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

Imagine wandering through Sri Lanka’s wilderness where silence replaces the usual bustle of crowded parks, and every turn offers a chance to glimpse elusive wildlife. For around $36 per person, you can join a full-day safari that takes you through Yala’s Blocks 5 and 6, also known as Weheragala and Lunugamwehera. Led by passionate guides in luxurious jeeps, this tour promises an authentic, less touristy experience—perfect for those who crave genuine wildlife encounters.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group, quiet atmosphere, and expert guiding mean you’re more likely to see leopards, elephants, and a variety of birdlife without the crowds. Second, the flexibility of visiting both Yala Blocks 5 and 6 with a single ticket offers great value and an expanded chance to observe different habitats and wildlife behaviors. But, it’s worth noting that park entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly.

If you’re a nature lover or wildlife enthusiast seeking a peaceful, immersive safari away from the busy main park areas, this tour could be your ideal choice. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation. However, keep in mind that full-day safaris involve a certain level of endurance and an early start.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Unique quiet environment: Blocks 5 and 6 are less crowded, providing better chances to see animals without jeep traffic.
All-in-one park access: One ticket grants access to both Lunugamwehera and Weheragala sections, doubling your wildlife-viewing opportunities.
Expert guides and comfortable jeeps: Guides like Maduka and Sakun are praised for their wildlife knowledge and keen eyes.
Additional inclusions: Free binoculars, bottled water, cool drinks, and a delicious lunch in full-day options enhance the experience.
Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance if needed.
Authentic sightings reported: Multiple travelers have seen leopards, elephants, birds, and even a rare close-up leopard.

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Why Choose YALA BLOCK 5 & 6 Safari Tours?

This tour is a fantastic option for travelers who want more than just a typical park visit. The small group size and less crowded environment mean you’ll have ample space and time to spot wildlife, rather than being squeezed into jam-packed jeeps. The guides’ local knowledge shines, with many reviews highlighting guides like Maduka and Sakun who go beyond standard routes to find animals, sometimes even reaching secret spots.

We loved the way guides turn off their engines to avoid frightening the animals, giving you a more natural viewing experience. Travelers often comment on the sharp eyes and patience of the guides, which makes all the difference when hunting for leopards or spotting a flash of color among the birds.

Another highlight is the diversity of wildlife — from leopards (sometimes seen multiple times) to elephants, peacocks, and waterfowl. One reviewer even mentions a rare encounter with a leopard in just 10-15 minutes of arrival, illustrating how fortunate you might be. The quiet nature of the park means fewer jeeps and less noise, allowing for a more intimate connection with the environment.

However, a potential consideration is that park entry fees are separate, and prices can vary, so travelers should plan their budget accordingly. Also, since the tour involves a whole day, it requires early mornings and some endurance, especially if you opt for the full-day experience with lunch.

This safari is ideal for nature enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone wanting a peaceful wildlife adventure without the frequent traffic jams seen in busier parts of Yala. Families, birdwatchers, and wildlife buffs will find this tour particularly rewarding.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Start with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Yala, Kirinda, Tissamaharama, or nearby areas. The transportation is private, comfortable, and tailored to ensure a relaxed start. The tour’s price includes luxurious jeeps, guided commentary, bottled water, binoculars, and soft drinks, making it a well-rounded package. Full-day safaris also include lunch, a nice touch for keeping energy levels up during this active day.

Once inside the park, the guide’s expertise shines, as they scan the landscape for signs of wildlife. We loved the way guides like Maduka and Sakun turned off engines when animals were near, respecting their space and increasing your chances of seeing more natural behavior. The less crowded environment means you’re not just one of many jeeps vying for the same view — instead, you feel like a true explorer.

Expect to travel slowly and quietly through diverse habitats, from open grasslands to dense thickets. The early morning or late afternoon safaris are best for animal sightings, especially for elusive leopards. As one reviewer noted, their guide Sakun was dedicated and passionate, searching thoroughly for wildlife and even stopping for photos of birds or other smaller creatures.

The wildlife sightings include elephants bathing or grazing, bird species like bee-eaters and eagles, deer, and, with luck, close-up leopard encounters. Several travelers report seeing multiple leopards — some as many as 24 in one area — and the thrill of spotting one is unforgettable. Many reviews mention guides’ sharp eyes and patience, which greatly enhances your chances of wildlife success.

The quiet atmosphere of Blocks 5 and 6 means fewer jeeps, especially compared to the main Yala park areas. This is appreciated by those who want authentic, undisturbed encounters. One reviewer mentioned, “There are many times less travelers and no traffic jams from jeeps,” making it clear that this safari feels more like going out into nature rather than a traffic-filled zoo.

For full-day safaris, the included lunch is a welcomed break. It’s a chance to share stories, review photos, and relax for a brief moment before heading back into the wild. This effort to combine comfort with adventure makes the full-day tour a good value, considering the inclusions.

Practical Considerations

While the experience is generally praised, it’s important to note that park entrance fees are not included—you’ll need to purchase these separately at the park entrance. The fees can vary, so it’s wise to check in advance or budget a bit extra.

The timing of the safari matters; early mornings and late afternoons tend to be more productive for wildlife sightings, especially for leopards. The full-day option includes lunch, which though simple, is enough to keep you energized. Travelers have consistently praised the guides’ local knowledge and keen eyes, often describing them as passionate and dedicated.

The small group size means you get more personalized attention and better chances to spot animals. The luxurious jeeps and free binoculars enhance your viewing experience, making it easier to observe distant animals and birds.

Because of the quiet, less crowded environment, this safari may be less suited for travelers who prefer a fast-paced, jam-packed schedule. It’s best for those willing to spend several hours exploring slowly and patiently, soaking in the surroundings.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari works best for animal lovers, keen photographers, and those who want to experience Sri Lanka’s wildlife away from the crowds. If you value guides with sharp eyes and detailed knowledge, you’ll appreciate the expertise of guides like Maduka and Sakun.

It’s also a great choice for families or couples seeking a peaceful adventure in nature, especially if you prefer luxury and comfort during your wildlife excursions. Those interested in birdwatching will find the variety of species, along with the quiet environment, particularly appealing.

If you’re looking for a more authentic, less touristy experience with a good chance to see leopards, this tour is a strong contender. It balances value and quality, offering a memorable wildlife experience without paying a premium.

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The Sum Up

For anyone wanting to escape the crowds of regular Yala and dive into Sri Lanka’s less busy, wildlife-rich zones, this tour offers an excellent option. The expert guides, luxury jeeps, and quiet environment create a setting where wildlife viewing becomes more about the animals and less about jostling for space.

It’s perfect if you value authentic encounters, personalized guiding, and the chance to see leopards, elephants, and a host of birdlife in a peaceful setting. The flexibility of visiting both Lunugamwehera and Weheragala, combined with great value for the price, makes this safari a memorable highlight.

Travelers who love nature, photography, and genuine wildlife experiences will find this tour well worth considering. With its emphasis on quiet, respectful wildlife watching, it’s a nice change from the busier park sections, promising a more authentic and relaxed adventure.

FAQ

Are park entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the park entrance “ticket fee” is not included. You will need to buy your tickets at the park entrance, so plan for that extra cost.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, guiding, bottled water, free binoculars, cool drinks, and luxurious jeeps. Full-day safaris also include lunch.

Can I see leopards on this safari?
Yes, many travelers have reported seeing leopards, sometimes multiple times, especially with guides like Maduka and Sakun who look carefully for signs of these elusive cats.

What is the best time of day for wildlife sightings?
Early mornings and late afternoons are generally most productive, as animals are more active during cooler parts of the day.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Yes, especially for those who enjoy quiet, nature-focused adventures. The comfortable jeeps and expert guides make it family-friendly, but be prepared for a full-day outing.

How many people are typically in the group?
The tour is typically a small group or private, given the emphasis on a quiet, personalized experience.

What if I want to cancel my booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Would this tour be good for birdwatchers?
Absolutely. The quiet environment and variety of habitats mean plenty of opportunities to see birds like eagles, bee-eaters, and waterfowl.

This safari offers a balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters that makes it a strong choice for travelers craving a peaceful, memorable Sri Lankan safari.