Hilton Yala Rangers Strengthen Guiding Expertise with FGASA Qualification in South Africa
Sanka Abeysinghe, Senior Ranger Specialist at Hilton Yala Resort, completes FGASA NQF 2 Field Guide qualification and connects with the association’s senior leadership
YALA, Sri Lanka – September 2026 – Hilton Yala Resort continues to strengthen its commitment to internationally recognised wildlife guiding and responsible nature-based tourism, with Sanka Abeysinghe, Senior Ranger Specialist at Hilton Yala Resort, successfully completing his FGASA NQF 2 Field Guide qualification in South Africa.
The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) is recognised for establishing professional standards in nature guiding and developing field guides through structured education, practical training and assessment. Sanka’s achievement further enhances the depth of expertise within Hilton Yala Resort’s ranger team and supports the resort’s focus on delivering knowledgeable, responsible and engaging wildlife experiences.
During his time in South Africa, Sanka also had the opportunity to meet Michelle Bishop, Managing Director of FGASA, and Bernice Kelly, Standards & Operations Manager at FGASA. The interaction provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives on professional guiding, international standards, ranger development and the importance of meaningful interpretation in connecting guests with the natural environment.
For Hilton Yala Resort, situated alongside the remarkable wilderness of Yala National Park, the development represents another step in strengthening the resort’s wildlife-led guest experience. Through continued investment in professional development and internationally recognised qualifications, the resort aims to bring global guiding standards together with the deep local knowledge of Sri Lanka’s ecosystems and wildlife.
Sanoj Perera, Director of Marketing & Communication at Hilton Yala Resort, said: “Our rangers are at the heart of how our guests experience and understand the wilderness of Yala. Sanka’s achievement reflects our continued commitment to investing in our people and connecting local expertise with internationally recognised standards. Experiences such as these allow our team to bring back new perspectives, knowledge and best practices that ultimately enrich the journeys we create for our guests.”
Beyond traditional wildlife viewing, Hilton Yala Resort continues to place education, interpretation and conservation awareness at the centre of its nature-based experiences. Its ranger-led programming is designed to encourage guests to understand the wider ecosystem of Yala, from its celebrated wildlife to its landscapes, birdlife and biodiversity.
Sanka’s latest qualification further contributes to this approach, enabling knowledge gained through the FGASA framework to be shared among the resort’s wider ranger team and incorporated into guest experiences.
Through the continued professional development of its rangers, Hilton Yala Resort remains focused on creating wildlife encounters that are not only memorable, but also informed, respectful and rooted in a deeper appreciation of the natural world.
For more information and reservations, guests may contact Hilton Yala Resort via email at KDWYA_Safari@hilton.com or WhatsApp on +94 74 3911 892.
Hilton Yala Resort is part of Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 world-class brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount that can’t be found anywhere else and free standard Wi-Fi. Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check-in, choose their room and access their room using Digital Key.
For more information or to make reservations, please visit Hilton Yala Resort or call +94 47 255 5555.
Read more about Hilton Hotels & Resorts at stories.hilton.com.
About Hilton Hotels & Resorts
For over a century, Hilton Hotels & Resorts has set the benchmark for hospitality around the globe, connecting people, cultures and communities. Offering striking design and vibrant communal spaces—from buzzing lobbies to lively bars, best-in-class restaurants, and iconic event venues— Hilton Hotels & Resorts is the place to see and be seen in the world’s most sought-after destinations. With more than 600 hotels across six continents, Hilton Hotels & Resorts is where the world comes together, and travelers are masterfully hosted with expertise and care. Experience a legendary stay at Hilton Hotels & Resorts by booking at hiltonhotels.com or through the industry leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Hilton Hotels & Resorts at stories.hilton.com/hhr, and follow the brand on Facebook, X and Instagram.
About Hilton Yala Resort
Hilton Yala Resort is a luxurious 5-star full-service resort located on the southern edge of Sri Lanka, adjacent to the iconic Yala National Park and overlooking the Indian Ocean. With 42 stylish guest accommodations—including rooms, suites and private pool-villas—the resort marries sophisticated design with the immersive wilderness of the surrounding landscape.
Managed by Hilton Hotels & Resorts and owned by Wild Beach Resorts (Pvt) Ltd, Hilton Yala offers three dining venues, a spa, a fitness centre and a programme of curated experiences including guided safaris, bush walks and coastal excursions.
Designed with both comfort and sustainability in mind, the resort features expansive greenery, large windows that frame the natural surroundings, and a setting that encourages guests to engage with Sri Lanka’s rich wildlife heritage.
Whether travellers seek adventure, wildlife encounters or serene luxury, Hilton Yala Resort provides a distinctive getaway where nature meets refined hospitality.
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