After multiple previous visits to the enchanting island nation of Sri Lanka, we finally visited Yala National Park in the southeast of the island. Considered to be the principal national park in Sri Lanka, it was designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 before receiving national park status in 1938. Not only is it home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna (did someone say elephants and leopards?) but the national park status goes a long way to ensure that the vast area covering nearly 1000 square kilometres is protected from poaching, gem mining and illegal logging, problems that continue to impact areas of outstanding natural beauty throughout the region.

Feel good about the impact of your travel

The national parks in Sri Lanka are managed by the Department of Wildlife Conservation and the park entrance fee that you pay is one of their main income streams. This revenue is used to ensure that the flora, fauna and natural resources are protected and in turn, remain untouched for future generations. Yala National Park is home to more than 300 of the remaining Sri Lankan elephants, of which there are an estimated 2,500 in total. However, when you consider there were more than 20,000 wild elephants in the 19th century it makes it very clear why they, and their habitat, need protecting.

Experience your Yala safari with a knowledgeable guide

There are many operators who offer safari day trips to Yala National Park and as with every choice you make, it’s alway best to do your research. We read multiple reviews, in addition to asking friends and colleagues for recommendations. Your Yala safari will likely be the highlight of your trip so ‘investing’ in a knowledgable guide is essential in our opinion. For…

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