What is a fair price for a private chauffeur for 10 days and how do I vet one

For 2026 a fair all-inclusive daily rate (car, fuel, drivers food and accommodation) runs roughly 65 to 90 USD per day for a comfortable mid-size car, 100 to 140 USD for a larger Toyota KDH/Hiace van for families, and more for premium 4WDs. Anything dramatically cheaper means either a beat-up car, no AC, or commission-driven stops. Vetting checklist: (1) ask for the SLTDA licensed chauffeur-guide card (proper guides carry it), (2) read recent independent reviews not just the agencys site, (3) confirm in writing "no shopping stops" if you do not want them, (4) ask the car age and AC, (5) get the full itinerary and route written up beforehand. Tip extra at trips end based on service (1000 to 2000 LKR/day is generous). A good driver-guide transforms a Sri Lanka trip.