Hiring a driver for the culture, wildlife and beach route

The culture, wildlife and beach route has seven moves, including the long drive from Kandy to Udawalawe, and several stops with no railway, such as Sigiriya, Udawalawe and Yala. A private driver makes every move simple: door to door, with luggage in the car and stops wherever you like.

For two or more people, a driver is often similar in cost to a mix of public transport, taxis and tuk-tuks, and far more comfortable. A good driver also knows the best times to visit sites, the best places to eat and how to avoid crowds.

Many travellers find their driver one of the highlights of the trip.

There are two main options. A driver handles the driving and logistics, speaks some English and gives basic information. A driver-guide is licensed by the tourism authority, speaks good English and can guide at many sites, though specialist guides are still recommended at the ancient cities.

For this route, a driver-guide is usually worth the extra cost, especially for the culture week. For travellers who plan to hire specialist guides at each site, a driver may be enough.

Whichever you choose, ask for a driver who has done the route before, especially the day 7 road through Ratnapura and the safari areas around Udawalawe and Yala. Experience matters more than the vehicle.

Most quotes for a fourteen-day driver include the vehicle, fuel, the driver's salary, the driver's food and accommodation, highway tolls and parking. Drivers usually stay in dedicated driver accommodation at hotels, often free or cheap; check that your hotels provide it.

Entry tickets, safari jeeps, site guides, whale watching and tips are usually extra. Confirm what is included in writing, including the airport transfers on days 1 and 14 and any extra mileage for detours.

Ask about the driver's daily hours and rest days, and whether waiting time is included.

For two people, a car is comfortable. For three or four, a larger car or a van gives more room for luggage. For families and small groups, a van with air conditioning is best. On the long day 7 drive, comfort matters: ask for a vehicle with good suspension and seat belts in every seat.

Ask for child seats in advance if needed, as they are not standard. Check that the vehicle is insured for tourists and that the driver is licensed.

Safari jeeps are separate from your driver. Each park requires a registered safari jeep with its own driver and tracker. Your private driver will usually arrange the jeep, drop you at the meeting point and collect you afterwards. Some safari lodges include jeeps in their rates.

Lankan Stays & Trails arranges the private driver and safari jeeps together, so the timing works smoothly and the jeep drivers know your expectations.

Tipping is customary in Sri Lanka, and drivers usually receive a tip at the end of the trip, based on the number of days and the quality of service. Many travellers also tip safari drivers and trackers, site guides and hotel staff. A good driver earns a generous tip.

Treat your driver as part of the team. Let them know your preferences for pace, food and stops. Avoid asking them to drive after dark or for very long hours, and give them a break during long sightseeing days.