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Frequently Asked Questions

The questions we are asked most, on booking, entry requirements and timing. Where an answer touches payment, changes or cancellation, the booking conditions are the binding version.

Booking, payment and changes

How do I start planning a journey?: Send us an enquiry with roughly when you would like to travel, who is coming and what you are drawn to. A specialist replies with a written proposal. Replies within 2 hours, 7 days a week.
When is my booking confirmed?: Only when we have your written acceptance and the deposit shown on your invoice, and we have issued written confirmation. The balance is due before the first day of travel, on the schedule set out in your invoice.
Can the price change after I confirm?: We do not add fuel levies, peak-season surcharges or card fees after confirmation. The only permitted increases are those arising from a change you request, or a government-mandated increase in park or entrance fees — and we evidence those in writing.
Can I change the itinerary?: Yes, wherever our suppliers allow, and we will always tell you a supplier charge before confirming the change. Changes requested within 30 days of travel may not be possible.
What if I need to cancel?: Cancellation charges reflect what our suppliers charge us. As a guide: more than 30 days before arrival forfeits the deposit only; 30 to 15 days, 50% of the journey cost; 14 days or fewer, 100%. Individual hotels, villas and safari camps may apply stricter terms, which we disclose on your proposal before you pay anything.
Do I need travel insurance?: Yes. Comprehensive cover for medical treatment, repatriation, cancellation, curtailment, personal liability and baggage is a condition of travelling with us.
What if something goes wrong while I am travelling?: Tell your chauffeur-guide or the concierge desk straight away, so we can put it right in-country. If it is not resolved, our complaints procedure is set out in the booking conditions.

Visas, entry and arrival

Do I need a visa for Sri Lanka?: Most visitors need a visa or an electronic travel authorisation, and the requirement depends on your nationality and changes from time to time. We point you to the current official requirements, and we are happy to do that before you book — but the application is yours to make.
Do you meet me at the airport?: Yes. You are met airside at Bandaranaike International and transferred to your first hotel, so the first hour after a long flight is not something you have to arrange yourself.
Are vaccinations or health documents required?: Entry health requirements depend on where you have travelled from and on your route. You are responsible for holding any documentation your journey needs; we will point you to the current official guidance.

Weather, seasons and timing

When is the best time to travel?: It depends where you are going. The south-west monsoon, roughly May to September, brings rain to the west and south coasts and the hill country; the north-east monsoon, roughly October to January, affects the east and north. Because the island is small, a journey can usually be routed towards whichever coast is dry — our destination pages carry month-by-month guidance.
What counts as peak season?: December to March is the busiest and most expensive window, particularly on the south and west coasts. The east coast's season runs roughly May to September, which is when the rest of the island is wettest.
How far ahead should I book?: For peak season, and for the small properties we prefer, three to six months gives the best choice of rooms. Shorter notice is often possible outside peak — ask us and we will tell you honestly what is available.
Can I travel during the monsoon?: Yes. Most of the island has a dry season at some point in the year, so a route can almost always be planned around the weather. Tell us your dates and we will set out what to expect for the regions you have in mind.

Not answered here? Read the full terms and booking conditions, or ask us directly.

Questions about this page

Write to info@luxeceylonholidays.com or call +94 77 449 8096 or +94 75 588 3000. Luxe Ceylon Holidays, 17, Stratford Avenue, Colombo 05, Sri Lanka.