Yala National Park sits on the south-east coast of Sri Lanka. It covers about 979 square kilometres of dry forest, scrub, rocky outcrops, lagoons and beaches, and is divided into five blocks.
Leopards in Yala
Block 1 is the most visited part of the park, and it is estimated to have around 70 leopards, although no full survey has been done in recent years. Our team has personally identified 44 individual leopards by their spot patterns, and we continue to track them. Knowing each leopard's territory and habits is what gives our guests such good sightings.
Sri Lankan leopards (Panthera pardus kotiya) are the top predator on the island. With no lions or tigers to compete with, they are often relaxed and active during the day, which makes Yala one of the best places in the world to watch and photograph them.
When to visit
Yala is open all year, apart from a closure of Block 1 for a few weeks in the dry season, usually in September and October. The best months for leopards are generally February to July, when water is scarce and animals are easier to find. Read more in our guide to the best time to see leopards in Yala.
Park hours
The park is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. You can choose a morning safari, an evening safari or a full day safari with lunch by the beach.