Yala National Park

Yala covers a large area of coastal lagoon, scrub jungle, rocky outcrops and tank country bordering the Indian Ocean. It is famous for having one of the highest leopard densities recorded anywhere, though sightings are never guaranteed. The park's seasonal opening arrangements vary by zone and year — always confirm directly with the Department of Wildlife Conservation.

• Leopard, elephant, sloth bear, crocodile and a large bird list in one park.
• Easy to combine with Arugam Bay or the south-coast beaches.
• Dawn drives in the dry zone light are excellent photography.

Dawn game drive

Vehicles enter at the scheduled gate time; book through your lodge the day before.

Evening drive

The last hours before closing are often productive for elephants at waterholes.

Block-wise exploring

Some zones are quieter than others; ask which block is open on the day.

Kumana bird sanctuary

A quieter option in the same region, famous for waterbirds — access varies seasonally.

February to July is generally the driest period in the south-east, when animals concentrate around remaining water. Parts of the park have closed for seasonal maintenance in recent years — confirm current openings before booking.

Regional detail, month by month: weather calendar.

Two nights, giving two game drives plus travel time.

About 1–1.5 hours from Arugam Bay; 4–5 hours from the south-coast beaches. There is no rail connection; transfers are by road.

Park vehicles are arranged through your accommodation or licensed operators. Private vehicles are not permitted inside the park.

• —Start early — the first two hours after opening are the best.
• —Park fees and vehicle charges are set by the authorities and change; verify before you travel.
• —Stay in the vehicle at all times and follow warden instructions on distance to animals.