Our daily rates
Prices are for the whole vehicle with driver, not per person. A family of four in a van pays one daily rate, not four.
Private vehicle with driver
Whole vehicle, not per person. Your quote depends on the route, vehicle and number of days. US$ figures are approximate.
What changes the price
- The vehicle — a car for 1–3 people costs less than a van for larger groups
- The number of days — longer tours usually work out cheaper per day
- The distance you travel — long driving days cost more than short hops
- Late-night airport pickups or very early starts
- Peak season (around December to April) when demand is highest
What a driver quote usually covers
Driver quotes in Sri Lanka are normally for the private vehicle, the driver's time and the driving itself. Whether fuel, highway tolls, parking and the driver's own room and meals are included varies between companies — always check this before you book.
With RideWay Lanka, your written quote lists exactly what is covered for your route, so there are no surprises on the road.
What is never included
- Your hotels and meals
- Entrance tickets to sites such as Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa or the Temple of the Tooth
- Safari jeeps (Yala, Udawalawe, Minneriya) and whale-watching boats
- Train tickets, for example the scenic train to Ella
Daily distance limits
Some companies include a fixed number of kilometres per day and charge extra above it. Ask about this when you compare prices — a cheaper daily rate with a low kilometre limit can end up costing more on a long tour.
Tipping your driver
Tipping is customary in Sri Lanka but always your choice. Many travellers give a tip at the end of the tour if they were happy with the service. There is no fixed amount.
Driver or licensed guide?
A private driver (chauffeur) drives you between places and can share local tips. At major sites you can hire an official licensed guide at the entrance if you'd like a detailed tour.
How to compare quotes
- Send the same plan to each companySame dates, group size and route, so quotes are comparable.
- Check what's includedFuel, tolls, parking, the driver's room and meals, and any distance limit.
- Look at real reviewsTripadvisor and Google reviews from recent travellers are the best guide to service.
- Get it in writingConfirm the route, the price and what's included before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to hire a driver for longer?
Usually, yes. Multi-day tours tend to have a lower price per day than single days or one-way transfers.
Is the price per person?
No. Our prices are for the whole vehicle with driver, so it's shared by everyone travelling.
Do I pay for the driver's hotel?
It depends on the company. With RideWay Lanka, your quote states clearly whether the driver's accommodation is covered.
Planning a trip?
Tell us your dates and ideas — we reply personally on WhatsApp.