Climate in Yala National Park
Situated in the dry zone of Sri Lanka, the climate in Yala is hot and humid. The vegetation consists of semi-arid thorny scrub, interspersed by pockets of fairly dense secondary forest and small patches of mangrove along the coastal lagoons.
The mean annual temperature is around 27 degrees Celsius, but during the dry season, from May /June to October, temperatures may reach 37 Celsius. This time of year, the water levels are low and animals have to rely on specific waterholes that provide an ideal surrounding for observing the wildlife whilst you are on a safari.
In Yala, the rain often comes in short and intense bursts before clearing up again, and many animals such as leopards, elephants, buffalos, spotted deers, wild boars, eagles, and owls can be spotted at any time of the year. The rainiest season is from November to January, when the north-east monsoon brings relief to the fauna and flora and the jungles take on lush colors.
For bird enthusiasts, the migratory season between October and April is the best. This time of year, thousands of birds migrate from all the way from their northern breeding areas in Siberia to Yala, that one of the southernmost points of their migration.
Wildlife in Yala National Park
Yala is very rich in wildlife and home to a great variety of species, some of which are endemic to Sri Lanka. The endangered Sri Lankan Elephant, recognized subspecies of the Asian Elephant, can be seen in large herds by the waterholes in Yala. The 44 species of mammals include Sri Lankan sloth bear, spotted deer, water buffalo, crocodiles and the leopard – the star of Yala.
According to recent studies, Yala has the highest concentration (as high as 01 km2) of the elusive Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya). Unlike to elusive, and primarily nocturnal, leopards living in other parts of the world, in the Sri Lankan national parks they are rather easy to spot due to the lack of natural predators.
Your best chance to see a leopard is generally early in the morning. Especially, the young males are very confident, and often they are seen walking on the tracks.
The birdlife in the Yala National Park is amazing too. Over 215 species of birds have been recorded in Yala, with six being endemic to Sri Lanka. Both, the critically endangered black-necked stork and the lesser adjutant, the biggest bird in the island, can be spotted here. When in Yala, the bird enthusiasts may visit several other fascinating birding locations, including the ancient hermitage of Sithulpahuwa, Debarawewa Wetland and Palatupana saltpans.
Safari at Yala
There are 3 safari options available for the guest.
1. Morning Safari (6.00am)
2. Afternoon Safari (2.30pm)
3. Full day Safari
The safari would take place with an experienced guide in specially modified comfortable jeeps for unique safari experience. The tour could be more customized for guests for their preferences (Family safari, honeymoon safari, photography safari etc.).
Tour in brief
Initial meeting with the Eco Team crew and the safari guide, a brief of the tour will take place in the entrance to the Yala Safari. For the morning half-day tour, the starting time will be at 6 a.m. while the afternoon tour begins at 2.30 p.m.
After entering the national park with your guide in a jeep, you will be able to spot several species of birds and other animals that have made their homes in this sanctuary. The guide will explain about the various interesting attributes as you will learn and enjoy about the flora and fauna of Yala.
You will be taken through most of the Yala National Park, covering the wetlands, grasslands, forest patches, etc. We will make longer stops at certain watering holes for unique photography opportunities.
Finishing the safari, either round 11 a.m. or around 6 p.m. you will be dropped at the park entrance.
Yala
