Call for any questions +94 77 395 1527
Reservations

A wild retreat by the sea, where golden dunes, jungle shade, and endless horizons meet.

Back of Beyond – Dune Camp

Dune Camp - Yala

Reservations

Why guests
love Dune Camp

Hidden in the dune jungles on the borders of Yala National Park, this property offers a tenting experience with sumptuous meals and a wonderful sense of solitude – an ideal place for those who have glamping on their bucket list.

Families

Tents for four that permits a family with young children to stay together.

Wildlife lovers

A good base from which to go to Yala National Park and also experience the wilderness in a safari style lodging.

Photographers

Unmatched photo-opportunities of dunes and sand-patterns.

View in Google Maps
Click to view

Location

  • 15 minutes to the Yala National Park.
  • 10 minutes to Kirinda, the closest town.
  • From Colombo along the Southern Highway, 3.5 hours from Kottawa entrance or via the scenic southern coastal road (approx. 5 hours)

Facts in brief

While Dune Camp is a good base from which to visit Yala (Sri Lanka’s most popular national park – 15 minutes away by jeep), the jungle atmosphere of our campsite makes you feel as if you are within the park. Taking great care to tread softly on this dune eco-system, we have used tents that cause minimal disturbance to the wild environment and the dune forest.

All our glamping tents are surrounded by vegetation characteristic of this area and lie within walking distance of the Gurugoda Dunes. To climb the dunes and sit at its summit with a 360° view of the coastline, the endless sea and the green mass of jungle, is both humbling and uplifting. A walk along the beach at dawn is also a must. Don’t forget to take your camera as photographs of the crabs and sea pencils in the rock pools and the wind-blown patterns in the sand are not easy to capture elsewhere.

Pitched on a wooden base, the luxury tents were custom-produced for each individual clearing in the forest, providing light and breeze that will keep you comfortable during the hottest days and coldest nights.

Equipped with proper beds with thick mattresses (not camp cots) and fresh linen, the attached wash rooms have modern fittings. The shower areas are airy and spacious, secure and private, but open to the sky so you may have the occasional monkey watching you! Dune camp is located on a stretch of uninhabited coastline providing an absolutely peaceful setting completely cut off from the sounds and travails of “civilization.” The feeling of solitude is amazing.

Accommodation:

Four luxury tents for a total of 12 adults/children, with tents for 2 and 4 pax. Accommodation offered on bed & breakfast, half-board and full-board basis.

Staff:

Includes naturalist/manager, chef and housekeeping staff.

Activities and experiences:

Beach and dune walks following animal tracks. Star gazing, turtle and bird watching – particularly good for shore birds. Yala and Bundala safaris and exploration of archeological sites and ancient cities in the vicinity.

Accommodation

Four person tents

  • Kotiya
  • Aliya (two-roomed)

Two person tents

  • Muwa
  • Kesbewa

It is safari style glamping in the wilderness for a maximum of 12 persons. Our four tents have been custom made to fit into the spaces available in the jungle. The handpicked, high-quality tenting material keeps the heat and dampness out with the interior remaining cool even at noon. Each tent has large ‘windows’ and a broad front ‘door’, with roll up flaps enabling ventilation and the outdoor feel. All tents are sealed with netting even when ‘windows’ are open ensuring an insect-free room. We need your support in ensuring your stay is comfortable – please keep the netting zipped.

The tents have permanent beds with fresh linen. There are plenty of plug points for all your devices with a pedestal fan in each tent.
We provide the simplicity of tents in the jungle combined with the needs of modern living, in a location that is awe-inspiring.

Select an Accommodation

Kotiya (Leopard) tent: (4 pax)
Aliya (Elephant) tent: (4 pax in two different units)
Muwa (Deer) tent & Kesbewa (Turtle) tent: (2 pax each)

On the sands with ocean views: A spacious safari tent

From the front deck and your bed, the endless blue of the Indian Ocean and the rolling sand dunes are always visible. This incredibly spacious tent has 3 permanent beds (one king size double and 2 single). A large and well-ventilated modern washroom is attached to the tent, and can be accessed safely even at night.

Book Now View Gallery

On the dunes with sea breezes blowing through: A large family tent

Inspired by the luxury camps of Africa, we created this ‘double room’ tent. Safety and privacy is ensured with one king size bed in the front room and two single beds in the second room, and a shared modern washroom between them. Nestled snugly in a clearing in the vegetation, the tent opens out to the dunes and the beach beyond.

Book Now View Gallery

In the shadows of the trees: Two separate safari tents

These spacious airy tents have twin beds. The large and completely ventilated modern washrooms are attached to the tents, and can be accessed safely even in the night.

Set on the high ground of a dune with vegetation to keep you cool, your view from the bed is of rolling dunes and the blue of the sky. Restful outdoor spaces are created with unique bamboo screens.

Kesbewa is situated close to the Aliya tent whereas Muwa is close to the Kotiya tent.

Book Now View Gallery

Things To Do

Sunrise and sunset beach/dune walks

Spending a relaxing evening

Yala Half day Safari

Beach walking

Activities and experiences

  • Sunrise and sunset beach/dune walks:
    At Dune Camp, we offer something beyond the national park safari – walks in the “back of beyond.” Sit high on a sand dune watching the Antarctic horizon for turtles, as the sky paints a palette of colour and the Kuda Ravana Lighthouse flickers. This 3km isolated beach has no villages or huts – only wild life. Follow tracks of birds, elephant, leopard, sambhur, wild boar, and jackal, while crabs scurry and hares dash. Speak to our Naturalist before venturing out. The sea is not suitable for swimming due to deep water, rocks, currents, and sudden waves.
  • Wild life safaris – can be arranged by our Naturalist.
  • Yala national park:
    Famous for the world’s greatest concentration of leopards, Yala offers much more — elephants, tuskers, sloth bears, buffaloes, deer, sambhur, jackals, crocodiles, birds, butterflies, trees, inselbergs, and landscapes. For the morning safari, leave camp by 5.30 am to reach the gate as it opens. For the evening round, depart around 3.00 pm. Full-day safaris with a picnic lunch by the Menik River are also possible.
  • Lunugamvehera national park on the north west boundary of Yala National Park. Lunugamvehera is around 1hr away by luxury safari jeep.
  • Bundala national park (40 min. drive) and Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary (1.5 hr drive) is for the birders, offering excellent sightings, especially during the migrant season.
  • History and culture explorations – ancient Ruhuna kingdom
  • The Civilization of Ruhuna dates back over 2,000 years, serving as a southern stronghold during invasions of the north and central regions. Ancient sites lie scattered along the coast and inland. Easily accessible are Kirinda (15 min), Sithulpahuwa (45 min), Tissamaharamaya (20 min), and Kataragama (45 min), along with lesser-visited Yatala (30 min) and Thelulla Dagabas (30 min).
  • Spending time by the ancient tanks of Yoda Weva and Tissa Weva in Tissamaharama offers a rewarding glimpse into daily village life, especially for photographers.
Contact Us

Facilities and special notes:

Back of Beyond is deeply committed to the environment and sustainability (please see our policy statement) and therefore we have endeavoured to provide facilities for a comfortable stay while at the same time “touching” the environment as gently as possible.

Luxury tents with attached modern washrooms enabling safe access at all times

Hot and cold water showers

Linen, towels, basic toiletries, mosquito nets, natural repellents

Pedestal/table fans in tents. No air-conditioning

In-house cook and Sri Lankan and western menu options

We do not serve alchohol, guests may bring their own

Tea, coffee and safe filtered drinking water on request. No bottled water

Free Wi-fi in dining area. Mobile signal strength is usually low as we are from townships

Plug points for charging devices

Water is brought in via bowser from outside, please be mindful of wastage

No TV and other noise generating entertainment

No swimming pool. Sea bathing is not recommended on this stretch

Not close to any shopping centres, so ensure that you bring all your personal needs

Full-board basis recommended as there is no public transport and restaurants are several km away

Speak to us if: You would like our naturalist to accompany you on a beach walk, You would like us to arrange safari tours to Yala, Bundala or Lunugamwehera National Parks, You need to arrange a customised tour, around Sri Lanka or in the proximity of our lodges.

Dining

Meals are served in our shaded dining hut with a thatched roof and sandy floor. Al fresco dining at night on the dunes with flares for lighting or around a campfire is available at an extra charge (weather dependent). It is magical to dine in this flickering light with the dashing surf below you and the starlit sky vaulting overhead.

We make sure everyone has a choice of the unfamiliar and exciting, as well as ‘home-feel’ comfort food. We offer traditional village fare and contemporary Sri Lankan fusion food, international dishes and snacks for safaris. In keeping with the traditions of our Back of Beyond retreats, we use fresh vegetables, fish and fruits. One of the best fishing harbors in this island is in the vicinity, so if you are a seafood lover, make use of the opportunity. Despite being a tented camp, the kitchen is modern and fully equipped. We can also pack a picnic meal if you wish to do a long dune walk, a full day safari, or spend the day exploring the historical sites of the South.

Meal times are flexible depending on safari rounds and availability.
As the nearest township is not close, notice of meal plans is appreciated.

View Gallery

What our clients say

True journeys, told by people like you

“Excellent accommodation and service in close proximity to Yala National Park.

The tented accommodation was very comfortable and beautifully situated just behind the sand dunes near Yala National Park. The outdoor shower was a treat while the unique fittings were procured from nature. Walking the dunes with a guide and deciphering the animal tracks was a great experience. The staff and food were outstanding, including a beautiful barbecue looking out over the ocean. Very handy to Yala National Park and all it offers – we had a magnificent leopard experience.”

- Dr. hhunt Brisbane, Australia

“Memories for life!!!

We’ve stayed at Back of Beyond Dune Camp for 2 nights. During our stay we also booked an epic safari! In a way we might have been lucky that we’ve seen so many different species of wildlife but we believe that this was also due to the expertise of our excellent ranger Sanka.

The dune camp is a lovely place to stay right next to the sea. The dunes are georgous at sunset and the dune walk arranged by the campsite (again with Sanka) was an excellent way to already get acquainted with many of the birds to be seen in Yala NP and also provided stunning views overlooking the ocean on top of the white sandy dunes.”

- EFF

Memories for life!!!

We’ve stayed at Back of Beyond Dune Camp for 2 nights. During our stay we also booked an epic safari! In a way we might have been lucky that we’ve seen so many different species of wildlife but we believe that this was also due to the expertise of our excellent ranger. The dune camp is a lovely place to stay right next to the sea. The dunes are georgous at sunset and the dune walk arranged by the campsite was an excellent way to already get acquainted with many of the birds to be seen in Yala NP and also provided stunning views overlooking the ocean on top of the white sandy dunes. We’ve stayed in a awesome tent with a beautiful Seaview. It really was perfect and definitely one off the highlights during our 4 week stay in Sri Lanka. The staff is incredibly friendly and did everything to make our stay memorable. Especially on the last evening, they had a lovely surprise for us.. Which I do not want to spoil!! Just go there, enjoy and definitely book a safari tour with their naturalist!

EFF, 2022, Travelled as a couple

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.

Walker, Australia, 2025, travelled as a family

A unique and unforgettable residential experience

Excellent location and surrounding environment. The hotel is next to a large private beach where you can have a close contact with nature. It is very pleasant to watch the stars at night or study the wildlife on the beach in the morning. The staff provides warm and thoughtful service and relatively good meals. It is a miracle to operate such a hotel under such natural  conditions. This is the most unforgettable accommodation experience in my life.

Huiying, China, 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.

Jiayu. Thailand, 2025

Excellent Accommodation and Service in close proximity to Yala National Park.

The tented accommodation was very comfortable and beautifully situated just behind the sand dunes near Yala National Park. The outdoor shower was a treat while the
unique fittings were procured from nature. Walking the dunes with a guide and deciphering the animal tracks was a great experience. The staff and food were outstanding, including a beautiful barbecue looking out over the ocean. Very handy to
Yala National Park and all it offers – we had a magnificent leopard experience. Tip: Be prepared to get some sand between your toes while you enjoy the marvellous hospitality at the Dune Camp.

drhhunt, Australia, 2024, Traveled as a couple

Amazing location and host with the most
Host with the most!

Chandi really made me feel welcome during my stay at Back of
Beyond. He went the extra mile to ensure my stay was a positive experience. Organising an amazing al fresco BBQ and tour of the sand dunes at sunset. He also organised my tour of Yala, packed a lovely snack for the trip, made a great tea Sri Lankan tea which was delivered to my tent when I woke up 5:30 for the tour and cooked a great breakfast for when I returned. He and the team made the experience very special. The tents themselves are set in a great location. You can hear the waves crashing in the distance and the experience is extremely authentic! Very much recommend this place.

Olivia, United Kingdom, 2022

Read more reviews

TripAdvisor Reviews Google Reviews

Other locations

Your gateway to wild, soulful Sri Lanka

Pidurangala

Jungle Hideaway

The closest accommodation to Pidurangala rock, tucked into its forested foothills are our tree-houses and cottages. At the entrance, cut off from the cottages, is a café and ayurveda centre. Sigiriya is 10 minutes away.

Learn More Reservations
Dehigaha Ela

Wild Haven

Secluded in the wild, our eco-lodge sits among streams, forested slopes and open grasslands. Boulder cottages, tree houses and a family bungalow rest in the trees, where days begin with birdsong and end with owls.

Learn More Reservations
Kahandamodara

Wellness Retreat

Set on 14 acres of forest and garden, our villas and bungalows open onto orchards, butterfly trails and green lawns. A pool and Ayurveda centre offer space to unwind, a few minutes from Tangalle and Ambalantota.

Learn More Reservations
Kandy

Weir House

In the central hills of Ulapane, our boutique villa rests in a lush spice and coffee garden. With gourmet meals, contemporary artworks, a swimming pool and mountain trails, it is an ideal hideaway for rest and exploration.

Learn More Reservations
Anuradhapura

Water’s Edge Bungalow

Situated on the banks of Tissawewa Tank, with direct views of three ancient stupas Ruvanvelisaya, Mirisavetiya and Jetavanarama. This villa is a comfortable family home with three air-conditioned bedrooms.

Learn More Reservations
Book Now

Call Now