Welcome to Riso Gorilla African Safaris, a registered tour and travel company based in Uganda. By booking a safari or related service with us, you agree to abide by the following Terms and Conditions. These terms form a binding agreement between you (the client) and Riso Gorilla African Safaris (hereafter referred to as “the Company,” “we,” “our,” or “us”). We strongly advise you to read them carefully before confirming your booking.
Our safaris, tours, and travel services include gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, cultural tours, birding, and adventure travel across Uganda and other destinations in East Africa. The Terms and Conditions below outline the responsibilities of both the Company and the Client to ensure clarity, fairness, and smooth operations.
2. Definitions
- Client/You: The individual or group booking a safari with the Company.
- Safari/Tour: Any service, trip, activity, or package offered by the Company.
- Booking: A confirmed reservation of any safari or service made through the Company.
- Permit: An authorization issued by government authorities (such as a Gorilla or Chimpanzee trekking permit).
- Force Majeure: Unforeseen circumstances beyond the Company’s control, including but not limited to natural disasters, pandemics, strikes, political unrest, or government restrictions.
3. Booking Policy
- All bookings must be made directly through our office, website, or authorized representatives.
- A booking is only valid once the Company issues a written confirmation after receiving a deposit or full payment as outlined below.
- For gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, permits must be booked well in advance due to limited availability. The Company cannot guarantee availability until payment has been received and the permit is secured.
- It is the Client’s responsibility to provide accurate personal information, including full names as per passport, dietary needs, medical conditions, and travel preferences.
4. Payment Terms
- A deposit of 30–50% of the total safari cost is required at the time of booking to confirm your trip.
- For gorilla and chimpanzee permits, 100% permit fees must be paid upfront as they are non-refundable once issued.
- The balance must be paid at least 45 days before the safari start date unless otherwise agreed.
- Payments can be made via bank transfer, mobile money, or secure online payment platforms. Clients are responsible for all transaction charges.
- Failure to make full payment on time may result in cancellation of your booking without refund of the deposit.
5. Cancellation and Refund Policy
- All cancellations must be communicated in writing. The date of receipt of your cancellation will determine the charges as follows:
- More than 60 days before safari: refund of deposit minus administrative fees.
- 45–59 days before safari: 50% of total safari cost is forfeited.
- 30–44 days before safari: 70% of total safari cost is forfeited.
- Less than 30 days before safari: 100% of safari cost is forfeited.
- Gorilla and Chimpanzee permits are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable under any circumstances, as per government regulations.
- Refunds will be processed within 30 working days where applicable.
- No refund will be made for unused services once the safari has commenced.
6. Amendments and Changes
- Any request to amend a booking must be made in writing. We will try our best to accommodate changes but cannot guarantee availability.
- Additional costs arising from amendments (such as rescheduling permits, upgrading lodges, or transport changes) will be borne by the Client.
- The Company reserves the right to alter safari itineraries due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather, road conditions, or park regulations.
7. Safari Costs and Inclusions
Unless otherwise stated, safari prices generally include:
- Accommodation as per itinerary.
- Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the safari.
- Transport in a suitable safari vehicle with driver/guide.
- Park entrance fees and relevant activities.
- Gorilla and chimpanzee permits (if indicated).
Exclusions generally include:
- International flights and visas.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses (tips, laundry, drinks, souvenirs).
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
8. Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking
- Trekking is strictly regulated by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Clients must comply with the rules and guidelines provided by park rangers.
- Minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years. No exceptions are permitted.
- Permits guarantee only the opportunity to trek and view gorillas/chimpanzees. The Company cannot guarantee sightings, as they are wild animals.
- If trekking is cancelled by UWA due to safety, weather, or health reasons, refunds will follow UWA policies, which may allow rescheduling but not cash refunds.
- Clients with infectious diseases (e.g., flu, cough, COVID-19) may be denied trekking for the safety of primates.
9. Health and Safety
- Clients must ensure they are physically fit and medically cleared for activities such as trekking, hiking, or boat rides.
- The Company strongly advises Clients to have vaccinations and prophylaxis as recommended (e.g., Yellow Fever, Malaria).
- Travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and cancellation is mandatory for all Clients.
- The Company will not be held liable for injuries, illnesses, or accidents that occur during the safari unless caused by gross negligence of the Company.
10. Responsibilities of the Client
- To provide accurate travel documents (passport, visas, permits).
- To respect wildlife, local communities, and park regulations.
- To follow the instructions of guides, rangers, and staff at all times.
- To ensure full compliance with health and safety measures.
- To cover personal expenses and optional activities not included in the package.
11. Responsibilities of the Company
- To provide services as per the agreed itinerary.
- To ensure professional guides, drivers, and staff are assigned to safaris.
- To select reliable accommodation and transport providers.
- To act in the best interest of Clients in case of emergencies or unforeseen changes.
- To maintain high ethical standards in promoting conservation and responsible tourism.
12. Travel Insurance
The Company requires all Clients to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers:
- Medical treatment and emergency evacuation.
- Trip cancellation and curtailment.
- Loss or theft of personal belongings.
Proof of insurance may be requested prior to travel.
13. Liability
- The Company acts as an agent for hotels, lodges, transport providers, and government agencies. We cannot be held liable for delays, cancellations, or changes caused by third parties.
- We are not responsible for loss, injury, death, or damage arising from natural disasters, accidents, political unrest, theft, or any other Force Majeure circumstances.
- Liability for any claim is limited to the amount paid by the Client to the Company.
14. Complaints and Disputes
- Any complaint must be reported immediately to the guide or Company representative so that it can be addressed promptly.
- If unresolved, a written complaint should be submitted within 14 days after the safari ends.
- The Company will make reasonable efforts to resolve disputes amicably.
- If unresolved, disputes shall be referred to arbitration in Uganda under Ugandan law.
15. Force Majeure
The Company shall not be held responsible or liable for any delay, cancellation, or alteration caused by circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including natural disasters, strikes, disease outbreaks, political unrest, or government restrictions.
16. Privacy Policy
The Company respects your privacy. Personal information provided during bookings will only be used for travel arrangements, permits, and communication. We will not share your information with third parties unless required by law or government authorities.
17. Governing Law
These Terms and Conditions are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Uganda. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of Ugandan courts.
18. Acceptance of Terms
By confirming a booking and making payment, the Client acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to abide by these Terms and Conditions.