About us
A family that grew up with Yala's leopards
For more than 20 years we have shared Yala National Park with guests from around the world.
We are a small, family-owned safari operator in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka. With over 20 years of experience, we make sure your trip to Yala is one to remember.
Our English-speaking drivers and comfortable jeeps will show you the best of Yala. We pick you up from where you stay and drop you back after the safari, so all you need to do is enjoy the park.
Tracking leopards is in our family. Our team has personally identified 44 individual leopards in Yala and keeps following their lives, territories and cubs. Many of our guests return year after year, and some of the photographers we have worked with feature in our gallery.
How we work
What makes a Bigcat safari different
Patience at every sighting
We don't rush from one jeep jam to the next. We read the signs, wait at the right places and give animals space.
Made for photographers
We have worked with many wildlife photographers and know how to position the jeep for the best angle and light.
Respect for the park
We follow park rules, keep noise low, and believe that calm, respectful safaris give the best sightings.
Guest stories
What our guests say
“Samitha is a young, however highly experienced Yala safari guide. He comes from a family of such, and he learnt all the tricks and skills for a remarkable experience. We spotted a leopard first thing in the morning, at 7 am. We then spotted another two leopards mating and playing with each other around 10.30am. So three leopards in a day, which apparently is a rarity in the rainy season. Samitha also provided valuable information about the park and other wildlife we encountered – elephants, peacocks, crocodiles etc. And if you are a bird lover, then Samitha is the right guy for you.”
“Went on safari with Samitha from Bigcat Safari just a few days ago and it was absolutely brilliant. He knew exactly where to go and stopped at the perfect spots for great pictures. Wouldn't think twice about recommending Bigcat Safari and Samitha to anyone. Nothing less than a 5 star experience.”
“I've been visiting Yala with Samitha for years now and can recommend their service without a doubt. Service is very friendly and they are well experienced in tracking wildlife in Yala and Lunugamvehera National Parks. I've had many great wildlife encounters, specially leopard sightings thanks to Samitha. If you are keen on wildlife photography, don't worry, Samitha will get you the best possible angle out of any sighting. Prices are quite reasonable and he is a trustworthy person.”
Ready to meet the leopards of Yala?
Tell us your dates and where you are staying. We reply quickly with availability, pick-up time and price.