Best time to visit yala national park

Kandy-Yala: train to Ella and next day (!) bus, or simply AC express bus to Tissa; a transfer at Eliya might be needed. Cinnamon Wild Yala. Connect with Yala Safari Holidays. One interesting fact about Sri Lanka is that it offers guaranteed elephant sightseeing. Sri Lanka’s high season coincides with the coming of the best weather in the south and west of the country. For the winter enthusiasts, December to February at Yala will be most enjoyable! With the average temperature varying between 32. The park is closed for a short period each year for maintenance purposes, usually in September. Jun 25, 2023 · Map Of Yala National Park . With breathtaking scenery and a thriving wildlife population, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province. Yala is the busiest and most popular park in Sri Lanka, and with good reason. Safari Timings: 5. Only part of the park is open to the public. Keep In mind that the best time to enter the park is when the park opens just after 6:00am or after 4:00pm when animals resurface after taking cover from the sun. Spring (March-May) With an average temperature of 32. During this time, the park’s water sources dry up and the vegetation is also less dense, which makes it easier to spot wildlife at the remaining waterholes. The park welcomes visitors year-round, but the best time to go varies based on different factors such as weather, animal sightings, and personal preferences. Feb 12, 2024 · Best time of year to visit Yala National Park. The most well-known and popular Sri Lanka safari destination, Yala National Park is famous for its magnificent leopard population – there’s estimated to be between 40-60 in this park. It is best to visit the park during a weekday when the traffic is much less as the park is less crowded during that time. Being one of the famous destinations for wildlife Nov 30, 2020 · Best Time To Visit Lunugamvehera National Park. Aug 1, 2023 · The peak season for leopards is February and March. If you’re interested in birdwatching, the best time to visit is Look at the distance and travel time that will get you to Yala. With the water levels lower, it's easier to spot animals coming out to the lagoons to drink. Here are the detailed options: 1. The morning safaris in Yala national park take place between 6. 00 pm to 6. 6°C, Yala weather’s usually hot and dry, with sporadic rains that occur about a week or less in a month. Yala covers nearly 130,000 hectares with lush forests, scrubs, grasslands, and beautiful lagoons. 00 am to 10. What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Yala National Park for Wildlife Spotting? The best time for wildlife spotting at Yala National Park is during the dry season, from February to July. Knowing your hosts will make the adventure all the more memorable. sri lanka. Mar 5, 2024 · In fact, you won’t see leopards in Udawalawe National Park. The average high during this season is between 90. During this time, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife. Embark on an exhilarating safari adventure in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka, with convenient transfer from Colombo. At this time of the year, the animals come out to drink, so you will have a greater chance of spotting them. In addition, the morning safaris free up the rest of your day to relax around the pool or do a bike tour around our village. 3 How to get to Yala National park ; 8. This page contains details about yala safari guided tours in Yala National Park offered by Yala Safari Holidays and details about Flame Back Luxury Tented Safari Camp. 00 am and 9. 00 pm. Yala safari Sri Lanka tours usually last 3-4 hours and can access the park through one of the three park entrances: Palatupana (out of Tissa), Katagamuwa and Galge (out of Kataragama). We can arrange this safari jeep tour for you to have a memorable time inside the national park. 2 How long should I stay in Yala National park? 8. There is no “best time” to visit – instead, all year round, Yala has a variety of experiences to keep visitors engaged. Read about travel essentials and get inspiration from the best guide to Yala Best time to visit Yala National Park - weather updates, best season for activities & sightseeing in Yala National Park and to experience the beauty of Yala National Park COVID-19 Travel Guidelines Travel Agents / Affiliates The Leopards of Yala. 7 Days / 6 Nights. Rough Guides® is a trademark owned by Apa Group with its headquarters at 7 Bell Yard London WC2A 2JR, United Kingdom. Whether you are captivated by leopards, mesmerized by birdlife, or simply yearning for a serene escape, Yala National Park promises an unforgettable wilderness experience. Situated approximately 300 kilometers from the capital city of Colombo, the park is easily accessible by road and takes around 6-7 hours to reach. Aug 22, 2023 · Yala National Park in Sri Lanka. When is the best time to go? We've heard many people say that February is the best time to see leapords. But generally, the period between February and June is considered ideal. Access to the Yala National Park. Mar 11, 2021 · Yala national park is indeed one of the reasons to visit Sri Lanka to make your trip to Sri Lanka a complete experience. 00 am . Sri Lanka’s oldest and second largest national park, Yala is situated on the island’s south-eastern corner, roughly 100 miles from Galle. The average temperature in Yala remains around 26. Start with its history; geography and the inhabitants. Yala National Park All-Inclusive 2-Day Safari At The Leopard Nest Campsite . When is the best time to visit Yala National Park? Travel is year-round except for September and the first half of October when the park is closed for about six weeks. Each animal has incredibly unique features, behaviors, feeding patterns etc. 5. The dry season is the ideal time between February and July as water levels of the park are quite low. It boasts the highest density of leopards in Asia as well as sloth bears, crocodiles, deer and a plethora of birdlife. Plan your trip carefully, however – such is Yala's appeal that the main tracks Feb 8, 2017 · When: The best time to spot leopards at Yala National Park is June to August when rainfall is lightest. Apr 25, 2024 · Yala National Park in Sri Lanka offers a unique experience depending on the season you choose to visit. 🤩 …Or, for the ultimate safari experience, check out this epic 2-night camping safari in Wilpattu. A protected area, Yala covers more than 900 sq km (378 sq miles), making it one of Sri Lanka's biggest national parks. Mar 19, 2024 · Full-day safari tours in Wilpattu, booked in advance, can cost anything from $150–200 USD per person. Oct 6, 2023 · #2 Yala National Park. Note – Yala national park is not open to tourism in September. Other facts from our historical weather data: Which months have the greatest rainfall in Yala National Park? Most rainfall (rainy season) is seen in October, November and December. December to April provides the best time to visit the most popular beach destinations on the west and southern coast, wildlife spotting such as seeing leopards in Yala National park, and cultural attractions in the centre of the island. Route: Colombo to Tissamaharama, then Tissamaharama to Yala National Park. Explore Sigiriya, Dambulla Cave temple, Minneriya, Kaudulla, and Hurulu national park. The park’s unique ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, including sloth bears, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Sri Lanka has over 26 national parks and going on a safari is a popular activity during a usual Sri Lanka Route. Feb 22, 2023 · As with most things in Sri Lanka, visiting Udawalawe National Park can be done without breaking the bank, especially when compared to African safaris. Visit the Yala National Park during this time of the year to get the best view of leopards. Hi there, No real 'best time' except to avoid September to November; to dry and sometimes even closed to avoid agressive animal behaviour. Ancients believe it to be so pious that you shouldn’t consume meat or alcohol before stepping in. Colombo to Yala is easier, use the direct express buses to Kataragama and you're closeby already. Because Yala National Park is located in the “dry zone” of Sri Lanka, the climate here is hot and occasionally humid. Plan your visit to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka with Rough Guides. The best way to visit Yala National Park is with a sunrise tour, which starts at 4:30 AM until 12 PM. Ride in a 4-wheel jeep with a tracker to locate wild animals like elephants, crocodiles, and monkeys. SameeraMJ. A night at Cinnamon Wild Resort costs about anwhere from $150 – $300 USD Depending on Season and choice of suites. The ideal times for the safaris in Yala National Park are 5. Sri Lanka specialist Lauren. Yala is the most popular national park in Sri Lanka, and for good reason! It is famous for its high leopard population (40-50 within Yala), which is actually the highest leopard density in the world! Despite this, it’s not guaranteed to see a leopard, as they are very elusive. May 26, 2023 · The park is open for visitors year-round, but the best time to visit Yala National Park is generally from February to July when the weather is dry, and animals are more active. The tour overview of the Yala Safari Tour at Yala National Park includes options for half-day, full-day, or morning tours, all of which provide the opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife, such as leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and wild boars, while avoiding the crowds. 30 PM, closed from September - October. Northwest of Batticaloa, Maduru Oya is one of the least visited national parks in Sri Lanka. First, there are the park entry fees. You can expect temperatures in Yala National Park during August to range from 27. In that time, the animals are very active in the morning and in the late afternoon. Feb 24, 2024 · Visiting Yala National Park is truly an amazing experience that leaves you relaxed and excited at the same time. The best time to visit Yala National Park largely depends on what you’re hoping to see and do. 4°C. 30 am. There are also two adjoining parks, Kumana National Park or 'Yala East' and Lunugamvehera National Park. Situated in Sri Lanka’s south-east hugging the panoramic Indian Ocean, Yala was designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and was designated a national park in 1938. A shared tour costs $55 per person and a private tour costs $130 for 2 people. Nov 23, 2021 · Image Source Located in the 4th block of Yala National Park, Kebiliththa is one of the most religious and sacred places to visit in Yala. Forming a total area of 1268 sq km of scrub, light forest, grassy plains and brackish lagoons, it's very rich in wildlife and you're virtually certain to encounter elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes and monkeys. Jan 12, 2023 · Big Game – Yala by Eco Team Yala National Park Safaris. Best Time To Visit Yala National Park. Ironically, the park was initially used as a hunting ground for the elite under British rule. Feb 29, 2024 · Bundala National Park opening times 2024 – 6am to 6pm everyday, with last entry at 4. Yala (යාල) National Park is the most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka, bordering the Indian Ocean. Safaris. The best time to visit Yala is between February and June. Apr 27, 2023 · The best time to visit Yala National Park is between February and July when the park’s wildlife is most active and visible. The exact price depends on the operator, the size of your party, and whether you need transport to/from the park. A private safari costs $90 per person. 30 AM & 2. Also, Yala was titled as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and identified as a biodiversity hotspot in the world. The late afternoon jeep safaris take place between 3. February and May are also good months. Religious Sites. Home to some of the finest safari parks, the southern part of the country is where we focus our attention…. During September and October, you'll find the water level here going down and if you really want to see some big herds of Asiatic elephants then you must visit between October and January. Apr 14, 2018 · Costs for A Safari in Sri Lanka with Overnight in Yala. 8°C to 31°C on average. Answered: Hey guys, Me and three of my friends (all Americans) are thinking about making a trip to Yala. PARK ENTRY FEES. When you book a safari in Yala National Park we recommend you book with following service providers. The park has opened in 2002, is surrounded May 18, 2023 · The best time to visit Yala National Park Yala National Park is renowned for its leopard population & a host of other appealing mammals. Ask a question. 1 When is the best time of year to visit Yala National park for a safari? 8. Animals gather near water sources, making it easier to spot leopards, elephants, and other fascinating wildlife. This is one sacrifice you need to make if you choose to do a safari in Udawalawe National Park. The reserve borders the Indian Ocean on its southern and eastern sides, and is home to over 250 species of birds and mammals. Jan 19, 2024 · The most popular safari destinations in Sri Lanka are Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, but there are also several other parks and reserves that offer safari experiences, such as Minneriya, Wilpattu, and Kaudulla. When people hear that Sri Lanka is affecting by two different monsoons and these both affect different parts of the country, planning a Sri Lanka safari suddenly appears more complicated; but actually if you focus your mind on when is the best time to visit Yala national park or any other wildlife sanctuary you are interested in, you This park is open throughout the year with safari facility. The park is divided into five blocks. So, during these months you can travel comfortably. Whatsapp Only : +94 772 335051. During this time, the water level is lower, and animals come out in the open in search of water, increasing the chances of animal sightings. There are two different times of day that Yala safari tours are allowed visiting Yala National Park, 6 am and 2 pm. 4 How much does a Yala national Park ticket cost? 9 Yala National Park – where to stay? No real 'best time' except to avoid September to November; to dry and sometimes even closed to avoid agressive animal behaviour. 00 pm and 6. Oct 24, 2023 · This is the most visited and second largest national park in the country and for good reasons. $450 per person. The dry season in Yala National park is from May to September, but the good thing is that Yala is an all-year-round destination. Our afternoon safaris usually start around 2:30 pm and are a great option if you want the chance to see nocturnal animals and However, you can take the taxi to Koggala (KCT) airport, fly to Weerawila (WRZ), then travel to Yala National Park. 10 Days / 9 Nights. Best Time for Safari. You may also opt for a full day tour. Note: Yala National Park is usually closed for maintenance during the month of September. 8. Kurunegala to Yala- 174 kilometers. Yala National Park is situated in the southeast region of Sri Lanka’s teardrop-shaped island and stretches over the two provinces, Hambantota and Monaragala. Believed to be God Katharagama and God Skanda’s favorite spot for meditation, Kebiliththa is visited most for this popular belief to soak in the calm. Though Yala is a year-round destination, one should visit between June to September for the most comfortable and pleasant weather, and high chances of leopard sightings. Providing almost guaranteed sightings of the Apr 5, 2024 · 2. Kebiliththa. 1. Yala National Park Travel Packages. The safari times are bound to be morning and afternoon only. From leopard spotting to diving shipwrecks – expert tips, on Yala Safari jeep tours, the kind of wildlife spotting that’d make any naturalist’s head The best time to visit Yala National Park is from February to July when the water levels are low and more animals gather together near the larger sources of water. In fact, Yala has the highest density of leopards in the world, making it the best place to spot these elusive and majestic cats. The afternoon safari spans from 3. The average temperature in the park is stable all over the year and it around 28-32 Celsius. It owes its fame to the fact that it has one of the most numerous leopard populations per square kilometer in the world. Regular Bus Service. The best time of year to visit Yala National Park in Sri Lanka. Cost: 250 to 550 rupees. Apr 28, 2020 · There are several ways to travel from Colombo to Yala National Park, each offering different experiences and convenience levels. Get Quotes >. Yala National Park is one of the largest and most popular parks in Sri Lanka. The morning safari spans from 6. The Yala National Park is quite remote, and therefore it’s almost inevitable to visit a town named Tissamaharama. Get out in the wild and enjoy the greatest safari experience in yala national park with us. Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free. Best Time To Visit Yala National Park: May and June is the best time to visit Yala, and this time the national park becomes lush green after the rains. Additionally, the water sources within the park dry up, forcing animals to gather around the remaining waterholes, increasing your chances of seeing a variety of Answer 1 of 7: Hey guys, Me and three of my friends (all Americans) are thinking about making a trip to Yala. In my opinion, a private tour is definitely not needed as the jeeps are with a maximum of 6 people. And during the morning tour or 2. The dry season (February to June) is the best time to visit Yala National Park. By dr_nilusha. Yala is Sri Lanka's most famous national park. The best time to visit is during the drier months: June, July, August and September. Bundala National Park entrance fee 2024 – The ticket price to Bundala National Park is $10 USD converted into rupees on the day of your visit. 30pm. Situated in Yala National Park’s 4 th block, Kebiliththa is the best place for religious reverence, amidst the Hindu and Buddhist communities. 00 am. Do your homework by reading up on wildlife, its destruction and get to know the park you are preparing to visit. At its center is an immense, 500 sq km reservoir full of fish, that attracts water birds including black-necked, painted- and wooly-necked storks, spot-billed pelicans, and great egrets. The main entrance to the park is located in Tissamaharama, and reaching the park’s Palatupana entrance involves a scenic drive of approximately 305 km from Colombo. Airlines. You may go on a jeep safari to explore the park. The blocks have individual names, such The Yala National Park Safari Tour from Ella offers an exhilarating adventure for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. 00 pm and the full day safari spans from 6. Not all of them are easily accessible to visitors. From Colombo: 8-Day Private Tour of Sri Lanka with Transport. The park’s USP is its leopards: Yala is possibly the best place on earth to see these majestic cats. Yala is not accessible on foot, and all vehicles must keep on well-marked routes, never deviating from the road or allowing passengers to This site is owned by Apa Digital AG, Bahnhofplatz 6, 8854 Siebnen, Switzerland. Besides, the weather remains quite comfortable. Yala is Sri Lanka’s most visited national park. Yala isn’t only a hotspot for leopard Combining luxury, design and sustainability, Jetwing Yala hotel is a modernist masterpiece on the outskirts of Yala National Park, set in rolling sand dunes beside the ocean. Best time to visit. The best time for leopard sightings is in the hot summer months, from April to July. Jul 24, 2023 · Asia. Yala National Park is home to a rich diversity of animals, birds, and plants, but it is most famous for its leopards. Yala Safari Holidays, 2B, 1st Cross Street, Pagoda Road, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka. 6°C and intermittent rains that occur once or twice a month. On top of this there is a vehicle fee of 250 rupees, a service charge of $8 USD and 15% tax. According to recent studies Yala is said to have the highest concentration (as high as 01 km2) of the elusive Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya), “The Prince of Dusk”, the apex predator in Sri Lankan national parks and arguably the most versatile of all felines in adaptability on earth perhaps the most famous inhabitant of Yala. Wasgamuwa National Park May 10, 2023 · YALA NATIONAL PARK. While the leopards in Wilpattu are somewhat Mar 11, 2021 · Best for birds and Indigenous history. 00 am to 6. Should you be planning a safari in Yala National Park, try and visit in the dry season between February and July. Wilpattu National Park, characterized by its unique ‘willus’ (natural lakes), presents a more serene and less crowded alternative to Yala. Although it is a little busy in September since the Yala is closed in September. 29. Winter (December through February) Weather is perfect this time of year in Yala to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. How: Entrance fees to Yala National Park are $15 USD per person for a day visit and $30 USD for an overnight stay. No chance of seeing leopards, but a 100% chance of seeing elephants! The BEST Udawalawe National Park Safari Tours The weekend calls for a huge traffic commotion due to the many vehicles entering the Yala National Park during the time. Experience the Best Of Sri Lanka with Yala National Park. The closest town to Yala National Park is Tissamaharama, which serves Jan 14, 2024 · The best time to visit Yala is between February and July. 5°C and 30°C and an average rainfall of 3-9 days in a month. August may not be the best time to visit Yala National Park due to potentially unfavorable weather conditions. Jul 22, 2021 · During this time, it’s perfect to see the arrival of migratory birds from central Asia and the Himalaya. This is when wildlife sightings are at their most reliable, with lower water levels coaxing animals out into the open in their search for water. Bringing you closer to nature, this spot will leave your soul satisfied and happy. Aug 30, 2023 · Best time: March–October. Best Time to Visit Yala National Park The ideal time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from February to July. The best time to visit Lunugamvehera national park is from May to September. Dec 3, 2023 · Monitor lizard 2. Considering the optimal weather conditions for your visit to Yala National Park, the best time for safari in the park is from mid April to the end of August for optimal wildlife sightings. This is an excellent Sri Lanka safari that offers luxurious accommodation amongst the jungle with an all inclusive experience. The most favorable time to visit Yala National Park is from February to July when the water levels are low and most animals congregate at the same water source. Kaudulla National Park is one of the best national parks to spot Elephants in Sri Lanka. Best time to visit Yala National Park. Jul 15, 2021 · Sri Lanka weather and how it affects your leopard safari. During this period, vegetation is relatively dry, making it easier to spot animals. $481 per adult on twin sharing. Yala is home to 44 varieties of mammal and 215 bird species. Starting at $80 per person and with free cancellation available Yala National Park, nestled on Sri Lanka’s southeastern coast, is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise boasting a renowned leopard population and a diverse array of flora and fauna. However, timing your visit is crucial to your prospects, and provided is a guide to help you plan better. The Yala National Park consists of five blocks numbered from Block 1 Buduruwagala near Yala National Park - discover Timings, History, Best Time to Visit, trip duration, distance, near by places, location with route map & directions and photos. Nov 15, 2023 · Yala National Park is located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, in the hilly terrain of the country’s southern province. 30 am to 8. For the most reliable wildlife sightings, it's best to visit Yala in the dry season from February to June. The best time to visit Yala National Park is from February to July, which offers the best conditions for wildlife sightings and safaris. Moreover, there are many other spectacular animals and birds. Bird watching Yala National Park. Wilpattu National Park: Untouched Wilderness. Oct 12, 2016 · The best time to visit Yala National Park Yala is in a hot, semi-arid environment and temperatures range from 26-30 degrees Celsius (78-86 Fahrenheit) all year round, so it is possible to explore Yala throughout the seasons. . Best time to visit: The early morning tours offer the best chance to 8 Frequently asked questions about booking a Yala National Park safari. By Bus. With the Yala National Park situated in the southeast region of the country, its weather is driven by both cycles of Monsoons, more so by the north Feb 18, 2024 · The best time of year to visit Yala National park is during the dry season. The park normally closes each year for the month of September for maintenance. Kebiliththa - Siyambalawa devalaya. The most popular one is Block One which is home to approximately 40 leopards! Feb 12, 2024 · Look no further than Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s gem known for its stunning landscapes and incredible animal encounters. The davalaya doesn’t have any Best Time to Visit Yala National Park. 4. Asia. $806 per adult on twin sharing. Duration: Approximately 8 to 9 hours. Leave adequate time to arrive at the park at the planned entry time. If you seek moments of serendipity spent in the lap of mother nature, far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then this is the place for Mar 28, 2020 · You need to visit Yala national park either early in the morning or late afternoon to see animals. December to April. Imagine When planning your trip to Yala National Park, keep these weather conditions in mind for an unforgettable visit. It’s Sri Lanka’s largest national park and a fantastic place to see leopards in a more secluded setting. They are among the best places to go on a Sri Lanka safari and each national park in Sri Lanka has its own unique features. The best time of day to visit is either early morning (6 am – 9 am) or late afternoon (3 pm – 6 pm), as this is when wildlife is most active. Kebiliththa is considered to be highly sacred amongst the Buddhists and the Hindus and attracts visitors from all across the world. As such, spotting one of these illusive creatures is certainly very possible at Yala, hence why it’s a big hitter! Dec 3, 2023 · Visit the Minneriya National Park on this private tour from Habarana or Sigiriya. A twitcher’s paradise, the vast reserve is also home to hundreds of bird species, huge herds of Apr 14, 2023 · During this time, you might have a better chance of spotting leopards, elephants, and birds. COVID-19 Travel Guidelines The best time to visit Yala National Park is during the dry season, which runs from February to July. Yala Jeep Safari Bookings. 30 pm to 6. 5°F (32. It is the second in size among national parks in Sri Lanka. 00 pm on the afternoon tour. If you want an luxury safari sri lanka experience in Yala national park, then these spots will not fail to deliver. Alternatively, you can take a train from Galle Station to Yala National Park via Fort Station, Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal, and Kataragama in around 8h 50m. You’ll need to go to Yala National Park or Wilpattu National Park for that. Spring is in the air (March-May) Yala weather is hot and dry, with an average temperature of 32. On average, it rains or snows a fair amount: 3 to 9 times per month. Before visiting, you do need to know that there are generally two fees that need to be paid when taking a safari. The park consists of five blocks, three of which are now open to the public. 5°C) and 86°F (30°C). February through July is the best time to visit Yala National Park when the water levels are low and most animals end up turning at the same water spot. Ironically, it previously served as hunting grounds for the British elite. Jun 26, 2019 · The “Yala Complex” is a contiguous expanse of jungle that combines 5 blocks of nature reserves as well as Lunugamvehera National Park. But when is the best time to visit and witness the park in all its glory? While Yala welcomes visitors year-round, the dry season (February to June) emerges as the undisputed champion for wildlife sightings. For the most reliable wildlife sightings, the best time to visit Yala is between February and July when the water levels of the park are quite low, bringing animals into the open. Safaris, which start at around 6 am when the park opens or around 4 pm when the animals come back out after the harsh afternoon heat, are usually most successful. No real 'best time' except to avoid September to November; to dry and sometimes even closed to avoid agressive animal behaviour. Average temperatures range between Min 20°C (68°F) and Max 33°C (91°F). It is home to 200+ elephants, monkeys, crocodiles, and even a handful of leopards. Mar 28, 2024 · Ultimate guide for Yala National Park. Check out Cinnamon on TripAdvisor. A Complete Tour Of Ethereal Sri Lanka - Super Saver Package. See all. The minimum temperature typically hovers around 28°C, while the highest recorded temperature in August was 33°C back in 2016. We visited in January and saw a leopard so there’s hope outside of those months too. sy tk ha cp gr ys fm jt me jz