Yala National Park - Block 2

Yala National Park - Block 2 is a protected area in Sri Lanka.

Yala National Park - Block 2 at a Glance

Location
Southern & Southeastern Dry Zone, Sri Lanka, South Asia
Coordinates
6.438738, 81.591340
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
January to March for Yala and southern parks. June to September for northern parks (Wilpattu).

Getting to Yala National Park - Block 2

Nearest airport: Weerawila Air Base (WRZ), 44 km away.

Nearest international airport: Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI), 54 km away.

Big Five in Yala National Park - Block 2

1 of the Big Five can be found here: Leopard.

Weather & Climate in Yala National Park - Block 2

The warmest temperatures in Yala National Park - Block 2 occur in June, averaging 28.9°C (up to 33.2°C). The coolest conditions are in January at 25.7°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in June with average rainfall of 32.8mm. Average humidity: 71.4%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 25.7°C (rainfall: 148.4mm)
  • February: 26.5°C (rainfall: 56.4mm)
  • March: 27.1°C (rainfall: 86.6mm)
  • April: 27.7°C (rainfall: 117.5mm)
  • May: 28.2°C (rainfall: 133.7mm)
  • June: 28.9°C (rainfall: 32.8mm)
  • July: 28.9°C (rainfall: 48.9mm)
  • August: 28.6°C (rainfall: 56.7mm)
  • September: 28.1°C (rainfall: 59.7mm)
  • October: 27.4°C (rainfall: 202.9mm)
  • November: 25.9°C (rainfall: 417.3mm)
  • December: 25.8°C (rainfall: 258.8mm)

Best Time to Visit Yala National Park - Block 2

The best months to visit Yala National Park - Block 2 are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 25.69°C, rainfall 148.4mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 81%
  • February: Great, temperature 26.46°C, rainfall 56.4mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 77.2%
  • March: Great, temperature 27.11°C, rainfall 86.6mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 78.8%
  • April: Great, temperature 27.68°C, rainfall 117.5mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 81.8%
  • May: Great, temperature 28.23°C, rainfall 133.7mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 79.9%
  • June: Great, temperature 28.94°C, rainfall 32.8mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 71.4%
  • July: Great, temperature 28.87°C, rainfall 48.9mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 70.3%
  • August: Great, temperature 28.56°C, rainfall 56.7mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 71.1%
  • September: Great, temperature 28.12°C, rainfall 59.7mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 73.7%
  • October: Good, temperature 27.35°C, rainfall 202.9mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 78.4%
  • November: Good, temperature 25.92°C, rainfall 417.3mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 87.2%
  • December: Good, temperature 25.82°C, rainfall 258.8mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 84.6%

Wildlife in Yala National Park - Block 2

Home to 92 recorded species including 40 waterbirds, 24 iconic birds, 15 birds of prey, 6 tropical birds, 3 big herbivores, 1 marine & freshwater.

Recommended Packing List for Yala National Park - Block 2

Based on average temperature of 27.4°C, typical conditions, humidity 78%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 27°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Yala National Park - Block 2

3 safari lodges available.

ultra-luxury

luxury

Similar Parks in Southern & Southeastern Dry Zone

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Sri Lanka

Travel advisory for Sri Lanka

Yala National Park - Block 2 FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Yala National Park - Block 2 for wildlife viewing, considering its lower crowding?

The dry season from February to July is generally best for wildlife sightings as animals congregate around water sources. Visiting during this period, especially early mornings or late afternoons, maximizes your chances while still enjoying the park's characteristic low visitor numbers.

What specific wildlife can I expect to encounter in Yala National Park - Block 2, and how does the safari experience differ from the more popular Block 1?

While leopards are present, Block 2 offers a more serene and less competitive viewing experience due to its significantly lower visitor numbers. You're also likely to spot sloth bears, elephants, various bird species, and crocodiles in a more tranquil setting, allowing for unhurried observation.

What are the typical costs associated with a safari in Yala National Park - Block 2, and are there specific entry points or tour operators recommended for this less-visited block?

Safari costs typically include the park entrance fee (around $25-30 USD for foreigners) and a private jeep hire, which can range from $40-60 USD for a half-day tour. Access is primarily through the Katagamuwa entrance, and it's advisable to book with local operators specializing in Block 2 to ensure experienced guides.

Given the moderate malaria risk in Sri Lanka, what specific precautions should I take when planning a safari to Yala National Park - Block 2?

While the risk is moderate, it's prudent to consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before your trip. Additionally, wear long sleeves and trousers, especially at dawn and dusk, and use insect repellent containing DEET to minimize mosquito bites during your safari and stay.

How does the '1/5' crowding level of Yala National Park - Block 2 translate into the actual safari experience compared to other Sri Lankan parks?

The extremely low crowding means you'll enjoy a far more intimate and peaceful safari, often having wildlife sightings entirely to yourself without multiple jeeps vying for position. This allows for better photographic opportunities and a deeper connection with nature, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.