Southern Province
Embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure at Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s most famous and second-largest national park. Known for its rich biodiversity and the highest concentration of leopards in the world, Yala offers diverse ecosystems from dense jungles to coastal lagoons.
What you'll find there
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Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and a national park in 1938, Yala has a long history of conservation. Once used as a hunting ground by British colonists, it is now one of the most important protected areas in Sri Lanka, home to hundreds of animal species including leopards and sloth bears.
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Covering nearly 1,000 square kilometres, the park is divided into five blocks, each with its own landscape and wildlife. Yala is home to over 200 species of birds, 44 species of mammals and a variety of reptiles, making it one of Sri Lanka’s most biodiverse areas.
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Yala is best known for its elusive leopards, which roam freely across the grasslands and forests. Large herds of elephants are often seen near waterholes, and sloth bears, crocodiles, wild boar and deer add to the excitement of the safari.
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A jeep safari is the best way to explore Yala’s vast landscapes. The terrain includes forests, scrublands and coastal areas, offering a variety of scenic backdrops — whether it is a leopard lounging on a branch or elephants at a waterhole.
In short
Yala National Park is a must-visit for nature and wildlife lovers. Its unparalleled opportunities to spot leopards, along with the stunning diversity of flora and fauna, make it one of the island’s great wildlife experiences.
Journeys that go here
Your holiday, your rules
Tell us roughly when you're travelling and what else you'd like to see. A local specialist will send back a free, no-obligation plan within 24 hours.