The Yala National Park, with a total protected area of 126,768 hectares, is home to the greatest variety of Sri Lanka’s wildlife. Its varying habitats consisting of scrub plains, jungles, rocky outcrops, fresh water lakes, rivers and beaches - is home to many species of animals including sloth bear, herds of elephants, buffalo, monkeys, sambar, deer, and crocodiles.  The ideal time for elephants is February to July and the park's other main residents.  Yala's Block 1, on the western side of the park, and the only one of five sections open to the public, boasts one of the world's densest leopard populations. But don't expect to see them prowling around like out of control locusts - there are only 35 of them. For the best viewing of this endangered subspecies, Panthera Pardus kotiya, which is only found in Sri Lanka, visit the park from February to July. 

To gain the full benefit of Yala National Park, an early morning safari or at dusk is the ideal time to visit the park when the animals come out to the water holes.  An expert guide and driver will take you on an adventurous safari in a four-wheel drive.  Yala closes in the dry season, usually early in September.