How to Plan Your Full-Day Yala National Park Safari Tour in Southern Province

If you are visiting Southern Province in Sri Lanka, you cannot afford to miss taking a Yala National Park Safari Tour. Yala is one of the most famous national parks in the country for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. The park is home to a thriving elephant population, sloth bears, leopards, spotted deer, crocodiles, mongoose, wild boar, wild buffalo, and many other animals. With over 130 bird species to watch, Yala is a must-see site in the country. In this guide, we will discuss how to plan your full-day Yala National park safari tour in Southern Province, including the highlights, itinerary, and booking details.

Experience

The Full-day Yala National Park Safari tour is designed to give you a thrilling experience of witnessing wildlife in its natural habitat. Apart from the sheer excitement of a wildlife safari, the tour offers ample opportunities for bird watching, herpetofauna, and butterfly watching.

Highlights

Some of the highlights of the Yala National Park Safari Tour are:

• View the thriving elephant population
• Feel the thrill of a wildlife safari
• Spot leopards and sloth bears in their natural habitat
• Birdwatchers paradise with over 130 bird species to watch

Full Description of the Tour

The tour starts with a pick-up from your hotel in Ella around 4:00 AM in the morning. You will then embark on a beautiful drive through the countryside, passing scenic landscapes along the way to Yala National Park. The park is situated approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Ella and the drive takes about three to four hours. Once you reach the park, you will meet your local guide and receive a brief overview of the tour. You will then get aboard a jeep, which is the best mode of transport for a wildlife tour. Your driver and guide will take you through the park, showing you the flora and fauna of the national park. Your first stop inside the park will be the popular Ruhunu National Park, which is spread over 126,786 hectares, including the Strict Natural Reserve (Block II). Block I of the park was established in 1938 and is the most familiar to most visitors. During the safari, you will be able to observe the wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild buffalo, and mongoose, among others. You will also see various species of birds, including resident and winter visitors. The tour will then head to the great spots for birdwatchers where you can witness the famous peacock dance. The water holes and tanks are a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering the chance to see some of the most charismatic birds in Sri Lanka. For wildlife lovers, Yala is a must-see site in Sri Lanka. Your tour will last approximately 12 hours, and you will return to your hotel in Ella around 6:00 PM.

Booking Details

Booking the Yala National Park Safari Tour is easy. You can book the tour online by visiting the following link: book the tour here. The tour price includes bottled water and transportation to and from your hotel in Ella. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Sri Lanka, you must take the Full-Day Yala National Park Safari Tour. The thrill of spotting wildlife in its natural habitat, combined with the scenic drive through the countryside, makes this tour a must-do. Book your tour today and experience the magic of Yala National Park.

Southern Province: Your Complete Guide

The Southern Province of Sri Lanka is a destination that has everything from golden beaches to ancient temples, wildlife to tea estates. It is one of the island’s nine provinces and is a popular choice for tourists looking for a diverse and exciting experience. Here, we will answer some of your frequently asked questions about the Southern Province.

1. What are the most popular tourist destinations in the Southern Province?

The Southern Province is home to several must-visit locations, including:

a) Galle

Galle is a coastal city in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka and is one of the most popular tourist destinations. The city is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galle Fort. It is a massive 16th-century fort that was built by the Portuguese, later fortified by the Dutch, and now has a mix of colonial-era buildings and modern cafes, shops, and galleries. Galle also has stunning beaches, quaint villages, and lush greenery.

b) Mirissa

Mirissa is a small fishing village known for its pristine beaches and whale watching. The Main Beach in Mirissa is a popular spot for surfing, and nearby Weligama Bay attracts surfers from around the world. Mirissa is serene and peaceful, and you can find plenty of hotels and guesthouses to spend your vacation in leisure.

c) Yala National Park

Located in the southeast of Sri Lanka, Yala National Park is the second-largest and most famous wildlife park in the country. Known for its leopards, elephants, sloth bears and a variety of other bird and animal life, the park remains the most visited national park in the Country.

2. What are the best beaches to visit in the Southern Province?

If you are looking for some of the best beaches in Sri Lanka, then you need to visit the Southern Province as it has many. Here are some of the best beaches you can visit in the Southern Province:

a) Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna is a pretty little beach town close to Galle. The beach is long, and the water is calm, making it a perfect beach for swimming. You can find many restaurants and bars here that offer an excellent meal and a good time.

b) Mirissa Beach

As we already mentioned, Mirissa has sandy beaches that are ideal for lazing around or experiencing watersports like surfing and paddleboarding. As it is not overcrowded like other beaches, you can peacefully spend your time here.

c) Tangalle Beach

Tangalle Beach is one of the longest beaches in Sri Lanka and provides the perfect escape from the crowds. The turquoise water is crystal clear and a favorite among wildlife enthusiasts.

3. What are the best wildlife sanctuaries to visit in the Southern Province?

The Southern Province of Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of wildlife sanctuaries that offer an excellent opportunity to get close to nature. Here are some of the best wildlife sanctuaries to visit:

a) Yala National Park

As we mentioned earlier, Yala National Park is the second-largest wildlife park in Sri Lanka and is home to a large herd of elephants, leopards, and various other animals.

b) Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is famous for its large elephant population and is a vital habitat for several bird species such as Asian Openbill and Little Cormorant.

c) Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park is a fantastic destination for bird watchers as it is home to many migratory bird species. Here you can spot various species like flamingos, pelicans, and ibises.

4. What are the top historical sites to visit in the Southern Province?

The Southern Province of Sri Lanka is packed with history and culture that can be traced back hundreds of years. Here are some of the most prominent historical sites to visit:

a) Galle Fort

We have already mentioned the Galle Fort. It was built by the Portuguese and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its unique architecture and historical significance.

b) Matara Fort

Matara Fort is another historical site built by the Portuguese in the 16th Century. It was later developed by the Dutch who added several layers of defense walls to it.

c) Dondra Lighthouse

Dondra Lighthouse is located near the southernmost point of Sri Lanka and is the tallest lighthouse in the country. It is built on the Donra Head and dates back to the early 19th century.

5. What is the best time to visit the Southern Province?

The best time to visit the Southern Province is from December to April when the weather is sunny, and the beaches are perfect to swim.

6. What is the culture like in the Southern Province?

The Southern Province is a culturally rich destination with a unique blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic cultures. The culture here is greatly influenced by the Indian subcontinent, and you can find temples and shrines on almost every street corner.

7. How can I get around the Southern Province?

You can take a bus, train or hire a car with a driver to get around the Southern Province. Hiring a car with a driver is the most comfortable and convenient mode of transport. Also, It is best to plan your journey in advance and consider the hot weather when traveling, especially if you plan to visit wildlife sanctuaries.

8. What is the food like in the Southern Province?

The cuisine in the Southern Province is different from the rest of Sri Lanka and is heavily influenced by Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine. The region is known for its seafood, and you can find many restaurants serving fresh fish at local beaches, so be sure to try some.

9. What should I pack for my trip to Southern Province?

When planning your trip, pack light, and consider packing the following: 1. Loose, lightweight clothes made of breathable fabric 2. Sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun 3. Insect repellent 4. A raincoat or umbrella as Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with occasional rain showers. 5. Swimwear, as you will be visiting some of the best beaches in the country.

10. Is it safe to travel to Southern Province?

Yes, the Southern Province is a safe destination, and the locals are friendly and welcoming to tourists. However, it is always recommended to take precautions and ensure that you have taken adequate travel insurance before traveling to the Southern Province.

The Bottom Line

The Southern Province of Sri Lanka is a destination filled with natural beauty, history, and culture, making it a perfect destination for every type of traveler. With the information provided in this FAQ, you can plan a hassle-free trip and create memories that will last a lifetime.

A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring Southern Province

Southern Province is a stunning region located in Sri Lanka. The place is filled with numerous tourist attractions from heritage sites to beaches, wildlife, and more. Tourists can enjoy a wide range of activities during their stay in the province. In this guide, we’ll take you through a tour of the best things to do and see in Southern Province.

1. Visit the Galle Fort

The Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular attractions in Sri Lanka. The fort was built-in 1588 by the Portuguese and subsequently rebuilt by the Dutch. It’s considered the best-preserved fort of its kind in Asia. Tourists can take a stroll around the fort and explore the buildings, museums, and shops. The fort also provides a beautiful view of the ocean.

2. Whale Watching

Mirissa, a coastal town in Southern Province, is considered one of the best places for whale-watching in the world. The best time to go is between November to April. Tourists can spot blue whales, sperm whales, and even dolphins during the tour.

3. Uda Walawe National Park

Uda Walawe National Park is one highlight of the Southern Province. The park is home to several species of animals, including deer, elephants, and bird species. In the park, tourists can enjoy an elephant safari and observe other wildlife while taking a trip through the jungle.

4. Surfing

Southern Province is also considered a surfer’s paradise. The coastline has some of the best waves in Sri Lanka. Weligama, Unawatuna, and Hikkaduwa are some of the most popular places to go surfing.

5. Visit the Dutch Reformed Church

The Dutch Reformed Church located in Galle Fort is another heritage site worth visiting. The church was built-in 1754 by the Dutch East India Company. The building’s architecture is a mix of Dutch and Sri Lankan styles.

6. Sea Turtle Hatchery

A trip to the Sea Turtle Hatchery in Habaraduwa is a must-see experience. The hatchery was established to protect the most endangered sea turtle species in the world. Visitors can observe baby turtles and view the steps taken to protect the turtles.

7. Visit Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya

Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya is a temple located in Unawatuna. The temple is around 2300 years old and is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Sri Lanka. Tourists can observe unique architecture and traditional rituals on temple premises.

8. Visit the Handunugoda Tea Plantation

A visit to the Handunugoda Tea Plantation is a must-do while in Koggala. Tourists can learn about the process of making tea and sample some of the best tea flavors in the world.

9. Visit the Koggala Lake

Koggala Lake is a scenic lake located near Galle. The lake is famous for its boat safaris, which allow tourists to explore the lake’s beauty and observe birdlife.

10. Go Snorkeling

Unawatuna is among the top snorkeling destinations in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. The coral reefs surrounding the Unawatuna beach are full of bright tropical fish.

Book Your Tour Now

Southern Province is an all-in-one tourist destination with so much to offer. From heritage sites to wildlife, beaches, and a vibrant nightlife, tourists will surely have an unforgettable experience here. We hope this guide helps you plan your perfect trip to Southern Province.