A recent study has shown that Yala National Park has one of the highest recorded densities of leopards in the world, although this animal is still considered to be endangered. Leopards tend to be more readily observed in parts of Sri Lanka than in other countries where they share their habitat with more dominant competitors, such as lions or hyaenas. Leopard Trails meant to spot Leopards in Yala National Park, accommodation is provided in Standard/Luxury Camps inside the Yala National Park to maximise the number of spotting of Leopards. Meals at the Campsites goes on Full board/all inclusive basis. Beach stay at the end of the tour will surely be a setback relaxing time before you leave Sri Lanka.Yala West (Ruhuna) National Park is now well recognised as one of the best parks in the world to observe and photograph leopards. The park covers an area of over 100,000 hectares and is divided into five blocks. Block one is easily the most visited part of the sanctuary as it contains the highest density of leopards in the park. However other areas of Yala such as Yala East are only now just re-opening and it will take some time to research leopard numbers in these less visited areas. Yala West consists of scrub jungle, brackish lagoons and stunning rock monoliths scattered throughout the park.
Yala has well over thirty leopards within the park, probably the highest density anywhere in the world. It is also thought that Sri Lankan leopards are a distinct sub-species from their Indian neighbours as well as being the largest leopards in Asia.
Your best chance to see a leopard is generally first thing in the morning and then again at dusk. The male leopards in Yala are very confident animals and they are often seen walking the tracks during the day. Young males in particular seem to have no fear of the jeep, which can lead to some excellent photographic opportunities.
As well as leopards there is a large number of elephants living inside the park and these can be seen bathing in the numerous lakes within the park. You can also see spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, wild buffaloes, sloth bear, jackal and mongoose. The bird life is also fantastic and it is amazing how close you can get to them from the confines of the jeep, you can see Rosy Starlings, Paradise Flycatchers, Crested Hawk Eagles, Blue-Tailed Bee-Eaters and Common Lora's.
