Ridiyagama Safari Park

Ridiyagama: Africa in the Heart of Lanka

Ridiyagama Safari Park is a groundbreaking wildlife facility in Sri Lanka. As the island's first open-air safari park, it redefines the zoo experience by placing humans in protected vehicles while animals roam freely in giant, naturalized enclosures. Opened in 2016, it spans 500 acres and offers a glimpse into ecosystems that extend far beyond the borders of Sri Lanka.

Global Wildlife Zones

The park is intelligently divided into various zones. The Lion Zone is perhaps the most famous, where prides of lions bask under the sun in an environment that mimics the African savannah. There is also an African Herbivore zone featuring giraffes, zebras, and ostriches, as well as a dedicated Sri Lankan Elephant zone, providing a diverse educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Educational and Ethical Wildlife Observation

The primary goal of Ridiyagama is to foster a deeper understanding of global biodiversity while providing high standards of animal welfare. The animals are well-cared for, and the large enclosures allow them to engage in natural social structures. It serves as a vital tool for conservation education, allowing locals and tourists to see exotic animals without them being in small cages.

Family-Friendly Adventure

Ridiyagama is particularly popular with families. The park provides its own fleet of large, secure safari buses, making it a very safe and accessible way to see large predators. The journey through the various gates, with animals approaching the bus, provides a thrill that is both exciting and informative.

Hassle-Free Safaris with HBS Tours

We streamline your visit to Ridiyagama:

• Skip-the-Line Entry: We arrange pre-purchased tickets to avoid the long queues, especially on weekends.
• Private Transfer Logistics: Comfortable air-conditioned transport to and from the park from any Southern hotel.
• Combo Wildlife Trips: Packages that include Ridiyagama and the nearby Madunagala Hot Springs in a single day.

Travel Logistics: Safari Park Planning

The park is located in Ridiyagama, about 30 km from Hambantota. It is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. We recommend arriving early to avoid the midday heat, as animals are more active in the cooler morning hours. Photography is encouraged, but using flash is strictly prohibited. The entire bus safari takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.