Sri Lanka’s national parks provide extraordinary opportunities to encounter elephants, leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, birdlife, and diverse ecosystems in their natural habitats. Safari destinations such as Yala National Park, Wilpattu National Park, Minneriya National Park, Kaudulla National Park, and Udawalawe National Park each offer unique wildlife experiences. The famous elephant gathering at Minneriya and Kaudulla usually occurs between July and October. Early morning and late afternoon safaris provide the best conditions for wildlife viewing and photography.