Hilton Yala Rangers Earn Prestigious CyberTracker Track & Sign Certifications Following International Evaluation Programme

Hilton Yala Rangers Earn Prestigious CyberTracker Track & Sign Certifications Following International Evaluation Programme

Hilton Yala Resort’s Rangers’ Team has achieved another significant milestone in professional wildlife guiding and conservation education, with multiple team members successfully earning CyberTracker Track & Sign certifications following an intensive evaluation programme conducted at Yala National Park.

The certifications were awarded under the internationally recognised CyberTracker Conservation evaluation system, developed by renowned conservationist and scientist Louis Liebenberg. The CyberTracker standard is widely regarded as the global benchmark for assessing wildlife tracking skills and ecological observation.

The successful candidates were awarded Track & Sign I, Track & Sign II, and Track & Sign III Secondary Certificates, demonstrating their proficiency in identifying and interpreting animal tracks, signs, behaviour, and ecological interactions in natural environments.

The assessments were conducted by internationally respected wildlife tracking experts Mr. Lee Gutteridge and Dr. Kersey Lawrence (PhD), who recently returned to Hilton Yala Resort to lead an advanced wildlife tracking and ecology programme.

Mr. Gutteridge is the founder of Nature Guide Training, one of Southern Africa’s most respected field guide training institutions. With more than three decades of field experience, Lee is one of only a handful of FGASA Scout Guides—the highest guiding qualification awarded by the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA). He is also a Master Tracker, wildlife author, CyberTracker evaluator, and guide trainer whose graduates work at some of Africa’s finest safari lodges.

Joining him was Dr. Lawrence, founder of Original Wisdom, scientist, educator, and internationally recognised tracking specialist. Dr. Lawrence is the first woman in the world to earn the title of Senior Tracker within the CyberTracker system and is also a qualified CyberTracker evaluator. Her doctoral research focused on the ecology and culture of tracking, and she has become a leading voice in ecological literacy and wildlife tracking education globally.

“The enthusiasm, dedication, and professionalism demonstrated by the Hilton Yala Rangers throughout the evaluation process were truly impressive,” said Mr. Gutteridge. “Tracking is one of the most powerful ways to understand wildlife and ecosystems, and these certifications reflect the team’s commitment to developing world-class field skills that enhance both conservation and guest experiences.”

“What stood out throughout the programme was the team’s willingness to learn, observe, and continually refine their understanding of the natural world,” said Dr. Lawrence. “The ability to read the stories written across the landscape through tracks and signs is a skill that requires patience, curiosity, and dedication. It is encouraging to see such passion for wildlife tracking and conservation here in Sri Lanka.”

Hilton Yala’s Rangers’ Team is led by Sajith Withanage, Head Ranger, Sri Lanka’s first FGASA-certified field guide and a CyberTracker Track & Sign Professional, whose efforts have helped establish Hilton Yala’s ranger programme as one of the most advanced wildlife interpretation teams in the country. The resort’s rangers are trained to international standards and lead guests through immersive wildlife experiences rooted in conservation, ecology, and education.

“I am incredibly proud of what our team has achieved,” said Sajith Withanage, Head Ranger at Hilton Yala Resort. “These certifications are the result of countless hours spent in the field learning, observing, and refining our skills. To be evaluated and recognised by internationally respected experts such as Mr. Lee Gutteridge and Dr. Kersey Lawrence is a tremendous achievement. More importantly, it strengthens our ability to interpret the wilderness for our guests while contributing to the broader understanding and conservation of Sri Lanka’s wildlife.”

As Hilton’s only wildlife resort globally, Hilton Yala Resort continues to invest in the professional development of its Rangers’ Team, ensuring guests benefit from experiences led by highly trained wildlife professionals. From safari drives and birdwatching excursions to ecology walks and conservation-focused experiences, the resort remains committed to delivering authentic encounters that deepen appreciation for the natural world.

This latest achievement further reinforces Hilton Yala’s position as a leader in wildlife interpretation, conservation education, and nature-based hospitality in Sri Lanka.

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.