Sri Lanka Route Guide · Airport transfers
Colombo Airport (CMB) to Udawalawe by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
Udawalawe National Park is the most reliable place in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants. It is closer to the hills than to the coast.
Route at a glance
- From
- Colombo Airport (CMB)
- To
- Udawalawe
- Distance
- About 200 km
- Drive time
- 4.5 to 5 hours
- Best for
- Elephant safaris.
The drive
You can go via the Southern Expressway and Matara or inland via Ratnapura and Pelmadulla. The inland road is slower and winding, so ask your driver which they prefer.
Best stops on the way
Ratnapura
Gem town and market, on the inland route.
Elephant Transit Home
Near the park; feeding times are posted at the gate.
Choose your vehicle
Pick a vehicle by group size and luggage. These are average day rates across GoTourRide drivers; a one-way transfer is quoted by the driver, so request a quote for an exact price. You can also use our trip cost calculator.
| Vehicle | Passengers | Average day rate |
|---|---|---|
| Mini car | Up to 2 | About $61/day |
| Normal car | Up to 3 | About $66/day |
| SUV | Up to 3 | About $91/day |
| Large car | Up to 4 | About $75/day |
| Minivan | Up to 6 | About $103/day |
| Large van | Up to 10 | About $118/day |
| Minibus | Up to 15 | About $169/day |
Tips for this route
- Morning and late afternoon safaris give the best light and animal activity.
- Many travellers add Udawalawe between Ella and the south coast.
Book a driver
Keep reading
- Udawalawe National Park safari guide
- Best safari in Sri Lanka
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Sigiriya
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Kandy
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Ella
- All Sri Lanka driver routes
FAQs
How long is the drive to Udawalawe from the airport?
About 4.5 to 5 hours depending on the route.
Is Udawalawe or Yala better?
Udawalawe is best for elephants, Yala for leopards.