All You Need to Know About Yala Park Sri Lanka Safaris with Funky Leopard Safari Lodge

Yala Park Sri Lanka is one of the island’s most iconic national parks, famous for its rich biodiversity and one of the highest leopard densities in the world. While there are other experiences available in the region, Sri Lanka Yala Safaris are the top reason most travelers visit this area — and that’s probably why you're considering a stay at Funky Leopard Safari Lodge, located right on the border of Yala National Park.

We operate professional, reliable safaris into Yala National Park, which can be included in your accommodation package or booked separately based on your preferences.

All Yala National Park safari jeeps depart directly from Funky Leopard Safari Lodge with our experienced drivers.

Morning Safari : 🕕 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM (Jeep leaves the lodge at 5:30 AM)

Afternoon Safari : 🕒 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Jeep leaves the lodge at 2:30 PM)

Full-Day Safari : 🕕 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Jeep leaves the lodge at 5:30 AM)

Click “Book Now” to access our booking portal, where you can reserve rooms with safari-inclusive packages or choose to add safaris separately.

If you prefer flexibility, you can:

• Book accommodation only and add safaris later
• Choose between an exclusive private safari (ideal for couples/families) or a shared Yala safari (max. 6 guests per jeep)

Booking with us directly allows you to reserve shared safaris — a great value option that’s not always offered by third-party platforms. You can also email us to customize your safari experience.

We offer clear, all-inclusive pricing. You are not obligated to book safaris through us — you’re free to explore other options. But here's what we provide:

Our goal is to deliver a seamless Yala Park Sri Lanka safari experience from start to finish. Here’s what’s included:

Looking to make your safari even more personal, informative, and immersive?

Opt for a dedicated safari guide and a private jeep — ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and families seeking a tailored experience.

Our experienced naturalists offer in-depth knowledge of the park’s flora and fauna, enrich your sightings with fascinating insights, and help you spot elusive species more effectively.

The following additional charges apply for these premium services:

We try our best to pair solo travelers into shared jeeps. But if not possible, the following solo supplement applies:

• Half-Day Safari: +$50
• Full-Day Safari: +$70

Yala National Park has 4 main access gates, each offering unique safari experiences in Yala Park Sri Lanka:

• Palatupana Gate – The most frequently used entrance for Sri Lanka Yala Safaris to Block 1, known for high leopard sighting potential and proximity to the coastline.
• Katagamuwa Gate – A quieter gateway into
• Yala National Park, ideal for less crowded jeep safaris and access to diverse wildlife habitats.
• Yala West Gate [ Galge Entrance ] – A lesser-known entry point that ensures more exclusive Sri Lanka Yala Safari experiences to Blocks 3 and 4 with fewer vehicles and more serene encounters.
• Yala East Gate [ Kumana National Park Entrance ] – Located closer to the Eastern Province, this gate provides access to untamed and less-explored areas of Yala National Park, perfect for seasoned wildlife travelers.

We are ideally located for Katagamuwa, Galge | Yala West — all less crowded yet rich in wildlife. Yala West gate also remains open even when Yala Block 1 is closed during the dry months.

Each Yala National Park safari is guided by:

• A trained driver focused on navigation
• A tracker (from DWLC) focused on spotting animals

Note: Trackers are not naturalists. On some days, DWLC may not provide a tracker — in such cases, your driver may handle both roles. There’s no discount on park fees even if a tracker isn’t available.

Yes, it’s possible to book once you arrive, but availability may be limited, especially for good jeeps and guides. We highly recommend booking in advance.

Speak to our Guest Relations Officer at the lodge for arrangements.

Important:

• Payments must be made by credit/debit card directly to the campsite
• Cash is discouraged unless pre-approved
• You must obtain a receipt for insurance & breakdown support

When embarking on your Yala National Park safari or Sri Lanka Yala Safaris, following these five key guidelines ensures a safe, respectful, and unforgettable wildlife experience in Yala Park Sri Lanka:

1) Respect Wildlife – Don’t Pressure Drivers for Leopards or Speed

Leopard sightings in Yala National Park are never guaranteed. Please avoid urging your driver to rush or break park rules, ensuring both your safety and the animals’ well-being.

2) Stay Quiet – Speak Softly and Move Gently

Sudden noises or movements can easily scare wildlife away during your Sri Lanka Yala Safari. Maintain silence to increase your chances of close encounters.

3) Follow Your Safari Driver/Guide’s Instructions

Your driver and guide prioritize your safety and the comfort of wildlife. Listening carefully during your Yala safari helps preserve the natural environment and ensures a smooth experience.

4) Do Not Litter or Feed Wildlife

Help keep Yala Park Sri Lanka pristine by disposing of waste properly and never feeding animals, which disrupts natural behavior and can be dangerous.

5) Dress Appropriately for Yala Safaris

Wear neutral-colored clothing to blend into the environment, bring sunscreen, a hat, binoculars, and a light jacket for early morning or late afternoon drives.

Choose Funky Leopard Safari Lodge for your Yala National Park safari and enjoy:

• Proximity to multiple gates
• Trusted drivers & support staff
• Flexible shared or private packages
• Transparent pricing
• Peace of mind