Tag: Safari Tours

Top Reasons to Choose Yala for Your Next Safari Adventure – A Day Out Among Nature and Wildlife

One of the most well-known safari destinations in Sri Lanka, Yala National Park boasts the highest density of leopards in the world. While leopards steal the show, the park is also home to elephants, and the birdlife here is spectacular.

Wildlife Encounters 

Leopards are, of course, the top highlight, but you can also see elephants, sloth bears, deer, and crocodiles. The park is also reported to have over 200 bird species.

Safari Tours 

Going on a safari is one of the best things to do in Yala. You can choose from a range of options, from half-day tours to full-day tours. These tours are often led by experienced local guides. Most safaris are done in open jeeps and allow you to get close to nature from a safe distance. You can book your safari through hotels like Cinnamon Wild Yala.

Image by Wikimedia Commons

Best Time to Go 

The dry season from February to July is the best time to visit Yala. During this period, animals come out of their hiding places in search of water, which they find in waterholes. The weather is also much more pleasant.

Tips 

If you’re visiting during the peak season, remember to book your safari early. Wear light, comfortable clothes and use sunscreen. Don’t forget your hat and water bottle. Early morning and late afternoon safaris are the best. Bring your camera as well, but turn off the flash when taking pictures.

A Visit to Yala National Park

Being one of the biggest national parks in Sri Lanka, a visit to Yala National Park is a must if you are ever on vacation on this charming island. Here are some of the highlights.  

 Yala National Park

Spanning a total area of 900 sq km, Yala National Park is easily one of the most enormous national parks in Sri Lanka. This exotic sanctuary was once a popular hunting ground for the British but now claims to have the highest leopard density in Asia whilst sheltering a host of other fauna the likes of sloth bears, deer, crocodiles and exotic bird species.

 What to see and do

Yala National Park
Yala National Park – Image by Nadil Jayakody from Pixabay

The Yala National Park tops as a hotspot for spotting leopards. Hop on board a 4 x 4 safari ride with binoculars in your hand during dawn or dusk to catch these inimitable animals in action. Whilst catching a glimpse of leopards has become a coveted attraction among travellers, there is a host of other wildlife to be seen amidst these exotic savannahs. During a ride along this wildlife sanctuary, you can easily spot some sloth bears, ample endemic birds emerging out of mangroves and elephants roaming across the land.

 Hotspots for Accommodation

From small boutique hotels and eco-friendly villas to opulent hotels and retreats by the jungle, you are spoilt for accommodation choices when holidaying in Yala. Amongst the top-notch accommodation spots in the area, a Yala hotel the likes of Cinnamon Wild Yala is indeed a wise pick for the hotel is kin to camping in the wild except with luxurious amenities brought to your arms.

 Best time to go on safari

The dry season from February to June is the idyllic time to go on a safari in this exotic wildlife paradise. With water levels decreasing, there is ample opportunity to witness wild animals emerging out of their habitats in search of water. The park also boasts a serene year-round temperature of 29°C and only experiences heavy showers during the months from September to December.