Colombo Airport Transfer with Driver
Welcome toSri Lanka Drivers Booking – Your Trusted Airport Taxi Service for Safe, Fast & Comfortable Travel in Sri Lanka.Arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) and need a reliable transfer to Colombo city, your hotel, or other destinations like Kandy or Galle? This comprehensive guide covers all your options—from taxis and private transfers to buses—with clear costs, times, and trusted booking tips.
Your Main Colombo Airport Transfer Options
1. Private Airport Transfer Services (Most Recommended)
For convenience, comfort, and reliability, pre-booked private transfers are the top choice for tourists and business travelers. Services like Srilanka Drivers Booking offer:
- Door-to-door service directly to your Colombo hotel or specified address.
- Meet-and-greet – Your driver waits at arrivals with a name sign.
- Fixed, all-inclusive prices – No hidden costs or surge pricing.
- 24/7 availability, regardless of your flight’s arrival time.
- Clean, air-conditioned vehicles (cars, vans, SUVs) suitable for individuals, families, or groups.
Average Cost to Colombo City: LKR 4,500 – LKR 7,000 (approx. $15 – $22 USD) depending on vehicle type and exact destination.
Travel Time: 30 – 60 minutes, depending on Colombo traffic (typically 45 mins to Colombo Fort/Colombo 01).
2. Colombo Airport Taxis (Metered & Pre-Paid)
- Pre-Paid Taxi Counter: Located inside the arrivals hall. You pay a fixed fare at the counter before your journey. Receipt given.
- Metered Taxis: Available outside arrivals; insist on using the meter. Fares are slightly lower but subject to traffic delays.
- Average Taxi Price to Colombo City: LKR 4,000 – LKR 6,500. Always confirm if the price includes tolls and luggage.
3. Airport Transfer Bus: The Budget Option
- Express Bus (Route 187): Connects the airport to Colombo Fort (Central Bus Stand) via the Katunayake Expressway.
- Cost: Very economical at around LKR 300 – LKR 500.
- Travel Time: Approximately 60 minutes, excluding waiting time.
- Best For: Solo travelers on a tight budget with minimal luggage. Buses may be crowded and do not drop you at your hotel door.
4. Hotel Shuttle Services
Many Colombo hotels offer paid or complimentary airport pick-up. Always arrange this in advance with your hotel.
Key Destinations & Transfer Details from CMB Airport
| Destination | Recommended Transfer | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost (Private Car) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colombo City Centre (Fort, Galle Face) | Private Transfer or Taxi | 45 – 60 mins | LKR 5,000 – 7,000 |
| Colombo Hotels (Any address) | Pre-booked Private Transfer | 30 – 70 mins | LKR 4,500 – 7,500 |
| Kandy | Private Car/Van (Long Distance) | 3 – 3.5 hours | LKR 18,000 – 25,000 |
| Galle / Unawatuna | Private Car/Van (Coastal Route) | 3 – 4 hours | LKR 22,000 – 30,000 |
| Negombo Hotels | Taxi or Private Transfer | 15 – 20 mins | LKR 2,000 – 3,500 |
Why Book Your Colombo Airport Transfer in Advance?
- Avoid Scams & Overcharging: Agree on a fixed price before you travel.
- Save Time: No haggling or waiting in long taxi queues, especially during peak season.
- Guanteed Service: Your ride is confirmed, even for late-night arrivals.
- Professional Drivers: English-speaking, knowledgeable chauffeurs from trusted companies.
- Easy Booking: Secure online booking via services like Srilanka Drivers Booking takes just 2 minutes.
Reliable Transfers with Sri Lanka Drivers Booking
Colombo Airport Transfer Desk & Counters
Upon exiting baggage claim, you’ll see official pre-paid taxi counters and tour operator desks. While convenient, it’s often more cost-effective to have a transfer pre-booked online. If using the counter, always get a receipt stating the fare and destination.
What Do Travelers Say? (Colombo Airport Transfer Reviews)
Checking platforms like TripAdvisor and Reddit reveals common advice:
- “Pre-booking a private transfer was worth every rupee for the peace of mind.”
- “The airport bus is cheap but challenging with big suitcases.”
- “Always confirm if your taxi fare includes expressway tolls (usually LKR 500).”
Tips for a Smooth Airport Transfer
- Have Local Currency: Have some Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) for tolls or incidental expenses, even if you pre-paid.
- Communicate Your Flight Details: Always provide your flight number when booking so the operator can track delays.
- Confirm Meeting Point: Pre-booked services will specify a meeting point, often just outside arrivals.
- Consider Traffic: Morning (7-9 AM) and evening (4-7 PM) weekday traffic into Colombo can add significant time.
Book Your Reliable Colombo Airport Transfer Today
For the most hassle-free, comfortable, and professional transfer from Bandaranaike International Airport to Colombo or beyond, pre-booking is the smart traveler’s choice.
Ready to secure your ride? Visit Srilanka Drivers Booking to reserve your private, vetted airport transfer in seconds. We offer transparent pricing, instant confirmation, and 24/7 customer support—the perfect start to your Sri Lankan journey.
✈️ International Airports in Sri Lanka
Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) – Katunayake / Colombo
Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) – Hambantota
Jaffna International Airport (JAF) – Jaffna
Ratmalana International Airport (RML) – Colombo (limited international flights)
Why Tourists Love Our Service
- Safe for families and solo travelers
- Affordable compared to hotel taxis and airport counters
- Friendly local drivers who share tips and recommendations
- Quick customer support through WhatsApp or email
How It Works
- Send us your flight details
- Driver waits at the airport with your name board
- Enjoy a comfortable ride to your destination
Popular Airport Taxi Routes
Airport → Colombo
Airport → Kandy
Airport → Galle / Unawatuna
Airport → Negombo
Airport → Sigiriya
Airport → Ella
Airport → Trincomalee
Vehicles Available
- Airport Car Taxi – 1–3 passengers
- Mini Van Taxi – 1–6 passengers
- Luxury Van
- Minibus (10–15 pax)
All vehicles are air-conditioned and regularly maintained.
Trusted by Travelers Worldwide
We have helped thousands of tourists with safe and comfortable airport transfers. Our drivers are experienced in airport pickups and ensure a smooth start to your journey in Sri Lanka.
