Lunugamwehera National Park (Yala block 5/6) Safari Tour

This review covers a well-rated 5-hour safari experience through the Lunugamwehera National Park (Yala blocks 5 and 6), operated by Yala Kings Safari. Though we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed information paints a vivid picture of what travelers can expect from this off-the-beaten-path adventure in Sri Lanka.

What makes this safari stand out? We love its promise of extreme quiet and fewer crowds, offering a more authentic wildlife encounter. The chance to see elephants, leopards, and colorful birds in a lush, scenic setting is a big draw. Plus, the inclusion of luxurious safari jeeps and professional guides enhances comfort and chances of spotting elusive wildlife. However, a consideration might be the additional costs for entrance fees and services, which travelers should budget for separately.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a peaceful, immersive safari experience away from the bustling crowds of more popular parks. If you value authentic encounters with nature, enjoy scenic landscapes, and appreciate good-value guided tours, this experience is likely to suit your interests.

Good To Know

• Quiet and uncrowded environment enhances wildlife viewing and overall experience.
• Combination of two parks with a single entry ticket offers great value and variety.
• Professional guides and luxury jeeps increase the chance of spotting wildlife comfortably.
• Includes binoculars and water, making the journey more enjoyable and convenient.
• Entrance and service fees are not included, so budget accordingly.
• Flexible booking options allow cancelling up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Lunugamwehera & Weheragala Safari

This tour offers a 5-hour exploration of two connected parks—Lunugamwehera (Yala block 6) and Weheragala (Yala block 5)—using a single ticket. The fact that these parks share the same forest means you’ll be covering a diverse but cohesive landscape. This setup is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their wildlife sightings without the crowds of busy Yala National Park.

The Journey Begins: Hotel Pickup and Transportation

Many travelers appreciate the free hotel pickup service from key locations like Yala, Kirinda, Tissamaharama, and surrounding areas. The tour employs luxurious safari jeeps, ensuring comfort during the roughly 5-hour trip. The guides are described as very skilled, with local expertise that increases the likelihood of spotting elusive wildlife such as leopards, which are notoriously shy and hard to find.

The Parks’ Unique Appeal

Unlike the more crowded sections of Yala, Lunugamwehera and Weheragala are famed for their tranquility and high-quality wildlife encounters without the noise of large crowds. According to reviews, “there are no people in this park, and it is really quiet”—a significant plus for those wanting a more authentic experience. Reviewers also mention that the parks’ landscapes include scenic lakes and lush forests, which frame the wildlife sightings beautifully.

Wildlife and Bird Watching

The most exciting aspect? Spotting elephants, which are abundant here, along with the chance to see leopards, colorful birds, and other wildlife. Guides reportedly do a good job of helping guests identify species and maximize sightings. The use of binoculars, provided at no extra charge, helps in observing wildlife from a distance without disturbing the animals.

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Scenic Lakes and Forest Landscapes

Beyond animal sightings, you’ll enjoy views of serene lakes and dense greenery. These landscapes add to the peaceful vibe of the tour, allowing for some excellent photography opportunities, especially for bird lovers. Reviewers mention how the quietness enhances the experience—“due to the park’s extreme quiet and lack of activity”—making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers seeking solace.

The Practical Details: Costs, Booking, and What to Bring

Pricing and Cost Breakdown

The tour price includes luxury safaris, guide services, binoculars, and water, but entrance fees (around Sri Lankan rupees 13,000 or about $45 per person) are paid separately. While this adds to the overall cost, many see it as worthwhile considering the quality of the experience. The “exclusive service” and the fact that you can visit both parks with one ticket give good value for money.

Booking and Cancellation Flexibility

You can reserve your spot now and pay later, which is perfect for plans that might change. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for spontaneous travelers or those unsure about their schedule.

What to Bring

Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Shoes are not allowed on the actual safari vehicles to prevent injuries, so wear easy-to-remove footwear. Sun protection is essential because Sri Lanka’s sun can be quite relentless, especially during midday safaris.

The Experience in Detail: A Deep Dive

Early Morning or Afternoon Starts

Starting times vary, so check availability. Many reviews suggest that morning safaris can be particularly rewarding for wildlife sightings, as animals are more active during cooler parts of the day.

The Guide’s Role

The guides are described as very skilled, knowledgeable about local wildlife and landscapes. Their expertise is especially valuable when trying to spot animals like leopards, which tend to stay hidden until dawn or dusk. They also help identify bird species, which range from colorful kingfishers to majestic hornbills.

Vehicle Comfort and Group Size

The tour features luxurious safari jeeps, making long hours more comfortable. Group sizes tend to be small, allowing for a more personalized experience. Reviewers note that the professional guides are friendly, attentive, and eager to share their knowledge, which enriches the safari.

Authentic Encounters vs. Larger Parks

Compared to busy parks like Yala, this experience offers a more intimate connection with nature. Travelers frequently mention the peacefulness and lack of crowds, which allows wildlife to behave more naturally and creates a more genuine wildlife experience.

Additional Insights from Reviews

One reviewer mentioned, “you might find that it’s easier to spot leopards here because there’s less disturbance.” Others appreciated the scenic lakes, which are perfect spots for a quick photo session or just to soak in the tranquil views. The shared forest area means multiple sightings over the 5 hours, making every moment count.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is best suited for travelers seeking solitude and genuine wildlife encounters. If you dislike the crowds of larger parks and prefer a more relaxed pace, you’ll find this experience refreshing. It’s also excellent for bird watchers and those interested in scenic landscapes. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the value of seeing two parks with a single ticket, especially given the inclusion of guided service and binoculars.

Who Might Not Love It?

If you’re after a high-adrenaline, action-packed safari with a focus on spotting large predators in a short time, this may not be the perfect fit. Also, those who want included entrance fees or prefer an all-inclusive price might find the extra costs for park entry and services a bit inconvenient.

Final Thoughts

The Lunugamwehera and Weheragala safari tour offers a peaceful, authentic way to enjoy Sri Lanka’s wildlife without the crowds. With professional guides, scenic landscapes, and the chance to see elephants and leopards in a quiet setting, it provides excellent value for nature lovers and photographers alike.

While the additional entrance fee and optional extras may require some planning, the experience’s tranquility and richness make it well worth considering. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a more intimate connection with Sri Lanka’s wilderness, especially if you prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of busier parks.

This tour is ideal for adventurous, nature-enthusiast travelers who cherish quiet moments and authentic wildlife encounters. If your goal is a relaxed, genuine, and scenic safari experience, this might just be your perfect adventure.

FAQs

Is the entrance fee included in the tour price?
No, the park entrance and service fee are paid separately, approximately 13,000 Sri Lankan rupees (around $45) per person.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if needed.

What should I bring for the safari?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and water. Shoes are not allowed on the safari vehicle, so wear easy-to-remove footwear.

What is the duration of the safari?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, including pickup, travel, and wildlife viewing.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, guides are very skilled and knowledgeable, helping guests spot wildlife and share interesting facts along the way.

Is the environment crowded?
No, one of the key highlights is the extreme quiet and lack of activity, offering a more peaceful wildlife viewing experience.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Elephants are common, and there’s a good chance to see leopards, colorful birds, and scenic lakes.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, the main considerations are being comfortable in a vehicle for several hours and bringing suitable gear for sun protection.

This safari promises a relaxed, authentic wildlife experience in Sri Lanka’s lesser-known parks—perfect for travelers craving quiet, scenic encounters with nature.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby