Arriving at Koggala Airport and planning to explore Sri Lanka by car? Renting a vehicle offers fantastic freedom, but it’s good to know what to expect with the pickup process, potential costs, and the local driving conditions. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get on the road with confidence.
Rental car desks are generally located within the main airport terminal building, usually near the arrivals area. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Ground Transportation’ once you’ve collected your luggage. Several companies typically operate at Koggala Airport, offering a range of vehicles. You’ll commonly find options from well-known providers.
The best car for you depends on your travel plans. For solo travelers or couples sticking to main roads, an economy or compact car is often ideal. Families or those heading into more rugged terrain might prefer an SUV. Here’s a general idea of what’s available and typical price ranges (prices change by season and availability):
| Car Class | Typical Daily Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Economy | $20 - $35 |
| Compact | $25 - $40 |
| Intermediate | $35 - $50 |
| SUV (Small) | $50 - $75 |
| SUV (Large) | $75 - $120 |
| Luxury | $100+ |
Beyond these, you’ll also find options like convertibles and vans, depending on availability. Consider the road conditions and your planned itinerary when making your choice.
To rent a car in Sri Lanka, you’ll generally need a valid driver’s license (often an International Driving Permit is required in addition to your home license – check the specific requirements of the rental company). The minimum age is usually 21, but some companies may have higher age restrictions, especially for certain vehicle classes. A credit card in the renter’s name is almost always required for the deposit. Debit cards are rarely accepted for the deposit.
Be prepared for a security deposit, which will be held on your credit card and refunded upon the vehicle’s safe return. The amount varies depending on the car class, but it can be several hundred dollars. Carefully review the rental agreement before signing, paying close attention to the deposit amount and the terms of the rental.
Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself. Theft Protection covers loss or damage due to theft. Often, these come with an ‘excess’ – the amount you’re still responsible for paying in the event of a claim. You can usually reduce the excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the daily rental cost. Check if your credit card or existing car insurance provides any coverage in Sri Lanka before accepting additional insurance from the rental company. Don’t hesitate to ask the rental agent to clearly explain the coverage details and the excess amount.
Driving in Sri Lanka can be an adventure! Roads vary in quality, from well-maintained highways to narrow, winding routes. Be prepared for traffic, especially in urban areas. Toll roads are common, so keep some small denominations of local currency handy. Parking can be challenging in cities; look for designated parking areas. Speed limits are generally posted in kilometers per hour. Be aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and animals on the road. Defensive driving is highly recommended.
It’s often required in addition to your home driver’s license. Check with the rental company for their specific requirements.
A major credit card in the renter’s name is almost always required for the deposit. Debit cards are rarely accepted.
It’s the amount you’re still responsible for paying if there’s damage or theft, even with insurance.
Yes, but there’s usually an extra daily fee for each additional driver.
Carefully inspect the car for any existing damage and document it on the rental agreement before leaving the lot.
Automatic cars are available, but they are less common and often more expensive than manual transmission vehicles.
In Sri Lanka, they drive on the left side of the road.
Yes, a GPS or a smartphone with offline maps is highly recommended, especially if you plan to explore beyond major cities.
Toll roads are common. Keep some small local currency denominations handy to pay the tolls.
Report the accident to the police and the rental company immediately. Obtain a police report for insurance purposes.
Generally, taking a rental car across international borders is not permitted. Check the rental agreement for specific restrictions.
You will likely be charged an additional day’s rental fee, and potentially a late return penalty.