Leopards in Sri Lanka hold a special place in the country’s wildlife, being the apex predators of the island. Sri Lanka is home to a unique subspecies known as the Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya), which is endemic to the island. This magnificent big cat is not only the largest leopard subspecies but also the top predator in Sri Lanka’s forests, with no natural enemies except humans.
Yala National Park, located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, is one of the best places in the world to observe leopards in the wild. The park is renowned for having one of the highest leopard densities globally, making sightings relatively common, especially during morning and evening safari drives. These solitary and territorial animals are most often seen resting on tree branches, patrolling their territory, or stalking prey.
The Sri Lankan leopard is a highly adaptable predator, thriving in various habitats across the island, from the dry lowlands of Yala to the lush rainforests of Sinharaja. Unfortunately, despite their adaptability, leopards face threats from habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensuring the survival of this iconic species, which plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of Sri Lanka’s ecosystems. Seeing a leopard in its natural habitat is a breathtaking experience, offering a glimpse into the wild heart of Sri Lanka.
More Details – Yala Safari Sri Lanka
Private Tour Itinerary
Morning Safari
- 5.15 AM – Pick up from your hotel in the Palatupana Entrance area hotels only and transfer to Yala Park Leopards Safari Sri Lanka – a 30 to 45-minute drive approximately
- 6 AM to 10 AM – Safari game drive in The Yala Park Leopards Safari Sri Lanka
- 11 AM – Drop back to your hotel
Afternoon Safari
- 1.45 PM – Pick up from your hotel in the Palatupana Entrance area hotels only, and transfer to The Yala Park Leopards Safari Sri Lanka – 30 to 45-minute drive approximately.
- 2 – 6 PM – Safari game drive in the Yala Park Leopards Safari Sri Lanka .
- 6.30 PM (approx.) Drop back to your hotel
NOTE: Time may be change depend on traffic and weather conditions.
Day Tour Price
Rate – Adults – Per Person
- 1 Pax – 135USD
- 2 Pax – 95USD
- 3 Pax – 85USD
- 4 Pax – 80USD
- 5 Pax – 75USD
Children Rate – Half Rate
- Entrance ticket fee for Yala Park Leopards Safari & Jeep: Per Person Cost (min 2 Person) – US$ 135 / EUR 122 / GBP 105) per foreign adult and US$ 70 / EUR 65 / GBP 52 per foreign child of age 03 – 12 years are applicable.
What is Included
- Free pick up and drop will be provided free of charge only to & from Palatupana entrance (main entrance) area hotels only.
- Private Jeep
- Complimentary refreshment pack during the safari.
- All applicable taxes.
- Entrance Fees to the National Park including applicable taxes.
- Park Vehicle Entrance fees.