Yala was one of the first National Parks to open in Sri Lanka, opened in 1938, and remains the most popular. Udawalawe is a lot smaller than Yala, about a third of the size. But small can be beautiful! Entry to the Parks involves a fee of US$15, you must hire a jeep and a guide and these can cost between US$30-34 at Yala, and about US$24 at Udawalawe. Jeeps can seat between 4-6 people. Yala has claimed 44 different types of mammals, and has stunning birdlife. At Udawalawe you will have a greater chance of spotting elephants due to the huge reservoir, and the size of the park. Those who want to see the leopards should head to Yala, they have about 40 now, whilst the population at Udawalawe has remained steady at 10.