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These Terms & Conditions govern your use of the services provided by Sauti Africa Explorers, a Uganda-based tour operator offering custom safaris, cultural tours, and travel logistics across East and Central Africa. By booking with us or using our website, you agree to these terms in full.

1. Booking, Deposits & Payments

• To confirm a booking, a non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total tour cost is required at the time of reservation.
• The remaining balance (70%) must be paid no later than 30 days before the start of your tour.
• For last-minute bookings (within 30 days), full payment is required at the time of booking.
• Payments can be made by bank transfer, mobile money, or other methods as agreed upon.
• All payments must be made in USD or UGX, unless otherwise stated.

2. Cancellations & Refunds

Cancellations by the Client:

• 60+ days before tour: Full refund minus bank & admin fees
• 30–59 days before tour: 50% of total cost refunded
• 15–29 days before tour: 25% of total cost refunded
• Less than 15 days: No refund

Cancellations by Sauti Africa Explorers:

• If we must cancel your tour due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g. natural disaster, civil unrest), we will offer:
  
• A full refund
• OR an option to reschedule
• Refunds do not apply to gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits, which are regulated by national park authorities and are non-refundable once issued.

3. Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permits

• Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits are booked in advance and are subject to availability.
• These permits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
• Permit fees are set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and Rwanda Development Board (RDB), and may change without prior notice.

4. Travel Insurance (Mandatory)

All clients must secure comprehensive travel insurance that covers:

• Emergency medical treatment and evacuation
• Trip cancellations or delays
• Theft, damage, or loss of property
• COVID-19-related cancellations or medical needs (if applicable)

Sauti Africa Explorers is not responsible for any losses resulting from a failure to obtain adequate insurance.

5. Health & Vaccinations

• Travelers are responsible for checking health and vaccination requirements prior to entry into Uganda or other countries included in the tour.
• Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for most East African countries.
• We recommend antimalarial medication and bringing a personal first-aid kit.
• Please notify us of any medical conditions or allergies before your tour.

6. Travel Documents & Visas

• It is the client’s responsibility to ensure all necessary documents (valid passport, visa, travel insurance) are in order.
• Most East African countries require visas, which can often be obtained online or on arrival.
• The East African Tourist Visa allows travel between Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda with one visa.

7. Changes to Itinerary

• While we strive to follow your customized itinerary, changes may occur due to road conditions, weather, or park regulations.
• We reserve the right to make adjustments to routes, accommodation, or timing in the interest of safety and quality.
• We will always inform you of any major changes as early as possible.

8. Wildlife Sightings & Natural Conditions

• All safaris take place in natural, wild environments. While sightings are very likely, no wildlife sightings are guaranteed.
• Weather and animal movement can affect the timing and quality of sightings.

9. Liability & Responsibility

Sauti Africa Explorers is not liable for:

• Injuries, death, or illness
• Loss or damage of personal belongings
• Delays or expenses arising from acts of government, weather, war, strikes, or civil unrest
• Services provided by third parties (e.g. airlines, lodges, transport companies)

Travelers participate at their own risk and are responsible for their own safety and personal conduct.

10. Code of Conduct

• We expect all clients to behave respectfully toward staff, other travelers, wildlife, and local communities.
• Offensive behavior, illegal activity, or disrespect toward local customs may result in removal from the tour without refund.

11. Photography & Media Use

• With your consent, photos or videos taken during your safari may be used in our promotional materials (website, social media, brochures).
• If you prefer not to be photographed or featured, simply inform your guide or contact our office in advance.

12. Dispute Resolution & Governing Law

• These Terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of Uganda.
• In the event of any disputes, we will seek resolution through mutual discussion and, if necessary, mediation or arbitration in Uganda.