Getting around Sri Lanka
General information
Due to the long distances between each of our trips and the heavy traffic on the roads, driving in Sri Lanka can be an adventure in itself. But because we want you to get the most out of your time in the country, we’ve chosen a private car with English-speaking driver and air conditioning as the primary form of transport during your trip. This way, you can see the best of the country at your own pace and stop off whenever and wherever you like en route.
Private car with local driver
We think this is the best way to travel around Sri Lanka; you can fully enjoy the journey and make stops to take photos. You’ll have your own private driver and air-conditioned car. Travel in comfort as you pass by vast tea plantations, temples and unspoilt villages. Your driver also speaks English, so feel free to ask them any questions along the way.
Train through the countryside
If you decide to travel to Ella, you’ll most likely get there by train. This train journey is known among travellers as one of the most beautiful in Sri Lanka, so it’s well worth giving up your private car and driver for this part of your trip. We’ll buy you a 2nd class ticket so you’re travelling with the local people. You’ll ride past impressive mountains and spectacular gorges until you arrive at the station where your driver will meet you.
Seaplane to the Maldives
Travelling with meaning
Aside from the train journey to Ella, it’s not particularly easy to get around Sri Lanka by public transport, so you’ll mainly travel by private car. But you can make up for this by eating in local places as much as possible and exploring each destination by foot or bicycle if you can. You never know what you might find. There are some lovely short treks to enjoy in Horton Plains and around Ella, and travelling by foot is always a great way to meet local people. As your driver might not be with you at all times, why not test out those haggling skills and travel by tuk-tuk?
