Nestled among rolling sand dunes near Yala National Park, Back of Beyond Yala Dune Camp offers an immersive wilderness experience through luxury glamping. Located just 15 minutes from Yala’s entrance, this exclusive eco-retreat features four custom-designed tents with modern amenities, providing the perfect blend of comfort and adventure.
Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, guests can witness spectacular sunrises, track wildlife across pristine beaches, and explore one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic wilderness areas. The camp’s commitment to sustainable practices and minimal environmental impact makes it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts seeking an authentic yet comfortable wildlife experience.
Their story
Born from a family legacy of wildlife exploration and conservation, Back of Beyond Yala Dune Camp emerged as part of a vision to create eco-sensitive retreats across Sri Lanka. Founded by a former corporate executive who left city life to pursue his passion for nature, the camp was established to provide an immersive wilderness experience while minimally impacting the environment.
Set among coastal sand dunes near Yala National Park, it reflects the founder’s childhood memories of peaceful wildlife encounters and starlit nights. Today, the camp operates as a sustainable glamping destination, offering luxury tents that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. Read more about them.
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Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The luxury tents are strategically placed among existing clearings to minimize disruption to sand dunes and native vegetation. The camp operates entirely on solar power and practices rainwater harvesting. Local materials are used extensively, and the camp maintains a low-density footprint of less than one room per acre.
- The property employs sustainable practices like avoiding bottled water, using natural ventilation instead of air conditioning, and sourcing local produce.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The camp utilizes sustainable energy sources extensively, with solar panels powering all accommodation units and facilities.
- Their open-space house plans maximize natural light and ventilation, minimizing electricity consumption. Notably, they’ve chosen not to use air conditioning in most properties, relying instead on natural cooling methods.
- The camp also harvests dendro from within the property for cooking purposes, ensuring a fully sustainable approach to their energy requirements.
Pioneer in waste management
- The camp implements comprehensive waste management practices aligned with their “touch gently” philosophy. They minimize bottled water usage by providing filtered well water, compost organic waste for their gardens, and practice strict recycling protocols.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Yala Dune Camp prioritizes eco-friendly practices across its operations, utilizing natural and chemical-free products throughout the property.
- The camp minimizes chemical usage in housekeeping, and sources local organic produce for their dining facilities.
Actively protects nature and community
- The retreat preserves the natural sand dunes and coastal vegetation, maintaining minimal impact on the ecosystem. They practice rainwater harvesting, solar power usage, and eco-friendly construction methods.
- Local villagers are employed and empowered through various initiatives, from construction to ongoing operations.
- The camp works closely with nearby communities, supporting local temples, schools, and ethical wildlife tourism while rejecting harmful practices like elephant rides.
Most Popular Activities Near Yala Dune Camp, Back of Beyond
- Guided sand dune and beach walks at sunrise and sunset.
- Safari tours to Yala National Park to spot leopards, elephants, and wildlife.
- Bird watching at Bundala National Park and Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary.
- Exploring ancient ruins at Sithulpahuwa, Kirinda temple, and Tissamaharama.
- Turtle watching along the pristine coastline.
- Cultural heritage site visits to Kataragama.
- Safari excursions to Lunugamvehera National Park.
- Picnic lunches during full-day safaris and explorations.
Best Time To Visit Yala Dune Camp, Back of Beyond
- The best time to visit Yala Dune Camp is from December to March during the dry season, when wildlife viewing in Yala National Park is at its peak. These months offer clear skies and minimal rainfall, perfect for safari excursions and beach dune walks. The weather is ideal for glamping, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.
- While April to September brings the southwest monsoon, the camp remains operational with periodic afternoon showers.
- October and November experience heavier rains but offer the advantage of vivid landscapes and fewer tourists.
- Early morning and late afternoon are optimal for wildlife spotting, especially leopards and elephants.