South-east

Yala

A national park in the south-east known for elephants and leopards, with safaris at first and last light.

Illustrative image

Yala became a national park on 25 February 1938 and is divided into five zones for administrative convenience. It is known for elephants and leopards, as well as birdlife, and safaris run at first and last light, when the animals are most active.

Wildlife is wild, so no sighting can be promised. Parts of the park can close in the dry season, and a Ministry of Environment document describes it as conventional practice to close the park from 1 September to 15 October. We plan around the position for your dates.

What to expect

Elephants and leopards
Birdlife, including species found only in Sri Lanka
Safaris at first and last light
A park divided into five zones

When and how

Parts of the park can close in the dry season. Dates are set each year by the Department of Wildlife Conservation, so we check the position before confirming a safari.
We build in more than one safari so that one quiet drive does not decide the trip.
Safaris start early, so we plan the nights before and after around them.

Travel responsibly

Keep a respectful distance, stay quiet and never feed the animals
Follow the park rules and the guidance of rangers and guides
Prefer small groups: fewer vehicles at a sighting means less disturbance

Practical facts

Each fact comes with its source and the date we last checked it. Rules and conditions change, so please confirm them before you travel.

Yala became a national park on 25 February 1938 and is divided into five zones for administrative convenience. A Ministry of Environment document describes it as conventional practice to close the park to the public in the drought season, from 1 September to 15 October, while staff maintain ponds, roads and bungalows.
Official source: Ministry of Environment, Sri Lanka (opens in a new tab). Checked on October 11, 2026.
Parts of Yala National Park can close to visitors in the dry season, to protect wildlife and for maintenance. The Department of Wildlife Conservation decides this each year and the dates change, so check the current position before booking a safari.
Reported by: Newsfirst (opens in a new tab). Checked on October 11, 2026.