Back of Beyond Dune Camp Yala
Gurugoda, Palatupana
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Why people book this hotel
“Location”
“The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, and the setting is truly stunn…”
“Great location and staff”
“The Manager Karu, went out of his way to make sure we had everything we needed a…”
“The tents were cosy and comfortable, and we all slept well, with the fans keepin…”
“The tents were spacious and comfortable enough, with great staff who were helpfu…”
“There is an electric fence that we were told is on overnight so definitely worth…”
“This is not super luxury but the price is also much less than the super luxury c…”
“They organized a lovely picnic breakfast for us as well”
“They recommend not swimming as the sea is rough and rocky but fun to paddle in”
Overview
With sea views, Back of Beyond - Dune Camp Yala is located in Yala and has a restaurant and room service. Free WiFi is provided. A patio with garden views is offered in each unit. The daily breakfast offers à la carte and American options. The luxury tent offers a barbecue. A private beach area can be found at Back of Beyond - Dune Camp Yala, along with a terrace. Kataragama is 20 km from the accommodation, while Tissamaharama is 11 km away.
Traveller reviews
Sai Ramana
family_with_children
April 20, 2026
“Awesome”
Location
Suzie
family_with_children
April 5, 2026
“A unique and relaxing escape surrounded by nature”
We had a really memorable stay at Back of Beyond. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, and the setting is truly stunning – a remote, peaceful location where you really feel immersed in nature. The team organised an excellent safari for us in Yala National Park, and our guide was extremely knowledgeable, which made the experience even more special. The tents were cosy and comfortable, and we all slept well, with the fans keeping things cool and a lovely sea breeze coming through. Falling asleep to the sound of the waves was a real highlight, and we weren’t bothered by insects at night. That said, the tents could do with a little maintenance. In both tents our group used, the doors didn’t fully close and there were some small holes in the mosquito nets. It didn’t detract too much from our stay, but it’s something to be aware of. The food was delicious throughout, and the team did a great job accommodating our group’s dietary preferences, including preparing non-spicy options for the children and providing vegetarian choices. Overall, this is a rustic, back-to-nature experience with plenty of charm. A great choice if you’re looking to switch off and enjoy being surrounded by the wild.
Samantha
couple
March 12, 2026
Great location and staff. We only stayed one night but it was a nice change of scenery.
Pnina
couple
February 27, 2026
“We had a wonderful time and will definitely return.”
The location is exceptional. The Manager Karu, went out of his way to make sure we had everything we needed and responded to service requests promptly. He often went above and beyond expectations (unprompted, setting out a table and chairs on the Dune for us to enjoy the sunset). He made sure we were safe at all times and woke up at 3AM to walk us to the gate for our early morning safari. The food was simple but delicious especially the lunch with locally sourced fresh fish and unusual but tasty vegetables.
Anna
extended_group
February 22, 2026
“Once in a lifetime glamping experience in the wilderness of Yala National Park”
Exceptional stay due to the beautiful remote location in the dunes and the unique experience of camping between the ocean and the jungle of the National Park. The tents were spacious and comfortable enough, with great staff who were helpful with any request, be it in regard to food, transportation or activities. The food at the camp was great and the location itself within the national park allowed for a close up connection with nature.
Iona
couple
February 3, 2026
“Unbelievable location but room for improvement otherwise”
The location was amazing as was the fact you are pretty much staying on the beach. It was a shame some of the tents you can’t really see the sea but you are very close and lovely to hear the waves. There is an electric fence that we were told is on overnight so definitely worth popping over/ under it to get to the beach during the day. They recommend not swimming as the sea is rough and rocky but fun to paddle in. The food was delicious and generally very good portion sizes. Very much appreciated that they tried to be eco conscious and they provided filter water as well as tea and coffee in ceramic containers rather than sachets as well as soap in refillable bottles. We had a lovely half day afternoon safari booked via the accommodation- even though it seemed a lot more expensive than other companies online I would highly recommend getting a guide as they enriched our experience providing us with lots more information as the driver is separated by glass and so unlikely to speak whilst driving.
David
couple
December 14, 2025
“Just book it”
Everything. You need to have the mindset this is partially "glamping" and you'll be fine. The staff, the food, the beds, the views are all top notch. We were, surprisingly, the only visitors in the camp. We were shocked the other 3 tents weren't full. There should be a waiting list and 6 months of bookings. The place is different than the vast majority of accomodation you could book and one we expect you'll be thinking of as a highlight of your Sri Lankan trip. Couple that with proximity to Yala National Park and you have a huge winner.
Nepali Nilukshika
couple
December 10, 2025
“Excellent staff”
Location
luke
family_with_children
August 15, 2025
“Incredible tented camp near Yala - amazing service.”
Incredible place. Highlight of our trip. Extraordinary location on the dunes - so beautiful and remote yet very comfortable and wonderful service from the amazing Asela and team. Yala Safari’s were fantastic too. Highly recommend.
Francesco
family_with_children
April 24, 2025
Incredible spot in the wilderness! Really nice walks around the beach and the dunes. Very friendly staff (in particular Karu). A bit expensive though.
Melissa Lauren
couple
April 16, 2025
“Unique!”
This was an amazing and unique experience! The tents were really fun, the bed was quite comfortable, the outdoor shower works well and the views around tent anre unreal! Staff are friendly and the food was good!
Jiayu
couple
April 11, 2025
“One of a Kind Experience”
The location is wonderful at the dune and right next to the sea. You can fall asleep to the sounds of the waves and nature. The property is not huge with only four glamping tents and you feel very secluded and private with the greeneries. The food at the property is also amazing! The curd made by the team was so delicious! The team is so kind and helpful. Especially Rimesh who took care of us so well during the stay and also during our full day safari. His knowledge of Sri Lankan animals and birds as well as his great personality has brought us a wonderful experience in Yala national park. We would definitely recommend nature lover to stay at this property as it really gives you a unique experience.
Walker
couple
March 15, 2025
“Recommend to book their safari!”
Recommend to book their safari ! We booked a double tent at the Dune Camp for one night. A fabulous location with a almost private beach and amazing views from the Dunes. We did not utilize the safari offered by the Dune Camp as we had a cheaper offer from the guide who bought us there from Ella. Huge mistake ! It was a loud, decrepit jeep and the safari driver just sped through the park without explaining anything. His one ambition was to show us a leopard – we saw a leopard’s tail together with another 100 jeeps! I guess we got what we paid for! Due to this terrible experience, we decided to stay another extra night at the Dune Camp book a safari organized by them. What a difference ! Their naturalist accompanied us. He was polite and knowledgeable and explained to us regarding the different types of animals, birds and lizards. We also had a much better viewing of a leopard although we did not chase after one. The safari jeep and driver was also very good and he drove very carefully. They organized a lovely picnic breakfast for us as well. We would therefore definitely recommend the safari provided by the hotel but I believe you need to give the some advance notice as they may be fully booked.
Vanessa
extended_group
February 28, 2025
“Wonderful !”
It is nice to camp in the jungle nearby the ocean The staff is very caring and the safari was very nice !
Katy
couple
December 26, 2024
“Spectacular view of private beach”
Amazing view and scenery. It’s the most unique place I’ve been to. The tents were comfortable and you shower under the stars! Its covered so that you have your privacy. The safari that they arranged was also good. The food was great and on one night they arranged a barbeque on the dune, under the stars! Just unforgettable and way better than staying in a standard hotel!
Brown
couple
December 17, 2024
“Most scenic location in Sri Lanka!”
I agree with the previous reviews. The location is absolutely spectacular. Most definitely the most scenic view we’ve had in Sri Lanka. Its also very private and we had the beach and dunes virtually to ourselves and the other couple that were in the Dune camp. The food and the service was great. The tents are a bit dated, but the beds are very comfortable and all have nets. This is not super luxury but the price is also much less than the super luxury campsites. We would highly recommend this place. They also arranged the safari for us. We have heard horror stories re the jeep drivers at Yala but the driver they arranged was very good and mindful of not disturbing the wildlife.
katherine
family_with_children
August 10, 2024
“And unforgettable experience in a breathtaking location”
Staying here is an unforgettable and amazing experience. The location is utterly beautiful with the breathtaking beach and wonderful dunes. The tents are very glamorous and not like tents at all. They are raised up with their own verandas with power, fridge , great bathroom facilities, comfortable beds, everything you want. The food is excellent serving local and international cuisine. The staff could not be more helpful and are always on hand to make sure every need is met, even serving coffee, on the tent Veranda in the early morning before you leave for a Safari. You can book safaris through the Camp which makes everything easy and Asela The manager and nature guide can accompany you on the Safari to assist with spotting animals identification et cetera, which really adds to the experience. We absolutely loved it here and would definitely return. A very very special place.
Amelia
family_with_children
July 16, 2024
The location is amazing, as were the staff. A big thank you to Asela, who took us on a fantastic safari, and all rounder Karu!
Djénaé
couple
January 9, 2024
“passable but I don’t recommend it”
good location,very good view that’s it!
Chiara
couple
November 5, 2023
“Experience Yala National Park fully”
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Yala National Park to the fullest. Witness the spectacular sunrise and sunset over the ocean from the glamping site behind natural dunes. Wake up to the sound of birds chirping in the morning and indulge in delicious meals prepared by the highly professional and courteous staff.
Facilities
Activities
Darts, Hiking, Private beach area, Beachfront, Open-air bath, Beach, Walking tours, Tour or class about local culture, Cooking class, Archery
Cleanliness & disinfecting
Linens, towels and laundry washed in accordance with local authority guidelines
Food & Drink
Breakfast options, Kid meals, Fruits, Special diet menus (on request), Restaurant
Food & drink safety
All plates, cutlery, glasses and other tableware have been sanitized
General
Designated smoking area, Non-smoking rooms, Family rooms, Safety deposit box
Internet
Internet services, WiFi, Free WiFi
Outdoors
BBQ facilities, Outdoor furniture, Picnic area, Outdoor fireplace
Parking
Parking on site, Private parking, Parking, Free parking
Safety & security
Fire extinguishers
Safety features
Hand sanitizer in guest accommodation and key areas, First aid kit available
Services
Ironing service, Airport shuttle, Laundry, Packed lunches, Car hire, Luggage storage, Daily housekeeping, Airport shuttle (additional charge), Concierge service, Shuttle service (additional charge), Shuttle service
Transport
Airport pick up, Airport drop off
Family Tent
The family room provides a private entrance, a seating area, a terrace with sea views as well as a private bathroom featuring a bath. The unit offers 3 beds.
Hotel Policies
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