YALALast updated 13 August 2026
Park rules
- 06:00–18:00. Gates open at first light, close at last. No exceptions.
- Tracker mandatory. One experienced tracker rides in every vehicle.
- Stay in the jeep. Feet on the floor, the whole run. Designated stops only.
- 25 km/h. The park speed limit. Convoys and off-track driving are banned.
- Silence carries. No horns, music, shouting or whistling at wildlife.
- Nothing in, nothing out. No feeding. No flash. No single-use plastic.
- Blocks I & II close 14 Sep–15 Oct. Annual dry-season drought closure. Blocks IV and V stay open throughout.
Wildlife is wild
Sightings are never guaranteed. Yala is a genuinely wild park, not a zoo: what you see on any given run depends on the animals, the weather and pure chance, not on us or your driver.
Wild animals are unpredictable. Follow your tracker and driver's instructions at all times, stay inside the jeep except at designated stops, and keep a respectful distance from any animal encountered.
No self-driving
Self-driving isn't permitted anywhere in Yala National Park. Every safari runs with a licensed jeep, a professional driver and an experienced tracker, and DWC rules apply throughout your visit.
Your own risk and belongings
A safari takes place in an unfenced wilderness with wild, sometimes dangerous animals, on rough terrain, in an open vehicle. By joining a safari you accept the inherent risks of that environment, and we'd strongly recommend travel insurance that covers wildlife activities.
You're responsible for your own belongings, including cameras and phones, for the duration of the safari.
Ground conditions can change your run
The safari duration and exact route can vary with the ground situation on the day: weather, track conditions, or where wildlife is actually moving. Your driver and tracker make that call in the field to keep the run safe and worthwhile.
Park closures
If we or the park cancel your safari for closure, weather or animal safety, we offer a free re-booking for another date rather than a refund.