Foreign visitors must pay an entrance fee to Yala Safari.
Adult from another country (12 years or older)
About $25 to $35 per person
The price changes depending on the season, the exchange rate, VAT, and service fees. (Yala Wildlife Safari)
Child from another country (6–12 years)
About $15 to $20 US
Kids under 6 usually get in for free. (Yala Wildlife Safari)
📌 Each person has to pay an entrance fee, which can be done at the official park entrance or through a safari operator. They include service fees and VAT from the government. (Yala Wildlife Safari)
People from SAARC countries (like India, Nepal, and Bangladesh)
For adults: about $15 to $20 USD
Kids (6–12): About $8 to $10 USD
(This rate is lower than standard foreign pricing.) (Yala Wildlife Safari)
🇱🇰 Local Sri Lankan Fees
Sri Lankan adults: ~LKR 100–1,500
Local children: ~LKR 50–750
Local fees are significantly lower than foreigner rates. (Yala Wildlife Safari)
💡 Important Considerations
1. Separate Charges
The entrance fee is separate from safari jeep costs. Safari jeep rental (with driver and guide) is normally charged on top and often by the safari operator. (Yalalk)
2. Season Variations
During peak tourist times the entrance fee tends to be on the higher end of the range. (Yala Wildlife Safari)
3. Included in Packages
Many tour operators bundle the entrance fee with the safari jeep, guide, pickup and other services. Always confirm what is included before paying. (Lankara)
4. Double Charges for Overnight Stays
If you stay inside the park (e.g., park bungalows), some authorities may charge double the daily entrance fee. (Yalalk)
📊 Typical Entrance Fee Summary (2025–2026)
Visitor Type Approx. Entrance Fee
Foreign Adult (12+) $25–$35 USD
Foreign Child (6–12) $15–$20 USD
SAARC Adult $15–$20 USD
SAARC Child $8–$10 USD
Local Adult LKR 100–1,500
Local Child LKR 50–750
🐘 What the Entrance Fee Covers
✔️ Entry to Yala National Park
✔ Conservation and ecosystem protection fees
✔ Government taxes and service charges
Does NOT include:
❌ Jeep safari cost
❌ Guide/driver fees
❌ Meals, transport, or tips
📌 Quick Tips
Carry passport/ID for foreigner ticket verification at the gate.
If booking through an operator, check if the entrance fee is included.
Safari packages can offer better transparency than paying separately at the gate. (Lankara)
