How much is a taxi from Colombo airport to Kandy?

A fixed-price taxi from Colombo Airport (Bandaranaike International, CMB) to Kandy starts from £54 / ~US$68 for a saloon (up to 4 passengers), from £70 / ~US$88 for a 6-seater MPV, and from £87 / ~US$110 for an 8-seater minibus. The price is fixed at booking with no hidden fees or surge pricing, and includes meet & greet at the arrivals hall.

How much does a taxi from Colombo airport to Galle cost?

Colombo Airport (CMB) to Galle starts from £70 / ~US$88 for a saloon, from £92 / ~US$115 for a 6-seater MPV and from £112 / ~US$140 for an 8-seater minibus. The drive takes about 2h 15m on the Southern Expressway. Bottled water and free child seats are included.

How do I pre-book a taxi from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)?

Enter your pickup (Colombo Airport / CMB) and drop-off on our home page, choose your date and flight arrival time, select a vehicle and pay online or on arrival. You receive instant email and SMS confirmation with your driver's name and phone number. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup.

Can I hire a private driver in Sri Lanka for my whole trip?

Yes. Private driver-and-car hire (known locally as a "chauffeur tour") is very popular in Sri Lanka. We offer daily rates from about US$65 per day for a saloon including driver, fuel and driver's meals/accommodation, with discounts for 7, 10 and 14-day itineraries. Ideal for the Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya–Kandy–Ella) or a full island tour.

How do I get from Mattala Rajapaksa Airport (HRI) to the south coast?

From Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI, near Hambantota) we operate fixed-price transfers to Tangalle (~45 min), Mirissa (~1h 15m), Yala (~1h) and Galle (~1h 45m). Useful for visitors on Colombo → Mattala domestic connections or charter flights. Pre-booking is recommended as public transport from HRI is limited.

Are baby seats and child seats available for Colombo airport transfers?

Yes — rear-facing baby seats (0–12 months), forward-facing child seats (9 months–4 years) and booster seats (4–12 years) are all available FREE of charge. Just tick the option when booking, or add a note, and the driver brings the correct seat to the arrivals hall.

How long does the drive from Colombo airport to Kandy take?

The drive from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to Kandy takes about 3h to 3h 30m depending on time of day. Early morning (before 7 am) is fastest. Our drivers monitor traffic and choose between the A1 via Kurunegala or the Central Expressway to keep the journey smooth.

Is it safe to use a pre-booked airport taxi in Sri Lanka?

Yes. Pre-booking a taxi avoids the main risks at CMB arrivals: unmetered touts, surge pricing and language barriers. Our drivers are licensed, insured and English-speaking, vehicles are air-conditioned and well-maintained, and you get a driver name, photo and plate number by email before you land.

What is the cheapest way to get from Colombo airport to Colombo city?

A fixed-price private taxi from Colombo Airport (CMB) to Colombo city starts from just £22 / ~US$28 for a saloon, and the drive takes about 40 minutes. This is faster and more comfortable than the airport bus (~LKR 200 / ~US$0.70 but slow with luggage) and removes the need to haggle with unmetered taxis at arrivals.

Do I pay in Sri Lankan Rupees, USD or GBP?

All prices on the site can be shown in GBP, USD, EUR or LKR — use the currency selector at the top of the page. You can pay online by card in any supported currency, or in cash to the driver in LKR or US$ at the pre-agreed fixed price.

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Travel Tips

Explore Sri Lanka with Kids: Family-Friendly Travel Guide

May 22, 2026·7 min read·8 views

Discover the best family-friendly sites in Sri Lanka, plus practical tips for traveling with kids including free child seats and island-wide transfers.

Travelling Sri Lanka with Children: Family-Friendly Guide

Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of experiences for families traveling with children. From its idyllic beaches to its rich wildlife, there’s something to keep every family member entertained. This guide will help you navigate the best family-friendly activities and provide practical tips for a hassle-free journey.

What Makes Sri Lanka a Family-Friendly Destination?

Sri Lanka's diverse landscape offers something for everyone, making it an ideal family destination. The country is safe and welcoming, with plenty of activities designed for children and adults alike. Colombo Airport Transfers can assist in your journey with reliable airport transfers available island-wide, ensuring comfort and ease of travel.

How Long Does It Take to Travel Between Key Destinations?

Traveling within Sri Lanka is relatively straightforward. Distances are short, but road conditions can vary, making reliable transport essential. For instance, Colombo to Bentota is approximately 80 km and takes around 1.5 hours by road. Colombo Airport Transfers provides fixed USD prices with English-speaking drivers, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

What Family-Friendly Beaches Can You Visit?

Sri Lanka boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Bentota is perfect for families due to its calm waters and sandy shores. Similarly, Mirissa offers safe swimming conditions and opportunities for whale watching, making it a hit with kids. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that free child seats are provided for all transfers.

Where Can You Experience Wildlife with Kids?

A visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a must. Located just 90 km from Colombo, this sanctuary allows children to engage with elephants in a safe environment. For older kids, a safari in Yala National Park will provide an unforgettable experience with opportunities to see leopards, elephants, and more.

What Are the Driving Distances and Times for Family Tours?

When planning a family tour, consider travel times to manage the energy levels of your young companions. Yala National Park is about 300 km from Colombo, translating to a 5-6 hour drive. The journey is comfortable when using a Toyota HiAce 9-Seater from Colombo Airport Transfers, accommodating up to 9 passengers with ample space for luggage.

What Kid-Friendly Food Can You Expect?

Sri Lankan cuisine is rich and varied, but you’ll also find plenty of kid-friendly options such as rice, noodles, and mild curries. Many restaurants offer western dishes too, ensuring even the pickiest eaters are satisfied.

Conclusion: Ready to Book Your Family Adventure?

Embark on a family adventure to Sri Lanka with peace of mind. Colombo Airport Transfers offers island-wide services, with courteous drivers who ensure your journey is as delightful as your destination. Book your transfer today and make unforgettable memories with your family.

For more information, visit the official site or check out detailed travel guides on Sri Lanka Tourism.