Yala combines a nature reserve with a national Park, bringing the total protected area has 126 786 hectares of shrubs, woodlands, grassy plains and lagoons. It is divided into five parts, the most popular one is the block 1 (14101 ha), which is open to tourists, it is also called Western Aleu. This unit was originally a reserve for the hunters, but was leaving it in 1938.

In Yala West is one of the largest populations of leopards (over 35 leopards). She is known worldwide as one of the best places to observe these graceful big cats. The best time to spot leopards is between February to June or July, when the water level in the Park is low. Elephants are also popular among tourists for them is also best observed from February to July), and if you're lucky, you can also see shaggy sloths, and jackals. Indian sambari, spotted deer, wild boars, crocodiles, buffaloes, mongoose, monkeys hundreds of them here.

About 150 species of birds registered in Yala, many of whom travel to avoid the Northern winter. Among them: white-winged black terns, snipe and Pintail, wild chicken, hornbills, Orioles, and peacocks.

Despite the large number of wildlife, forests can complicate the process of observing animals. In this case, come to the aid of a small grassy glades and many bodies of water around which usually accumulates a lot of wildlife. The best time to visit the Park is the end of the dry season (March-April).