Yala National Park

"Yala National Park, located in southeastern Sri Lanka, is the country’s most popular wildlife sanctuary and a top destination for nature enthusiasts. Covering over 978 square kilometers, it boasts diverse ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, lagoons, and coastal areas. Yala is particularly renowned for its leopard population, offering one of the highest chances in the world to spot these elusive big cats in the wild. Beyond leopards, Yala is home to a wealth of wildlife, including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, jackals, and over 200 bird species, making it a paradise for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s dramatic landscapes, from rocky outcrops to the serene Kumana wetlands, add to its allure. **History:** Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and a national park in 1938, Yala has deep cultural ties, with ancient ruins and temples scattered throughout the park, hinting at its historical significance. **Pro tip:** Plan your safari for early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. Opt for Zone 1 for leopards or Zone 5 for a quieter, more immersive experience. Yala offers a perfect blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit for any traveler exploring Sri Lanka."

"The Yala National Park is famous for spotting leopards but... it's also the most crowded one. The experience doing the safari in Yala National Park was not fully satisfactory because of the overflow of cars, which can disturb the wildlife (only 1 car is disturbing the animals, but imagine lots of them together in one place like in the picture). I understand that tourists (I include myself that day) want to see a leopard, but I could not enjoy doing it like that. So, bare in mind that yes, it is a beautiful park and the one that offers more chances to see leopards, but also is the most popular and overcrowded one. "

"Yala National Park offers a vast expanse of untamed wilderness, with the majestic ocean on one side and the jungle on the other. It is one of the more popular national parks with highest sightings of leopard. So, be prepared for crowds and overflow of vehicles"