A leopard sitting on a large rock surrounded by trees.

Find hotels in Yala from CA $19

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
    Sign in
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Tonight
Sep 2 - Sep 3
Tomorrow
Sep 3 - Sep 4
This weekend
Sep 4 - Sep 6
Next weekend
Sep 11 - Sep 13

Filter by

Star rating

Guest rating

Our top choices for Yala hotels

1. Jetwing Yala

Jetwing Yala
Tissamaharama
Guest review highlights
  • Beautiful large pool area
  • Quality buffet dining options
  • Packed breakfast and dinner buffets
CA $161
CA $213 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Jetwing Yala

2. Hilton Yala Resort

Hilton Yala Resort
Thissamaharama
Guest review highlights
  • Lovely location with a small pool
  • Incredible value for the price
  • Very responsive and professional staff
CA $448
CA $601 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Hilton Yala Resort

3. Uga Chena Huts - Yala - All Inclusive

Uga Chena Huts - Yala - All Inclusive
Tissamaharama
Guest review highlights
  • Beautiful location near Yesi Beach
  • Wonderful food that exceeded expectations
  • Professional and efficient staff service
Uga Chena Huts - Yala - All Inclusive

4. Cinnamon Wild Yala

Cinnamon Wild Yala
Kirinda
Guest review highlights
  • Delicious food and dining on offer
  • Inviting on-site swimming pool
  • Breakfast buffet is a must try
Cinnamon Wild Yala

5. Yala Safari Camping

Yala Safari Camping
Kataragama
CA $267
CA $349 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 10 - Sep 11
Yala Safari Camping

6. DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort

DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort
Weerawila
Guest review highlights
  • Beautifully maintained property
  • Inviting on-site swimming pool
  • Delicious food and dining on offer
CA $126
CA $169 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 21 - Sep 22
DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort

7. Laya Safari

Laya Safari
Thissamaharama
Guest review highlights
  • Friendly and helpful staff
  • Inviting on-site swimming pool
Laya Safari

8. The Den at Yala

The Den at Yala
Kataragama
Guest review highlights
  • Authentic Sri Lankan dishes served
  • Peaceful garden to explore
CA $165
CA $198 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
The Den at Yala

9. Grand Tamarind Lake

Grand Tamarind Lake
Kataragama
Guest review highlights
  • Delicious food and dining on offer
  • Beautiful terrace with views
CA $96
CA $125 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 24 - Sep 25
Grand Tamarind Lake

10. Kithala Resort

Kithala Resort
Thissamaharama
CA $110
CA $146 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 26 - Sep 27
Kithala Resort

11. EKHO Safari Tissa

EKHO Safari Tissa
Thissamaharama
Guest review highlights
  • Breathtaking views of Tissa Lake
  • Good breakfast buffet with delicious options
  • Large, clean pool with great loungers
EKHO Safari Tissa

12. Yala Hotel Elephant Eye

Yala Hotel Elephant Eye
Thissamaharama
Guest review highlights
  • Easy walk to local shops
  • Friendly and hardworking staff
CA $42
CA $57 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 4 - Sep 5
Yala Hotel Elephant Eye

13. Kynrock Hotels & Resorts

Kynrock Hotels & Resorts
Kataragama
Guest review highlights
  • Large swimming pool with great size
  • Magnificent views from the property
  • Excellent team from check-in onwards
CA $102
CA $122 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Kynrock Hotels & Resorts

14. Thaulle Pure Ayurveda Resort - Yala

Thaulle Pure Ayurveda Resort - Yala
Thissamaharama
Guest review highlights
  • Beautiful location near the beach
  • Competitively priced for the area
  • Responsive staff providing great service
Thaulle Pure Ayurveda Resort - Yala

15. Wild Culture Yala

Wild Culture Yala
Yala
Guest review highlights
  • Delicious meals at the restaurant
  • Beautiful property with modern rooms
  • Helpful and responsive staff
CA $161
CA $210 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 19 - Sep 20
Wild Culture Yala

16. Oak Ray Wild Yala

Oak Ray Wild Yala
Thissamaharama
Guest review highlights
  • Gorgeous and meticulously maintained pool
  • Great restaurant down the street
  • Fabulous and very nice staff
Oak Ray Wild Yala

17. Saffron Lake Yala

Saffron Lake Yala
Thissamaharama
CA $57
CA $69 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 4 - Sep 5
Saffron Lake Yala

18. Tamarind Tree Hotel

Tamarind Tree Hotel
Thissamaharama
Guest review highlights
  • Great base for Safaris
  • Generally very good restaurant options
  • Awesome pool with Sun loungers
CA $88
CA $96 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 3 - Sep 4
Tamarind Tree Hotel

19. Chaarya Resort & Spa by Chandrika

Chaarya Resort & Spa by Chandrika
Thissamaharama
Guest review highlights
  • Spacious room with waterfall shower
  • Refreshing pool with pool bar
  • Walking distance to local restaurants
CA $118
CA $155 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 3 - Sep 4
Chaarya Resort & Spa by Chandrika

20. Mailagama Cinnamon Residence

Mailagama Cinnamon Residence
Sella Katharagama
Guest review highlights
  • Beautiful rooms with homely atmosphere
  • Breakfast was the best in Sri Lanka
  • Staff ensured a comfortable stay
CA $68
CA $81 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 4 - Sep 5
Mailagama Cinnamon Residence
View all properties
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Stay near popular Yala attractions

Patanangala Tsunami Memorial

6.0/10 (2 reviews)
You can find out about the history of Yala with a visit to Patanangala Tsunami Memorial. Amble around the area's parks, or seek out its safari tours.
See properties

Learn more about Yala

Check out the local area in Yala—home to attractions like Yala National Park and Patanangala Tsunami Memorial.

See all hotels in Yala
A leopard sitting on a large rock surrounded by trees.
Photo by Olivia-Petra Coman

Top Yala Hotel Reviews

EKHO Safari Tissa

EKHO Safari Tissa

10/10 Excellent
"N"
MOHAMED AJAJ 2-night trip
Posted 9 days ago
EKHO Safari Tissa
Wild Culture Yala

Wild Culture Yala

10/10 Excellent
"This was such a peaceful relaxing place I extended my stay. Lovely tasty food and a great base for yala safari’s."
Danielle 2-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Wild Culture Yala
Jetwing Yala

Jetwing Yala

10/10 Excellent
"Lovely resort! Anthony at the lounge bar is friendly and give top notch service. We had an amazing experience at the bach"
Audrey 2-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Jetwing Yala
Wadula Safari Yala

Wadula Safari Yala

10/10 Excellent
"I had a wonderful stay. The surroundings are beautiful, with palm trees and a lake right in front of the room. It is the most beautiful location I have experienced so far in Sri Lanka. The hosts are incredibly kind and welcoming. They took me for a walk to the lake, organized a safari for me, and arranged a reliable driver at a very reasonable price. Everything was perfectly organized. The food was excellent. The curry was the best I have had in Sri Lanka, and the fresh breakfast was delicious. The room and bathroom are in a private little bungalow. Everything was spacious, spotless, modern, and very well maintained. The room had air conditioning, complimentary drinking water, shampoo, and a wide selection of toiletries. I highly recommend this place and would happily stay here again."
Deborah 1-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Wadula Safari Yala
Big Game Yala by Eco Team

Big Game Yala by Eco Team

8/10 Good
"We enjoyed our stay. When we arrived we were told it was not possible to stay because we only had one room booked, when I showed printouts of our booking with two rooms they found a second tent at the far side of the site for the first night and moved us next to each other for the second night. Thankfully our sons are adults so it didn’t really matter. The pool was closed for maintenance which was a shame! The bbq dinners were excellent, everyone sat around the campfire at tables. The tents were comfortable with showers, toilets and electric sockets. There is a plug in mosquito repellent and we didn’t get bitten at all so it must have worked!"
Melanie 1-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Big Game Yala by Eco Team
Lavendish Okrin Hotel

Lavendish Okrin Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Thank……………,………………….!"
CHANDIMA 1-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Lavendish Okrin Hotel
DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort

DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort

10/10 Excellent
"My parents were there to celebrate my dad’s birthday, and although we celebrated a little late, they had such a wonderful experience. Quoting my dad “The birthday arrangement was beautiful, the cake was lovely, and the   famous DoubleTree cookie was the best. The breakfast and dinner buffets were both excellent, and the amenities were exceptional.” What really stood out to them was the warmth and attention to detail throughout their stay. My mum still can’t stop complimenting the food; my parents have travelled all around Sri Lanka and tried many different cuisines, so coming from them, that is actually really huge to hear! Next time I’m in Lanka, I already know where my first stop will be. 10/10 for such a great stay!"
Saman 2-night trip
Posted 4 months ago
DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort
Leopard Nest in Yala

Leopard Nest in Yala

10/10 Excellent
"We were the only guests in this sprawling property within the buffer zone of the Yala National park. The BBQ dinner under the stars was worth remembering. The whole property kept the entire electric generation system running for only 2 guests. The air conditioning was perfect and the view from above the canopy was very good. Mention must be made of Patisa and his team. The chef was wonderful with his breakfast and dinner. A great stay. Never felt unsafe as were the only guest on the day."
SATYAJIT 1-night trip
Posted 5 months ago
Leopard Nest in Yala
Hilton Yala Resort

Hilton Yala Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Great safari and pool villa and very kind and great staff. More than a Hilton "
Emma 3-night trip
Posted 5 months ago
Hilton Yala Resort

More cheap stays in Yala

River Shade Inn

River Shade Inn

522/D Gangasiripura Tissamaharama Southern Province
CA $16
CA $19 total
Sep 15 - Sep 16
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (1 review)
River Shade Inn
yala caravan village

yala caravan village

No. 84 Gurugoda, Palatupana Thissamaharama
CA $58
CA $75 total
Sep 17 - Sep 18
includes taxes & fees
yala caravan village
Lavendish Tamarind Lifestyle

Lavendish Tamarind Lifestyle

Raja Mawatha Kataragama Uva
CA $68
CA $81 total
Sep 16 - Sep 17
includes taxes & fees
7.2/10 Good! (5 reviews)
Lavendish Tamarind Lifestyle
Rain Tree by Oak Ray

Rain Tree by Oak Ray

Sandugama Mawath, Tissamaharama Hambantota
CA $79
CA $93 total
Sep 4 - Sep 5
includes taxes & fees
Rain Tree by Oak Ray
Art Yala

Art Yala

Court Road, Tikiriudanapura Thissamaharama Southern Province
CA $85
CA $100 total
Oct 2 - Oct 3
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (11 reviews)
Art Yala
Ceylon Wild Safaris Yala

Ceylon Wild Safaris Yala

40, Galmadawwa Road, Punchi Akurugoda Thissamaharama Southern Province
CA $866
CA $1,244 total
Sep 10 - Sep 11
includes taxes & fees
Ceylon Wild Safaris Yala

Find out more about Yala

Top reasons to visit Yala

  • Yala National Park: Experience thrilling safaris and witness diverse wildlife in one of Sri Lanka's premier national parks.
  • Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy breathtaking views and lush jungles, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Yala Beach: Relax on beautiful beaches, ideal for unwinding after adventure-filled days.
  • Cultural Exploration: Discover local temples and monasteries, immersing yourself in the rich heritage of the area.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxurious resorts to charming local stays, catering to all travel preferences.

Find great hotels near Yala

Explore the stunning accommodation options in Yala, Southern Province, where you'll find a variety of hotels and safari tents tailored to suit every traveler's needs. Whether you're seeking a luxurious resort experience, a beachside getaway, or a business-friendly environment, Yala offers something for everyone. Discover the best hotels and resorts in the area, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant wildlife that makes Yala a must-visit destination.

  • Cinnamon Wild Yala: Nestled 9.7km away from Yala, Cinnamon Wild Yala is a 4.5-star hotel that offers a luxurious and business-themed experience. This hotel seamlessly blends modern comforts with the essence of adventure, making it a splendid choice for travellers seeking both relaxation and productivity. Its well-appointed business amenities, including a Meeting Room, Business Center, and Conference Space, cater specifically to business travellers. Guests can enjoy the natural surroundings while indulging in the hotel's premium services, making it an ideal retreat for discerning visitors.
  • Jetwing Yala: Located 9.7km from Yala, Jetwing Yala is a prestigious 5-star hotel that embodies luxury and eco-consciousness. As an eco-certified property, it attracts environmentally-minded travellers who appreciate high-end amenities without compromising their values. The hotel features a full spa and pool services, including Treatment Rooms, a Swim-Up Bar, and Thai Massage, ensuring a relaxing stay. The serene ambiance and commitment to sustainability make Jetwing Yala a perfect sanctuary for those looking to rejuvenate amid nature's beauty.
  • Laya Safari: Situated 12.9km from Yala, Laya Safari is a charming 4-star hotel suitable for romantic getaways and business retreats alike. With direct access to the beach, it offers a unique blend of coastal relaxation and professional facilities, featuring multiple Meeting Rooms and a Business Center. Additionally, Laya Safari provides enticing romance packages, complete with limited-hour Room Service and private winery tours for couples. Guests can unwind at the spa or pool, which includes Couples Treatment Rooms and Outdoor Treatment Rooms, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a romantic escape.

Where to stay near Yala

Yala, nestled in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, offers a remarkable adventure for tourists seeking stunning outdoor experiences. Explore the renowned Yala National Park, where you can witness diverse wildlife amidst lush jungles. Enjoy breathtaking views and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the surroundings. This enchanting village is perfect for those who cherish nature and adventure, making it an unforgettable destination on your vacation.

  • Palatupana: Nestled approximately 11.3km from Yala, Palatupana is a charming village that offers a blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. The travel experience here is moderately seasonal, with peak visitor numbers in January and during the September to October period. Visitors flock to Palatupana for activities such as golfing at the local course and enjoying the lush landscapes of nearby national parks. The village is also a stone's throw from beautiful beaches, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.
  • Kirinda: Located about 17.7km from Yala, Kirinda is a vibrant city that attracts travellers year-round, with peak seasons occurring in March to April and September. Known for its adventurous spirit, Kirinda offers outdoor enthusiasts various activities, including golfing and access to picturesque beaches. The city's proximity to national parks provides ample opportunities for nature walks and wildlife encounters, ensuring an enriching travel experience for those who visit.
  • Galkaduwa: Just 9.7km away from Yala, Galkaduwa is a quaint village that boasts a moderately seasonal influx of visitors, peaking from December to February. This hidden gem is perfect for those seeking adventure amidst breathtaking scenery. Galkaduwa offers easy access to stunning beaches and nearby national parks, making it a fantastic base for exploration. Whether you're looking to hike or simply relax by the shore, Galkaduwa provides a serene atmosphere and unforgettable experiences.

Things to do near Yala

Yala, located in Sri Lanka's Southern Province, is perfect for outdoor and adventure vacations. Visitors can enjoy activities like golfing at a private country club, but the highlight is undoubtedly the Yala National Park. Here, you can embark on thrilling safaris, explore Yala’s stunning landscapes, and even try Yala safari camping for a unique experience. A trip to Yala promises unforgettable wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery.

Shopping

In Yala, you can explore local markets for unique souvenirs and handicrafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Kalutara Shopping Complex, about 35.4km away, featuring a variety of shops including clothing, accessories, and local delicacies.

Recreation

Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium is a vibrant sports facility located 48.3km from Yala. Experience the energetic atmosphere while enjoying a variety of sports activities. Whether you’re catching a match or participating in events, the stadium offers a unique blend of excitement and community spirit.

Adventure

Experience thrilling wildlife safaris in Yala National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including leopards and elephants. Enjoy birdwatching at Bundala National Park, where vibrant species abound. For a unique thrill, try surfing at nearby beaches like Hiriketiya, offering perfect waves and stunning scenery.

Nightlife

Experience Yala's vibrant nightlife at the Elephant Bar, where you can enjoy tropical cocktails and local delicacies. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Yala Beach Club, offering beachside dancing and entertainment under the stars. Don't miss out on the local music scene at nearby venues for an unforgettable evening.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Yala

To save on your trip to Yala, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May, July, or September, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Saturdays are the least expensive days to stay, while Wednesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to find great deals by filtering for your budget and preferred accommodation types, including eco-friendly options. Additionally, consider booking a package that combines flights, hotel, and activities for further savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Yala are May, July and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and March to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Yala is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Yala is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Yala is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To uncover the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Yala with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Yala

Yala, located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With a mix of culture and scenery, visitors can explore the Yala National Park and its wildlife sanctuary, as well as local temples and monasteries. Don't miss out on Yala Beach for some relaxation. Accommodations range from the best hotels near Yala National Park to charming local stays, making it an ideal destination for a diverse vacation experience.

  • Yala National Park: A short drive from Yala, this national park offers thrilling adventures amidst stunning scenery. Experience the diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and exotic birds, while enjoying the beautiful outdoor vibes in a lush, natural setting.
  • Sithulpawwa Buddhist Monastery: Located nearby, this serene monastery provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Nestled in a tranquil environment, visitors can explore ancient ruins and witness the peaceful practices of Buddhist monks.
  • Patanangala Tsunami Memorial: Situated within Yala, this poignant monument pays tribute to the victims of the 2004 tsunami. The site serves as a cultural reminder of resilience, reflecting the local community's strength and spirit in the face of tragedy.

Best time to go to Yala

The best time to visit Yala can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Yala falls in May, when visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Yala falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January79.0°F (26.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
February79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
March81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May82.9°F (28.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
June82.8°F (28.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
July82.8°F (28.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August82.2°F (27.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
October81.3°F (27.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December79.3°F (26.3°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Yala?
The best areas to stay in Yala are the immediate surroundings of the Yala National Park, particularly near the park's main entrance in Palatupana or further afield in Tissamaharama for more variety.For those prioritising proximity to the wildlife experience, staying in Palatupana, right on the edge of Yala National Park, is ideal. This area offers a range of luxurious safari lodges and tented camps that provide direct access to the park's entrance. Accommodations here often include all-inclusive packages with guided safaris, making for a seamless and exclusive wildlife adventure. It's superb for couples seeking an intimate and immersive nature retreat, with many lodges offering private plunge pools and views of the wilderness.Tissamaharama, often referred to as Tissa, is a larger town located about 30 minutes' drive from the Yala National Park entrance. It offers a broader selection of hotels and guesthouses, from upscale resorts to more budget-friendly options. The town is built around a large man-made lake, Tissa Wewa, which is a popular spot for birdwatching and scenic walks. This area is well-suited for families as it provides more amenities, local restaurants, and shops, offering a good balance between wildlife excursions and local culture.
When is the best time to go to Yala?
The best time to visit Yala National Park for optimal wildlife viewing is generally during the dry season, from February to September.During these months, especially from June to September, the water levels in the park's lagoons and watering holes recede. This forces animals, particularly elephants and leopards, to congregate around the remaining water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is typically sunny and warm, with less rainfall, which also means the park's tracks are less muddy and more accessible for safari vehicles.For those looking for a comfortable experience, the shoulder months of February to May offer a good balance. The weather is pleasant, and while wildlife viewing is still excellent, the park might be slightly less crowded than during the peak dry period. This period is particularly good for families as the conditions are generally milder, making for more enjoyable safari drives.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Yala.
How much is the nightly rate at a Yala hotel?
Prices for hotels in Yala often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $19 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia