAL PARK?

Yala National Park is situated in the southeast region of Sri Lanka’s teardrop-shaped island and stretches over the two provinces, Hambantota and Monaragala.

The Yala National Park is quite remote, and therefore it’s almost inevitable to visit a town named Tissamaharama.

Tissamaharama itself isn’t the most interesting town and it’s also quite difficult to get to. Nevertheless, it functions perfectly as the only official gateway to the wildlife park.

The official Yala visitor centre is around 20km east of the town, which is easily reached by joining a Yala National Park tour from Tissamaharama.

Where |  Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

WHERE TO STAY IN YALA NATIONAL PARK

You’ll find an abundance of excellent accommodations (both in and outside the park) that suit almost every budget and travel style.

Tissamaharama has no shortage of budget-friendly options, comfortable lodges and luxury hotels, while there’s also a great number of luxurious wildlife campings and chalets inside the Yala National Park itself.

Going on a safari in Yala National Park is extremely popular and therefore it’s wise to book your accommodation a couple of weeks in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during the high season.

Some of the accommodations I recommend include:

Hotel River Front

A charming riverfront hotel with spacious air-conditioned rooms, comfortable beds, and a great outdoor swimming pool. The hotel has a good in-house restaurant that serves excellent local, Chinese and Continental food.

Booking.com | Hotels.com

Thaulle Resort

Located directly at the Yoda Lake, Thaulle Resort is a great hotel with traditional Sri Lankan-style rooms, spectacular lakeside views, a large outdoor pool and a courteous and helpful staff. This hotel literally provides all the essentials to unwind after an adventurous safari tour in Yala National Park.

Cinnamon Wild Yala

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, look no further. Cinnamon Wild offers astonishing eco-friendly chalets in the midst of the lively jungle of the beloved Yala National Park. Undisputedly one of the best picks when it comes to uniqueness, comfort and world-class service.

Jetwing Yala

A luxurious hotel with a marvellous outdoor pool, spacious air-conditioned rooms, and a charming ambience. Given the location of the hotel, you’ll be encircled by delicate nature and fascinating wildlife. The friendly staff also provide great service and hospitality.

WHAT ANIMALS WILL YOU SEE ON A YALA NATIONAL PARK SAFARI?

Yala National Park is a vast dynamic reserve, consisting of dense jungle, endless grasslands and several lakes and lagoons.

This distinct landscape ensures the perfect habitat for a great variety and density of wildlife, making Yala one of the best national parks in Sri Lanka .

But it isn’t just the variety of animals that makes Yala National Park so popular. No, it’s mostly the fact that it’s acknowledged as one of the best spots in the world to see wild leopards.

THE ANIMALS OF YALA NATIONAL PARK

Although taking a safari tour doesn’t guarantee that you’ll see every animal that lives in the Yala National Park, it’s safe to expect to get up close and personal with water buffalos, wild boars, spotted deers, monkeys and peacocks.

Beyond the aforementioned wildlife, there is the potential sighting of leopards, elephants, Black Sloth bears, Fishing cats, Red Slender loris and crocodiles.

In total, the Yala National Park is home to 44 species of mammals, 215 species of birds and 46 species of reptiles, which makes it impossible not to spot any animals during your safari.

LEOPARD SIGHTINGS IN YALA NATIONAL PARK

According to extensive research, Yala National Park is said to have the biggest concentration of leopards in the world.

And given the fact that there live a total of approximately 55 leopards in the park, you might have the good fortune to encounter one during your jeep safari in Yala.

However, each safari is completely unique and it’s impossible to guarantee what animals you’re going to see (especially the rare species). Therefore I highly recommend lowering your expectations, as it’s less common to encounter leopards.

JOIN A YALA NATIONAL PARK TOUR

Tissamaharama is home to an abundance of safari tour operators, that are all extremely willing to take you on your once in a lifetime Yala National Park safari experience.

A Yala safari jeep has the capacity for up to 6 people and the safari tour operator will usually arrange a pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.

Yala National Park can be visited as part of a morning, afternoon or full-day jeep safari.

Book | Arrange your Yala National Park Safari Tour in advance

MORNING SAFARI IN YALA NATIONAL PARK

It is often said that a morning safari in Yala National Park provides the best circumstances when it comes to the potential sightings of elusive wildlife.

This is mainly due to the fact that the animals aren’t yet disturbed by the countless amount of jeeps that drive along the park’s dusty roads throughout the day.

Even though waking up at 04.30 is pretty intense, it’s safe to say that it’s completely worth the struggle.

By joining a morning safari, you’ll get picked up at your accommodations around 05.00 with the mission to arrive at the entrance of the park before it opens at 06.00.

In my opinion, the best part of a morning safari is the exciting journey to the park whilst it’s still dark, knowing you’re about to witness exquisite wildlife while it’s still relatively quiet in the park.

BOOK | This extremely popular guided safari during the golden hour

Duration  | 05:00 – 10:00 with approximately 3 hours in the park.

AFTERNOON SAFARI IN YALA NATIONAL PARK

A great alternative for those that experience difficulties when waking up early is taking the slightly more popular afternoon safari in Yala National Park.

According to most Yala safari rangers, there isn’t a significant difference between the morning and afternoon safari when it comes to the sightings of wildlife.

I’ve seen a great variety of animals during my afternoon safari in Yala National Park, and found it a tranquil yet adventurous experience – plus I witnessed a magnificent sunset while leaving the park.

Duration  | 13:00 – 18:00 with approximately 3 hours in the park.

FULL-DAY SAFARI IN YALA NATIONAL PARK

Although it sounds pretty attractive, I personally wouldn’t recommend going on a full-day safari in Yala National park.

Being in the park for 12 hours straight is extremely exhausting – plus you should keep in mind that you’re in the park during the hottest part of the day. Believe me, this can be quite intense in Sri Lanka.

It is also not guaranteed that you’ll see more animals during a full-day safari than during a morning or afternoon safari in Yala National Park.

BOOK | This exceptional full-day safari with lunch

Duration  | 05:00 – 19:00 with approximately 12 hours in the park.

YALA NATIONAL PARK SAFARI COST

The price of a jeep safari is made up of the official Yala National Park entrance fee – plus the price that you’ll arrange with your safari tour operator.

The price of a safari tour operator varies and depends on the following elements: the duration of the tour, the tour operator and the number of people that join the safari tour.

The jeep safari tour prices are often per jeep, which can hold up to six persons, and are easy to organize at nearly every accommodation in Tissamaharama.

I made an insightful summary, so you’ll have a clear indication of the costs of a jeep safari in Yala National Park.

Yala National Park entrance fee | 7.000 LKR, ($21.50) per person.

Half-day jeep safari | 11.000 – 15.000 LKR, ($33.00 – 45.00) per jeep

Full-day jeep safari | 24.000 – 30.000 LKR, ($72.00 – 90.00) per jeep

YALA NATIONAL PARK OPENING HOURS

The Yala National Park is open daily from 06:00 till 18:00 and is pretty strict regarding the regulations of the opening hours.

If you’re joining a morning safari, the goal is to arrive at the gate well before it opens. Being one of the first in line provides the benefit to enter the park as early as possible.

It’s also essential that all jeeps are out of the park before it closes at 18:00. This is monitored by the official wildlife officers that note and check the license plates of the jeeps that enter and leave the park.

BEST TIME TO VISIT YALA NATIONAL PARK

Although you can visit the park year-round, the absolute best time to visit Yala National Park is during the dry season. This season runs from February to June, with February and March as the undisputed peak months to spot leopards.

It is said that it’s easier to spot wildlife during this period, mainly because of the deficient natural water resources that are available in the park. For that reason, animals get active to go out of their hideouts and drink from the accessible water ponds.

I personally visited Yala National Park during the offseason in September and had a great safari experience with an impressive number of animal sightings.

Do keep in mind that there is a great possibility you’ll find the park closed for maintenance in September.

HOW TO GET TO YALA NATIONAL PARK

The Yala National Park is slightly off the beaten path compared to other popular sights in Sri Lanka. This doesn’t mean you’ll have to be discouraged, it’s more than worth the extra effort.

The only gateway to the Yala National Park is a town named Tissamaharama, which is best reached by local bus or car.

The journey by bus can be quite long, intense and exhausting, but trust me, it’s one of the best ways to experience daily local life.

Do keep in mind that the local bus stops frequently and that you’ll need to change busses on several occasions to reach Tissamaharama.

The Yala National Park is usually visited after Mirissa, Ella or Arugam Bay.

FROM MIRISSA TO TISSAMAHARAMA

Bus journey | Mirissa – Matara – Tissamaharama Cost | 250 – 330 LKR, ($1.30 – 1.80) per person Travel time | Around 3.5 hours

FROM ELLA TO TISSAMAHARAMA

Bus journey | Ella – Tissamaharama Cost | 220 – 250 LKR, ($1.20 – 1.35) per person Travel time | Around 2.5 hours

FROM ARUGAM BAY TO TISSAMAHARAMA

Bus journey | Pottuvil – Monaragala – Wellawaya – Tissamaharama Cost | 350 – 380 LKR, ($1.90 – 2.10) per person Travel time | Around 6.5 hours

INSIGHTFUL TRAVEL TIPS FOR A VISIT TO YALA NATIONAL PARK

Photography gear | If you’re into serious photography you might want to bring your camera and zoom lens. See what’s in my camera bag here .

Sunscreen  | Even though the jeep is partly covered, the sun can be extremely harsh during a safari in Yala. Better safe than sorry.

Bug repellent | It’s always good to have a good bug repellent within hand reach.

Sweater  | Bring a warm sweater. This will be your best friend during a morning safari.

Drinking water  | Bring drinking water to stay hydrated throughout the day.

No toilets in the park | Do keep in mind that there are no toilets available inside the park.

Visit without expectations | Last but not least, lower your expectations before going on a safari. Every safari is unique and there is no guarantee that you’ll see all the animals you hope to see.

STAY SAFE IN SRI LANKA | TRAVEL INSURANCE

Though Sri Lanka is perfectly safe for travellers, I always strive to sort out my travel insurance before arriving in a foreign country, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.

Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury or an accident on the road. When that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here .

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

PLAN YOUR SRI LANKA ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES

7 incredible things to do in galle fort, sri lanka’s colonial fortress.

The ultimate 3-week Sri Lanka itinerary | The best of Sri Lanka

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10 Awesome things to do in Unawatuna, Sri Lanka’s backpacker beach town

8 Marvelous things to do in Mirissa, Sri Lanka’s vibrant beach town

A travellers guide to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka

8 Wonderful things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s city of kings

8 Impressive things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka’s lush mountain village

9 Incredible things to do in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka’s unexplored east coast

7 Awesome things to do in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka’s surfer paradise (2022 update)

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The Delight of Jeep Safari in Beautiful Sri Lanka!

If you are a wildlife enthusiast, what better way is there to explore nature than a jeep safari? Besides, if you are not someone who enjoys hiking and trekking, then a jeep safari is the best option for you to explore nature at its best. Further, if you are travelling with kids or senior citizens, you don’t have to leave anyone behind because a jeep safari is fit for all ages. Still, there are many more reasons, as to why we say that Sri Lanka is the best for a jeep safari. Keep calm, because this article is going to brief you on everything about a jeep safari in Sri Lanka. Continue reading to enlighten yourself!

Is Sri Lanka Good for Jeep Safari?

Of course, yes! If you are a fan of jeep safari, then you should certainly visit Sri Lanka at least once in your lifetime.

Sri Lanka is a natural paradise located amidst the waves of the Indian ocean. From a gorgeous beachline to a vibrant forest cover, this island has it all. So, you have many locations to choose from, for your safari holiday in Sri Lanka.

In fact, there are 26 national parks under the Department of Wildlife Conservation in Sri Lanka. Apart from the jaw-dropping views, all these national parks are abundant with diverse flora and fauna. It has been recorded that 16 percent of fauna and 23 percent of flora in Sri Lanka are endemic to the country. Besides, you’ll be able to see herds of wild elephants in their natural habitats in many national parks in Sri Lanka . So, your trip to this splendid island won’t be complete without a jeep safari in the wilderness.

Which is the Best Jeep Safari in Sri Lanka?

Well, it is extremely hard to point out just one location as the best place to go on a jeep safari in Sri Lanka because there are so many! Each place is unique and perfect on its own for its incomparable features. So, if you want to try a jeep safari in Sri Lanka, you have multiple options. But this article will make it easy for you!

Yes, here are some amazing places in Sri Lanka to go on a jeep safari.

• Yala National Park
• Minneriya National Park
• Udawalawe National Park
• Wasgamuwa National Park
• Kaudulla National Park
• Gal Oya National Park
• Bundala National Park
• Kumana National Park
• Ridiyagama Safari Park
• Wilpattu National Park

Keep reading to choose your favourite location for a jeep safari when you visit Sri Lanka.

1. Yala National Park

Yala is probably the most popular national park in Sri Lanka for safaris. There are many reasons why Yala national park is so special.

It is the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka which is scattered over a land area of 979 square kilometres. It mainly holds the characteristics of a dry zone tropical thorn forest and the park is well known for the variety of its wildlife. In fact, there are about 44 species of mammals in the park and over 200 species of birds. So, if you want to see a good number of wild animals in Sri Lanka, Yala is certainly the best place to go!

You can have a fun safari trip in Yala with a tour guide, so you can learn a lot about the wild animals and the surroundings as well. The drivers and tour guides know exactly where the animals usually gather, close to the freshwater bodies. Hence, it is the best way to experience the best of this park.

You can explore the untouched nature while travelling on the bumpy roads of Yala. Altogether, a jeep safari in Yala will be such a rewarding experience. Hence, Yala will be one of the best locations in Sri Lanka to go on a jeep safari.

Yala is situated 280 kilometres away from Colombo . You can either book a luxury jeep or a super luxury jeep for the safari in Yala.

2. Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National park is one of the most diverse natural systems in the country. It is situated in an important location of the popular cultural triangle of Sri Lanka.

Minneriya Jeep Safari is very popular among tourists as you will be able to see large Asian elephant gatherings here. In fact, about 300 elephants gather near the ancient irrigation tank of Minneriya at a time. This is because elephants from the nearby national parks migrate to the Minneriya National Park during the dry season in search of water. It is such a fascinating sight to see large herds of the giant of the land in one place with amazing natural views around. So, if you wish to observe the life of the Asian Elephants up-close and personal, you shouldn’t miss a jeep safari at Minneriya National Park.

Apart from the elephants, you will be able to spot many other wild animals at Minneriya as well. In fact, the park is a safe haven for a number of mammals such as leopard, sloth bear, deer and many other endemic species. There are about 170 bird species recorded in the park including endemic bird species such as Sri Lanka jungle fowl, Sri Lanka hanging parrot, Sri Lanka grey hornbill, etc. Further, there are 8 endemic species of reptiles in the Minneriya park as well.

So, a jeep safari to the Minneriya National Park is the perfect opportunity for you to see diverse wildlife including many endemic species in Sri Lanka. You can either book a half-day or full-day safari to the park according to your interests.

3. Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is another well-known location for jeep safaris in Sri Lanka. It is situated 200 kilometres away from Colombo and lies both in Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces. This park is blessed with unique flora and fauna and outstanding scenic views. Udawalawe National Park stretches over a land area of 30281 hectares, so you will be able to explore a unique land area during your trip.

However, jeep safaris in Udawalawe National Park are most popular for their ability to view the elephants at a close range. Moreover, the park is home to many species of mammals including endemic species such as common langur, Sri Lankan sambar deer, etc. The park’s avifauna includes different varieties of endemic and migrant species of birds. The thick forested cover of the park provides refuge for wildlife in the area. So, the Udawalawe national park is one of the major tourist attractions of the country.

The only way to explore the nature of the park is by safari jeep. This jeep safari offers you a journey through a nature park in the dry zone of Sri Lanka watching the park’s amazing wildlife. The well-experienced drivers will give you the experience of a marvellous journey by a 4*4 off-road safari jeep. Therefore, a jeep safari in the Udawalawe national park is one of the best experiences that you can get in Sri Lanka.

4. Wasgamuwa National Park

Wasgam uwa National Park is another location where you can get an amazing experience of a jeep safari. The park spans over the North Central and Central provinces of Sri Lanka. The nearest major city to the park is Polonnaruwa . The park contains more wildlife with both flora and fauna.

The park is basically a tropical dry mixed evergreen forest. Mahaweli river, Amban river and Dunuwila oya are the boundaries of the park. Your safari ride will lie along the Mahaweli river as wild animals usually roam around the water bodies. So, the jeep safari at Wasgamuwa will be refreshing with the cool winds through the Mahaweli river.

Wasgamuwa National Park is a rich habitat for a diversity of wildlife . In fact, there are 23 species of mammals including elephant, leopard, sloth bear, wild boar, sambar deer, spotted deer, etc. There are 143 species of birds in the park including five endemic species. Furthermore, there are 35 species of reptiles, 15 species of amphibians, 17 species of fish and 52 species of butterflies.

Imagine enjoying the views of all these wildlife in the stunning landscape of the Wasgamuwa park! That’s why jeep safari in the Wasgamuwa National Park is one of the most special experiences that you can get in Sri Lanka as a tourist. So, this is a destination that promises you an exciting and adventurous safari.

5. Kaudulla National Park

This is another national park in Sri Lanka where you can spot many wild elephants from a jeep safari. Besides, Kaudulla National Park is the most recently designated national park in Sri Lanka and it is in the North Central province of the island. To be specific, the park is situated about 190 kilometres away from Colombo .

Basically, Kaudulla national park is an evergreen forest and a home to a wide variety of wildlife and birdlife. However, the highlight of the park is its majestic elephant population. There are also 23 other species of mammals apart from the elephants and 160 species of birds. Moreover, the forest reserve is blessed with many valuable trees and large grasslands. So many tourists don’t forget to go on a jeep safari to enjoy the nature of the Kaudulla park. 

You can expect to observe many amazing sights during your jeep safari in Kaudulla Park. But probably, your favourite sight will be seeing hundreds of elephants in the beautiful natural backdrop. You will be able to enjoy the views from baby elephants to decades-old tuskers roaming freely while being in the comfort of your safari jeep. From a journey through the bumpy roads amidst the lush greenery of the park, you can witness many other species of wild animals as well. Usually, 3-4 hours are enough for a safari ride in the Kaudulla National Park. Yet, believe us, those few hours would be a memory of a lifetime!

6. Gal Oya National Park

Gal Oya National Park is another naturally beautiful landscape of Sri Lanka. It is situated in the Uva and Eastern provinces of the island.

The nearest major city to the park is Ampara. Gal Oya national park spans over a land area of 25900 hectares. Since this is not the most popular among the other national parks in Sri Lanka , this is the place to go to enjoy a private and calm safari experience in the wild.

This park is a safe haven for 33 species of terrestrial mammals including elephants. And also, there are about 150 species of birds in the park. So, a jeep safari is actually the easiest and the best way to explore the natural treasures of the park and get close safely to the undomesticated animals.

Your safari will mainly focus on the park’s water bodies. So, while you are there, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the clean waters too. This is one of the jeep safaris where you can enjoy the natural elegance at its best. Also, never forget that the Gal Oya National Park is famous for its unique boat safaris. Hence, adding a boat safari to your day plan at Gal Oya National Park is so worth it beyond a doubt.

The safari in this park will usually take around 6 hours. After all, if you love safaris with a picnic experience, then you should put this location on your bucket list.

7. Bundala National Park

There are many locations in Sri Lanka to go on a jeep safari to see the wildlife . Yet, there are only a few locations for a safari for those who love birdwatching . So, Bundala National Park is definitely one of them.

There are several species of mammals in the park including a few elephants as well. However, the main attraction of the park is its incredible birdlife. About 200 different species of birds can be seen in the park including endemic and migratory birds . During your safari trip, you will be able to spot many of these birds gracing the skies of the Bundala National Park.

Your safari ride in the Bundala national park will go through thorny shrubs, swampy marshlands and picturesque lagoons to see birds and animals. And yes, these lagoons of the park are a paradise for the migratory birds from wintering areas. It is not as crowded as the major national parks of Sri Lanka. Hence, you can enjoy a private safari experience while watching different species of birds, leisurely and happily.

Above all, if you are a fan of safaris and birdwatching, Bundala park should be on your travel list. However, don’t forget to take your binoculars when visiting this wonderful land.

Bundala National Park is situated in the Southern province about 274 kilometres away from Colombo . It is also identified as the first Ramsar site of the country.

8. Kumana National Park

Kumana National Park is located in the eastern part of the Yala National Park . It is actually the most known bird sanctuary of Sri Lanka.

The nearest major city to the park is Hambantota. ‘Kumana Villu’, a 200-hectare natural swamp lake is the most significant feature of the whole park. If you are on a birdwatching tour in Sri Lanka, you should definitely go on a jeep safari in the Kumana National Park.

There are about 255 different species of birds in this park. In fact, it is also identified as one of the most important bird nesting and breeding grounds in the country. In a safari to Kumana, the most common birds that one can spot are pelicans, painted storks, spoonbills, white ibis, herons, egrets and little cormorants.

Apart from the diverse birdlife, Kumana National Park is also home to some species of mammals due to its close proximity to the Yala National Park. So usually, you will be able to see elephants and leopards during your safari in Kumana. You can either join a half-day or full-day safari to explore through the Kumana National Park.

9. Ridiyagama Safari Park

This is a well-known wildlife and safari park in Sri Lanka. It is located in the Ridiyagama area of Hambantota district.

This is not just a typical zoo as there is a large open space for the animals to freely roam. Hence, many appreciate the concept in Ridiyagama Safari Park as the animals are not caged. So, the visitors can get on safari jeeps and explore through the park to see different species of wildlife . There are six zones in the park. Out of them, four zones of the park are for carnivorous animals and two zones are for herbivorous animals.

Tourists can easily hire a safari jeep from the entrance to the park. The tour guide will explain about the animals throughout the trip. This is the only open-air zoo in Sri Lanka where you can get a fun and educational safari ride. Besides, this is a place where you can see many wild animals within a short period of time. Many don’t forget to pay a visit to the Ridiyagama safari park after visiting Yala and Udawalawe National Parks. The park is open from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm every day. 

10. Wilpattu National Park

Wilpattu National Park is yet another wonderful tourist attraction in Sri Lanka that shelters a large variety of wildlife. It spreads across an area of 131,700 Ha and contains some other forest reserves around it. Besides, the ‘willus’ (natural shallow lake full of rainwater) happens to be a significant feature of the land of this wonderful national park.

Around 33 species of mammals reside in the Wilpattu National Park, and the Sri Lankan Leopard is the main highlight among them. Apart from that mammals like the Asian Elephant, Tufted Grey Langur, Toque Monkey and Sloth Bear also live in high numbers in this park. Besides, Wilpattu National Park is a famous spot for birdwatching in Sri Lanka as well.

So, all these facts prove to us that a jeep safari at Wilpattu National Park is never going to be a waste since there is so much to observe out there. Therefore, if you are planning for a jeep safari at a less-crowded National Park, Wilpattu is going to be a perfect choice for you!

Jeep Safari Packages in Sri Lanka

In any of the above locations, there are several packages that you can choose from for a jeep safari. Mostly, the type of such packages depends on the features of the location. But generally, there are both full-day and half-day packages in many of these locations. Apart from that, you can join in for a group safari or a private safari. Then, there are other packages according to the type of jeep you are travelling on, such as luxury and semi-luxury jeeps. Anyhow, most of these packages include other facilities as well. For instance, some packages can include the entrance fee to the park, refreshments, pick up from the hotel, etc. So, make sure to communicate with the service provider beforehand to know more details and choose the perfect package for your safari trip. Anyway, there will be many options for you to choose from.

How Much Does a Jeep Safari Cost in Sri Lanka?

The prices for a jeep safari totally depend on the type of package that you choose for your trip. Therefore, the prices can vary according to the facilities included in the package.

However, you have the freedom to choose a package according to your budget. Then again, the prices can vary according to the location as well. Therefore, it is difficult to mention an exact price.

But here’s what the average price of a jeep safari in Sri Lanka can look like (in USD) so that you can get a rough idea of the jeep safari packages here.

For a half-day jeep safari-

• 1 adult – 70 USD – 80 USD
• 2 adults – 90 USD – 100 USD
• 3 adults – 110 USD – 120 USD
• 4 adults – 125 USD – 135 USD
• 5 adults – 145 USD – 155 USD
• 6 adults – 165 USD – 175 USD
• 7 adults – 180 USD – 190 USD
• 7+ adults – 180 USD + Additional 20 USD per Additional PAX

(Please note that these price ranges are mentioned considering the jeep safari prices at the time of writing this article.)

What is the Best Time for a Jeep Safari in Sri Lanka?

The best time to visit these locations for a jeep safari can be different as these parks are scattered throughout the island. But generally, it is best to avoid the monsoon rains season as you won’t be able to have a comfortable safari ride amidst the heavy rains. Accordingly, the dry season is the best time period for a jeep safari in Sri Lanka.

During this season, mammals come out of their hiding places in search of water and the number of tourists is also comparatively low. Therefore, visit these parks between April and August to get the best out of the experience. Then, it is better if you can go on the safari early in the morning or in the evening because travelling in the afternoon under the scorching sun can be a bit harsh. Anyhow, always check the weather of your destination beforehand.

The Bottom Line

On this beautiful island of Sri Lanka, each of these parks are different and beautiful in their own way. However, if you are a nature lover and a wildlife enthusiast, enjoying a jeep safari in Sri Lanka is simply a must. On the other hand, a jeep safari is a great addition to a perfect holiday experience in Sri Lanka, since it guarantees a totally unique experience, here on this island. So, visit Sri Lanka and go on a jeep safari and that ensures you unfading memories. Happy and safe traveling! 

You may be excited for a tranquil beach vacation along a gorgeous stretch of golden sand. If not, you might be thrilled to experience the exhilaration and thrill of the incredible wildlife among the breathtaking scenery. Going further, you can even be anticipating learning about the splendor of the historical tales entwined with the island's customs. Similarly, your dream could be anywhere in these boundaries or outside of them. Nevertheless, we cherish your dream and pledge to turn it into a reality. Indeed, the Customized Tour Packages we provide serve as evidence that we honor our commitments.

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Yala National Park Day Tour

Discover animals of the wild in their natural habitat, yala national park, not to miss in this tour.

• A glimpse of Sri Lankan leopards and elephants.
• Bird watching.
• Beach walk along the golden sandy beaches.

Things you will do

• Jeep Safari at Yala National Park.
• Observe the life of animals you have never seen before.
• Sightseeing: jungles, beaches, freshwater lakes, rivers.
• Indulge in an authentic Sri Lankan Cuisine at a Local House.

Q. Is this day tour for me?

Those visiting wildlife for the first time will be awed by the amazing beauty while animal lovers will be thrilled to observe the wildlife.

Q. Can it be tailor-made?

Yes, we can customize the tour for you. If you wish to go to any place not mentioned in the route, simply inform us in advance and we will make the arrangements.

Q. When to go?

6.30 a.m. departure from Colombo is ideal. Expect a late night return back to your hotel.

Q. What will transfers cover?

Udawalawe Jeep Safari : Finding Sri Lanka’s Giants

Created by Colleen Sims * 4 January 2024

Table of Contents

Udawalawe   Jeep Safari

We spent nearly a month exploring Sri Lanka and when planning our itinerary there were a few things that I knew we had to do and a few places that we had to visit. 

Taking an Udawalawe Jeep Safari to see Asian elephants in the wild was certainly high on my list and so an overnight stop was added. 

Let’s just say that we weren’t disappointed!

Where Is Udawalawe?

Udawalawe is a small unassuming town in the southern part of Sri Lanka in the Ratnapura district.  What makes the town special is that it’s the entry point into Udawalawe National Park; renowned for its population of wild elephants.

Udawalawe lies on the cusp of Sri Lanka’s wet and dry zones and its verdant grasslands are framed by the glorious mountains of Sri Lanka’s Highlands. 

Udawalawe is :

• 100 kms from Ella (2 hour drive)
• 98 kms Mirissa (2 hour drive)
• 124 kms Galle (2 hour drive)
• 237 kms from Colombo (3.5 Hour drive)

Why Is Udawalawe National Park Special?

Udawalawe National Park is renowned for its large population of elephants, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

The National Park was created to provide a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe reservoir in 1972; now the third largest reservoir in Sri Lanka.

Largely comprised of marsh, grasslands and bush, the park’s diverse ecosystem supports a wide array of other wildlife, making it a biodiversity hotspot.  And of course, it’s special because it’s one of the best places in the world to view Asian elephants in the wild.

Top Tip : You drive beside the reservoir on your way to the park. Get your camera ready because the morning light (for us at least) was magical and it felt like we were entering Narnia.

Why Take A Jeep Safari In Udawalawe?

One of the things that we absolutely loved about Sri Lanka is its diversity.  For an island about half the size of England you get to explore rain forests, jungles, mountains, grasslands, rice paddies, beaches and even watch blue whales in her oceans; the diversity of wildlife is astounding. 

Imagine driving through sun-dappled grasslands and spotting a family of elephants crossing your path. Or sitting beside a lake surrounded by sleeping crocodiles.  Or getting stuck in a traffic jam with a family of jackals?  This all happened to us.

The Udawalawe jeep safari offers flexibility and a thrilling way to explore the park with freedom to stop for photographs or to stop and watch the wildlife whenever you wish.

Udawalawe is easily accessible if you’re visiting Sri Lanka and offers you the chance to get up-close and personal with so much wildlife but at a fraction of the cost of other safari tours.

What Can You Expect From An Udawalawe Jeep Safari?

The park is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including elephants, water buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. If you’re lucky, you might even spot one of the parks leopards and sloth bears (although these sightings are very rare).

Honestly, be prepared to be dazzled! The open-air jeep allows for unobstructed views, enhancing the thrill of spotting animals in their natural surroundings. 

Aside from the iconic elephants, Udawalawe boasts an array of creatures. Picture troops of Toque Macaques swinging through trees, deer grazing, exotic birds painting the sky with incredibly vibrant hues. We saw swarms of butterflies, crocodiles, wild boar, water buffalo and even a pack of jackals.

The park is a haven for wildlife from insects and snakes and small mammals to the larger animals that folks love to spot.  There really is a lot of life here to see!

How Long Are The Udawalawe Jeep Safaris?

Udawalawe offers a range of safaris from 3,4,6 7 and even 10 hour tours.   

Opt for a 3-hour safari if your time is short or if you think you may find 6 hours in a bumpy jeep a bit too uncomfortable. 

We decided to go with a 6-hour experience and had no regrets.  The time flew by and if we had not taken the longer tour we would have missed a number of sightings later in the day. We also noticed a marked difference with the number of jeeps in the afternoon.

Ultimately your choice will come down to

• And Comfort

Top Tip : Do not underestimate the bumpy journey.  If you suffer with any kind of back problems, or if you’re pregnant you may wish to reconsider this tour.

Should You Book A 3 or 6 Hour Safari?

Both offer a great experience.  Your choice is going to be down to your budget and the time available.  We opted for a longer safari and have zero regrets.

A 3-hour safari is perfect for an introduction to the park’s wonders. A 6-hour safari allows you to delve deeper, increasing your chances of spotting elusive animals and enjoying a more tranquil encounter. The park is noticeably quieter in the afternoon and we enjoyed many additional animal sightings that we would have missed had we left early.

For the small additional cost, I would say choose longer if you have the time.

How Much Does A Udawalawe Jeep Safari Cost?

Prices for the Jeep Safari do vary from one tour operator to the next.  The jeep size and quality, and the safari duration all play a part. 

In addition to the cost of the jeep tour, visitors also have to pay a Park Entrance Fee , along with Guide Entrance Fees , taxes and even a Jeep Entrance Fee .

Currently the costs are :

• Entrance for Foreigner adults 25$ (around LKRs 8,000), children 15$ and under 6’s free. The price is in dollars but you must pay cash in LKRs at the entrance.
• Driver and Jeep Entrance Fee : LKR 400
• Vehicle/Jeep Charge per group :  LKR 2500 (8$)
• The grand total is subject to 15% tax

For two adults (us) the cost to enter the park is 16,000 + 400 + 2,500 = 18,900 + 2,835 (15%) : Total LKR 21,735 (around 61€ / £53 / 67$)

Bear in mind exchange rates will fluctuate a little and prices can and do rise without notice but certainly this was what we paid.  We gave the money to our jeep driver and he paid on our behalf but it’s possible to join the queue and pay yourself at the entrance if you prefer.

Top Tip : You need your Passport at the park entrance

In addition to these costs you should also expect to pay from LKR 4,000 for the cost of a 3 hour safari. Longer tours and more passengers will impact on the cost.

The highest rated safari tour that we found has a fee of  LKR 8,500 for a 7 hour private jeep tour for two people.  We feel this represents excellent value for money.

How Much Will A 7-Hour Safari Cost for 2 Adults?  

• Total Park Entrance Fee : LKR 21,735
• 7 Hour Private Jeep Tour : LKR 8,500
• Total cost of a 7 hour private Udawalawe jeep tour for 2 people : 85€ / 92$ / £73 / LKR 30,235

Top Tip : Don’t forget you will probably wish to add a tip at the end of you’re happy with your driver; expect to add perhaps LKR 1500 if you’re really happy.

Is The Jeep Safari Private?

The safaris that we looked at were all private; ours was. 

Most of the vehicles that we saw in the park had what appeared to be groups of friends or family and we never saw a full jeep.  My guess would be that the jeep safaris always tend to be private. 

The tour that we recommend is certainly private but if you’re in any doubt check with your tour operator.

How Do I Arrange A Jeep Safari?

There are a few ways to organise your safari. 

You can search booking sites such as TripAdvisor , GetYourGuide and Viator .  The beauty of this method is that you can read the reviews and ensure that you are booking the right driver for you and your party.

Some hotels offer safaris too; indeed some hotels will only let you stay if you book with them.  It’s entirely possible that their jeep safaris are excellent but you have no way of comparing or reviewing.

There are jeeps at the entrance to the park and it would be possible to arrange a tour on the day.  My concern with this would be that you are not able to vet the standard of the safari.  However, if your trip is last minute this might be a good option for you.  Do be aware that the drivers may charge a premium for your last minute booking.

There are also a number of Facebook groups for Sri Lanka and it might be good to ask other travellers for feedback and recommendations.  Do be prepared to be sent several private messages offering you a safari though.

My preferred option is always either by personal recommendation by someone that I know and trust, or by doing the research myself and ploughing through reviews to find the best tour. 

Thankfully we’ve done that work for you and we recommend this tour :

• Highest ratings from verified bookings
• Offers a range of 3,4 or 6 hour tours
• Pick-up from hotel

Whichever method you choose, book your safari through a reputable source. This ensures hassle-free arrangements and a certain quality of transport and guides. And when booking on a recognised platform you also have some protections if something goes wrong or you have to cancel.

Top Tip : Remember to confirm pick-up times, vehicle type, inclusions and safari duration before committing to your booking.

Do I Need A Guide As Well As A Driver?

You don’t need a guide but I think the quality of your driver is important.  Our driver was super experienced and knowledgeable; he knew the park and understood the animal behaviour

He carried spare binoculars, books and he knew the names of the birds, flowers and fauna we saw.  He had the eyes of a hawk and could spot wildlife that we would have never seen.  And he was able to answer questions about the animals we saw. 

If you are very interested in the flora and fauna a guide might provide insightful commentary and enrich your wildlife experience  and you may therefore feel it is worthwhile paying extra, but generally, choose a great driver who speaks your language and he can do the job for you.

What Should I Wear For A Jeep Safari?

Comfort is key! And the main influence is going to be the weather.  We took our safari in December and the weather was pretty perfect, dry but not too hot not too humid; although it did warm up as the day went along.

Wear something easy to move around in; we wore hiking gear.  You’ll need to climb in and out of the jeep and we also moved around a great deal within the jeep so hiking wear was perfect.

It was later suggested neutral colours; sadly my hiking shirt was bright pink!  If you have a choice go for something more subtle.

Breathable fabrics might be useful and I also wore long trousers.  You do get an opportunity to get out of the jeep and there are plenty of biting insects around so I prefer to be covered.  And as the sun creeps under the jeep roof, I prefer to have my legs and arms protected from the sun.

Gerry took a hat as the sun was on the back of his neck.

Comfortable shoes; remember that you’ll be climbing in and out and moving around so definitely not flip-flops.  Gerry wore his hiking shoes and I wore a hiking sandal.

You may also want to pack a warm layer for the early morning start.

What Do I Need To Take AND What Should I Leave Behind?

You don’t need to take a great deal with you but there are some essentials

• Do take your passport as you’ll need this at the entrance
• Take a camera and a spare battery or charger and a good lens if you have one; you’ll take a lot of photos
• Binoculars if you have them; our driver carried spare
• Take water, your driver will probably have some but do be prepared
• Take sunscreen
• Take insect repellent
• Any medications that you may need.
• A sunhat and perhaps warm layer

If your breakfast or picnic is not provided by the driver then you may wish to bring food or snacks.  Our hotel made us a packed breakfast which we ate mid-morning.  BUT!  Elephants can smell a sweet treat a mile away and if you are carrying food then hand it over to the driver for safe keeping. Certainly do not keep it in a bag in the back of the jeep as it will certainly bring you the wrong kind of attention.

You won’t need to bring valuables, bulky items, or walking poles and remember to leave no trace, minimize your environmental impact and avoid littering.

Is A Jeep Safari Safe?

Jeep safaris are generally safe. We felt very safe.  It is important to choose a good driver with a jeep that is in good condition and a guide/driver who knows the park and the animal behaviour well. 

Before we started our driver explained how we should behave if we encountered elephants or wildlife unexpectedly. 

He took excellent care when driving on rough terrain.  It’s bumpy in the back of a jeep and he was clearly experienced enough to take his time when needed; not all drivers were doing this!

There were two occasions when elephants appeared at the side of the jeep from out of the bush.  Our driver immediately responded by moving slowly away from any hazard and we never felt in harms way.

Of course, you are driving in an open vehicle amongst wild animals and you have to respect the environment that you are in.  Always follow instructions stay inside the jeep and avoid disturbing the animals.   Do remember to respect the park’s rules and regulations.; the animals may appear gentle giants but they are wild.

The jeeps can be ‘bouncy’ and there is potential to lose balance or stumble if you move around but you have to take responsibility for your own actions and act sensibly.

Top Tip : At the risk of repeating myself, it can be jumpy in the back of a jeep.  If you suffer with back problems then this trip may not be for you.

What Time Do Tours Start?

Our started at 6:00am and if you can start early then do.  The light as we drove by the reservoir was incredibly beautiful at dawn.

Do expect a long queue at the entrance of the park, our driver stood in line for well over 30 minutes and others reported longer waits.  The earlier you arrive the closer you are to the start of that queue.

There are later tours and for folks who arrive later in the day take comfort from knowing that we spotted a number of animals in the afternoon..

Where To Stay And Potential Problems

We had to change hotels at the last minute as ours decided to close for renovations, but our new hotel was perfect.  We had little choice of accommodation due to the last-minute switch but we were blow away by the quality of our accommodation.   

We Stayed at Forest Edge Safari Villa and had the Deluxe Triple Room. Everything was exactly as the photos show and the breakfast was excellent. We totally recommend a stay here.

We were a little out of town but only a simple tuk tuk ride away.  And we got to sit on our terrace and look out at the jungle beyond.

Our hotel did offer safari tours but they were cool that we had made alternative reservations.  It’s important to check if your accommodation will be equally happy with this arrangement.

Is An Udawalawe Jeep Safari Really Worth It?

Yes. Yes. Yes.  We were delighted with our safari and it by far exceeded our expectations.  The vehicle was comfortable, our guide was good and we saw so much wildlife.

We expected to be thrilled by the elephants and wow yes, they were amazing.  We even got to see a tiny baby just a few weeks old learning to copy mum eating.  We saw lone males and groups of elephants and that was amazing. 

But we also loved the birds; their colours are incredible.  And don’t under-estimate the glorious setting.  The bush isn’t perhaps the most scenic of places but the mountain views and the lake are glorious. 

Remember to avoid shady deals or operators offering unrealistic viewing guarantees. Remember, responsible tourism means respecting the animals and their natural habitat. Research reliable tour operators with good reviews and transparent pricing.

The Udawalawe Jeep Safari was the perfect day out for us and we’ll pack it away with all our other incredible memories from Sri Lanka.

Going to Sri Lanka? You might be interested in other great experiences

• Tea Tasting in Nuwara Eliya and our amazing High Tea at the Grand Hotel
• Best Time To See Whales In Mirissa And 2 Great Whale Watching Tours

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Whenever you travel overseas it’s imperative to travel with a good travel and medical insurance policy.  None of us expect anything bad to happen, but in the event of an incident, you want to be sure that your insurance will be there for you.

I’ve had the mis-fortune to end up in hospital in Peru, Indonesia, Portugal and Ireland; every time my insurance took care of everything. I would never leave home without full and comprehensive insurance.

Globelink   : We have used and recommended Globelink for years and we’ve not heard of any issues. They are a great choice for European and UK Residents.

TrueTraveller  : We have this policy now for an extended global trip and we are very happy with the cover, especially considering our ages and pre-existing conditions

Safety Wing  : Many of my travelling buddies from the USA have recommended this company to me, although we’ve not used them personally.

Minneriya & Kaudulla Largest wild Elephant Gathering

To watch the largest elephant gathering in Sri Lanka, you’ll want to visit either Minneriya National Park or Kaudulla National Park.

Minneriya National Park Safari Packages

Minneriya Safari Tours extends a warm invitation to embark on an unforgettable safari adventure amidst the stunning wilderness of Minneriya.We are offers specialized morning and evening Sri Lanka safari experiences.

Minneriya & Kaudulla Halfday Safari

Minneriya National Park Safari: Explore the captivating landscapes of the park, spanning vast open grasslands to lush, dense forests. Be vigilant in observing the array of wildlife that inhabits this diverse terrain, placing special emphasis on encountering the magnificent Asian elephants for which these parks are celebrated.

What's Included :

• Safari Jeep (Private) with Driver
• Bottled Water
• WiFi on board
• Hotel Pickup & Drop off (Selected area)

What's Included

Yala national park safari.

Explore a guided nature trail through the eco park, immersing yourself in its diverse biodiversity. Our expert guide will showcase the unique flora and fauna of the area, offering an informative and engaging experience.

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Welcome to minneriya safari tours – your gateway to wildlife adventure.

Discover the untamed beauty of Minneriya safari with our guided wildlife tours. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this region as our experienced guides lead you through lush landscapes and introduce you to the diverse array of wildlife that calls Minneriya home.

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Yala National

Park safari.

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Yala National Park Safari

Yala National park safaris provide a unique opportunity to explore one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka with the help of dedicated, knowledgeable guides. The safari jeep can carry up to six people and is well suited to make forays across the natural pathways and clearings across the forest.

The open-air jeep provides both comfort and safety as it traverses across the grasslands where you can get an up-close look at the flora and fauna that make up the national park. You are free to customize your experience whether you would like to visit for 3 or 4 hours or even spend a half or full day. Furthermore, our knowledgeable staff will help you hone in on the wildlife you may be more interested in encountering, be it deer or the various birds across the park.

While we recommend that the tours are booked for early morning in order to give you an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the park, the afternoon will also provide you with ample opportunity to encounter a herd of elephants, deer, or even a leopard.

Yala National Park Safari Information

While we recommend that the tours are booked for early morning in order to give you an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the park, the afternoon will also provide you with ample opportunity to encounter a herd of elephants, deer or even a leopard.

4 Hour Safari

Three hours are just enough to see basic animals. But this is not an ideal safari to see more animals and observe

the park well. It’s better to choose a half-day or full-day safari. This is a tour of finding animals in a huge forest. Better to have more time 

★ This rate is for the jeep.

Half-day Safari

In a half-day safari in Yala, You will be able to cover a considerable area of the park and will be able to see many 

different kinds of wild animals. This safari takes around 6 hours. This is a good safari for photographers.

Full-day Safari

Full-day safari is the ideal safari for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and explorers. This safari starts early

in the morning and you can stay the whole day in the National Park. in this safari, you will be able to cover a considerable area of the National Park. We recommend this safari if you are a wildlife enthusiast.

Why Book With Lepo Safari?

Experienced safari jeep drivers.

We have friendly drivers with good experience 

We provide you good condition safari jeeps

Jeeps with front-facing seats for a better view

Free hotel pick-up and drop-off

If you are in a nearby hotel we provide this.

We focus on your needs

Our drivers will support to fulfill your needs in the safari

No hidden charges

We don’t charge any additional fee at the end of the tour.

One of the best experiences I've ever had in my life. Sri Lankan Leopard is the main attraction and we've seen several leopard cubs during our last visit. You must visit. You can have the best experience if you book a full-day safari. Our driver was excellent.

Maciej Diaries

A five-star review simply for being ethical and cruelty-free. However, the place in itself could use a few tweaks of improvement and more wildlife in a larger span of ground, also with more knowledgeable guides

Rubina Rajaratnam

Isn't a topical safari that you do in Africa but still pretty cool. We've seen some elephant plenty of buffalo and lizards some crocodiles and many different birds. Our tour guide as knowledge and attentive.

Slawek Cisowski

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Book your Yala safari with us now. We give the best service to our level best for you. Fill out this form now and our members will contact you soon through WhatsApp or Email.

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Entrance fee for Yala National park

Sri Lanka National park entrance fees have been increased for local and foreign tourists from the 1st of September 2022 (Gazette Notification No. 2292/11 Aug 2022).

You have to buy tickets before you enter the national park from the entrance gate. These tickets are issued by Wildlife and conservation department. Sometimes the entrance ticket counter is busy. our drivers will support buying tickets.

All tickets will be added 15% VAT, Service charges, and Other taxes.

* If you stay overnight in the National park this price will be doubled.

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 Foreign Adult (12+)

 foreign child (6-12), saarc country adult (12+), saarc country child(6-12), local adults (12+), local child (6-12), our rates include, safari jeep with experienced driver, free hotel pickup and drop, bottle of water, our rates do not include, entrance fee.

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Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari

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Minneriya Jeep Safari

Minneriya national park jeep safari is one of the most popular activities among travelers who visit Sri Lanka. The safari can be customized at your choice of morning jeep safari and afternoon jeep safari. Minneriya national park is being part of the elephant corridor which joins up with Kaudulla and Wasgomuwa parks. Minneriya national park gives the opportunity to see herds of Elephants throughout the year. May to October is the best period to visit Minneriya national park in view of the famous gathering of wild elephants. ​ Minneriya National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the North Central province of Sri Lanka. Nature lovers on Minneriya jeep safari often spot a large number of Sri Lankan Elephants gathering around to grass fields on the edges of the reservoir during the dry season.

In addition, there are two endemic monkeys of Sri Lanka, Large herbivorous mammals such as Sri Lankan sambar deer and Sri Lankan axis deer, Rare and endangered species such as Sri Lankan leopard and Sri Lankan sloth bear, the gray slender loris and many kinds of birds.

Minneriya half day jeep safari would be a valuable opportunity to observe unique and amazing wild animals in their natural habitats. Suggested times to start and end Minneriya national park jeep safari are 5:30am to 10:00am during the morning time or 2:30pm to 6:00pm in the afternoon.

Departure Location

Minneriya national park main entrance or Habarana area hotels

Return Location

Price includes.

• Free hotel pickup and drop from Habarana city hotels
• Private Safari Jeep (Not sharing with other groups)
• Entrance ticket to national park
• Current applicable all government taxes & service charge

Price Excludes

• Tips & Gratuities
• Any Private Expenses
• Meals and drinks for half day safari

Complementaries

• Meals and drinks for full day safari

Good to Know

• Reservations will be confirmed within 10 hours of making a Booking Request
• Above prices are subject to change due to new government taxes and levies
• Carry a cap or hat to cover from sun
• Sunscreen to avoid burns
• Breakfast packed from hotel for Morning safaris
• Shades (Sun Glasses)
• Additional Liquids (Mineral water)
• * Terms and conditions

Minneriya Jeep Safari Highlights

Minneriya national park jeep safari consists of 02 options. One is the morning half day jeep safari and the other one is a half day afternoon jeep safari inside the park. A half day safari will start at 05:30am in the morning and 02:30pm for the afternoon both covering a time period of 03 to 04 hours. 

The 4WD Safari Jeeps are the only permitted way of observing the Minneriya national park. The package also includes a free pick up from hotels and drop off for hotels in close proximity to the National park (hotels in Habarana area), Jeep Hiring fees, Entrance ticket to the Minneriya national park and currently applicable government taxes.

Minneriya Jeep Safari Options

06:00am to 10:00am morning safari.

half-day Minneriya national park jeep safari morning segment starts at 07:00 am from the gate. If you were to be picked up from your hotel nearby the jeep will pick you up at 06:00 am in order to minimize the time waiting for the purchase of the Minneriya entrance ticket. The duration of this Minneriya jeep safari will be 03 to 04 hours which is from 07:00 am to 10:00 am.

Do not forget to request your takeaway breakfast which will be prepared for your request. You will be provided with a custom open-air 4WD Jeep. The Driver/ Tracker takes you to locations where the animals are. It’s important to keep your eyes on alert so you don’t miss spotting the fascinating creatures in the park.

At the end of the jeep safari, you will be dropped at the gate or at your hotel where you were picked up from. We also arrange pickup transfers on private vehicles to reach the Minneriya national park. If you do not have your own transportation to your next destination, we also able to arrange a vehicle for an additional fee. please inquire prior to your booking.

02:30am to 06:00pm Afternoon Safari

The afternoon Minneriya national park jeep safari segment starts at 3:00 pm from the gate. Same as the morning safari segment we will be picking you up near the gate or from your nearby hotel. If the pickup happens from a hotel nearby, the jeep will pick you up by 02:30 pm. You will be provided with a custom open-air 4WD Jeep.

The Driver/ Tracker will take you to locations where the animals are. It’s important to keep your eyes on alert so you don’t miss spotting the fascinating creatures in the park. You will also be able to witness the stunning view of sunset if the sky is clear. At the end of the safari, you will be dropped at the gate or at your hotel where you were picked up from.

We also arrange pickup transfers on private vehicles to reach the Minneriya national park. If you do not have your own transportation to your next destination, we are also able to arrange a vehicle for an additional fee. please inquire prior to your booking.

Minneriya National Park Map

Minneriya National Park Photos

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Minneriya National Park is the absolute best part of visiting Sri Lanka! You must pay it a visit to see all the classic Asian animals in their natural habitat as well as the beautiful Sri Lanka landscape preserved in the park.

Margaret Bax

Fantastic trip! Loads of elephants. A very chatty, informative driver with a great sense of humour. Thanks very much. Margaret

I went on morning safari with my parents, my sister and my girlfriend in April with Nimal as out guide. It was my first safari and it was absolutely perfect!

Claire Ryan

Great wild life but we did not have a chance to see lots of bird but was fine for us.

Javier Elías

The best Safari! We were lucky to see over 200 elephants and different kind of birds.

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Jeep safari in Sri Lanka

The jeep safari in sri lanka.

If you are interested in a jeep safari then you must visit Sri Lanka which is an attractive destination that you must visit in your lifetime. Sri Lanka is a small natural paradise in the middle of the waves known as the pearl of the Indian Ocean. From a beautiful beach to a vibrant cover with nature’s blessings, it has an impressive array of resources. So, you have many places to choose from on your safari vacation in Sri Lanka . Sri Lanka’s 26 national parks are rich in diverse flora and fauna, with 16 percent of flora ad 23 percent of fauna endemic to the country.

Top amazing places to go on the Jeep safari in Sri Lanka

• Yala national park

Minneriya national park

Udawalawa national park, wasgamuwa national park, kaudulla national park.

• Gal Oya national park
• Kumana national park
• Bundala national park

Safari from Yala

The Yala National Park is an amalgamation of light forests, grasslands, scrubs, tanks, and lagoons with a protected land area of 130,000 hectares. It borders the Indian Ocean and is known for its variety of Sri Lankan wildlife , including Sri Lankan leopards, Sri Lankan elephants, and various aquatic birds . Have a number of travel options, including a private safari to the park or a leopard-watching safari. If you want to visit another park with elephants while in Yala, the Udawalawe National Park is 100km away.  Yala is located 280 kilometers away from Colombo. You can either book a luxury Jeep Safari.yala national park is best for jeep safari in Sri Lanka.

Suggest Read   :  Yala National Park Day Tour

The Udawalawe National Park is an important habitat for the Sri Lankan elephant and water birds. It has a mix of topography belonging to the wet and dry zones of Sri Lanka, with mountains and plains dominating the area. There are over 180 species of birds in the park, including Sri Lanka spurfowl, red-faced malkoha, Sri Lanka grey hornbill, brown-capped babble, and more. There are over 42 mammals recorded in the park, particularly notable for its Sri Lankan Asian elephants. Reptiles include oriental garden lizards, mugger crocodiles, and 30 species of snakes.

Suggested Read : Udawalawe National Park Day Tour

Compared to other parks, Minneriya national park is one of the most diverse natural systems in the country. Minneriya national park is located in an important location in Sri Lanka’s popular culture triangle. Minneriya Jeep safari is very popular and attractive among tourists around the world because of the huge Asian elephant sightings. You will get a chance to see many elephants near the ancient irrigation tank. So, if you want to observe the life of Asian elephants up close and personal,  you should not miss a jeep safari in Sri Lanka Minneriya national park.

The park is a safe haven for many mammals like leopards, sloth bears, deer, and many other endemic species. There are 170  bird species including endemic bird species as well as 8 endemic reptile species. A jeep safari to Minneriya national park is a great opportunity for you to see a variety of wildlife including many species endemic to Sri Lanka.

Compared to other national parks, Wasgamuwa national park is another place where you can have a wonderful experience on a jeep safari. This extends to the north-central and central provinces of Sri Lanka. The closest major city to the park is Polonnaruwa. The park is primarily a tropical dry mixed evergreen forest. Mahaweli River, amban river, and dunuwila Oya border blowing across the Mahaweli River will invigorate the jeep safari in Wasgamuwa.

Wasgamuwa national park is an important place for wildlife diversity. There are 23 species of mammals including elephants and leopards. The park has 143 species of birds, 35 species of reptiles, 15 species of amphibians, 17 species of fish, and 52 species of butterflies. Jeep safari in Wasgamuwa national park is one of the most unique experiences a tourist can have in Sri Lanka.

Suggested Read : Wilpattu National Park Day Tour

This is another national park in Sri Lanka. Kaudulla national park is the most recently designated in Sri Lanka. It is also a national park and is located about 190 Km from Colombo and is an evergreen forest and home to a variety of wild animals and birds. However, the highlight of the park is its majestic elephant population. May tourists must not forget to go on a Jeep safari to enjoy the nature of Kaudulla park.Kaudulla national park is best for visit jeep safari in Sri Lanka

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