From January 1, 2024, only trained and certified safari jeep drivers will be allowed to enter Yala National Park, says the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.
Dr. Sumit Pilapitiya, chairman of the committee appointed to improve the quality of the wildlife tourism industry in Yala National Park, says that the park authorities have been instructed to check the driver’s ID card and the driver’s national ID card issued by the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
He assured that all drivers will be issued ID cards by December 30 if these protocols are successful.
Furthermore, Dr. Pilapitiya requested all hotels to check the identity card of the safari drivers before leaving their premises so as not to cause any inconvenience to the tourists.