Yala
Yala has the highest density of leopards anywhere in the world, alongside elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles and a long list of birdlife. We go in at first light with a safari jeep and a tracker I trust, before the park fills up — that's when the animals are most active and the light is best for photos. A morning safari is usually enough, but a second one in the late afternoon is worth adding if you have the time, since sightings depend entirely on the animals and the day. Kataragama, a sacred town revered by several faiths, and Bundala's birdlife are both close by.
What we can do here
- Morning safari jeep through the park
- A second, late-afternoon safari (optional)
- Kataragama sacred city, nearby
- Bundala National Park birdlife, as an alternative safari
Packages that include Yala
Classic Ceylon
The one most people come for: Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, the Temple of the Tooth, the hill-country train to Ella, a Yala safari, and Galle Fort at the end.
Wildlife, Culture & Adventure
Four safaris, the cultural triangle, tea country hikes and whales off Mirissa — a full loop from Negombo and back.
Island Circuit
A proper circle of the island from the airport and back — Wilpattu, the cultural triangle, tea country, Horton Plains, a Yala safari, Udawalawe's elephants and Galle Fort.
Sri Lanka in Depth
For travellers who hate rushing — two safaris, Ella's hikes and waterfalls, the cultural triangle, and real time in Trincomalee, Anuradhapura and Jaffna.
Two Shores
Both monsoons, both coasts, and everything between — Jaffna, Trincomalee, Arugam Bay's surf, a Yala safari, Ella's waterfalls and the cultural triangle.