Sri Lanka’s Ultimate Wildlife & Wilderness Destination
Home to the world’s highest density of leopards, Yala National Park is Sri Lanka’s premier safari destination, where untouched wilderness, ancient history, and unforgettable wildlife encounters come together. Stretching across forests, grasslands, rocky outcrops, lagoons, and the Indian Ocean coastline, Yala offers one of Asia’s finest wildlife experiences.
Set out on an early morning or afternoon safari in search of Sri Lankan leopards, Asian elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, wild buffalo, jackals, spotted deer, and hundreds of bird species. Beyond its remarkable wildlife, Yala is also home to centuries-old Buddhist monasteries hidden deep within the jungle, creating a rare combination of nature and history.
The adventure doesn’t end at the park gates. Visit the ancient Sithulpawwa Temple, dramatically perched among granite boulders inside the sanctuary, or arrange an expedition to the sacred pilgrimage site of Kebiliththa, one of Sri Lanka’s most remote religious destinations. Wildlife enthusiasts can also explore Bundala National Park, renowned for migratory birds, or venture into Lunugamvehera National Park, which continues to offer rewarding safaris when parts of Yala close seasonally.
Just beyond the wilderness lies Kirinda, where coral reefs, historic temples, and the legendary Great Basses and Little Basses fishing grounds provide outstanding opportunities for SCUBA diving, deep-sea fishing, and coastal exploration.
Whether you’re planning your first safari, pursuing wildlife photography, or seeking an unforgettable adventure through Sri Lanka’s southern wilderness, CCT Sri Lanka ensures every journey is seamless. From private airport transfers and domestic flights to helicopter charters, safari vehicles, and personalised itineraries, we’ll help you experience Yala at its very best.
Destination Highlights
Leopards | Elephants | Sloth Bears | Safari | Wildlife Photography | Sithulpawwa | Kebiliththa | Bundala | Lunugamvehera | Birdwatching | SCUBA Diving | Deep-Sea Fishing | Cycling | Ancient Temples
▼ Getting There
Chauffeur Transfers
Travel across Sri Lanka in comfort with a private chauffeur and air-conditioned vehicle. Enjoy reliable door-to-door transport for stress-free journeys and complete peace of mind.
Luxury Travel | Chauffeur Driven
Scheduled Flights
Reach Sri Lanka’s most popular destinations quickly aboard scheduled domestic flights while enjoying spectacular aerial views and avoiding long road journeys across the island.
Fast Travel | Scenic Flights
Helicopter Transfers
Travel between Sri Lanka’s finest destinations by private helicopter, combining luxury travel, breathtaking aerial scenery, rapid transfers, and unforgettable experiences above the island.
Helicopter | Aerial Views
Private Charter Flights
Charter a private aircraft for the fastest and most flexible way to explore Sri Lanka, enjoying exclusive travel, direct routes, and exceptional comfort throughout your journey.
Private Aviation | Time Saving
▼ Signature Experiences
Half-Day Yala Safari
Explore Yala National Park during the best wildlife viewing hours, searching for leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife with expert trackers.
Leopards | Wildlife
Full-Day Yala Safari
Spend a full day exploring Yala National Park, maximising opportunities to encounter leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and hundreds of fascinating bird species.
Full Safari | Leopard Country
Shared Yala Safari
Join a shared safari through Yala National Park, enjoying outstanding wildlife encounters, experienced trackers, and exceptional value while searching for Sri Lanka’s iconic animals.
Shared Jeep | Wildlife
Kirinda Temple
Visit the historic Kirinda Raja Maha Viharaya, perched above the Indian Ocean, discovering ancient Buddhist heritage, breathtaking coastal views, and over two thousand years of history.
Ancient Temple | Ocean Views
SCUBA Diving in Kirinda
Explore Sri Lanka’s colourful coral reefs, fascinating shipwrecks, tropical fish, turtles, and vibrant underwater ecosystems with professional dive instructors for all experience levels.
Shipwrecks | Coral Reefs
Sri lankan Cookery Lessons
Learn to prepare authentic Sri Lankan dishes using fresh local ingredients, traditional recipes, and hands-on guidance before enjoying your homemade meal together with fellow travellers.
Authentic Cuisine | Local Family
Bundala National Park Safari
Explore Bundala National Park, Sri Lanka’s premier Ramsar Wetland, searching for flamingos, elephants, crocodiles, and thousands of resident and migratory birds.
Birdwatching | Wetlands
Deep Sea Fishing
Fish the legendary waters around Great Basses and Little Basses, targeting Tuna, Giant Trevally, Sailfish, and other prized Indian Ocean game fish.
Game Fishing | Indian Ocean
Sithulpawwa Temple
Journey through Yala Sanctuary to the ancient Sithulpawwa Monastery, discovering remarkable Buddhist heritage surrounded by spectacular wilderness and abundant wildlife.
Ancient Monastery | Safari Route
Fly to Yala Safari
Fly directly to Yala National Park, combining spectacular aerial views with an unforgettable private safari for the fastest and most scenic wildlife adventure.
Scenic Flight | Safari
Self-Drive Car Hire
Explore Sri Lanka independently with a quality self-drive vehicle, enjoying complete travel freedom, flexible itineraries, and the convenience of discovering hidden destinations at your own pace.
Freedom | Self Drive
Bicycle Hire
Hire a quality bicycle and discover Sri Lanka’s quiet villages, scenic countryside, ancient ruins, coastal roads, and hidden attractions comfortably at your own relaxed pace with complete freedom.
Village Roads | Freedom
Tuk Tuk Hire
Experience Sri Lanka like a local by hiring your own tuk tuk, enjoying ultimate freedom, scenic backroads, authentic villages, and unforgettable adventures across the island at your own pace.
Local Adventure | Freedom
Plan Your Journey
You’ve explored the highlights of this destination. Now let us help you get there comfortably, safely, and with complete peace of mind.
Founded in 1979, Cross Country Travels is personally managed by the second generation, continuing a long tradition of introducing visitors to the very best of Sri Lanka. Over the years, we’ve supported internationally recognised wildlife expeditions—including assisting the BBC Planet Earth team—and guests travelling with us have captured underwater photographs later featured by Red Bull, Dive Photo Guide, and the Daily Mail (UK).
Whether you need an airport transfer, a chauffeur-driven tour, or transport between destinations, our Sri Lanka Tourist Board–licensed chauffeurs and modern vehicles ensure every journey is as enjoyable as the destination itself.
Choose your preferred vehicle below and begin your journey to Hambantota.
