Good morning,
We have just returned from our 8 days and 7 nights holiday in Sri Lanka, organized with Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka in late December 2025. It was a guided tour with driver. Our guide/driver was Aashik, with whom I had all the contacts even before the departure and who introduced himself as Guest Relations Manager. Umar, his assistant in training, was also present during the tour.
I would like to say that our experience has unfortunately been rather negative, while recognising that everyone has the right to form their own opinion. For this reason I report in the most objective way possible both the negative and the positive aspects.
The most serious episode: the disappearance of $950
After just two days we lost $950. The money was contained in a box of cards, specially chosen so as not to make it obvious that it contained money. The box was in my partner's backpack.
Before we knew he was missing, the backpack had only been in two places:
in the driving machine
in our hotel room
We immediately notified Aashik. He showed himself willing to help us, but in fact nothing concrete was ever done: the police were not contacted and we never saw the camera footage, despite having promised several times.
At the end of the review, for those interested, I share the reconstructed details about what happened and our reflections.
Other negative aspects
First day – Spice garden
On the first day we were supposed to continue directly to Sigiriya, but Aashik decided to make us stop at the spice garden (a stop initially planned for the following days). We agreed, but at the end of the visit we were asked $170 for 4 products (including tea, hair oil and creams).
We immediately reviewed the purchase when we understood the price, but the feeling was that of a classic tourist trap. Paying for a guide, we expected support to avoid them, not to be accompanied right there, moreover in a moment of fatigue after the trip.
Second day – Safari and inflated price
The program has changed several times. Despite waking up at 7:30 to leave at 8:30, we only managed to start the safari at 11.
The local guide asked us for 42,000 LKR (about 140 USD) in two. We asked for clarification from Aashik, who justified the price by saying verbatim: “you don’t have the means to compare”.
During the safari I made contact with another jeep and in the evening I asked for a quote: without bargaining I was offered 18,000 LKR, less than half.
When I pointed this out to Aashik, he told me that a “combined” ticket had been purchased for Minneriya and Eco Park. I checked both online and with the other guide: this is not possible. As proof I was sent a receipt with no date.
Continuous delays and poor organisation
Aashik never arrived on time at the agreed time. Every day there was an excuse: traffic, weather, “I talked to the locals and tomorrow between 9 and 10 it rains”. This meant that the days always started late, despite waking up early, making us often feel teased.
Management of meals
We had asked for lunch around 1pm from the beginning, but this requirement was never really taken into account. We had to remember that every day.
On one occasion we were told we would be taken to a “good and clean” place, but we ended up in a restaurant with flies on the food.
Last night near the airport
We had to sleep near the airport because we had a very early flight. The structure where Aashik took us initially allocated us a room in the basement, with dirty sheets and dirty bathroom. After contacting Aashik we were moved.
It may have been a problem with the structure in this case, but the fact remains that after 9 years of experience in the industry we expected a more reliable choice for such a delicate night. Result: we only slept 3 hours.
The positive aspects
In fairness, I also report what was positive.
Three weeks before we arrived there were severe floods in Sri Lanka. I don't blame Aashik for the itinerary changes due to this. The itinerary has been completely revised and we stayed in hotels different from those initially chosen. This required total confidence in the management of the trip.
On several occasions he offered us fruit along the way.
On at least two occasions he paid local guides (Anuradhapura and Tooth Temple in Kandy).
During a sunset climb to the mountain in front of Lion Rock he accompanied us, making sure we didn't get hurt.
On the last evening he gave us a picture with a collage of our travel photos.
Reconstruction of the disappearance of money (for those who want to learn more)
I report the facts here, clearly distinguishing between objective elements and personal reflections.
After arriving in Colombo we travelled with Aashik and Umar, stopping for coconut, lunch and spice garden. At the spice garden my partner took the money from the box and put it in the carrier to pay for purchases and tip, then put it back in the box and this in the backpack.
Later, in the dark, we stopped to buy pineapple from a vendor along the way. At that moment we left both backpacks in the car, carrying only phone and passport. For a few minutes we were alone because Aashik and Umar moved the car further ahead. Then we left and arrived at the hotel (Asna Nature Resort & Spa).
The next morning the backpack remained in the room, locked. When we discovered the missing money, the room showed no signs of entry or disorder. Nothing was touched, including valuables like computers and GoPros.
Objectively:
the money was there after the spice garden
the only time we didn't have control of the backpack was during the pineapple stop
there is no evidence to suggest a room entrance
The following considerations are personal and cannot be demonstrated:
Only those who knew there was money in the box could take it, while a general thief would probably take the entire backpack. Also, during the trip I heard Umar say on the phone that he would soon buy a new cellphone and that “money was no problem”; when he realized that I had heard him, he appeared visibly uncomfortable.
I repeat: these are personal impressions, not evidence.
If you've come this far, thank you for reading. I chose to tell everything in detail precisely because I believe that complete reviews really help those who have to decide.
If anyone has any questions or concerns, I will be happy to answer them.
事業者からの返答
Thank you for sharing your feedback. We are truly sorry to hear that your experience did not meet your expectations, and we regret any inconvenience caused during your stay in Sri Lanka.
Regarding the missing money:
While the safety of personal belongings is the guest’s responsibility, our guide acted immediately by contacting the hotel and all places visited and obtaining their direct contact numbers. A police report can only be filed by the affected guest—not the guide—but he was ready to take you to the police station if you wished. He informed our office right away, and we appreciate the effort he made to support you.
Also you’ve mentioned that at the pineapple stop we took the car front but sorry you were right outside the car and we took the car off the road because of police and you were watching me where Umar was standing outside looking at the road until i park for your reference
Also kindly note as you mentioned you missed the box on day 1 and you informed us on day 3 which rises us something very personsl to potrait the blame on the guide as you can see the guide Aashik have won lots of travelers heart and so far we have never got a complain of stealing money from clients where he have taken many good reviews for his service and loyalty
Regarding pickup delays:
Severe rain and flooding during your travel dates required schedule changes for safety reasons. These adjustments were clearly communicated to you in advance, and the delays were unavoidable due to weather conditions.
Regarding the spice garden:
A spice garden visit is a common cultural stop and was added after you expressed interest. Purchasing anything is completely optional.
Regarding the safari:
Safari prices vary depending on jeep provider and season. You were free to book your own safari, and we provided the original national park tickets to ensure full transparency.
Regarding the final night’s hotel:
We apologize that the initial room was not suitable. The guide arranged an immediate change after you informed him.
Despite the challenges, we appreciate your recognition of the guide’s kindness and support throughout the tour. We value your feedback and will use it to improve our services further.
Thank you once again, and we wish you all the best in your future travels.
Warm regards,
Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka
A
A2880RQjanek
July 21, 2024 · via Tripadvisor
Marvelous Sri Lanka Tour
Wonderful service provided by the team with high luxury vehicles and superior rooms in all destinations
They are very dedicated to satisfy their customer in every ways and I'm happy that I chooses the right company
事業者からの返答
Dear Sir/Madam,
Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka!
It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team.
The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us! There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything.
As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company, Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client.
As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients.
Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience.
We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
M
marcoslA8600QG
July 20, 2023 · via Tripadvisor
Wonderful 8 Days
Without doubt SRI LANKA is one of the beautiful country, we had a wonderful 8 days trip.
Upon arrival we were warmly welcomed by Liberty and Shiranthi with garland and bouquets and we felt friendly and welcomed.
Liberty our guide is a very friendly, likeable and knowledgeable about all aspects of the tour.
The team were very flexible and patient for every stops we requested during the trip as we were traveling with kids and yet did not missed what was planned.
Above all, Aashik and team made my daughter’s 12th birthday extra special decorating the bus, cake and gifts. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
It was perfect from beginning to end talking with Aashik where he never refused for our wishes and went beyond for our satisfaction by ordering his team
I would definitely recommend Kingfisher Tours to friends and family.
事業者からの返答
Dear Sir/Madam,
Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka! It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka.
We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us! There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything.
As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company, Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client. As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients.
Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience.
We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
M
Martink561427
October 16, 2022 · via Tripadvisor
Amazing Sri Lanka Experience with Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka
Me and my fiancé lucie visited Sri Lanka for 10 days and it was absolutely fantastic vacation. Even though we were a bit sceptical before our departure due to the current situation, our holiday turned to be the most amazing we have ever had. We, as a tourists haven’t felt affected at all. Being honest we were glad since we had all the tourist sites only for us.
Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka prepared exquisite tour program for us and delivered it flawlessly. A huge thanks goes to our driver/guide Aswar who was very helpful, friendly, knowledgeable and prepared to accommodate all our needs. We had a great time and we will definitely recommend anyone to use this company for your Sri Lanka holiday.
事業者からの返答
Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka! It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us! There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company, Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client. As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients. Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience. We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
G
go_miriam
August 31, 2022 · via Tripadvisor
Tour Sri Lanka
Tour of the most emblematic places. We hired him from Barcelona. The guide did not pick up at the airport and during all days does not take and accompany us. Sometimes with another guide.
Amazing places and highly recommended to visit.
Definitely a hit.
事業者からの返答
Dear Madam,
Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka!
It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us!
There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company,
Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client.
As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients.
Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience.
We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
A
alexiajm42
August 31, 2022 · via Tripadvisor
Best way to get to know SriLanka
We contacted this Tour from Barcelona and the experience has been amazing!!!
We were given an 8-day tour of SriLanka from north to south, visiting all the most important places on the island. They also accompanied us as a guide and gave us facilities for everything.
Our guide was very professional and nice.
Also our guide to Safari in Sirigiya.
I recommend this 100% experience of visiting SriLanka with them.
事業者からの返答
Dear Madam,
Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka!
It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us!
There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company,
Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client.
As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients.
Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience.
We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
M
michealjames6173
July 5, 2022 · via Tripadvisor
A Tour For Lifetime
Fantastic and reliable service from Kingfisher Tours since our first day to the last,
We were greeted with flowers and with no hestitations our driver took us to all the suggested places without the tour as well. The Hotels they choose are absolutely awesome. In this crisis which Sri Lanka is facing we were worried to visit Sri Lanka but with the response of Aashik we kept coming, Tourists get the priority for fueling and all and so we were not worried about anything.
Thank you for the great service Kingfisher and Team
事業者からの返答
Dear Sir/Madam,
Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka!
It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us!
There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company,
Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client.
As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients.
Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience.
We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
C
Carolinetravels3628
May 30, 2022 · via Tripadvisor
A Memorable Experience
What a wonderful tour and staffs. Kingfisher Tours went beyond our expectations on our visit to this beautiful country, As per the current situations here we were a bit afraid and planning to cancel our tour but we trusted this company as they guaranteed that Sri Lanka is safe and the news are false so we did not hestitate to move on. Sri Lanka is 100% safe and we did not face any crisis with this company and our guide Aswar who is well knowledgable and helpful in all the ways. His driving was excellent and our children liked him too although we came as a strangers and left as family. We will definitely come back for a longer visit and will never hestitate to use this company over and over
事業者からの返答
Dear Sir/Madam,
Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka!
It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us!
There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company,
Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client.
As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients.
Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience.
We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
L
LauraDave58
September 30, 2019 · via Tripadvisor
A fantastic tour & Dinesh our guide was amazing!
We had a great 8 day tour of Sri Lanka. Thanks to Kingfisher Tours, Aashik and Upekha for such a fantastic trip. Our guide was Dinesh and we could not have asked for a better guide. He made our tour of Sri Lanka so memorable. His knowledge and advice was invaluable and we are truly grateful. We would definitely recommend the Kingfisher team and in particular Dinesh for an amazing time in Sri Lanka!
事業者からの返答
Greeting from Sri Lanka!
It was lovely hearing such an appreciation from you Sir,
We are glad you enjoyed it very much and found it you are satisfied.
Dinesh had been a wonderful guide to you updating on all the places you visited. I do not regret to mention that you had the best assistance and guidance from one of the top members in our Team.
Once again we personally thank you for touring with us and hope we could serve you once more when you visit Sri Lanka again.
Wishing you all the best!
With More Love + Big Respect
R
Roberto Eduardo G
September 18, 2019 · via Tripadvisor
Lovely holydays in Sri Lanka
Very good service and the best by far was our driver Aswar, he allowed us to know more about Sri Lanka and was every day worry about us, completly recomended!
事業者からの返答
Greeting from Sri Lanka!
It was lovely hearing such an appreciation from you Mr. Roberto,
We are glad you enjoyed it very much and found it you are satisfied.
Aswar had been a wonderful guide to you updating on all the places you visited. I do not regret to mention that you had the best assistance and guidance from one of the top members in our Team.
Once again we personally thank you for touring with us and hope we could serve you once more when you visit Sri Lanka again.
Wishing you all the best!
With More Love + Big Respect
