Yala National Park Entrance Fee: Everything You Need to Know

Yala National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated wildlife destinations, attracting thousands of visitors eager to experience its remarkable biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and famous leopard sightings. For anyone planning a safari adventure, understanding the entrance fee structure is crucial for budgeting and trip planning. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of Yala National Park’s entrance fees, key considerations, and practical tips to ensure your visit is seamless and enriching.

Essential Highlights

Entrance fees are structured by nationality, age, and group size, with additional vehicle and statutory charges.
Foreign adults pay USD 25 (peak season) plus taxes, while local adult tickets are just LKR 150.
Children under 6 enter free, while those aged 6-12 enjoy discounted rates.
Taxes (typically 18%) and vehicle fees apply to all entries.
Jeep safari prices are charged separately and vary based on duration and provider.

Understanding Yala National Park Entrance Fees
Detailed Fee Breakdown by Visitor Type
Taxes, Vehicle Fees, and Additional Charges
How to Buy Tickets and Make Payments
Jeep Safari Costs and Package Options
Best Time to Visit & Practical Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Understanding Yala National Park Entrance Fees

Yala National Park entrance fees are determined by the Department of Wildlife Conservation and are updated periodically. Fees differ for locals, foreign visitors, SAARC nationals, and children. Entrance charges are typically calculated per person, but there are also group and vehicle fees added to the total[1][4][7].

The entrance fee includes access to the park’s wildlife areas but excludes safari jeep hire and guide services, which are mandatory for all visitors.

Detailed Fee Breakdown by Visitor Type

The current (2025) entrance fees to Yala National Park are as follows:[1][4][7]

Visitor Category	Adult Rate	Children (6-12)	Children (Below 6)	Group Fee (per vehicle)
Local Visitors	LKR 150	LKR 100	Free	LKR 400
SAARC Nationals	USD 20 (Peak: $20)	USD 10 (Peak: $10)	Free	USD 10
Foreign Nationals	USD 25 (Peak: $25)	USD 15 (Peak: $15)	Free	USD 10

Taxes: An 18% tax is added to the total cost for all visitor types.
Entrance Fee per Vehicle: LKR 300 per vehicle, separate from per-person rates.

Sample Calculation:
For a group of 2 foreign adults and 1 child (aged 6-12):

2 adults: $25 x 2 = $50
1 child: $15
Group fee: $10
Subtotal: $75
Tax (18%): $13.50
Total: $88.50 (excluding jeep hire)[1].

These rates may fluctuate slightly due to exchange rates and government updates. For the latest rates, visit the Yala National Park entrance fee page or call the Sri Lankan government information center at 1919.

Taxes, Vehicle Fees, and Additional Charges

Entrance fees include mandatory taxes and separate charges for vehicles entering the park.[1][4]

18% Government Tax is applied to the total ticket price.
Each vehicle (safari jeep or private 4WD) incurs a separate fee of LKR 300, regardless of group size.
Foreigners must also pay a group fee ($10 USD per vehicle).
Children under 6 years old enter free of charge.

Accurate fee calculation is essential for group trip planning. Use the official entrance fee calculator for detailed cost estimates.

How to Buy Tickets and Make Payments

Tickets can be purchased at the gate or via official platforms, payable in USD or Sri Lankan Rupees for foreigners.[1][7]

Payment Methods: Cash in LKR or USD is accepted at the gate. Some operators or online channels may offer card payments.
ID Requirement: Bring your passport or national ID for verification.
One-Time Entry: Each ticket allows a single entrance; separate tickets are needed for morning and afternoon safaris.

For up-to-date prices and ticketing details, consult the Yala National Park entrance fee guide.

Jeep Safari Costs and Package Options

Safari jeep hire is mandatory for all visitors, as private vehicles are not allowed beyond the park entrance (except for approved 4WDs).

Half-day safari: LKR 11,000–15,000 (approx. $30–$40 USD) for 4 hours[1].
Full-day safari: Double the half-day rate.
Per-person cost: Sharing a jeep (2–6 people) reduces the average cost per adult (typically $31–$36 USD including statutory charges)[4].
Prices include driver, tracker, and fuel, but not entrance ticket.

Booking through reputable operators or your accommodation is highly recommended. For comparison and transparent pricing, check out EntranceFee.co.uk’s park-specific details.

Best Time to Visit & Practical Tips

The best months for wildlife viewing are outside the annual September/October closure.[1][7]

Yala is closed each September and sometimes during parts of August and October for wildlife conservation.
Peak Season: November–July. Higher rates and more visitors.
Off-Peak Season: Reduced rates for both adults and children[7].
Getting There: Travel to Tissamaharama and hire a safari jeep with a local driver.

Pro tips:
– Bring ample water, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
– Book safaris in advance during peak season.
– Respect park regulations and avoid littering.

Learn more travel tips from Sri Lanka Tourism and fellow explorers on TripAdvisor’s Yala forums.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much does it cost to enter Yala National Park for foreigners?
Foreign adults pay $25 (peak season) plus taxes and vehicle fees. For a group of two adults and one child, expect to pay around $88.50 total including all mandatory charges[1][4][7].

2. Are there discounted rates for local visitors?
Yes, Sri Lankan adults pay LKR 150, and local children pay LKR 100. Students and children under 6 enter for free[1].

3. Do I need to book my entrance ticket in advance?
Advance booking is not mandatory for individual visitors but is recommended during peak season. Jeep safaris, however, should be arranged in advance for best availability[1][7].

4. Are safari jeep fees included in the entrance ticket?
No, jeep rental is a separate cost. Expect to pay LKR 11,000–15,000 for a half-day safari vehicle[1][4].

5. What is the best way to reach Yala National Park?
The gateway town is Tissamaharama, accessible by bus or taxi from major Sri Lankan cities. From there, arrange a jeep and driver to enter the park[1].

6. Is Yala National Park open year-round?
No, Yala closes every September and parts of August/October for maintenance and wildlife protection[1][7].

7. Where can I check updated entrance fees or calculate costs?
For the latest rates, visit the Yala National Park entrance fee page or use the comprehensive fee calculator.

Learn more about Sri Lanka’s best wildlife experiences, updated park fees, and travel insights at EntranceFee.co.uk.
For further reference and authoritative information, visit the Sri Lanka Wildlife Department, Sri Lanka Tourism Board, and TripAdvisor Yala National Park reviews.

Yala National Park Entrance Fee