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Safaris in Sri Lanka: Yala, Udawalawe and Minneriya, the back story
The back story
About Safaris in Sri Lanka: Yala, Udawalawe and Minneriya, the back story
Sri Lanka’s national parks are managed by the Department of Wildlife Conservation; safaris go by jeep with registered drivers and park trackers.
Yala
Yala, in the southeast, is famous for leopards, as well as elephants, sloth bears and crocodiles. Parts of the park close for a period in the dry season, usually around September and October; check before booking.
Udawalawe
Udawalawe is excellent for elephants all year. Next to it, the Elephant Transit Home cares for orphaned calves before returning them to the wild; visitors watch feeding times from a distance.
In Yala, one of the best places in the world to see leopards, patience is everything.
Minneriya
In the dry season, roughly July to October, hundreds of elephants gather on the grasslands around the Minneriya reservoir.
Our advice: book a licensed operator, go at dawn or late afternoon, and ask your driver not to crowd the animals.
Why it's on our list
- Yala
- Udawalawe
- Minneriya
- Choosing a safari
- When to go
- Respect
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Safaris in Sri Lanka: Yala, Udawalawe and Minneriya, the back story before you go.