Lodges in Kataragama

"Makini Bush Camp is an absolute gem in Yala! The stunning tented rooms are beautifully decorated and equipped with all the comforts you could wish for, including a refreshing plunge pool—perfect for cooling off after a walk in the bush. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure an unforgettable stay, accommodating a range of experiences, including a half-day safari inside the park and a delightful nature walk around the camp. Our guide, Mr. Koushalya, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the local flora and fauna. He shared fascinating insights about every leaf, insect, and bird we encountered, making our journey all the more enriching. The food at Makini Bush Camp is simply the best we’ve had in Sri Lanka! Each meal features delicious homemade dishes made from fresh, local ingredients—everything was absolutely delightful! Given the camp's secluded location, I highly recommend opting for the all-inclusive package, as leaving the premises can be a bit complicated. The staff truly invests effort into creating memorable experiences. They accompanied us to a beautiful ceremony at a nearby temple, and upon our return, we were greeted with a candlelit table draped in white cloth, set around a bonfire under the stars. It was an enchanting evening! Overall, Makini Bush Camp is a special place that offers a unique perspective on Sri Lanka. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an extraordinary experience! "

"Fantastic stay in Yala area, food, staff, room all fantastic, safari guides were well informed and spoke the best English we had during our travels, beach is very beautiful, just no swimming. Certainly pricey, but the only complaint we had was there wasn't enough hot water to fill the tub. Everything else was top notch. Yala was very crowded as far as trucks...be prepared."

"I recently had the pleasure of spending two nights at Yala Safari Camping, and it was an absolutely unforgettable experience! From start to finish, the service and hospitality were exceptional, making my stay truly special. A heartfelt thank you to Ravi, the manager, who ensured every detail was perfect and made sure I felt well taken care of throughout my stay. His dedication to guest satisfaction was evident in every interaction. Achi, at the front desk, welcomed me with a warm smile and made the check-in process smooth and efficient. Her friendly and helpful demeanor set the tone for a fantastic stay. The culinary experience was one of the highlights, thanks to the talented chefs Promod and Chamit. Each meal was a delightful adventure, but breakfast was particularly memorable with a variety of delicious Sri Lankan dishes. The flavors and presentation were outstanding, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Sri Lanka. Aveen, our waiter, provided excellent service during meals, always attentive and ready with a cheerful smile. He ensured that every dining experience was enjoyable and seamless. Special thanks to Chamara and Madawa, the lobby boys, who were always on hand to assist with anything we needed. Their efficiency and friendliness added to the overall comfort and ease of my stay. Yala Safari Camping provided the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with a team that went above and beyond to create a memorable experience. I highly recommend it!"

"Out of this world "

"This was one of the worst hotel experiences I’ve ever had. The room itself was dirty—stained bed sheets, no duvet - just a thin sheet, plugs falling off the walls with exposed wiring, clumps of dust and towels that were old and fraying at the edges. There wasn’t even a bottle of water in the room. The worst part? They gave us a room that was already occupied by another guest. Imagine walking into what you think is your room, only to find someone else already there. It was deeply embarrassing and unsettling, and yet there was no apology from the staff. To add to the frustration, when I asked for a spare room key as I was sharing a room with a family member, receptionist told me she’d already given one to the other guest and when I explained that I needed my own as I had a few plans on my own, she rolled her eyes before finally handing over a card—begrudgingly. The corridors were pitch black, with no lighting whatsoever, making it dangerous to walk through. Worse still, the only way to get to the first floor was via an open staircase. When it rained, the floor became slippery, and with no warning signs, it was a complete hazard. The entire experience felt unsafe, unprofessional, and deeply unpleasant. The standards of this hotel had gone downhill significantly. "

"The tent was very spacious and clean. The beds were comfy and the entertainment was good. There were board games to play, books to read, wi-fi in the communal areas and sports to play. There was a BBQ meal in the evening which was very good and the children could roast marshmallows around the fire. Overall a great experience "

"As anticipated, terrific place to stay and enjoy Yala NP. All excellent and will return."

"Amazing stay! Hotel is spotless and modern, staff friendly, attentive and the cocktails were delightful"

"No knowledge of booking when arrived - tried to get us all to stay in one room. Eventually resolved after 30mins but not fun as it was midnight "