YALA BLOCK 5 & 6 (Weheragala & Lunugamwehera) Safari Tour

If you’re after a wildlife experience away from the bustling crowds of Yala National Park, this private safari through Blocks 5 & 6—specifically Weheragala and Lunugamwehera—might just be your best bet. For $36 per person, you get a flexible, 5 to 12-hour journey led by knowledgeable guides, exploring diverse landscapes where leopards, elephants, and sloth bears roam freely.

What we love about this tour? First, the personalized experience means you can stop for photos whenever you want, and the experienced guides really know how to spot animals in the wild. Second, the peaceful setting allows for a more relaxed pace, perfect for travelers who want to enjoy nature without the chaos often found in larger parks.

One small consideration: entrance fees to Yala are not included in the price, so budget around 40 USD extra. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, which might be worth considering if traveling with family.

This safari suits travelers who have a curious eye for wildlife, appreciate quiet, uncrowded nature, and want a flexible, intimate experience rather than a rushed group tour. It’s ideal for those who love photography or simply wish to enjoy a more peaceful connection with nature.

Key Points

Private, flexible experience tailored around your interests and pace.
Expert guides enhance wildlife sightings and provide insightful commentary.
Uncrowded, serene landscapes offering a more intimate connection with nature.
Diverse habitats including grasslands, light forests, and wetlands.
Not included: park entrance fee (~$40).
Duration varies from 5 to 12 hours, giving options for a quick trip or full-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Yala Blocks 5 & 6 Safari Tour

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Setting the Stage: Where and What?

This tour takes place in Kotapola, Sri Lanka, focusing on Yala’s lesser-visited Blocks 5 & 6—areas that tend to see fewer visitors than the busy Main Park. Instead of the usual crowds, you’ll be exploring Lunugamwehera and Weheragala in a private jeep, with a guide who is as passionate about wildlife as you are about seeing it.

Starting from one of six pickup points—Weerawila, Kirinda, Ellagala, Kataragama, Tissamaharama, or Debarawewa—you’ll be whisked away to a landscape rich in grasslands, forests, and wetlands. The price of $36 per person is quite competitive, especially considering the personalized service and flexible schedule.

What Makes It Special?

Two key aspects stand out. First, the advice from reviews highlights how guides like Sasanka, Sasunka, and Yasha excel at spotting elusive animals. One traveler shared, “Sasanka was incredible and made sure we saw the animals before all the other jeeps,” illustrating the value of a seasoned guide.

Second, the timing of the tour—often early morning or late afternoon—means you’re likely to catch animals in their most active states. The golden hours of the day make for fantastic photos, and the quiet surroundings add to the feeling of being truly immersed in nature.

What to Expect on the Itinerary

Pickup & Departure:
You can choose your pickup location from several options, with early morning pickups common in most reviews. This helps maximize your time in the park and improves chances of sightings.

Yala National Park Tour:
The main event, a guided scenic drive lasting about 4 hours in the park, takes you through diverse environments—from open grasslands to shady forests and shimmering lakes. Expect to see elephants, crocodiles, various bird species, and hopefully, the iconic leopards.

While sightings can’t be guaranteed, reviews indicate that guides are very skilled at finding wildlife. One traveler noted, “We saw two leopards at sunrise—thanks to Sasanka’s sharp eyes.”

Drop-off & Flexibility:
After the safari, you’ll be dropped off at your chosen location—Ellagala, Tissamaharama, Debarawewa, Weerawila, Kirinda, or Kataragama—making it easy to continue your journey.

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The Experience on the Ground

The jeep itself offers excellent visibility from all sides, giving photographers and nature lovers a chance to capture moments. The open-view design means you won’t miss a thing, whether it’s a herd of elephants crossing a waterhole or a solitary leopard lounging in the shade.

Guide Expertise:
From reviews, guides are not only knowledgeable but also friendly, eager to share their wildlife insights. Sasanka, Ishan, and Tikiri are praised for their keen eyesight and professional attitude. This human touch really elevates the experience beyond just a scenic drive.

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Value for Money

At $36, this tour stacks up well against larger, more crowded safaris. Even after adding the park entrance fee (~$40), the total cost remains reasonable, especially considering the personalized service, flexible schedule, and small-group experience.

Travelers consistently mention the good value, with some noting that the guides often manage to find animals that other jeeps miss, making the extra money well spent.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This safari is perfect for nature enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone tired of the crowds in larger parks. The peaceful, uncrowded environment allows for a more relaxed pace, which many travelers appreciate, especially when tracking elusive animals like leopards.

It’s also suited for those who prefer a customized experience—being able to stop for photos, spend extra time observing wildlife, and enjoy the landscapes at your own pace.

The Bottom Line

This safari experience offers a wonderful balance of value, expertise, and intimacy with Sri Lanka’s wildlife. The small group size and knowledgeable guides minimize the usual tourist rush, giving you a chance to see some of Yala’s most elusive creatures in a quieter setting. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a more personal, relaxed wildlife adventure without sacrificing quality or expertise.

While the additional park fee is a consideration, many reviews confirm that the overall experience is worth the extra expense for the chance to see leopards, elephants, and other iconic animals in a peaceful environment.

If you’re after a more genuine, less crowded safari experience and don’t mind a slightly longer day, this tour is a solid pick. It suits those who value expert guidance, flexibility, and a smoother ride through Sri Lanka’s varied landscapes.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
The base price is $36 per person. Be aware that the park entrance fee (~$40) is not included and must be paid separately.
How long does the tour last?
The tour duration can range from 5 to 12 hours depending on your preference and schedule. The main safari drive lasts about 4 hours.
Are pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes free transfers from multiple pickup locations in Tissamaharama and surrounding areas, with drop-off at your chosen location.
Is this tour suitable for wildlife photography?
Absolutely, the open-view jeeps and early/late timing provide excellent opportunities to capture animals in natural light.
Can I customize the schedule?
Yes, the tour is designed to be personalized. You can stop for photos or wildlife viewing as you wish, making it flexible.
Are children or pregnant women allowed?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women. For children, check with the provider as they might have age restrictions or recommendations.
Is the guide’s language English?
Yes, the guides speak English and are known for their helpful and friendly attitude.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, camera, and drinking water. Refreshments are provided during the tour.

In essence, this safari offers a peaceful, well-guided look at Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife in a setting that’s less crowded and more personal—an experience that many travelers cherish long after they leave.