Things to do in Yala

Wildlife activities in Sri Lanka’s most famous game park

For those with limited time, budget or interest in wildlife, a simple day-trip into this Yala National Park at dawn or at dusk, and a view from the back of a jeep, can be a satisfying way to spot some wildlife in Sri Lanka's most famous national park.

But for those looking for a more extensive experience of a Sri Lanka game park, consider a camping safari which enables you to immerse yourself in an entire 24-hour cycle within this untouched wilderness.

Yala boasts one of the world's densest leopard populations. However, don't expect to see them prowling around in their thousands – there are less than fifty. Also expect to see elephants, sloth bears, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boar, crocodiles, monkeys and buffalos. Transport around the park is provided by jeep- complete with driver and expert guide/tracker.

Bundala is an important and beautiful wetland sanctuary combining 20kms of beach, lagoons and scrub and hosting more than 150 bird species. These wetlands are home to winter migratory birds and large flocks of flamingos. They are also popular with crocodiles herds of elephants can also be seen.

Kumana National Park, also known as Yala East, covers 180 sq kms alongside the Indian Ocean and can only be accessed from Okanda which is south of Arugam Bay on the south-east coast.

The swamp lakes of Kumana provide a nesting site for water birds. During the nesting season which begins towards June, large colonies of pelican, spoonbills, herons, painted storks, and egrets can be spotted here. The jungles of Kumana are also home to wild elephants, buffalo and deer. Often the endangered marine turtles come ashore to nest here on the secluded beaches.