Hi Reader,

Sri Lanka has some incredible national parks, though not everyone knows it. Most people who are looking to go on safari in Sri Lanka automatically think of Yala National Park, but what about Udawalawe and Wilpattu?

Yala might have the highest leopard density, but it’s also very busy and congested, whereas Udawalawe and Wilpattu are just as amazing and offer a completely different experience.

So instead of thinking you’ll book Yala National Park, why not consider which one is actually best for you?

Because once you have discovered that, it now becomes the right experience and safari for you.

If you want leopards and that classic safari moment

Yala is the most popular national park in Sri Lanka and for good reason. If you’re hoping for that “big safari moment”, leopards, elephants and dramatic sightings, then this is where you’ve got the highest chance of that happening.

That said, because of its popularity, it can also be very busy, especially during peak times.

We did Yala National Park, and there certainly were a lot of jeeps in the park at the same time, all looking for the leopard. If this doesn’t bother you, then Yala National Park is the one to book.

If you want elephants, space and a more relaxed safari

Udawalawe National Park is an alternative to Yala National Park and is a completely different experience.

For a start, this is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see elephants, often quite close up, and a more open, calm setting.

It will feel less intense than Yala, but you’ll still get the safari experience, and you'll spot wildlife along the way.

If you’re looking for something that feels more relaxed and easygoing, then avoid Yala National Park and plan Udawalawe instead.

If you want fewer crowds and more wild

Another alternative to Yala National Park is Wilpattu. It's the one park that most people overlook.

It’s far quieter, and you don’t get quite the same density of jeeps as you’ll see in Yala. To the point that you might have those moments where it just feels like you’ve got the park to yourself, which changes everything.

Wilpattu may not necessarily guarantee you sightings, but it is more about the safari experience and being out in the wild.

So, how do you choose the best safari for you?

Well, firstly, it comes down to what really matters most to you:

Do you want the big safari experience, with possible leopard sightings, or do you go for something that’s quieter, maybe you won’t spot a leopard, but you’ll see plenty of elephants and other wildlife.

Honestly, there isn’t a wrong choice here; it’s more about matching the park to the kind of safari experience you want.

We’ve put together a full guide that breaks down all of this properly; you can read it here: Best national parks in Sri Lanka for safari.​

Over to you

Are you leaning more towards the leopard safari vibe, or something a bit more relaxed and spacious?

We’d love to hear what you’re thinking. Just hit reply and let us know.

Happy travelling

Bev & Shams

Email: bev@bevandshams.com

Website: www.bevandshams.com​

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