Quick answer
Before paying any Sri Lanka travel agent, ask who your driver will be, what vehicle you'll travel in, which hotels are booked, exactly what the price includes, how payment and cancellations work, and who to call if something goes wrong. A good agent answers all of these clearly and in writing.
Planning this trip? Chat on WhatsApp
A Sri Lanka travel agent can make or break your trip. The right one gives you a smooth route, a friendly driver and quick help when plans change. Here are the 12 questions we suggest asking any agent, including us.
About the driver and vehicle
1. Who will drive us, and do they speak English (or my language)? Your driver is with you every day, so ask about experience and language. Read travelling Sri Lanka with a private driver to know what to expect.
2. What vehicle will we have? Ask for the type (car, van or minibus), the air conditioning, and whether it fits your luggage. Families should ask about child seats.
3. Is the vehicle the agency's own? Agencies with their own vehicles can swap a car quickly if there's a problem.
4. Can I read reviews from recent guests? Look for recent Google and Tripadvisor reviews that mention the driver, the vehicle and how problems were handled. Ours are on our reviews page.
About the route and hotels
5. Is the itinerary realistic? Ask how long each drive takes. Hill-country roads are slow, so plan no more than one long drive a day. See our Sri Lanka itinerary ideas.
6. Which hotels are booked, and can I see them? You should get the hotel names before you pay, not "similar standard".
7. Is the route right for the season? The south-west coast and the east coast have opposite seasons. A good agent will check the best time to visit for your dates.
About the price
8. What exactly is included? Use this checklist:
| Item | Included? |
|---|---|
| Vehicle, driver and fuel | Ask |
| Driver's meals and lodging | Ask |
| Hotels and which meals | Ask |
| Entrance tickets (see entry fees) | Ask |
| Safari jeep and park fees | Ask |
| Train tickets | Ask |
| Airport pickup and drop-off | Ask |
9. What are the payment terms? Ask how much deposit is needed, when the balance is due and which payment methods are accepted.
10. What happens if I cancel or change dates? Get the cancellation terms in writing.
About support
11. Who do I call during the trip? You want a named person on WhatsApp who replies quickly, ideally someone based in Sri Lanka.
12. Can I change the plan on the way? Weather, energy levels and new ideas change trips. A private tour should let you skip a stop or add a beach day.
Our answers
As a local travel agency in Sri Lanka, here's how we answer: - Every trip is private. - You travel in our own vehicle with our own driver. - You see the hotel names before you confirm. - Your price is a personal quote that lists exactly what's included.
- You can reach us on WhatsApp during the whole trip.
Browse our Sri Lanka tour packages for ideas.
Ask us all 12 questions
Send them on WhatsApp and we'll answer every one before you book.
Ask on WhatsAppFrequently asked questions
What should a Sri Lanka travel agent include in the quote?
At least: vehicle, driver, fuel, driver's accommodation, hotels with meal plans, and a clear list of what's not included (usually entrance tickets, safaris and tips).
Should I tip my driver in Sri Lanka?
Tipping is customary but optional. See money in Sri Lanka for guidance on tipping.
Is it safe to pay a Sri Lanka travel agent in advance?
Pay a deposit only to an agent with recent, genuine reviews, and get everything in writing first.
How far ahead should I contact a travel agent?
For December to April, two to four months ahead is ideal. For other months, a few weeks is often enough.
Can a travel agent plan a trip for just a few days?
Yes. We also run day tours and short trips such as the Sigiriya day tour.