A Yala safari is an open-jeep drive on dusty tracks, often starting before sunrise and running into the heat of the day. Packing a few simple things makes it much more comfortable.
Clothes
- Neutral colours such as khaki, olive, beige or grey. Avoid bright white and very bright colours.
- A light jacket or long-sleeved shirt for the early morning, which can feel cool in an open jeep.
- A hat or cap for sun protection.
- A scarf or buff to cover your face from dust on the tracks.
- Comfortable closed shoes or sandals. You stay in the jeep, so no hiking boots are needed.
Health and comfort
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Any personal medication
- Wet wipes or hand sanitiser
- A small snack, especially for children
We carry drinking water in the jeep.
Camera and optics
- Binoculars. Leopards often rest in trees or on rocks some distance away.
- A zoom lens. For photography, a lens of 300mm or more is ideal. A modern phone works well for landscapes and close sightings.
- Spare batteries and memory cards. Charging is not available inside the park.
- A bean bag to rest a long lens on the side of the jeep.
Good to know
- Pick-up times are early: around 5:00 AM for morning and full day safaris.
- Visitors must stay inside the vehicle at all times, except at designated stops.
- Keep noise low at sightings. Animals stay relaxed and everyone gets a better view.
Have a question before your trip? Read our FAQ or contact us.