Galle/Unawatuna/Weligama/Mirissa: Yala National Park Safari – How to Plan Your Tour

Are you going to be in the Southern Province and want to experience wildlife in Sri Lanka? Then book your tour to Yala National Park now! This tour offers a thrilling experience, with a wide range of wildlife to observe such as elephants, leopards, sloth bears, buffalo, and many more, in their natural habitat. Here’s a guide on how to plan your Yala National Park Safari.

Experience

The experience starts with a pickup from your hotel in Galle, Unawatuna, Weligama or Mirissa, followed by a comfortable ride to Yala National Park. The park is home to indigenous wildlife, where you can expect to see a variety of animals such as sloth bears, jackals, mongoose, spotted deers, buffalo, wild boars, sambhur, hare, and many more. The park is also an important nature reserve for over 50 species of butterflies and numerous bird species.

Highlights

The tour offers several exciting highlights, including:

View leopards in the wild: Yala National Park has one of the highest densities of leopards in the world, and spotting one in the wild is an experience you’ll never forget.

Look for crocodiles, buffalo, and different species of birds: You’ll have the chance to observe various species of animals, including crocodiles, buffalo, and many different kinds of birds.

See an array of stunning wildlife local to the area: Yala National Park gives you an opportunity to see wildlife that is typical of this specific area and that you might not be able to spot anywhere else in Sri Lanka.

Enjoy the comfortable ride to Yala: The pick-up and drop-off assured by the tour are in a private air-conditioned vehicle ensuring a pleasant and comfortable ride.

Full Description

After being picked up from your hotel, you will be driven to Yala National Park, where you will go on a safari drive by Jeep. During the safari, you will explore the park’s diverse habitats, ranging from dense jungles to scrub forests and lakes where you’ll spot wildlife in their natural habitats.

You will have the opportunity to spend around 3-4 hours in the park, observing its incredible biodiversity, and the chance to see endangered species such as the Sri Lankan leopard and elephant.

Once the safari is over, you will be taken back to your hotel in Galle, Unawatuna, Weligama or Mirissa, marking the end of the tour.

Includes

The tour includes transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle, the services of a professional guides, and hotel pick-up and drop-off from Galle.

How to Book

Are you ready to experience wildlife like never before? Book your Yala National Park Safari tour now to get started! Use the following link book the tour here to get there!

Insider’s Guide to Galle, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is known for its stunning landscapes, sandy beaches, lush hills, and many other natural tourist attractions. Galle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, located in the southern coast of the country. Here is everything you need to know about Galle, including local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Galle is a vibrant town full of historical sites from colonial times, natural attractions, and cultural landmarks. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Galle:

– Galle Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch. The fort is a living monument with stylish boutiques, art galleries, museums, and cafes.

– Unawatuna Beach: A gorgeous beach with crystal clear water, palm trees, and plenty of water sports to take part in.

– Hikkaduwa: A historically significant site with stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, and an abundance of sea turtles.

– Rumassala: A biodiversity hotspot that’s famous for its beautiful beaches, jungle trails, and breathtaking views.

Dining Spots

Sri Lanka is famous for its delicious cuisine, and Galle is no exception. Here are some of the great dining spots to eat at when in Galle:

– The Heritage Cafe: This cafe is located in a restored Dutch house and serves traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. The food is fantastic, and the atmosphere is charming.

– A Minute by Tuk Tuk: A cozy restaurant serving Sri Lankan street food that’s perfect for a quick bite.

– Fortaleza: A rooftop restaurant situated inside the Dutch Fort offering exquisite views of the sea and lighthouse while serving an array of international and local cuisine.

Cultural Experiences

Galle has a rich cultural heritage. Here are some cultural experiences to try when in Galle:

– Visit the Buddhist temples and see how Buddhism is deeply rooted in the daily lives of the locals.

– Attend a traditional Ayurvedic spa and experience the healing power of ancient herbal remedies.

– Join in on a performance of Kandyan Dancing at the Cultural Show, held every evening in and around Galle Fort.

Local History

Galle has a fascinating history dating back to the 16th century. Here’s what you need to know:

– Galle Fort played a vital role in the spice trade, and the Dutch fortified it in the 17th century. The fort remained a crucial stronghold until Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948.

– The National Maritime Museum is located in the Dutch warehouse inside Galle Fort and provides a detailed exploration of Sri Lanka’s maritime history.

Off-the-beaten-path

Here are a few off-the-beaten-path suggestions for visitors who want to explore beyond Galle’s well-trodden tourist spots:

– Take a tea plantation tour and see how tea is grown and produced.

– Stroll through the stunning jungle trails and visit temples at the Rumassala forest reserve.

– Take a river safari through the magnificent Madu Ganga mangroves and see the diversity of flora and fauna.

Galle is a vibrant, culturally-rich town that has something for everyone. You could spend weeks exploring all the sights and sounds of this beautiful city while immersing yourself in the local culture. Follow this guide to ensure you make the most of your visit!