Booking Terms and Conditions for Firante Gorilla Treks
Thank you for choosing Firante Gorilla Treks for your East African safari experience. We are a fully registered Uganda Tour Operator specializing in Gorilla Trekking, Great Wildlife Migration, Chimpanzee Tracking, Big Game Drives, Cultural Experiences, and Birding. In order to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all our travelers, we have outlined the following booking terms and conditions. By making a booking with us, you agree to the terms and conditions outlined below.
Booking Confirmation and Payment
To confirm your reservation with Firante Gorilla Treks, a non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total tour cost is required at the time of booking. The deposit secures your safari and ensures that your desired travel dates, permits, and accommodations are reserved. The balance of the payment is due no later than 30 days before your tour departure date.
For bookings made within 30 days of departure, the full tour cost is payable immediately. Payments can be made via bank transfer, credit card, or other payment methods outlined on our website or in communication with our team. Please ensure that all payments are made in the currency specified in the invoice.
Gorilla Trekking Permits
For gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda or Rwanda, permits are a critical component of your safari. These permits must be booked and paid for well in advance due to their limited availability. Firante Gorilla Treks will secure your gorilla trekking permits for you once the deposit is received. The cost of the permit is non-refundable, and cancellations will be subject to the policies set by the relevant national park authorities.
Please note that the permit cost is separate from your tour cost and is included in the final payment. If you are unable to participate in your scheduled gorilla trek due to health, fitness, or personal reasons, no refund will be provided for the permit.
Changes to Bookings
Once a booking has been confirmed, changes to the itinerary or travel dates may be possible but will be subject to availability and may incur additional costs. Changes to the booking must be made in writing and are not guaranteed. Firante Gorilla Treks will do its best to accommodate changes, but we are not liable for any additional expenses that may arise as a result of such changes.
In case of changes to bookings, especially with regard to gorilla trekking or other national park visits, Firante Gorilla Treks will communicate the updated costs and options to you promptly.
Cancellation Policy
In the event that you need to cancel your booking, Firante Gorilla Treks has a cancellation policy in place. Cancellations must be made in writing and will be subject to the following terms:
- 45 days or more before the departure date: A full refund, minus the non-refundable deposit and any applicable fees.
- 15 to 44 days before departure: 50% refund of the total tour cost.
- Less than 14 days before departure: No refund will be provided.
Please note that if you cancel your gorilla trekking permit, the permit cost is non-refundable under any circumstances. The cancellation policy applies to all aspects of your tour, including accommodations, permits, and other booked services.
In cases where we need to cancel your tour due to reasons beyond our control, such as political instability, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances, we will offer a full refund or provide the option to reschedule your tour for a later date.
Tour Costs and Additional Fees
All prices quoted by Firante Gorilla Treks are based on the current exchange rates and tariffs at the time of booking. We reserve the right to adjust the price if there are any significant changes in exchange rates, fuel surcharges, or taxes. Firante Gorilla Treks will notify you of any price changes before your final payment is due.
Additional fees may apply for special requests, including but not limited to upgrades, additional activities, or single supplements. These fees will be clearly outlined in your final invoice. It is important to note that any extra activities requested outside of the agreed itinerary will incur additional costs, which are payable directly to us.
Health and Fitness Requirements
Many of our tours, including gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking, require a moderate level of fitness. These activities may involve walking on uneven terrain, sometimes at high altitudes, and may be physically demanding. By booking your tour with Firante Gorilla Treks, you confirm that you and your fellow travelers are in good health and have no medical conditions that would impede participation in the activities booked.
For gorilla trekking, you must be at least 15 years old. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, it is strongly recommended that you consult your doctor prior to booking. Firante Gorilla Treks is not liable for any health issues that arise during the tour, and it is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit for the activities.
Travel Insurance
Firante Gorilla Treks strongly recommends that all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance. This insurance should cover cancellation, medical emergencies, evacuation, trip interruption, lost baggage, and other unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your safari. Travel insurance is an essential safeguard, especially when participating in activities like gorilla trekking or game drives.
We are happy to recommend reputable insurance providers should you need assistance in securing the right coverage for your trip.
Liability and Responsibilities
While Firante Gorilla Treks takes all necessary precautions to ensure your safety and enjoyment, we cannot be held responsible for any accidents, injuries, losses, or damages that may occur during your tour. This includes, but is not limited to, situations arising from animal encounters, travel delays, natural disasters, or personal negligence.
By booking with us, you acknowledge and accept the inherent risks involved in traveling to and within East Africa, including participating in activities such as gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and cultural interactions. Firante Gorilla Treks and its staff will take every reasonable precaution to minimize risk and provide safe, enjoyable experiences.
Complaints and Disputes
If you encounter any issues during your tour, we encourage you to inform your guide or the Firante Gorilla Treks team as soon as possible. We are committed to resolving any concerns or complaints promptly to ensure your satisfaction.
Any formal complaints should be submitted in writing within 14 days of completing your tour. Firante Gorilla Treks will respond to and investigate complaints as soon as possible. Disputes that cannot be resolved amicably will be referred to a third-party mediator or the relevant tourism authority for further resolution.
Force Majeure
Firante Gorilla Treks is not liable for any delays or cancellations due to circumstances beyond our control, including but not limited to, natural disasters, political instability, terrorism, strikes, or other unforeseen events. In the event of a force majeure situation, Firante Gorilla Treks will make reasonable efforts to assist with rescheduling or providing alternative travel options.
Privacy and Data Protection
At Firante Gorilla Treks, we are committed to protecting your privacy. We collect personal information only for the purpose of fulfilling your booking and ensuring the safety of your tour. We will not share your personal information with third parties, except as necessary to facilitate your booking (e.g., with national park authorities for permits). For more information, please refer to our Privacy Policy.
Conclusion
By booking with Firante Gorilla Treks, you acknowledge and agree to these booking terms and conditions. We are committed to providing you with a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable safari experience in East Africa. If you have any questions or need further clarification, our team is here to assist you every step of the way. Thank you for choosing Firante Gorilla Treks, and we look forward to welcoming you on an extraordinary journey!