Leopard Safaris Yala CampsiteSri+Lanka/Leopard+Safaris+Yala+Campsite

Starting price: from 650 USD/night (all inclusive)

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The location of Leopard Safaris Yala Sri Lanka is set against the dramatic backdrop of the Yala National Park, one of the most celebrated parks to enjoy wildlife safaris in Sri Lanka. This luxurious safari camp has been thoughtfully set with minimum environmental impact in a natural and unspoiled landscape that effortlessly blends raw nature with a sense of quiet luxury provided by the team and location of Leopard Safaris Yala. Located in the island’s southeastern dry zone, Yala is renowned for its vast national park, ancient reservoirs, rugged scrub jungle, and an extraordinary concentration of wildlife and birdlife that makes it home to some of the best wildlife safaris in Sri Lanka.

This region is not only famous for its biodiversity but also for its atmosphere, where sunlit plains are broken by rocky outcrops, saltwater lagoons attract migratory birds, and lush and verdant forest corridors where elephants, sloth bears, deer and the country’s apex predator, the leopards, roam freely. Staying in this part of the country shares with travellers the perfect opportunity to experience Sri Lanka beyond its beaches and cities, where visitors can step into an environment where nature dictates the rhythm of each day. Leopard Safari’s camp’s location, right on the border of the national park, enhances this immersion, allowing guests to feel connected to the wild even when resting at camp, with bird calls at dawn and the distant sounds of the jungle after sunset. Unlike traditional hotels that separate visitors from their surroundings, the Leopard Safaris Yala experience is designed to sustainably, and with a deep respect for the camp’s natural surroundings and wildlife neighbours, place you at the edge of adventure while maintaining comfort and privacy.

Yala’s reputation for hosting one of the highest densities of leopards in the world adds a powerful allure, drawing wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and first-time safari travellers alike to this long-established camp, and not forgetting that the wildlife interested activities support conservation and protection of both the natural spaces and the wildlife within. Yet the destination is not defined solely by the promise of sightings, it is equally about the sense of warm hospitality at Leopard Safaris Yala, a place for relaxation and connection with friends old and new, and an authenticity to the sense of place that comes from being in a protected landscape shaped by centuries of natural evolution and cultural history. Ancient ruins hidden within the park boundaries and nearby rural communities further enrich the experience, reminding visitors that Yala is a living, breathing ecosystem rather than a curated attraction. In this setting, Leopard Safaris Yala becomes more than a place to sleep, it acts as a gateway into the wilderness, carefully balancing access, sustainability, and refined hospitality.

For travellers seeking a safari that feels intimate, ethical, and deeply rooted in its location, Leopard Safaris Yala offers an unmatched experience, and this camp stands as a thoughtful interpretation of what modern safari travel in Sri Lanka can and should be.

Your Hosts and The Team


“For us luxury is not only in our facilities, but rather the experience of being close to nature and seeing wildlife in their natural environment—especially the endangered leopards. A leopard never changes its spots. Like human fingerprints, each one has a unique spot pattern.”

More about Noel:

Noel Rodrigo, native of Sri Lanka, had been contemplating the land from the sky, high in the air on Sri Lankan airline, as a cabin manager for 25 years. Canvassing the world, complying with professional requirements of upper-standard and interfacing with travellers of all nationalities every day, he got attuned to many cultures and to a sense of company that made him part of a "global village". Yet, in 2006, Noel felt he should take a closer look at the villages and landscapes he used to know during his childhood, "no such thing like your home" especially when he remembered having gone to camps during his youth holidays... Passionate with wildlife, he decided to set up "Leopard Safaris", a small business with barely a team of 5 staff, who helped to operate even while Noel was flying. The business started successfully and Noel soon had to devote himself fully to his new venture.

In contrast, the arrival of Cecile, born in northern Germany, owed nothing to predestination. She did attend universities in Köln and later pursued a master in finance in Leicester. After completion, in 2009, she decided to look for a three months internship in an NGO in Africa: however the minimum required was 6 months, so she had to look for alternative; thanks to a tip from a German NGO, she was recommended to search in Sri Lanka, while she had never visited Asia... love at first sight! Cecile decided to stay and to share the life, the passions and the lifestyle of Noel and his team: she found her business and finance skills to be readily applicable to the management needs of "Leopard Safaris" and she enjoys ever since, the country, its people, its climate and its natural setting. Leopard Safaris summarizes everything in two words: require driving and patience to observe the elusive leopard, a symbol for Sri Lanka which carries the highest density of this animal in the world, the biggest as well and which is the apex predator in the country, so it will have no need to take up its prey in the trees for eating!

The team is comprising experienced and educated naturalists and trackers, and Leopard Safaris offers the best chances to take extraordinary pictures of this animal, but many other species can be observed such as elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, crocodiles, water buffalos, nearly 200 birds species etc. While the mobile camps under customized South-African style tents are displaying many luxury items in the bedding, decoration, furnishings, cuisine, one should not expect the full amenities from a static brick and mortar hotel; the safari is real, fans are provided but no air-conditioning in the mobile tents, you can take hot showers, but from the reservoir and not from running water pipes; you should expect to get up early, to listen to the wildlife music at night and to enjoy bonfires as well as lanterns at night and zipping your tents properly to keep wild animals away from them. Wifi is provided in the common area, but you are recommended to limit its use and invest your time in the real adventure. Plastic bottles should be exchanged for metallic refillable ones; Leopard Safaris is following rather strict eco-policies and expects its guests to respect the same values, its "Green Mission". It relies mainly on solar power, supports many local communities initiatives and conservation organizations such as Wildlife and Wilderness Conservation Trust's (WWCT) Leopard Project, has a tree planting project in place in which guests can participate to off-set CO2 produced by their travels and, last but not least helps the authorities to fight poaching. A major recommendation from Noel to memorize your stay: take your camera, long life batteries and an excellent zoom!

Leopard Safaris in Sri Lanka are Accommodated in Style at Leopard Safaris Yala

Leopard Safaris in Sri Lanka don’t have to be uncomfortable and lacking in sophistication, the accommodations at Leopard Safaris have all been thoughtfully designed to merge refined comfort with the untamed character of the surrounding jungle, to create an experience that feels comfortably indulgent yet authentic. Rather than conventional rooms, guests stay in luxury tents and structures that respect the environment while delivering a high standard of privacy and comfort while wildlife camping in Sri Lanka. Each accommodation option reflects a deep understanding of what travellers need after a day in the wild. The tents and the 2-storey Peacock Nest provide guests with cool, airy interiors, comfortable bedding, well-appointed bathrooms, and private outdoor spaces to enjoy a sundowner during moments of quiet reflection after a day discovering Sri Lanka’s wildlife, birdlife, and big cats. The tents are semi-permanent and positioned beneath a natural forest canopy, allowing shade and airflow to regulate the interior climate, complemented by air conditioning for warmer days. Materials, furnishings, and layout have been thoughtfully put together to echo the textures and tones of the dry-zone forest, ensuring that the design feels harmonious rather than intrusive. Inside, attention to detail is evident, from high-quality linen bedding and thoughtful lighting to practical touches that enhance safety and convenience during your stay at Leopard Safaris. For couples and honeymooners, the luxury tents offer an perfect intimate retreat, with spacious layouts and open-air rain showers that blur the line between indoor comfort and outdoor living. Families and small groups are equally well catered for through larger tented accommodations that provide multiple sleeping areas without sacrificing elegance, comfort or privacy. For guests who prefer a more solid structure, the 2-storey Peacock Nest provides an alternative accommodation option that delivers the same level of comfort in a format that feels reassuring while still maintaining a close connection to nature.

Across all categories, the emphasis is on understated luxury rather than extravagance, a design to ensure that the wildlife and nature are very much the focus of the experience. Communal areas within the camp, including shaded relaxation spots and an eco-conscious swimming pool, extend the sense of comfort beyond the private tents, offering places to relax between safari drives, to share stories with fellow guests and the Leopard Safaris friendly team, or simply to observe and enjoy the surrounding environment. This approach to accommodation reflects a broader philosophy where luxury should enhance the safari, not overshadow it. By combining thoughtful design, responsible construction, and a warm and attentive service style, the camp and team at Leopard Safaris Yala have succeeded in creating a sanctuary where guests can relax between safaris in comfort, recharge fully, and enjoy the experience of living side by side with Sri Lanka’s wonderful nature.



“Gain unique insight into Sri Lanka’s leopards, sloth bears, elephants, deer, birds, reptiles and other wildlife from eco-friendly, non smoking, movable camps that leave nothing behind when the tents are packed away. Located in the buffer zones of Yala National Park, the all-inclusive experience includes all meals, game drives, and park entrance fees amongst others.”
Kim, the discoverer.



Sri Lanka Leopard Safari Experiences at Leopard Safaris Yala

Sri Lanka leopard safari experiences at Leopard Safaris Yala go beyond traditional game drives and share a carefully curated range of activities that immerse guests in the rhythms, skills, and ethics of wildlife exploration. Central to the stay are the expertly guided safaris into Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park. Each safari drive, one in the morning and another in the evening (these are the best times to spot wildlife) are all led by experienced naturalists and drivers who understand both animal behaviour and the importance of responsible tourism. The safari drives are conducted in customized jeeps that have been designed for comfort, visibility, and minimal environmental impact, allowing guests to focus on observation rather than endurance. Snacks and drinks are provided during the safari drives and the jeeps are also equipped with binoculars and chargers.

While the leopards of Yala are undoubtedly the highlight, each safari is approached with patience and respect, emphasizing the broader ecosystem rather than a single species. Leopard Safaris Yala was established by Noel Rodrigo, a Sri Lankan native, in 2006. Passionate about wildlife since he was a small boy, and in particular Sri Lanka’s leopards, Noel spent his youth on the ground exploring Sri Lanka’s wild spaces and discovering and learning about its wildlife. It was long his dream to share this passion and his deep knowledge of his home country’s wildlife with visitors and to one day offer perhaps the best wildlife safari in Sri Lanka today. So, he put together a team, and built a family, of equally knowledgeable and passionate people to build Leopard Safaris Yala into the premier leopard safari glamping experience that it is today. Guests may encounter elephants moving silently through the bush, sloth bears foraging near termite mounds, crocodiles basking along waterholes, and an impressive diversity of birdlife that changes with the seasons. Beyond the park, the camp itself becomes a space for discovery, with wildlife often passing nearby and opportunities for guided nature walks directly from the camp that introduce guests to smaller species, plant life, and tracking techniques.

Educational elements are woven naturally into the experience, whether through informal conversations with guides, storytelling around the camp, or explanations of conservation challenges facing wildlife safaris in Sri Lanka. Relaxation is equally valued, with time built into each day to enjoy the pool, read in a hammock, or simply listen to the sounds of the forest. Evenings often bring a sense of quiet magic, as lantern-lit dinners and open skies create an atmosphere that encourages reflection and connection. For those interested in culture and context, excursions to nearby villages or historical sites can also be arranged, adding depth to the safari by highlighting how human communities coexist with the protected landscapes that are Sri Lanka’s national parks. Throughout all the activities provided by the Leopard Safaris team, sustainability remains a guiding principle, ensuring that wildlife encounters are ethical, non-intrusive, and supportive of long-term conservation. The result is a safari experience that feels balanced and meaningful, combining adventure, learning, and leisure in equal measures. Rather than ticking boxes, guests leave with a deeper appreciation of Yala, its leopards, and the delicate relationships that sustain one of the best wildlife safaris in Sri Lanka.

See more of Sri Lanka on a tailormade Sri Lanka travel itinerary designed just for you by Secret Retreats to share the wonderful wildlife, beautiful beaches, and fascinating cultures of Sri Lanka with you.


Rooms


Luxury Tents (2 units)

The stylish lodge tents combines a true wild experience close to nature, replete with extra comfort. It features stylish odd-shaped wood furniture, Sri Lankan antiques, inverter type air-conditioning, mini bar, tea/coffee maker, safety deposit box, and a state-of-the art bathroom with solar hot/cold water, which is open to the sky. A private access path and deck sitting area with the option of candle lit dining makes it ideal for honeymoon couples.
(DBL; can fit 1 extra bed if necessary) – perfect for couples, honeymooners.

Luxury Family Tents (3 units)

2 Luxury Family Tent (1 king size bed & 1 bunk bed) – perfect for families, but the bunk bed area can also sealed off and the tent can be given as a DBL tent for couples.
1 Luxury Family Tent XL (1 king size bed, 1 bunk bed, and can add up to 2 extra beds if necessary) – perfect for larger families.
Same facilities as Luxury Tents.

The Peacock Nest (1 unit)

Located on the upper floor above the Mouse Deer House, this solid jungle hideaway (DBL, 1 extra bed possible) shares the same facilities and rate as the room below. Featuring an enclosed bathroom and rooftop proximity to the treetops, this room offers a slightly more elevated experience with the added flexibility of an extra bed, ideal for couples or small families seeking comfort without sacrificing adventure.

Mouse Deer Room (1 unit)

The Mouse Deer Room (DBL, no extra beds possible) – located on the ground floor beneath the Peacock Nest, this solid structure offers easy access and an enclosed bathroom, ideal for guests who prefer not to climb stairs or are less comfortable with the open-air style of jungle tents. Perfect for elderly couples or anyone seeking a more sheltered jungle stay.

Hotel Facilities and Highlights

Leopard Safaris Yala Campsite highlight
  • BoutiqueBoutique
    Air ConditioningAir Conditioning
    Gay FriendlyGay Friendly
    TentTent
    Eco FriendlyEco Friendly
    NatureNature
    Swimming PoolSwimming Pool
    Bar/LoungeBar/Lounge
    RestaurantRestaurant
    WildlifeWildlife

 

Useful Information

GENERAL
Total number of rooms: 6 rooms
Opening time:
Check-in from 14:00
Check-out until 11:00

Annual closing:
Open all year

Time zone: (GMT+05:30) Mumbai
Currency accepted: USD, LKR
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard
Electricity voltage: 220V
Electricity plug type:
ACCESS
Located on the outskirts of Yala national parks. Nearest town is Kataragama.
Airport: Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) - 260 km

CONTACT
Yala National Parks , Sri Lanka
CONTACT HERE



CONCIERGE
Your concierge is ready to assist you with planning and completing your reservation,
contact them on dream@secret-retreats.com

We Care

Besides serving traditional Sri Lankan cuisine using seasonal vegetables and fruit that they buy from local farmers, Leopard Safaris Yala avoids plastic, and uses natural and recycled materials wherever possible including stainless steel and glass water bottles. Recently, they built a wall in their lounge, and the dining bathroom walls from empty wine bottles and clay instead of concrete. The eco-friendly concept camps’ decks and furniture were all made with either rejected timber or recycled wood, and their main source of power is solar. They use a solar pump to pump water to showers and to heat the water. They also have a dual-battery system in the safari jeeps to allow the batteries to be charged while on safari. The power from those batteries is then used to run the kitchen’s freezers and refrigerators.

Leopard Safaris Yala supports the Wildlife and Wilderness Conservation Trust’s (WWCT) Leopard Project by with their leopard sightings data. In addition, they help build a roof or playground, get electricity, sponsor school concerts, and get the children to participate in nature themed drawing competitions in the poorest schools. They also aid locals. Near the Yala camp there is an old couple that sells herbal tea to pilgrims from their run-down home and shop. Leopard Safaris Yala takes guests there to sample the tea if they like. They also bought the couple roofing panels to replace their old leaky roof. Moreover, each year they sponsor selected meals at a school for differently abled children, and organize unforgettable Christmas parties of the special needs kids.

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