Last Updated on March 6, 2025 by Oliver
Sri Lanka has been getting more and more popular over the last few years, and honestly, I think this year might be the biggest yet. Most people know it for the beach towns along Sri Lanka’s south coast, the amazing surf, and that laid-back vibe (which, to be fair, we love).
But Sri Lanka is so much more than just beaches. Beyond the culture and incredible food, the country is also a wildlife hotspot. We’re talking wild elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, countless bird species, and even leopards (not jaguars—those are in the Americas!).
There are tons of national parks where you can experience a Sri Lanka safari, and while most people have heard of Yala National Park (since it’s the most famous), there are plenty of smaller parks that fly under the radar. These can give you a more unique, less touristy safari experience.
We’ve spent quite a bit of time in Sri Lanka and have tried a few Sri Lanka safaris ourselves, each offering something different. To make it easier for you to choose the right one, I’ve put together this guide to the best national parks for a safari in Sri Lanka—let’s get into it!
What are the Best Sri Lanka Safari Destinations? We’ve got the answers!
There are actually way more national parks and wildlife parks for safaris in Sri Lanka than you might think. When picking the right one, there’s a lot to consider. What kind of animals do you want to see? Are you after leopards, or are elephants more your thing? Do you want to see a huge herd of elephants, or are you okay with just a few? Also, how much of a crowd do you want to deal with? It’s good to know that you probably won’t find all of those things in one safari.
For example, Yala National Park is one of the most popular places to spot leopards because they have the biggest population, so your chances of seeing one are high. The downside? It can get really busy with tourists. If you’re after elephants, Udawalawe National Park is a great choice. It doesn’t have as many leopards, but you’ll get to see large herds of elephants, which is something you probably won’t find in Yala.
Then, there’s somewhere like Hurulu Eco Park, which is a lot less touristy, more affordable, and offers a more intimate experience—but it’s a bit off the beaten path, up north.
With so many options, it really comes down to what fits your plans and itinerary best.
💡For almost all national parks in Sri Lanka, entrance tickets can be purchased at the park entry, so there’s no need to worry about buying them in advance.
1.Yala National Park // Best Sri Lanka Safari to See Leopards
Price: $25 USD entrance fee + $50 USD Safari
Highlights: Big leopard population, excellent wildlife spotting, plenty of Sri Lankan elephants, and a variety of bird species.
Best Hotel to Stay at: Wild Coast Tented Lodge – Relais and Chateaux
The very first Sri Lanka safari we did was at Yala National Park, and it definitely left a lasting impression. Located on Sri Lanka’s southeast coast, Yala is home to Sri Lankan elephants, a large population of leopards, and even some sloth bears.
Our experience was amazing—we saw plenty of elephants (honestly, the first time seeing one in the wild is pure magic) and got lucky enough to spot a leopard, thanks to our fantastic tour guide and driver.
We stayed in Kataragama, the nearest town, and decided to do an early morning safari. Best decision ever! We left super early, which was perfect because we were nearly first in line. (Trust me, you don’t want to be at the back when hundreds of safari cars are queuing up).
There’s also the option to book an afternoon safari, or even combine it as part of your transfer from places like Ella to Hiriketiya or Mirissa, which is pretty convenient if you’re short on time.
2.Wasgamuwa National Park
Price: $5 USD entrance fee + $27 USD safari
Highlights: Less touristy, wild elephants, sloth bears, birdwatching
Best Hotel to Stay at: Kalundewa Retreat
Wasgamuwa National Park is one of the more underrated Sri Lanka safari spots, which makes it a great option if you’re looking for a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path experience. It’s located in the central part of the island, not too far from Polonnaruwa, and is known for its wild elephants, sloth bears, and diverse birdlife.
I haven’t personally been here, but from what I’ve heard, it’s one of the best parks for spotting sloth bears, especially during the fruiting season when they come out in search of food. There are also elephants, though not in the massive herds you’d see at Minneriya, and fewer tourists compared to places like Yala or Udawalawe.
If you’re into birdwatching, Wasgamuwa is supposed to be amazing for it, with species like the painted stork and black-headed ibis frequently spotted. Since it’s not as developed for tourism, you won’t find as many safari jeeps crowding the area, which makes for a more peaceful and natural safari experience.
3.Minneriya National Park
Price: $25 USD entrance fee + $30 USD Safari
Highlights: Large elephant herds, bird species, water buffalo, and a peaceful safari experience.
Best Hotel to Stay at: Sapphire Garden Hotel
Minneriya National Park is more of a hidden gem for anyone wanting to see large herds of Sri Lankan elephants in the wild. Located in the central part of the island, it’s particularly famous for the elephant gathering, where hundreds of elephants come together to drink and bathe at the Minneriya Tank. It’s one of the most impressive wildlife spectacles you’ll witness in Sri Lanka.
Our safari here was more laid-back compared to the bustle of Yala. We were able to see elephants in large groups—some were peacefully grazing, others just enjoying the water. And the whole experience felt so intimate and peaceful, which I really appreciated. The bird species here are also incredible, from painted storks to the grey-headed fish eagle, so if you’re a bird lover, this place is a must.
We stayed in the nearby town of Habarana and went on an afternoon safari. The park is quieter than the more tourist-heavy areas, so we had plenty of space to take in the surroundings without too many jeeps around. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a more peaceful safari.
4.Udawalawe National Park (Uda walawe) // Best Sri Lanka Safari Tour for Elephant Herds
Price: $43 USD entrance fee + $25 USD safari
Highlights: Huge elephant herds, fewer tourists than Yala, easy access
Best Hotel to Stay at: Hantara Udawalawe
Udawalawe National Park is probably the best Sri Lanka safari if you’re mainly interested in seeing elephants. I’ve been here, and honestly, it’s wild how many elephants you can spot in just a couple of hours. Unlike Yala, where you might see one or two at a time, here you’ll see whole herds hanging around near the water or casually crossing the road in front of your jeep.
It’s also way less crowded than Yala National Park, which makes for a more relaxed experience. The landscape is more open too, so spotting wildlife is much easier—no staring into thick bushes hoping to catch a glimpse of something. You won’t find many leopards here, but if elephants are what you’re after, this is the spot.
Another great thing about Udawalawe is that it’s easy to fit into a Sri Lanka itinerary. It’s a popular stop between Ella and the south coast, so you can even do a safari as part of your travel day. Super convenient and totally worth it.
5.Kumana National Park // Great for Birdwatching
Price: $25 USD entrance fee + $50 USD safari
Highlights: Best for birdwatching, fewer crowds, chance to see leopards
Best Hotel to Stay at: Wilde Edge Panama
Kumana National Park is one of those Sri Lanka safaris that flies way under the radar, but if you’re into birdwatching or just want a more off-the-beaten-path experience, this is a solid choice. It’s located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, close to Arugam Bay and is connected to Yala National Park. So there’s still a chance to spot leopards and asian elephants, but the real draw here is the birdlife. You’ll see everything from painted storks and pelicans to rarer species like the black-necked stork.
Since Kumana doesn’t get nearly as many visitors as Yala, it feels way more remote and untouched. You won’t be in a line of safari jeeps fighting for the best view, which makes the whole experience a lot more relaxed. It’s a bit more effort to get here compared to the bigger Sri Lanka national parks, but if you want something quieter with great wildlife and a good shot at seeing some big cats, it’s definitely worth considering.
6.Gal Oya National Park // Best National Park for a Boat Safari
Price: $6 USD Entrance Fee. Boat safari can only be booked through your accommodation in the park.
Highlights: Unique boat safaris, diverse wildlife, fewer tourists
Best Hotel to Stay at: Gal Oya Lodge
Gal Oya National Park is definitely less known among Sri Lanka’s national parks, offering a unique safari experience that’s different from the usual jeep tours. One of the coolest things here is the boat safari on Senanayake Samudraya, Sri Lanka’s largest reservoir. It’s the only place in the country where you can spot wildlife from the water, and if you’re lucky, you might even see elephants swimming between islands or hanging out by the shore.
I haven’t had the chance to visit Gal Oya myself, but friends have raved about how incredible it is. The park is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species. Since it’s less frequented by tourists, you get a more intimate and unspoiled nature experience.
Getting there is a bit of a trek—it’s located in the eastern part of Sri Lanka, so it’s perfect if you’re looking to escape the more crowded tourist spots. If you’re up for an adventure and want to see a different side of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, Gal Oya should definitely be on your list.
7.Bundala National Park
Price: $12 USD Entrance Fee +$45 USD Safari
Highlights: best for birdwatching, saltwater crocodiles, fewer crowds
Best Hotel to Stay at: Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort
Bundala National Park is one of the less touristy national parks in Sri Lanka, and while it doesn’t have leopards, it’s still a really cool safari experience—especially if you’re into birdwatching. The park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is home to a crazy number of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and eagles.
It’s also a great spot to see saltwater crocodiles, which you won’t find in all of Sri Lanka’s national parks. There are elephants here too, but in smaller numbers compared to places like Udawalawe. What I like about Bundala is that it’s way quieter than Yala, and you don’t get caught up in a traffic jam of safari jeeps. It’s a solid choice if you’re staying near Tissamaharama and want a more relaxed Sri Lanka safari without the big crowds.
8.Wilpattu National Park // Best Safari in Sri Lanka for Leopards Without the Crowds
Price: $95 USD Sri Lanka Safari Packages (Entrance + Jeep)
Highlights: best for leopards, fewer tourists, dense jungle, best jungle safari in Sri Lanka, best wildlife safari in Sri Lanka, best Sri Lanka safari from Colombo
Best Hotel to Stay at: Taru Villas Villlu
Wilpattu National Park is Sri Lanka’s largest national park and, in my opinion, one of the best places to see leopards without the overwhelming crowds of Yala. The park is way less touristy, which makes the safari experience feel more natural. Instead of open plains, Wilpattu is mostly dense jungle with small lakes (or “villus”), so spotting wildlife here takes a bit more patience.
I did a full-day safari here, and while it wasn’t as action-packed as Yala, it felt way more like a real wilderness adventure. We saw elephants, loads of birds, and even a sloth bear, which was a pretty rare sighting. If you’re up for a longer, quieter safari where you really have to search for the animals, Wilpattu is a great pick in my opinion.
9.Hurulu Eco Park
Price: $10 USD Entrance Fee + $25 USD Safari
Highlights: Best for elephant sightings, less touristy, budget-friendly
Best Hotel to Stay at: Habarana Tree House Ambasewana Resort
Hurulu Eco Park is definitely one of the lesser-known national parks, but it’s actually one of the best spots to see elephants in Sri Lanka—especially if you want a less touristy experience compared to Udawalawe or Minneriya. The park is part of the same elephant migration route as Kaudulla and Minneriya, so depending on the season, you’ll see massive herds here.
I didn’t personally visit Hurulu, but I’ve heard from other travelers that it’s a solid budget-friendly alternative to the bigger parks. The landscape is more open, making wildlife easier to spot, and since it’s not as famous, you’re not dealing with endless safari jeeps blocking your view.If you’re in the Sigiriya or Dambulla area (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites) and want to do a safari without the crowds, this is a great option.
10.Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary
Price: Free Entrance / Guided Tour $100 USD
Highlights: best for birdwatching, wetlands, off-the-beaten-path
Best Hotel to Stay at: Twin Waters Resort
Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary is one of the best places in Sri Lanka for birdwatching, and it’s way less visited than the big national parks. It’s a mix of wetlands, mangroves, and lagoons, making it the perfect habitat for tons of migratory and endemic bird species. If you’re into bird photography or just want a different kind of safari experience, this is a great spot.
I haven’t personally been, but from what I’ve read, it’s not a typical jeep safari—you explore on foot or by bicycle, which makes it a much more peaceful and immersive experience. It’s also close to Negombo, so if you’re flying in or out of Sri Lanka and want a quick nature escape, this could be a good option.
11.Horton Plains National Park // Best Sri Lanka Wildlife Safari to see Sambar Deer
Price: $10 USD Entrance Fee + $30 USD Guided Tour
Highlights: best for hiking, scenic views, World’s End
Best Hotel to Stay: The Glenrock
Horton Plains is a completely different kind of Sri Lanka safari—there are no jeeps, no elephants, and no leopards, but it’s still one of the most unique national parks in the country. Instead of a typical wildlife safari, this is more of a hiking experience, taking you through misty grasslands, cloud forests, and waterfalls.
The main reason people visit is World’s End, a sheer 870-meter cliff with insane views on a clear day. It can get super foggy, though, so if you want to actually see the view, you’ll need to go early in the morning. Along the hike, you might spot sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boar, monkeys, and many birds, but the real highlight here is the landscape itself.
If you’re staying in the Sri Lankan highlands, such as Nuwara Eliya or Ella, this makes for a perfect day activity!
Get Ready for Your Trip to Sri Lanka
Book Your Accommodation
For the best deals and discounts, I recommend using Booking.com to book your hotel, villa, or hostel. It’s super reliable and budget-friendly!
Book Your Flight & Car
Looking for cheap flights or rental cars? Skyscanner.com is the way to go. I’ve been using it for years and have saved so much money along the way.
Book Tours & Activities
Planning tours and activities is a breeze with GetYourGuide.com. They offer amazing deals and only work with trusted tour operators, so you can book with confidence.
Get Travel Insurance
SafetyWing has been my go-to travel insurance for the past two years, and I couldn’t be happier. Highly recommend them for peace of mind on your trip.
Get Your Travel Credit Card
When it comes to travel credit or debit cards, Wise is a fantastic option. They offer great perks for withdrawing or sending money overseas, making travel finances hassle-free.
FAQs About Sri Lanka Safari Destinations
Is Sri Lanka good for Safaris?
Yes, I think Sri Lanka is amazing for safaris, but you do need to adjust your expectations. When people think “safari,” they usually picture Africa with lions, giraffes, and week-long camping trips. That’s not really the vibe here. The scale is much smaller, but that actually works out well—it’s more affordable, and you can easily do a safari in a day or even a half-day safari.
Which Safari is Best in Sri Lanka?
Personally, I think Yala National Park is the best Sri Lanka safari simply because I actually got to see leopards—something that’s pretty rare in many other parks. Yes, it’s more touristy, but if you’re on a 10-day vacation, it’s an easy and fun experience to check off your list.
How much does a Sri Lanka Safari cost?
Safaris here are super affordable, with most being either full-day or half-day safaris. For the more popular parks, you’ll usually pay around $70 USD, but for the less touristy ones, you can get away with paying just $25 USD. But if you’re really looking to see elephants without spending a dime, you can rent a tuk tuk or scooter and cruise down Road B35 in Sri Lanka. This road cuts straight through Ruhuna National Park, and there’s a good chance you’ll spot some elephants hanging out on the side of the road.
What is the best time of the year for a safari in Sri Lanka?
The best time for a safari in Sri Lanka is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. During this time, animals tend to gather around water sources, and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot them. That said, safaris can be done year-round in Sri Lanka, so it really depends on when you’re visiting.
Final Thoughts on Sri Lanka Safari & The Best National Parks
Overall, I think most of the national parks in Sri Lanka are pretty amazing. I’ve heard a few mixed reviews about places like Lahugala National Park, but honestly, the parks I’ve listed here are definitely worth checking out.
The differences between the parks aren’t huge. Yes, they all have their own unique vibe, but in terms of vegetation and wildlife, they’re fairly similar. So don’t expect major differences between them. For most people, one safari per vacation is plenty, and if you’re unlucky and don’t spot a leopard, don’t worry and just go again but usually, just one safari is all you need to get the experience you’re after!
Related Articles
Hiriketiya Beach Guide: Everything You Need to Know Including My Favorite Hotels, Restaurants & Things to Do
Hiriketiya Beach is hands down my favorite spot in Sri Lanka—no contest. I’ve spent well over three months in the country, trying to explore as much as possible, but somehow, Hiriketiya Sri Lanka is where I got stuck for over a month. I don’t know exactly what it was. Maybe it felt more secluded and…
The 10 Best Restaurants in Arugam Bay: A Guide to the Best Foodie Spots
As someone who’s an absolute sucker for a good breakfast and lunch spot, I naturally had to try just about every place in Arugam Bay that even remotely looked like it could serve a decent flat white and avocado toast. Turns out, Sri Lanka is an absolute dream when it comes to that. I figured…
12 Amazing Hotels in Arugam Bay Sri Lanka You Can’t Miss
Arugam Bay is Sri Lanka’s go-to surf town on the southeastern coast, a long-time favorite among backpackers and surfers chasing world-class waves. It’s one of those places where life slows down—days revolve around surfing, beach lounging, and the occasional party. Compared to Sri Lanka’s more touristy spots like Ahangama, Weligama, and Mirissa, Arugam Bay is…
