These booking terms of Pieland Gorilla Safaris help clients undestand hhhow the company operates. We organize vacations in Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, Tanzania, and safari holidays in Kenya. Please read these Terms and Conditions carefully, as they outline our respective obligations and form the basis of your contract with Pieland Gorilla Safaris. In these terms, “you” refers to all persons named on the booking (including anyone added or substituted later), and “we” or “us” refers to Pieland Gorilla Safaris.
These booking terms may be revised from time to time due to changing circumstances. The terms valid at the time of booking will apply. Conditions in Africa differ from those in developed countries, and standards of service, medical facilities, safety, and security may often be lower than those in your home country. Please note that the laws and regulations of the country where services are provided apply to your holiday arrangements, not those of your home country. We strongly advise clients to read our booking terms before traveling.
ACCOMMODATIONS
We use elegant and unique hotels, lodges, and camps that offer good facilities, clean water, friendly staff, and reasonable prices. Clients are requested to inform us in advance of any dietary requirements. We reserve the right to substitute accommodations with equivalent or superior options where necessary.
COMPLAINTS
If you have a complaint, it must be reported immediately to the Safari Manager and the supplier. They will do their best to assist you. If you are not satisfied, you should submit a written report to the Manager or Supplier as soon as possible after the incident, and no later than 30 days after completing your safari. This allows us to investigate fully. We cannot accept complaints that are not reported according to these terms.
ACCURACY OF INFORMATION
All information, descriptions, and opinions regarding itineraries, national parks, gorilla permits, from Uganda Wildlife Authority animal sightings, accommodation, and security are provided in good faith and based on the most current information available. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy, we cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions beyond our control.
FORCE MAJEURE
We cannot provide compensation if the performance of our services is affected by events beyond our control. These may include war, terrorist activity, government actions, riots, civil unrest, natural disasters, border closures, industrial disputes, fire, road closures, theft, epidemics, quarantines, travel disruptions, or extreme weather conditions.
Depending on your itinerary, some activities involve inherent risks of personal injury. These activities include gorilla trekking, white-water rafting, chimpanzee tracking, walking tours, canoe or boat rides, and mountaineering. Participation in these activities is at your own risk, and we accept no responsibility for your safety.
GORILLA PERMITS
Gorilla permits can only be purchased after payment has been received. A permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority does not guarantee gorilla sightings, although the success rate is approximately 99%. Local conditions may sometimes prevent access at short notice. We cannot accept liability for cancellations due to park closures, border closures, absence of gorillas, or security changes. Refunds are determined by the relevant authority, and we will pass on any refund received to the client.
PAYMENT
By booking your safari, you agree to our terms and conditions. A deposit, usually 40% of the total cost, is required at booking. In peak seasons, a 50% deposit may be required, especially for permits and accommodation. The remaining balance must be paid before the safari begins. Full payment is required for bookings made close to the departure date.
INSURANCE
All clients must arrange personal travel insurance that is valid and appropriate. Individuals with serious health conditions, physical limitations, or advanced pregnancy are advised not to participate in strenuous travel programs. Insurance should cover death, injury, theft, and medical expenses, including high-risk activities such as rafting and mountaineering.
BAGGAGE
All personal belongings and baggage are carried at the passenger’s own risk.
NATIONAL PARKS
We strongly discourage the collection of any natural specimens. Our safaris are designed for observing and photographing wildlife without disturbing it.
TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS ON TOUR
We reserve the right to take photographs of participants for promotional purposes. Anyone who does not wish to have their image used should inform the tour guide at the start of the safari.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN OUR SAFARI PRICES
Please note that any additional activities not included in the original itinerary will be charged separately.
Our safari prices include: gorilla permits at $800 each, chimpanzee permits at $250 each, accommodation, private 4×4 safari transport, a full-time English-speaking guide, meals (except where bed and breakfast is specified), water and snacks, park entrance fees, ranger fees, chimpanzee tracking, boat or canoe rides, and all applicable taxes.
The price excludes international flights, personal expenses (such as drinks, laundry, and souvenirs), visa fees, porter fees during gorilla trekking, travel insurance, gratuities, and any extras not listed in the itinerary. Safari prices are based on full board.
We reserve the right to adjust safari services due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather, road conditions, or security issues. Alternative arrangements will be made where possible.
WHEN YOU CANCEL
If you need to cancel your safari, you must inform us in writing. Cancellation is only valid once we receive your written notice. Cancellation fees will apply as follows:
60 days or more before arrival – 25%
59 to 32 days before arrival – 50%
31 to 8 days before arrival – 75%
7 days to arrival – 100%
If you end your safari after it has started without allowing us time to resolve the issue, no refund will be given.
WHEN WE CANCEL
In rare cases, we may need to cancel a confirmed booking. We will not cancel less than 60 days before departure unless due to unavoidable circumstances. If we cancel your holiday (excluding non-payment or force majeure), we will offer an alternative safari of similar standard or a full refund, excluding gorilla permits unless refunded by the relevant authority.
If the alternative is cheaper, the difference will be refunded. If it is more expensive, you will need to pay the difference. We cannot cover additional expenses or losses caused by cancellation.
Cancellation fees are based on the date we receive your written notice.
VOLUNTARY EXECUTION
By paying a deposit, you confirm that you have read and understood these Terms and Conditions, including cancellation policies and liability limitations. This applies to you, your family, and beneficiaries.
Please note: If you are dissatisfied with your vehicle or guide during the safari, you must allow us 24 hours to resolve the issue.
Thank you for choosing Pieland Gorilla Safaris. We look forward to welcoming you.