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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Destination Guides

Explore Yala: Your Ultimate Leopard Safari Guide

April 30, 2026·7 min read·11 views

Discover the best time and tips for a Yala leopard safari. Enjoy reliable transfers with Colombo Airport Transfers.

Yala National Park, renowned for its dense leopard population, is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts traveling to Sri Lanka. With Colombo Airport Transfers, your journey to this wildlife wonderland is both comfortable and convenient. In this complete guide, we cover everything you need to know about planning a leopard safari in Yala.

Why Visit Yala National Park?

Yala National Park is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka, spanning over 1,000 square kilometers. Known for the highest leopard density in the world, it's a wildlife haven that also boasts elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Whether you're a solo traveler or visiting with a group, Yala offers an unforgettable experience.

When is the Best Time to Visit Yala for a Leopard Safari?

The ideal time to embark on a leopard safari in Yala is between February and July. During these months, water levels are lower, making wildlife sightings more frequent as animals gather around waterholes. Plan your visit accordingly to maximize your chances of spotting the elusive leopard.

What Are the Safari Options: Half Day vs. Full Day?

Yala offers both half-day and full-day safari options. A half-day safari typically lasts around 3-4 hours and costs approximately $50-$70 per person, including jeep hire. For a more immersive experience, opt for a full-day safari, priced around $90-$120 per person, allowing you to explore deeper into the park.

Which Block Should You Choose: Block 1 or Block 5?

Yala is divided into several blocks, with Block 1 and Block 5 being the most popular for leopard sightings. Block 1 is the most visited and offers a higher chance of encountering leopards, while Block 5, though less crowded, provides a more exclusive experience. Book your safari based on your preference for either a bustling or tranquil environment.

Accommodation and Travel: Where to Stay and How to Get There?

Most travelers base themselves in Tissamaharama, a short drive from Yala. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. To travel from Colombo to Tissamaharama, consider using Colombo Airport Transfers. Our English-speaking drivers ensure a hassle-free journey in comfortable vehicles, with fixed USD pricing and free child seats available upon request.

Can You Combine Yala with Udawalawe National Park?

Absolutely! Many visitors choose to combine their Yala safari with a visit to Udawalawe National Park, famous for its elephants. This makes for a well-rounded wildlife experience. With Colombo Airport Transfers, you can easily arrange transportation between the parks, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Plan Your Yala Safari with Colombo Airport Transfers

Ready to embark on a thrilling adventure at Yala National Park? Let Colombo Airport Transfers handle your travel logistics. With our reliable, friendly service, you'll enjoy a stress-free journey and a safari experience to remember. Book now to secure your spot and make the most of your Sri Lankan adventure.