Leopard Trails, Yala
Yala National Park

Leopard Trails is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Safari Lodges in Asia.

Located in the most renowned nature reserve in Sri Lanka, Yala National Park, lies Leopard Trails. This luxury tented camp aims to take you back to the original spirit and true essence of ‘safari’, reminiscent of a golden era of adventure and elegance, and that it does.

Providing an authentic Sri Lankan safari experience in a remote spot, only the canvas walls of your tent separate you from the wonders of the wild here, you are truly immersed in the wilderness. As well as its strong focus on a ‘back to nature’ theme, this camp also stays true to the romantic British colonial era with its luxurious touches; from lantern-lit alfresco dinners to little touches inside the tented rooms, like air-conditioning and white bathrobes.

The comfortable tented rooms share the same understated khaki interior design, and the white linen beds and paisley-patterned pillows add some tasteful flashes of colour without detracting from the earthy, natural tones. The Deluxe Tents come with en-suite bathrooms fitted with outdoor showers. The well-appointed Leopard Trails Suite offers additional space and an indulgent solar-powered indoor shower. This suite is ideal for families of five and under. The family-friendly camp offers a special Junior Ranger programme to ensure that children are kept thoroughly entertained during safaris - a real bonus.

You can choose between morning or afternoon game drives here, or both if your interests demand it, which are bound to be a highlight of your stay as you are likely to catch glimpses of Asian elephants, crocodiles and majestic birds, not to mention the king of the Sri Lankan jungle and namesake of this property: the elusive leopard.

As well as the personalised service provided by the friendly staff at this camp, you will also be treated to excellent cuisine (including both local and international dishes) and wine throughout your stay. After an adventurous day in the wild, you can wind down in the evening in the company of the guides, who kindly encourage guests to gather around the roaring campfire with them to swap stories over an evening tipple, before enjoying a delicious dinner under the stars.

To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.
Bill Bryson