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Ridiyagama Safari Park
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Ridiyagama Safari Park, opened on March 28, 2016, is Sri Lanka's first ever man-made open-air safari park. Located in Ambalantota in the Hambantota District, the park spans approximately 500 acres and is managed by the Department of National Zoological Gardens. The facility is divided into several specialized zones, including a 35-acre Lion Zone, a 54-acre Sri Lankan Elephant Zone, and a World Zone for various herbivores. Visitors traverse the park in secure buses, allowing them to observe animals such as Bengal tigers, leopards, and zebras in a semi-natural habitat. The park was designed to provide a more humane and spacious environment for animals compared to traditional zoos while promoting wildlife conservation and education. It has become a major tourism hub in southern Sri Lanka, significantly boosting the local economy. Future expansion plans include zones for cheetahs and bears to further diversify the park's inhabitants.
- Location: Sri Lanka
- Top sights: Abarana Ella · Ridiyagama Safari Park · Ramba Rajamaha Viharaya
- Nearby: Haputale (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Jul, Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 156 | 114 | 129 | 225 | 210 | 120 | 100 | 118 | 177 | 275 | 333 | 268 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Visitors generally travel to this expansive safari park via the main roads connecting the southern districts of Sri Lanka. Clear signs direct tourists toward the designated park entrance gates.
Best season
The drier months offer the best opportunities for uninterrupted wildlife viewing within the open-air enclosures. Heavy monsoon rains can occasionally disrupt the regular safari tour schedules.
Terrain & paths
Inside the park, the terrain consists of large natural enclosures navigated almost exclusively by safari vehicles. Visitors do not hike through the primary areas, ensuring safe wildlife viewing.
What to bring
Since exploration is mostly vehicle-based, standard comfortable clothing suitable for the tropical climate is fine. Sunglasses, hats, and a good camera for observing the animals are recommended.
Parking
The safari park provides ample organized parking facilities near the main ticket counters and visitor center. Finding a secure spot for your vehicle is generally straightforward throughout the year.
Safety
Strict adherence to park rules is mandatory, particularly staying securely inside the safari vehicles at all times. Visitors must follow the instructions of the guides around dangerous predators.
Time needed
A comprehensive safari tour to see the open-air enclosures typically takes around two to three hours. Many tourists plan for a half-day excursion to fully enjoy the expansive park environment.
Geography
Facts
- Opened in March 2016
- Total area of about 500 acres
- First open-air safari park in the country
- Features a 35-acre Lion Zone
- Located in Ambalantota, South
- Managed by the Dept. of Zoological Gardens
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Ridiyagama Safari Park (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How does this park differ from a normal safari?
It is an open-air zoo where animals roam freely in large enclosures.
Which animals are the main attraction?
The lion safari and the Bengal tigers are particularly popular.
Can you drive in with your own car?
No, visitors must use the park's special, secured buses.
How long does a safari tour take?
A complete tour through the different zones takes about 45 to 60 minutes.
Where is the safari park located?
It is located in Ridiyagama, in the Hambantota district in the south of the island.
Ridiyagama Safari Park: where is it located?
Ridiyagama Safari Park is located in Sri Lanka.
Ridiyagama Safari Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Abarana Ella, Ridiyagama Safari Park, Ramba Rajamaha Viharaya.
Ridiyagama Safari Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Jul, Aug.
Ridiyagama Safari Park: why is it worth visiting?
Ridiyagama Safari Park, opened on March 28, 2016, is Sri Lanka's first ever man-made open-air safari park.
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