Getting around Colombo is most practical with private car and driver services – a smart choice for both convenience and value. A comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver typically costs $70 per day for up to three people, making it reasonable when split among travelers.
I’m particularly fond of the full-day city tours because drivers double as informal guides, sharing local insights you won’t find in guidebooks. The half-day heritage tours are another gem, efficiently covering Colombo’s colonial architecture and bustling markets.
These services excel at flexibility – want to linger longer at that fascinating temple or make an unplanned stop at a spice market? No problem. Multi-day options work especially well for exploring further afield to Kandy or Sigiriya.
Let’s explore the most reliable car and driver services Colombo has to offer.
Key Points
- Merganser Holidays offers private car hire services with driver-guides in Colombo, providing air-conditioned vehicles, fuel, and accessibility for most travelers.
- The company provides customizable full-day and half-day city tours, covering iconic landmarks like Gangaramaya Temple and the National Museum.
- Positive reviews highlight knowledgeable driver-guides, high satisfaction levels, and a 97% traveler recommendation for day trips from Colombo or Negombo.
- The 7-day private car hire service starts at $361.98 per person, covering 1000 km of travel, with a lowest price guarantee and infant seat availability.
- Advance booking is highly recommended for both tours and day trips, with clear communication on fees and inclusions for a transparent booking experience.
Sri Lanka Car Rental With Driver per Day | Car Van or Minibus Rental With Driver
Travelers in Colombo can opt for a Sri Lanka car rental with driver, offering a convenient and personalized way to explore the region.
The service provides air-conditioned vehicles with private transportation, fuel, parking, and tourist guide charges included. Customers can plan their own itinerary with recommendations from the driver-guide, and choose from 1 to 15 days of rental.
Pickup is available from select hotels and the airport, and the price covers set daily mileage. Additional costs apply for exceeding the mileage limit.
The service is wheelchair accessible and most travelers can participate, with high customer satisfaction based on 67 reviews with a 5.0 rating.
Read our full review: Sri Lanka Car Rental With Driver per Day | Car Van or Minibus Rental With Driver Review
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Colombo: City Tour on a Private Car- Full Day & Half Day
For travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of Colombo, the city tour on a private car offers a hassle-free and personalized experience. Priced at €71.59 for up to 3 people, the full-day or half-day tour includes pickup from your location, transportation in a comfortable private car, and a knowledgeable English and Sinhalese-speaking guide.
The itinerary highlights iconic landmarks like the Gangaramaya Temple, Viharamahadevi Park, and the National Museum, with the flexibility to customize the tour based on your preferences. Inclusions like water bottles, umbrellas, and admission tickets ensure a seamless experience.
Whether you’re interested in cultural sights or modern attractions, this private car tour provides an in-depth look at Colombo’s diverse offerings.
Read our full review: Colombo: City Tour on a Private Car- Full Day & Half Day Review
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Galle Day Tour From Colombo or Negombo by Private Car , Van With Driver
Setting out on a day trip from Colombo or Negombo, travelers can explore the historic city of Galle aboard a private car or van with a personal driver.
This 97% traveler-recommended tour offers a comprehensive experience, including round-trip transfers, an English-speaking chauffeur, and a Madu River boat safari.
With a price starting from $80 per person, the tour provides excellent value, covering entrance fees, lunch, and mineral water.
While reviews highlight the positive aspects, such as the excellent lunch and the driver’s expertise, some travelers note long travel times and a lack of commentary.
Nonetheless, this private tour offers a convenient and personalized way to discover the charms of Galle.
Read our full review: Galle Day Tour From Colombo or Negombo by Private Car , Van With Driver Review
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Galle Fort Unesco WH Day Tour From Colombo in a Private Car
Discover the captivating UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle Fort on a comprehensive day tour from Colombo. Priced at $125.27 per person, this 8-hour private car tour allows you to explore Galle’s rich multicultural heritage.
You’ll witness the coexistence of colonial architecture and modern life, visiting over 25 key attractions like museums, monuments, churches, and mosques. Gain insights into Galle’s history from a licensed National Guide, and observe the region’s cultural diversity firsthand.
Customize your tour with optional add-ons such as a visit to a tea factory or turtle hatchery. With free cancellation and pay-later options, this tour offers a hassle-free way to discover the charm of Galle Fort.
Read our full review: Galle Fort Unesco WH Day Tour From Colombo in a Private Car Review
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Sri Lanka Personal Tour Driver in Private Vehicle
Experience the convenience of a private tour driver in Sri Lanka with this personalized transportation service.
With 202 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, this 5.0-rated service offers air-conditioned vehicles, bottled water, and WiFi.
Enjoy private transportation with fuel and parking fees included, plus the option of baby/child seats and strollers.
Your tour driver will pick you up at the airport or any location and drop you off at your preferred destination, including the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport.
This service is suitable for most travelers, with infant seats and stroller accessibility.
Benefit from free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience, and take advantage of the lowest price guarantee starting at $325 per group (up to 3 travelers).
Read our full review: Sri Lanka Personal Tour Driver in Private Vehicle Review
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6 Day Round Tour in Sri Lanka With Chauffeur
Travelers can set out on a comprehensive 6-day round tour of Sri Lanka, accompanied by a dedicated chauffeur. Priced from $215 per person, the private tour allows only your group to participate, ensuring a personalized experience.
The air-conditioned vehicle offers WiFi and accessibility features like wheelchair and stroller access, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.
With all fees and taxes included, the tour provides pickup arrangements and access to public transportation.
The tour has received excellent reviews, with a 5-star rating based on 7 reviews, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction.
Read our full review: 6 Day Round Tour in Sri Lanka With Chauffeur Review
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5 Days Private Vehicle With English Speaking Chauffeur
A 5-day private vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur allows visitors to explore Colombo, Sri Lanka at their own pace.
The package includes an air-conditioned vehicle, fuel for up to 750km, and the services of a chauffeur guide. Accommodations for the chauffeur and complimentary WiFi are also provided.
Visitors can expect to pay from $200 per person, with the final cost varying based on group size. The vehicle is available from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM on the second through fifth days.
However, early or late use incurs an additional charge. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants can sit on laps. Certain health and safety restrictions apply.
Read our full review: 5 Days Private Vehicle With English Speaking Chauffeur Review
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Sri Lanka Car and Driver Hire – Private Driver and Chauffeur
Frequently, Sri Lanka Car and Driver Hire offers private driver and chauffeur services to visitors exploring Negombo and beyond.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, the company provides English-speaking drivers in a variety of vehicles to meet clients’ needs.
Pickup and drop-off options include airports, hotels, ports, and anywhere across Sri Lanka.
The service includes parking fees, tolls, fuel, and taxes, while accommodation, entrance fees, and personal expenses are excluded.
Drivers work up to 10 hours per day, ensuring vehicle cleanliness, safety, and passenger comfort.
Booking confirmation and WhatsApp communication keep clients informed, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Sri Lanka Car and Driver Hire – Private Driver and Chauffeur Review
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Rent a Car With Driver in Sri Lanka-Book Multiday and Round Trip
Renting a car with a driver in Sri Lanka is a popular choice for multiday and round trips, allowing visitors to explore the island’s diverse landscapes at their own pace.
This service is recommended by 100% of travelers and boasts a 5.0 rating based on 11 reviews.
Travelers can enjoy private driver and chauffeur services throughout Sri Lanka, with airport, hotel, or port pickup.
The service includes an English-speaking driver, all parking fees, tolls, fuel, and taxes.
Additional charges apply for driver expenses and per kilometer usage.
Passengers must provide a WhatsApp number for communication, and the driver ensures a clean, fueled vehicle ready for the journey.
Adjustments to the itinerary can be made as needed, and the booking offers a lowest price guarantee with free cancellation.
Read our full review: Rent a Car With Driver in Sri Lanka-Book Multiday and Round Trip Review
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Colombo City Private Group Sightseeing and Shopping Tour With Driver
Offering a comprehensive tour of Colombo’s top attractions, this private group sightseeing and shopping excursion with a dedicated driver provides an immersive experience for visitors to explore the city’s vibrant culture and rich heritage.
With a 5-star rating and 9 glowing reviews, the tour boasts an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and the option for alcoholic beverages, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infants can sit on laps. Pickup is available from various Colombo locations, with an additional fee for those outside the city borders or near the airport.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, and a reserve now, pay later option is available, starting from $30 per person.
Read our full review: Colombo City Private Group Sightseeing and Shopping Tour With Driver Review
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Private Car Hire With Driver-Guide for 20 Days Round Tour
This private car hire with driver-guide service offers a comprehensive 20-day round tour across Colombo and beyond.
Starting at $838.03 per person, the tour covers 2200 km, with excess mileage billed at USD 0.26-0.35 per km.
The package includes private transport, driver-guide expenses, and airport meet-and-greet. Guests must arrange their own accommodation and meals.
With a 5-star rating from 4 reviews, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes with the comfort and flexibility of a private vehicle and knowledgeable driver-guide.
Advance booking is recommended, as cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start.
Read our full review: Private Car Hire With Driver-Guide for 20 Days Round Tour Review
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Private Car Hire for 07 Days With Driver-Guide
Merganser Holidays provides a 7-day private car hire service with a driver-guide in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Priced from $361.98 per person, the tour includes transportation by private vehicle, the driver-guide’s salary, food, and accommodation, as well as fuel, tolls, and taxes.
Travelers can meet the driver at Colombo International Airport or their hotel. The package covers 1000 km of travel, with excess mileage charged at $0.26-$0.35 per km. Infant seats are available.
While accommodation, food, and tips for the driver-guide are excluded, free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the tour.
With an impressive 5.0 rating from 3 reviews, this private car service is an excellent option for exploring Colombo.
Read our full review: Private Car Hire for 07 Days With Driver-Guide Review
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Sum Up
Sri Lanka offers a range of private car with driver services in Colombo to accommodate travelers’ needs. These services provide convenient and comfortable transportation options for city tours, day trips, and multi-day tours. Customers can choose from various vehicle types, such as cars, vans, or minibusses, and enjoy the flexibility of a private driver-guide. These services are a popular choice for exploring Sri Lanka’s attractions and destinations.