Yala National Park: Block 5 Special Evening/Morning Safari

Yala National Park: Block 5 Special Evening/Morning Safari

Yala National Park’s famous for its high leopard density and diverse wildlife, but if you’re after a more intimate, less crowded experience, the Block 5 Safari offered by Flamingos Safari Tours is a fantastic choice. For just $35 per person, you’ll spend either a morning or evening exploring Weheragala (Galge), a lesser-visited part of Yala, in a comfortable, customized vehicle. The tour promises the chance to see leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and a stunning variety of bird species, all while avoiding the crowds that tend to gather in Yala’s more popular areas.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances wildlife sightings with a peaceful atmosphere. The secluded setting of Block 5 means animals tend to behave more naturally, and you get a more genuine feel of the park’s untouched beauty. The knowledgeable guides make all the difference, sharing insights into animal behavior and the park’s ecosystem, which turns a safari into a mini-lesson in nature. Plus, the timing—offering both morning and evening options—means you can choose the best time for your interests, whether it’s spotting predators or capturing sunset photos.

A small consideration is that entrance fees are not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget for those separately. Also, this tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, a common restriction in most safari experiences. But, overall, this safari is ideal for travelers wanting a more authentic, less touristy encounter with wildlife, especially those who appreciate birdwatching and want to see leopards in a quieter setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Secluded Experience: Less crowded than Yala’s main areas, offering animals more natural behavior.
• Diverse Wildlife: Opportunities to see leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding and spotting skills.
• Comfort & Convenience: Customized vehicles with front-facing seats, hotel pick-up, and binoculars included.
• Ideal Timing: Morning and evening safaris maximize wildlife activity and photography chances.
• Value for Money: At just $35, offers a memorable, high-quality safari experience.

A Detailed Look into the Block 5 Safari Experience

When we think of a safari in Sri Lanka’s Yala, most people picture the crowded main areas of Block 1. But this tour takes you into Block 5, also known as Weheragala or Galge, a part of Yala that’s much less traveled. Starting with a hotel pick-up from locations like Tissamaharama, Kirinda, or Weerawila, you’ll travel in a comfortable, customized safari vehicle designed for optimal wildlife viewing. The front-facing seats give you a better vantage point, and the inclusion of binoculars ensures you won’t miss the tiny details.

The drive itself is part of the fun, as your guide (whose expertise is often praised) navigates the landscape of dense forests, open grasslands, rocky outcrops, and waterholes. These waterholes are especially important—they draw animals in the dry season, turning them into natural wildlife hotspots. Our review sources note that the less busy trails mean animals are less disturbed, and behaviors like elephants bathing or leopards resting are easier to observe.

Once inside the park, you’ll quickly realize why this area is special. The landscape feels more authentic, less beaten down by crowds. The tour guides are very knowledgeable—”on our tour, we also got to see elephants and even a leopard,” shares one traveler—highlighting how lucky you can be to spot these elusive cats. The early morning or late afternoon timings are perfect; the cooler temperatures mean animals are more active, especially predators like leopards and big cats, which tend to hunt during these times.

Bird lovers will be in heaven here. With over 200 bird species, including peacocks, eagles, storks, and hornbills, the quiet surroundings lead to excellent birdwatching. The tranquil atmosphere means birds are less alarmed by noise, giving you a better chance to see and hear them. Many visitors have remarked on how the less crowded setting allows for more natural animal behaviors—no constant convoy of safari trucks scaring the animals away.

The sunset safaris are particularly recommended, as the golden hour casts a beautiful glow over the landscape. You might stop at scenic spots like riverbanks or open plains, where you can take a break, enjoy some snacks or tea, and marvel at the scenery. The tour stops for short breaks to stretch your legs or take photos, which helps break up the drive and keeps things comfortable.

And the price—$35 per person—represents excellent value, especially considering the small group size and the personalized attention from your guide. Remember that park entrance fees are extra, so plan ahead to include those costs in your budget.

Why This Safari Stands Out

The main draw of this safari is its ability to give travelers a more authentic and peaceful experience of Yala. While the more popular Block 1 can be crowded and noisy, especially during peak hours, Block 5 offers a quieter, more natural setting. We loved the way the guide’s local knowledge helped us spot animals that might otherwise go unnoticed, and the opportunity to see leopards in their natural habitat, away from the crowds, was truly special.

Many reviews highlight the professional organization of the tour, which ensures a smooth experience from pickup to drop-off. The driver’s careful handling and attention to safety are often praised—“the driver was really careful,” notes one traveler—which is reassuring when navigating unfamiliar terrain.

The variety of wildlife makes this safari appealing to a wide range of interests—from big cats and elephants to birds and reptiles. The timing options allow you to tailor the experience—early mornings for cooler temperatures and animal activity, or evenings for stunning sunsets and photography opportunities.

What to Expect on the Day

Upon confirmation, you’ll be picked up from your hotel, usually in the morning or late afternoon. The drive to the park entrance is comfortable, and once inside, your guide will lead you into Block 5. Expect a landscape of dense forests, open plains, and waterholes—each providing unique wildlife viewing opportunities.

The safari lasts about 3 hours, with stops for short breaks and photo opportunities. Your guide will be sharing insights about animal behavior, habitat conservation, and the park’s ecology throughout the drive. Keep your camera ready—animal sightings can happen suddenly and unexpectedly.

See animals like leopards, which are particularly common here due to the ample territory and prey. Elephants are often seen roaming freely, especially near water sources. Sloth bears and crocodiles are also part of the scenery, providing a diverse wildlife spectacle. For bird enthusiasts, the variety of over 200 species ensures plenty of opportunities for spotting and identifying different birds.

As the tour wraps up, you’ll return to your hotel, hopefully with a camera full of great shots and a head full of stories. The small group size and personalized service mean you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the professional guide can tailor the experience somewhat depending on what animals are active that day.

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The Sum Up

This safari in Yala’s Block 5 offers a genuinely immersive wildlife experience—less crowded, more relaxed, and filled with wildlife surprises. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who cherish authentic encounters and want to see leopards, elephants, and a vibrant birdlife in a setting that feels more nature than zoo. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the peaceful environment, make this a memorable outing for animal lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

If you’re after a cost-effective adventure with a high chance of seeing iconic animals, this tour hits the mark. It’s a fantastic way to experience Yala’s wild heart without the crowds, especially if you prefer your safaris in the early morning or late afternoon when the park is at its most active. The experience is well-organized, reasonably priced, and offers a more personal connection with nature—an authentic Sri Lankan safari that leaves you with stories and images to cherish.

FAQ

Is the park entrance fee included in the price?
No, the park entrance fee is not included. You’ll need to pay this separately, so plan your budget accordingly.

What is the best time of day for wildlife sightings?
Early morning and late afternoon are ideal. These times tend to feature cooler temperatures and more active animals, increasing your chances of sightings.

Can I get down from the vehicle inside the park?
No, for safety reasons, getting out of the vehicle inside the park is not allowed. The guided safari stays within the vehicle to ensure safety and animal disturbance minimization.

Does the tour include binoculars?
Yes, binoculars are provided, helping you spot those hard-to-see animals and birds from a distance.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While the tour is generally comfortable, it isn’t suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems, due to the nature of the vehicle rides.

How long does the safari last?
The safari typically lasts around 3 hours, with stops for breaks and photography along the way.

Yala’s Block 5 Safari offers a rare chance to see Sri Lanka’s wildlife in a peaceful, less touristy setting. Whether you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of a leopard stalking through the grass or just want to enjoy the scenery and birdlife, this trip promises a memorable slice of Sri Lankan wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here: