Leopard Safaris Yala

This was one of the best experiences we’ve ever had. From the amazing luxury tent dinners under the stars to drinks in the lobby we were certainly taken care of. Our guide and driver were amazing and tracked both a sloth bear (pretty big animal!) and a leopard for us to see on the amazing safari. Although pricey it was worth it! I would recommend to all and we would come again. Best safari experience in Sri Lanka!

This is a lovely lodge where you stay in tented accomodation. The camp has a real safari feel to it. The food was really good and all meals and drinks are included. Also included is an afternoon and morning drive for each night that you stay. The Yala National Park is split into two blocks as far as the safari from this camp is concerned. While the camp is close to the park one of the blocks is a bit of a drive from the camp, the other is much closer. The closer one is a nicer and quieter. You will probably get chance to do both blocks. This is not Africa but you will see lots of elephants, monkeys, mongoose, deer, birds and crocodiles. Sadly we did not see any leopards or sloth bears. All meals are taken outside (weather permitting) and it is very atmospheric at night. We had a really good BBQ one night. They set the tables up in different spots around the camp which is nice. The bar is open before dinner but closes early so it is off to bed once dinner is finished. Meals are at set times and everyone eats together so it is very sociable. The tented rooms are great and have everything you need. The bathroom has an outside shower. There is also a small pool to relax around. We stayed for 2 nights which I would recommend as if you only stay one night it can be a bit of a rush and you do not get much time in the camp. Some other guests who only stayed for one night commented on this. However 2 nights is probably just about the right of time. Would recommend.

Our return to Leopard Safaris in Yala was nothing short of exceptional. Having loved it previously, this camp was the main reason we came back to Sri Lanka and it more than lived up to our expectations. This time, we were the only guests, giving us the entire camp and a truly personal experience. As on our previous visit 2 years ago, the service was impeccable - thoughtful, attentive, and heartfelt, but never intrusive. We enjoyed 4 private safaris, encountering a sloth bear, a leopard, a cobra, and so much more - exactly what we hoped for. The guided nature walk around camp, learning about the smaller creatures, was a delight, especially for the children. A lovely touch was planting a tree which was a meaningful nod to their environmental ethos. The guides also gave my children ranger certificates for completing a fun activity around camp - something they were both very pleased with! The food was outstanding - an array of traditional Sri Lankan dishes we all enjoyed, and our final night’s barbecue under the stars was truly magical. The guides were extremely knowledgeable and so passionate about the camp’s values and ecology. While the camp was quiet due to travel disruptions, we still received top-tier service. It was simply perfect, and we can’t wait to return again.

You really do get the feeling of being in the bush here, yet you have the luxuries like aircon, showers and a pool to cool off in. The food they serve is clearly sourced locally, very fresh and made on camp. Don't expect 5 star resort choice rather home quality food which we loved, especially the Buffalo curd for breakfast. They take you on safari in their own vehicles and their guides(all university trained naturalists of various types) do know their stuff. We didn't see Leopards but plenty of others did, our bad luck. We did 2 safaris, others did more which clearly increases your chances of seeing them. It is dusty, hot and bumpy but if we enjoyed it and we are in our 60's its not that hard work

We had such a great experience in Leopard Safaris Yala. We stayed in a beautiful lodge deep in the lush greenery and felt the sense of adventure the minute we arrived. The staff were really accommodating and really well organised. The morning drives and watching the sunrise were sublime! Each meal was a veritable feast of colour and flavour. It was a fantastic experience!!

We weren't sure what to expect but this was a great surprise. We were welcomed and told about the site, their environment policies and work they do. We were given lunch before we headed off for our afternoon safari. We had expected quite basic food but it was delicious. Our safari guide and driver gave us lots of information and worked hard to track animals. We were lucky to see a couple of leopards as we left for the evening. We also experienced the large elephant on the road into Yala, a local character! Back at the camp we were given an evening drink and then an excellent meal. They did a special swordfish dish for me which was superb. They make or source locally their food and are clearly committed and passionate about what they do. We had an early morning safari the next day, during which we saw a variety of birds. Some of the stops we made were quite tranquil. We were given a fresh breakfast before we headed off. We were in the Mousedeer tent which had everything we needed. Again, way above what we had anticipated. The whole team work hard to make sure you enjoy your stay, providing lots of advice, guidance and care. We really enjoyed our experience.

If you are looking to immerse yourself in nature, this is the place. Comfortable rooms with outdoor showers and dining under the stars at different places around the site. Lizards, snakes, spiders, monkeys and turtles are all at home with the guests. Food is excellent. From the traditional hoppers and biriyani to the ice cream and spicy omelette - you will not go hungry! The game drives were fabulous. The 5:15 start is well worth it and expect to see deer, elephants, water buffalo, crocodiles, jackals, civet and of course, the beautiful but elusive leopards. This is a bird spotters paradise from the colourful bee catchers to the elegant birds of prey (eagles and owls) and the majestic Adjutant Stork, the largest bird in Sri Lanka. The utter chaos and crazy driving when news of a leopard sighting gets out has to be experienced. Hold on to your hat! Can't recommend more highly to anybody who wants to experience real Sri Lanka.

Super exclusive base for safaries. Fantastic food from breakfast to lunch and dinner, very knowledgeable guides and great service overall. Would recommend to anyone looking for a premium experience in Yala.

Bala and the team were amazing and made the stay. A great boutique luxe resort on a strong march to sustainability. Food was amazing. The safari's were excellent. Thanks. We'll be back with our families. ❤️