Sri Lanka Route Guide · Safari, east coast and north
Galle to Yala National Park by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
This is a good way to add a safari to a south coast stay. The expressway cuts the journey, and you can sleep near the park for an early start.
Route at a glance
- From
- Galle
- To
- Yala National Park
- Distance
- About 160 km
- Drive time
- 3 to 3.5 hours
- Best for
- Adding a safari to a beach trip.
The drive
You use the Southern Expressway to Godagama or Matara, then the A2 and Tissamaharama road. The A2 is a normal road with buses and animals.
Best stops on the way
Tangalle
Beach and lunch stop.
Tissamaharama
Lake and base for Yala.
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
- Start your safari at dawn for the best chance of leopards.
- A tracker in your jeep helps you find animals.
Book a driver
Compare verified drivers on the drivers page, or ask us on WhatsApp if you would like to talk to a real person first.
Keep reading
- Yala National Park guide: how to get there and book
- Best safari in Sri Lanka
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Yala National Park
- Ella to Yala National Park
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Tangalle
- All Sri Lanka driver routes
FAQs
How long does it take from Galle to Yala?
About 3 to 3.5 hours.
Should I stay near Yala?
Yes, because jeeps leave very early.