There are two main types of hire; round trip (normally multi day) and one way (normally single day).
Round Trip Hire
The driver remains with you for the entire duration and returns back to the start point. You do not have to return with him but you will be charged accordingly for the distance and then have to make other plans to return.
Costs
The driver will offer a lower rate per km (normally 100-120LKR) but will have a minimum required distance per day which can be cumulative over the entire period of hire. So if the driver charges a minimum or 100km per day and you complete 800km over 10 days, the charge will be for 1000km, not for 800km.
Extra Costs
In addition you will be required to pay for the driver’s accommodation and evening meal, which if not included by your hotel could be as high as 5000 LKR depending on where you are and whether it is high or low season.
Overall Daily Cost
The average daily cost is between 55 and 65USD per day. Use our Trip Cost Calculator to calculate a cost for your exact itinerary.
When to Use
Generally this is the cheapest method unless you plan on travelling only small distances or significantly resting at each stop where you will be paying the driver to do nothing.
One Way Hire
This is essentially a taxi service where the driver will return to the start point empty.
Costs
You will be charged a higher rate per km (normally 120-140LKR, but down as low as 100LKR if the trip is more than 250km). The driver will arrange and pay for his own food and accommodation if he decides to return home the next day.
Considerations
You should realise that with this option you will also have to organise and pay for day trip transport in the form of taxis and tuk tuks which can add up especially when visiting tourist areas.
When to Use
Sometimes, multiple one way hires can be cheaper than a round trip hire. It is a complicated calculation which has been simplified with the Trip Cost Calculator. This compares both round trip and one way hire costs based on your trip parameters.
