Soba Ceylon does not typically book flights for clients. We recommend booking your own flights directly for greater control, flexibility, and cost-effective options tailored to your needs. However, if you insist, we can assist with flight bookings for an additional fee.
For round trips or multi-destination travel, book at least 30 days in advance to ensure availability and prepare for complex itineraries, especially during peak seasons. For single-day excursions, a 48-hour lead time is generally sufficient. However, for customized tours or specialized arrangements, book at least three months ahead to allow for meticulous planning and coordination. Regardless of the booking type, secure reservations as early as possible to guarantee availability, access a wider range of options, potentially receive better rates, and avoid disappointment, particularly for popular destinations or high-demand periods.
When planning a Sri Lanka trip, consider airline options for flights into Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. Sri Lankan Airlines offers direct flights from major hubs as the national carrier. Other international airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Thai Airways operate flights with connections through Middle Eastern or Southeast Asian hubs. From Europe or North America, carriers like British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, and Air India provide indirect routes with stopovers. Explore various airlines based on travel duration, layover times, cost, and personal preferences for airline services. Online travel platforms can help compare flight options and find suitable itineraries. The choice depends on departure location, travel dates, budget, and desired amenities.
The tour itinerary typically concludes after breakfast on the final day at the hotel. It is advisable to book your return flights departing in the evening to accommodate the tour schedule. The majority of our round-trip tours conclude in the southern coastal region of Sri Lanka. We arrange for a departure transfer, which takes approximately three hours from the southern coast to the airport. Once you have confirmed your booking for the tour, please inform us, and we will facilitate the necessary arrangements for your seamless departure. Rest assured, we will ensure ample time for your transfer, enabling you to catch your evening flight comfortably after the tour’s conclusion.
As a reputable travel company, we offer accommodation and activity arrangements for your extended stay in Sri Lanka after your tour. Our partnerships with hotels, resorts, and local providers across the island allow us to recommend suitable options based on your preferences, budget, and desired location. We offer luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. We can also arrange cultural experiences like ancient site visits, adventurous pursuits like hiking, surfing, or wildlife safaris – tailoring an itinerary that immerses you in Sri Lankan culture and natural wonders. Working with reliable local operators, we provide a seamless travel experience with competitive rates and personalized service, handling logistics so you can focus on creating unforgettable memories.
Extending your tour to another destination after Sri Lanka is possible with our extensive network across multiple countries. The Maldives offers idyllic beach stays, while Kerala, India, blends natural beauty with ancient traditions. Our consultants will curate a personalized itinerary, ensuring a seamless transition between destinations. Share your preferences, and we’ll recommend suitable options aligning with your interests for a comprehensive, enriching travel experience.
Exploring the great outdoors through trekking, camping, safaris, and water sports has become popular. Trekking offers immersion in nature’s beauty while challenging physical endurance. Camping allows disconnecting from daily life and embracing wilderness tranquility. Safaris provide opportunities to witness majestic wildlife in their natural habitats. Water sports like snorkeling showcase the vibrant underwater world. These activities create exhilarating experiences, foster appreciation for the natural environment, and promote rejuvenation and personal growth.
When time is limited, choosing the right one-week tour is crucial. Our company offers curated tours for diverse interests: “Classic Wonders” covers iconic landmarks, “Gastronomic Delights” explores regional cuisine, “Nature’s Embrace” features outdoor adventures, and “wellness weeks” for rejuvenation. Our consultants can customize tours to your unique preferences, ensuring a memorable week.
Our tours offer comfortable accommodations with amenities. All hotels featured are three-star or higher, ensuring quality. Rooms are spacious with air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and essential amenities. Most tours include hotel breakfast, while some offer half-board or full-board for added convenience. All star-class hotels provide complimentary Wi-Fi. Some tours feature camps with essential facilities like water, toilets, and basic amenities for a comfortable stay in natural surroundings.
Sri Lanka offers a wide variety of accommodation, from five-star hotels to guesthouses. Luxurious boutique hotels and camps can be found in most tourist hotspots throughout the country. Many tourist areas also have award-winning boutique hotels and spa resorts. However, accommodation in beach hotels and other places can fill up quickly, particularly during high season, so it is recommended to reserve your accommodation as far in advance as possible.
Room upgrades may be possible within the same hotel, subject to availability and at an additional cost. Inform us if you desire an upgrade, and we’ll explore available options aligning with your preferences. However, upgrades depend on occupancy levels and inventory at the time of your request. We aim to accommodate upgrade requests to enhance your stay while adhering to policies.
The standard check-in time for accommodations is typically in the afternoon, around 02:00 pm. However, many establishments offer flexibility and allow early check-in if rooms are available, permitting access before the designated time if requested in advance. If an early arrival is anticipated, booking the accommodation for the previous night ensures your room is ready upon arrival, avoiding delays and maximizing convenience.
The standard check-out time is 10:00 am on the departure date. Guests may request a late check-out, subject to availability and the hotel’s discretion, based on occupancy levels and incoming reservations. To ensure a smooth departure, guests should inquire with the front desk about a late check-out well in advance. The hotel will assess the situation and inform guests accordingly, based on occupancy status and operational needs. Open communication and adherence to hotel policies ensure a seamless check-out experience while maximizing time at the property.
Yes, laundry facilities are available at all tour hotels, but at an additional cost. Turnaround time is typically within 24 hours, but verify the timeframe at each hotel, especially for one-night stays. Consider the time required for the laundry service to guarantee that your clothes are ready before your scheduled departure.
Sri Lanka uses 230V/50Hz electricity with Type D (3 round pins in a triangle) and Type G (3 rectangular pins in a triangle) plugs. You may need an adapter as local sockets may not be compatible with foreign devices. Universal plugs are available at electrical stores, and hotels often lend adapters, but bringing your own is recommended.
Visitors to Sri Lanka must obtain a tourist visa. The process is streamlined through an e-Visa system at https://www.srilankaevisa.lk/. Apply for the e-Visa after receiving our final confirmation, around 30 days before departure. You’ll need to enter the address of your first hotel, which we’ll provide with the confirmation.
Soba Ceylon is a local tour operator with guides fluent in Sinhala and English. While you need not be fluent in English, a basic understanding can enhance your experience. Guides provide clear instructions and information for all language levels, but grasping English enables you to fully appreciate insights, follow directions seamlessly, and engage with other multinational travellers. Our multilingual guides ensure effective communication for an enjoyable tour experience.
While in Sri Lanka’s urban areas and major tourist destinations, internet access is widely available through Wi-Fi services at hotels, restaurants, and internet cafes. However, in remote or wilderness areas, connections may be slow or non-existent due to limited infrastructure. Travelers should plan accordingly, manage expectations, inquire about accessibility at specific locations, and make necessary arrangements if uninterrupted access is required during their trip.
Wi-Fi is available at most of your accommodations in Sri Lanka, allowing you to share updates with family and friends back home. However, Wi-Fi strength may vary by location and property. Most of the hotels offer free Wi-Fi. If needed, consider purchasing a local SIM card from providers like Mobitel or Dialog for competitive data plans to stay connected across the island without roaming charges.
Mobile phone services are robust in Sri Lanka, and you should be able to get mobile phone reception in most places when traveling, unless you are in one of the wilderness areas. Guests are advised to check with their mobile phone operator before traveling regarding the charges.
Memory cards are available in most large cities and towns. However, there is no guarantee of availability, the quality may vary, and it is recommended that you bring your own.
Light cotton dresses and lightweight suits provide breathable comfort for the warm climate. Sunglasses protect from the sun, but pack medium-weight clothing for cooler hill country. For coastal areas, swimwear allows enjoying the island’s aquatic attractions. Slippers or sandals suffice for normal terrain, but hiking requires comfortable walking shoes. When visiting places of worship, dress modestly and respectfully without excessive formality. Prioritize comfort and decency. Our blog offers packing tips and insights for a well-prepared travel experience. Click here
Baggage limitations ensure a comfortable travel experience. Each participant can bring a suitcase or backpack weighing up to 20 kilograms. Adequate luggage space will be provided, allowing you to securely store your main bag during travel. You may also carry a day pack in the van for essential items. If your luggage exceeds the limit, notify us to assess extra space availability. Alternatively, if you are starting and finishing at the same location, you may be able to store your bag at the hotel while on tour.
Yes, Solo travelers are welcomed to join our tours, providing an opportunity to connect with like-minded explorers from diverse backgrounds, fostering unique camaraderie and lasting friendships. Our tours facilitate social interactions and shared experiences, ensuring solo travelers seamlessly integrate into the group dynamic.
Sri Lanka offers an exceptional birding experience, boasting not only an excellent array of indigenous species but a large number of migrants. With its diverse birding destinations and variety of species, Sri Lanka is an excellent country for keen birders.
Sri Lanka is an exceptional family destination and you can be assured that all young travelers will receive the warmest welcome. Many hotels throughout the island cater for specific age groups and arrange exciting activities for children. The welcoming spirit ensures children feel cherished throughout their enriching, cultural immersion amidst natural wonders and family amenities.
As always, it is courteous to be sensitive and ask permission before photographing people. It is not advisable to take photos of airports and security installations. Camera or Video-Camera charges may apply in some places of visit.
Our trips are generally not suitable for those with mobility restrictions unless stated in the trip description. If you have mobility limitations, contact us before booking to assess the trip’s suitability and make necessary arrangements where possible.
You can view our terms and conditions here. Terms & Conditions
Our pricing model is designed to offer exceptional value to our customers. Unlike many of our competitors who simply provide transportation services, our comprehensive tour packages encompass a wide range of offerings that elevate the overall experience.
Our pricing provides a seamless, comprehensive experience, including cozy lodging, transportation, delicious cuisine, inclusive admission fees, and distinctive guided tours.
Check our tour itineraries to see all inclusions. The prices are competitive, with no hidden costs, and taxes are included. This eliminates additional expenses for a hassle-free, cost-effective adventure. We deliver an unparalleled travel experience combining quality, convenience, and affordability.
When booking the tour, you can pay just $100 as a down payment to secure your spot. This initial fee confirms your reservation, allowing organizers to allocate resources and make arrangements for confirmed participants. The remaining balance is due later, per the company’s payment policies.
Yes, you have the option to pay in installments, provided the timing adheres to the payment policy terms. The policy outlines guidelines and conditions governing the installment plan. This option offers flexibility, allowing you to manage financial commitments while adhering to the agreed-upon payment schedule and conditions.
When booking services through our platform, the balance payments are required to be made according to the following schedule:
We offer a discounted rate for groups of four or more, making our services more accessible and appealing for group travel. Inquire about details and terms during booking. Our representatives will provide comprehensive information, ensuring a seamless experience for your group.
Yes and No. Single travelers have options for accommodation, depending on preferences and availability. Sharing a double room with another solo traveler avoids the single supplement charged for occupying a room alone. However, if a single traveler prefers exclusive occupancy or no suitable roommate is available, the single supplement outlined in the tour price list applies. This charge accounts for individual use of the accommodation facilities. The decision rests with the single traveler – share a room to save costs or pay the supplement for single occupancy.
Our tours have set start dates, but we understand travel plans may not align perfectly. If your desired dates don’t match a scheduled tour, provide them to us. If logistically feasible, we’ll make every effort to accommodate your request and enable you to join the tour at a suitable point. We aim to offer flexible options and ensure you can fully experience the tour.
Yes, we offer private, customized tours of Sri Lanka tailored to your preferences and requirements. Our experienced team crafts bespoke holiday experiences, catering to families, groups, corporates, or schools. Our private tours allow you to explore at your own pace, without a pre-set itinerary.
Our experts will help you craft a tailored journey surpassing your desires, forging unforgettable experiences. Customized Tours
Sri Lanka is perfectly safe to visit, and the Sri Lankan people are renowned for their warm hospitality. As with any travel, it is a good idea to take standard precautions. Keep your passport and valuables close at hand or safely locked away, and don’t leave luggage unattended. In general, tourists should exercise the same care and attention as they would at home.
When traveling to Sri Lanka, take certain medical precautions for a safe and enjoyable journey. Consult a healthcare professional or travel clinic beforehand for necessary vaccinations (e. g., hepatitis A, typhoid, rabies). Ensure an adequate supply of regular prescription medications and a basic travel medical kit with essentials like pain relievers, antihistamines, and diarrhea medication. Obtain comprehensive travel health insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuations, and repatriation.
We strongly recommend securing travel insurance before your Sri Lanka trip. Travel insurance provides crucial protection against unforeseen circumstances like medical emergencies, travel delays, or lost luggage, ensuring peace of mind and financial security. While unexpected events are rare, the associated costs can be substantial. With appropriate coverage, you can mitigate risks and avoid significant financial burdens.
Yes, All our tour guides undergo comprehensive first aid training regularly. This equips them to provide immediate assistance in emergencies until professional medical help arrives.
It’s extremely rare for unfavorable weather to cancel or terminate a tour. However, if weather conditions prevent us from following the scheduled itinerary, our team will promptly communicate any necessary adjustments or contingency plans. If it becomes entirely infeasible to continue the tour, even with alternative options, we will provide a refund to customers, minus any expenses already incurred.
In case of weather-related cancellations, you’ll receive a full refund for the affected activity. However, some activities may be relocated or rescheduled to allow participation before your tour ends.
The currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR or Rs.). One Sri Lankan Rupee is divided into 100 Sri Lankan cents. Currency notes are in the denominations of Rs. 10, Rs. 20, Rs. 50, Rs. 100, Rs. 500, Rs. 1000, Rs. 2000, and Rs. 5000. Coins commonly in use are the following denominations: 25 cents, 50 cents, One Rupee, Two Rupees, Five Rupees, and Ten Rupees. The Colombo international airport has banks where money can be changed, and in large cities, facilities are usually available at reputable hotels and money exchange centers. It is a good idea to change your money in advance if you are heading into more remote or rural areas.
Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in most restaurants, shops, and hotels in Colombo, as well as in most large cities throughout the island. Diners Club and American Express may not be accepted in many places. Proof of identification may be required when paying by credit card, so be sure to carry some form of photo identification at all times. In many places, entrance fees can only be paid using cash; either in Rupees, US Dollars, or Euros.
When budgeting for your trip, consider expenses beyond food. Allocate funds for nightlife and activities. Local restaurant meals cost around $5, while hotel dinners range from $10-$20. Drinks start at $3, with beer cheaper than spirits or wine. Water costs around $0. 50 from local shops. Activity costs vary; check our website for popular options and request estimates for unlisted activities.
ATMs are widespread in Sri Lanka, found mostly in cities, towns, and shopping complexes. When withdrawing money, English language is available as an operating language. Most major debit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted for withdrawals. You can withdraw money only in Sri Lankan Rupees.
Tipping in Sri Lanka is optional, and excessive amounts are not expected. While not required, modest tips for hotel or restaurant staff upon checkout can be a courteous gesture. There are no set amounts or guidelines on tipping in Sri Lanka, so tip what you feel comfortable with based on the service quality received and your satisfaction level. Or Seek guidance from your tour leader on appropriate etiquette and amounts, as customs may vary from region to region.
Sri Lanka offers a diverse culinary landscape catering to global and local palates. Metropolitan areas boast international cuisines, while rural regions present a localized adventure. Hotels showcase a fusion of international flavors and traditional Sri Lankan dishes like rice and curry, meticulously prepared using local ingredients and techniques.
Yes, we cater for vegetarians and vegans, with knowledgeable staff and chefs who can prepare meals tailored to specific dietary preferences. In Sri Lanka, most cafes offer vegetarian and vegan options, reflecting the country’s culinary diversity.
The booking form includes a “Special Requirements” section to specify food allergies or dietary restrictions for hotel meal preparation and precautions. Bring necessary medications for severe allergies.
Tap water in Sri Lanka is purified and is safe to drink; however, bottled water is also freely available. For tourists it is recommended that you stick to bottled water or boil all water before drinking it.
Our tours offer various meal inclusions to suit different preferences and budgets. Classic tours include breakfast and dinner. Special tours encompass all three meals for a comprehensive culinary experience. Economical tours provide breakfast only, allowing flexibility for other meals. Private and customized tours enable tailoring your meal plan for a personalized culinary experience.
Sri Lanka’s culinary heritage is deeply rooted in its culture. The iconic Rice & Curry, a blend of fragrant rice and curries made from spices, vegetables, and proteins, showcases the nation’s mastery of intricate flavors and textures. Fresh seafood like prawns, crabs, and fish varieties are expertly prepared using traditional methods and aromatic spices. When touring Sri Lanka, we offer culinary experiences to indulge in authentic meals.
Our tour pricing includes transportation, knowledgeable guides, accommodation, meals, and entry fees to scheduled attractions and activities. Additional inclusions may vary per tour itinerary and are clearly outlined in the descriptions
Physical activity levels vary based on the tour type. Regular tours involve moderate walking on paths or even terrains, suitable for varying fitness levels. More adventurous tours offer strenuous activities like cycling, climbing, or kayaking, catering to physically fit individuals seeking challenging experiences. It’s important to review tour descriptions and requirements to ensure they align with your capabilities, as some may involve extended strenuous activity or rugged terrain.
Tour groups of up to 14 people we use 30-seater coaster buses, providing each passenger a window seat, air conditioning, and luxury coach standards. For private or customized tours, the vehicle type varies based on group size, from sedans to larger coaches, tailored for optimal and personalized travel experience.
The tour guide plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth and cohesive tour experience. They keep the travel group together, share his/her knowledge with guests, coordinate with stakeholders, and make on-the-spot decisions as needed. Behind the scenes, guides reconfirm bookings, ensure transportation cleanliness, and attend to administrative tasks. They expertly juggle multiple responsibilities to deliver an exceptional and memorable journey for all participants.
Standard group tours are conducted in English for seamless communication. Our guides are proficient in English and the local language, with some demonstrating remarkable multilingual capabilities. For personalized experiences, private or customized group tours offer guides fluent in languages like German, Italian, French, Spanish, Russian, Hindi, Tamil, Arabic, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean.
Yes, Pre-booked activities are generally guaranteed, but some may be subject to weather conditions, with the final decision on proceeding or cancellation made on the scheduled day.
Yes, your guide has the capability to arrange supplementary experiences during the tour; simply inform them a few days prior, and they will coordinate the necessary preparations. However, availability cannot be guaranteed, especially during high-demand periods. To secure your preferred activities, it is advisable to make reservations in advance.
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Sri Lanka, a tropical island, enjoys a generally sunny and warm climate. Coastal regions, including Colombo, average around 27°C/81°F year-round. Inland hill areas like Kandy, at 500m altitude, are cooler at around 20°C/68°F. Higher elevations like Nuwara Eliya (1889m) have a temperate climate averaging 16°C/61°F. The surrounding Indian Ocean maintains a stable temperature of around 27°C/81°F throughout the year.
Sri Lanka has two rainy seasons. The northeast monsoon brings rain to the north and east from December to March, making May-November ideal for visiting those areas. The southwest monsoon affects the southwestern half from June to October, so November-March is best for the western and southern coasts. The central highlands remain suitable year-round.
Once the tour concludes, our standard packages include transfer service to the airport for your convenience. We arrange departure transfers from the locations specified in the tour itinerary. If you have any specific inquiries or requirements regarding your airport transfer, please notify us in advance, and we will be happy to assist you.
Yes, groups are warmly welcomed on our tours. You can make individual bookings separately, but then let us know via email that you are all together. This will allow us to make any necessary arrangements to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Furthermore, we can also offer private group tours customized to your travel dates and preferences. Our team will craft an itinerary tailored to your group’s unique requirements, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience.
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