Hiring a car and driving yourself in Sri Lanka can only be recommended to a limited extent.
The British brought some good things to the island in colonial times, unfortunately including left-hand traffic.
Of course, at some point you get used to it, if it weren't for the typical Asian traffic. The roads in Sri Lanka are chaotic. People drive and overtake wherever there is even the slightest bit of space, and there is always proof that the vehicle has a horn.
Many Sri Lankans now alternatively offer their services as drivers and drive travelers all over the island, serving not only as drivers but also as tour guides.
Some with in-depth knowledge of Sri Lanka's history and the most remote sights, others... well.
An all-inclusive package (daily flat rate) with driver, vehicle, fuel, meals and accommodation for the guide should not exceed 75 euros for an English-speaking guide and 85 euros for a German-speaking guide (as of February 2024).
Travel guides & drivers for Sri Lanka
What are the benefits of having a guide in Sri Lanka
- You don't have to rent a car
- You don't have to fight your way through the chaotic traffic yourself
- Trips tailored to you, spontaneous and changeable at any time.
- Genuine private tours! No group tours with strangers.
What is included in the price?
- Private guide
- Driver
- Air-conditioned car
What is not included in the price?
- Meals
- Accommodation
- Entrance fees
Our recommendations for guides & drivers in Sri Lanka
Here you will find a list of guides & drivers from Sri Lanka that we can recommend with a clear conscience. You can simply send them an e-mail or Whatsapp message and make your request.
Dulshan
Name: Dulshan
Languages: Singalese, Tamil, English
Lives in: Colombo - Sri Lanka
Anton Onasius Fernando
Name: Anton Onasius Fernando
Languages: Singalese, English
Lives in: Nuwara Eliya - Sri Lanka
Frequently asked questions about private drivers in Sri Lanka
You hire the driver for as many days as you need him. This can range from a one-way trip of a few hours to a complete tour over several days.
Just let your driver know. He will meet you again when you need him.
Most drivers speak English. Sometimes good, sometimes worse. The drivers we have listed below all speak very good English. There are also German-speaking drivers.
We always booked the drivers for our trip about a day in advance.
As a rule, this is not a problem at all. As the drivers know each other, he will get you another Gudie.
Simply write to him via WhatsApp (see contact button on the respective guide) and discuss your plans with him.
Cab & Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka
If you only need a driver for short distances, e.g. from the hotel to the beach, you can use apps such as "Pick Me". We have always had good experiences with "Pick Me".
In the app, you can select the desired vehicle such as a tuk tuk, mini car, normal car or van.
The app can be downloaded for free here. https://pickme.lk/download
