Leopard Safaris Yala

If you wish to learn about Sri Lanka, and running a hospitality and wildlife safari business in ways you can never imagine. Volunteering at Leopard Safaris is 'work hard, play harder'. And your ideas truly matter to us! Some volunteers stayed with us for years, or kept on coming back.
Kindly note; In keeping with our Eco policies we are 100% None Smoking and none Vapor camp.

Only one man has made his home for thirty-five years amongst the world's highest concentration of leopards in the wild. Noel Rodrigo guides guests into Sri Lanka's most dramatic landscape of Yala National Park in the utmost comfort. He never shies away from adventure, but is also the most hospitable and generous wild lover you will ever meet. 'Work hard, play harder!'. Our volunteers will feel welcome, as a person and with anything they have to offer.


Reviews

4.0
(46 reviews)46

Staff & Host

4.5

Hours & Tasks

4.5

Hostel

4.0

Learning & Fun

4.0

Germany

5

I had a great time at the camp – sleeping in a tent surrounded by nature was such a unique experience. The tasks were easy to learn, and the team made me feel welcome from day one. I was lucky enough to see a leopard on one of the safaris, which was definitely a highlight! Outside of work there isn’t much going on, but that’s what makes it the perfect place to slow down, disconnect and enjoy the wild. Would recommend if you're looking for a simple life close to nature.

24 days ago


Leopard replied

Thank you and I am happy you enjoyed your experience here 😊

United States

5

Stay in a safari camp reall in the wild. That’s the greatest aspect of this volunteer opportunity. I stayed in my own (basic) tent and ate with the staff. My situation was unique because the owner and manager were both absent due to unforeseen circumstances. The naturalists and housekeeping and cook crew welcomed me and did their best to make me welcome. In the end, my interactions with them were the best part as the week was underway. Safaris were fun! Was surprised my baby jackals and monkeys in camp!

about 1 month ago


Leopard replied

Hi Kris thank you for your time at camp and helping my team.yes it was unfortunate ghat we did not get to meet up. Where can I see your photos. And I have taken all points positively

United Kingdom

4

When I first arrived everyone was lovely. The longer I stayed the more I realised they have a rule where the staff are too afraid to communicate with volunteers unless its strictly about work, which made me feel like I couldn't connect with the locals. This makes it an isolating experience but if you don't mind keeping to yourself its ok. I got the opportunity to go on 2 safaris which was amazing. Noel is a lovely owner and is always there if you need him. I did get my money stolen there but he was kind enough to sort it out for me.

about 1 month ago


Leopard replied

Thank you for your opinion. Kindly note our staff are professionals in their field and it's a jungle camp and cannot compare to beach boys in a surf hostel. About your loss we do not have any evidence or cctv footage so it may have happened after leaving camp .how ever we have compensated your losses.

Argentina

5

I spent an amazing time at camp. The staff is amazing, is a beautiful team ❤️ all the best for you
If you do the experience, you will not regret 🫶🏾

about 1 month ago


Leopard replied

Natalia it is a pleasure to have positive volunteers like you and who deserves an experience like no other 🙏

Israel

3



My time at Leopard Safaris was an intense and hands-on experience. The work is primarily physical, so be prepared for tasks that require effort and endurance. Volunteers eat local food, not the meals served to guests. Most of the time, this means simple dishes like rice, so plan accordingly. If you're looking for an immersive, back-to-basics experience in the wild, this is the place for you.

4 months ago


Leopard replied

When you choose to volunteer you are part of the staff .if you want Gourmet food you have to book as a customer.. So I guess your expectations were different. And we could not cater to your cultural needs


Perfect for you if you're looking for

Business

Contact with nature

Rural

Contact with animals

Wilderness

Family