Terms and Conditions:
Twija Africa Safaris
Welcome to Twija Africa Safaris. Please read these Terms and Conditions carefully before booking your safari, tour, or transit experience with us. By paying a deposit or confirming a booking, you agree to be bound by the terms outlined below.
1. Booking and Confirmation
Deposit Requirement: A non-refundable deposit of **40% to 50%** of the total safari cost is required at the time of booking to secure reservations for accommodations, transport, and logistics.
Permit Fees: Fees for Mountain Gorilla tracking permits and Chimpanzee tracking permits must be paid 100% in full at the time of booking. These permits are strictly non-refundable as they are issued by government bodies (such as the Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Development Board).
Final Payment: The remaining balance must be paid at least 30 days prior to the safari commencement date, unless a specific cash-on-arrival or alternative arrangement has been explicitly agreed upon in writing.
2. Rates and Price Fluctuations
Inclusions: Rates generally include ground transportation in 4x4 safari vehicles, professional driver-guide fees, accommodation, meals as specified in the itinerary, park entrance fees, and specified activities.
Exclusions: Rates exclude international flights, visa fees, travel insurance, tips, porter fees, alcoholic beverages, and personal expenses.
3. Cancellation and Refund Policy
In the event that you must cancel your booking, the cancellation must be submitted in writing. The following standard cancellation fees apply (excluding permit fees, which are entirely non-refundable):
* **60+ days prior to departure:** The deposit is retained, but any balance paid may be refunded or credited toward a future trip.
* **30 to 59 days prior to departure:** 50% of the total tour cost is charged.
* **Less than 30 days prior to departure:** 100% of the total tour cost is charged (no refund).
> **Note on Postponements:** If you need to reschedule due to unforeseen circumstances, we will do our best to transfer your booking to a future date, subject to accommodation availability and any seasonal rate differences.
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4. Itinerary Alterations
Flexibility: While we make every effort to adhere to the confirmed itinerary, African safaris require flexibility. Twija Africa Safaris reserves the right to alter routes, accommodations, or activities due to local road conditions, weather, safety concerns, or changes in wildlife patterns. Equivalent alternatives will always be provided.
5. Travel Insurance and Health Requirements
Mandatory Insurance: It is a strict requirement that all clients obtain comprehensive travel insurance before departure. This insurance must cover personal accident, medical emergency expenses, evacuation, repatriation, baggage loss, and trip cancellation.
Health and Fitness: Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking can be physically demanding and takes place at high altitudes. It is the client’s responsibility to ensure they are medically fit to travel. Clients must also comply with national health entry regulations (such as Yellow Fever vaccinations).
6. Liability and Safety
Inherent Risks: Traveling in the African wilderness involves inherent risks associated with wild animals, variable terrain, and local infrastructure. Twija Africa Safaris, its guides, and its directors act as agents and accept no liability for personal injury, illness, death, delay, or damage to property, unless caused by gross negligence.
Wildlife Sightings: While our local guides are highly experienced trackers, wildlife sightings (including specific gorilla groups or bird species) cannot be 100% guaranteed.
7. Complaints and Governing Law
Immediate Resolution: If a problem arises during your safari, you must report it immediately to your driver-guide or our Kampala office so we can resolve the issue on the spot.
Jurisdiction: These Terms and Conditions are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the **Republic of Uganda**.
