Cancellation & Refund Policy

We understand that travel plans in Sri Lanka can change dynamically. If you need to cancel an upcoming safari, your eligibility for a refund depends on how much notice you give our booking office:

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• 7 Days or More Before Departure: You are eligible for a Full Refund (100%) of your booking deposit or total amount, minus standard credit card processing fees (typically 3%–4% depending on the payment gateway).

• 48 Hours to 6 Days Before Departure: You are eligible for a 50% Refund, or you may choose to reschedule your safari to any available future date within the next 12 months free of charge.

• Less than 48 Hours Before Departure (or No-Show): No refund will be issued. Within 48 hours, your specific Mahindra/Tata 4x4 jeep, fuel allocation, and tracking team have been fully locked in and can no longer be reassigned to other travelers.

2. National Park Entry Fees & Tickets Notice

• Exclusion: All rates displayed on the YalaWales online store cover your private vehicle, driver-tracker, fuel, and local hotel pick-up logistics. Official Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) park entry tickets are completely separate and are not included in your checkout price.

• Non-Refundable by Us: Park entry fees are paid directly to the government rangers at the gate on the day of your safari. Because YalaWales does not collect or manage these ticket funds, we cannot issue refunds for park entrance tickets under any circumstances.

3. Severe Weather, Park Closures & Force Majeure

Nature is inherently unpredictable, and guest safety is our absolute priority.
 

• Standard Rain: Safaris operate normally during light or standard tropical rain, as our premium vehicles feature protective canvas/cabin covers, and wildlife is often highly
  active during these times.

• Official Closures: In the rare event that the Department of Wildlife Conservation officially closes the Yala National Park gates due to extreme weather, heavy flooding, or safety hazards, you will be offered an immediate choice: A 100% full refund of your booking or A complimentary date transfer to the next available slot or alternative block (such as the outer frontiers via Galge).

4. How to Request a Refund or Reschedule