We kindly ask you to carefully review the terms and conditions associated with the services provided by Majestic Africa Exploration. By confirming a safari with us, you acknowledge that you have read, fully comprehend, and accept the terms and conditions outlined below. Should you have any queries, please feel free to reach out to us.
Application
The Customer acknowledges that any indulgence by the Company shall not be interpreted as a waiver of any rights under this agreement, and the Company retains the right to exercise its rights at any time. The terms and conditions specified in this document shall pertain to the tour booking established between the Company and the undersigned client, as detailed further in the tour dossier provided or the booking confirmation. References to “client” within these terms shall encompass references to an agent of the client, with context-specific adjustments.
Applicable Law and Jurisdiction
These terms and conditions are considered to have originated in Kabale, Uganda, and will be interpreted according to the laws of the Republic of Uganda. The client consents to the jurisdiction of the Magistrates Court of Uganda, although Majestic Africa Exploration retains the option to initiate legal proceedings in the High Court if deemed necessary. Additionally, clients are required to comply with the laws, customs, exchange regulations, and other requirements of all countries visited during the tour.
Bookings
1.1 Majestic Africa Exploration collaborates with independent suppliers to provide transportation, accommodation bookings, meals, excursions, and other services.
1.2 All information in client itineraries is presented based on the most current knowledge available to Majestic Africa Exploration. We cannot be held responsible for any changes made by third parties or typographical errors.
1.3 To obtain gorilla permits, we require: full names as they appear in your passport, nationality, and passport number.
1.4 Prior to confirming a safari, clients must inform Majestic Africa Exploration of any preferences or special requests (e.g., medical needs, dietary requirements, disability accommodations). We will strive to meet these requests as best as possible.
1.5 All packages are subject to availability and are not guaranteed until confirmed. Many lodges and hotels have limited capacities, making it crucial to book well in advance of your trip.
1.6 Should you need to change your reservation; Majestic Africa Exploration will attempt to accommodate your preferred adjustments and confirm accordingly. An amendment fee may apply, reflecting the costs incurred, which will be added to your total invoice.
1.7 The Company reserves the right to modify the tour schedule, transportation, accommodations, and services listed in the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances prior to your arrival. Any changes will be communicated promptly.
Prices
2.1 Quoted prices for safaris based on the itinerary include, unless specified otherwise: overnight stay in hotels, guesthouses, tents, or lodges, meals indicated, sightseeing as per itinerary, park entrance fees, ranger fees, airport transfers (if applicable), ground transport, English-speaking driver/guides, and bottled mineral water in the vehicle.
2.2 Uncovered expenses include: international and domestic airfares, visas, passports, meals not specified in the itinerary, drinks other than mineral water provided in the vehicle, tips and gratuities for guides and staff, laundry, travel insurance, and personal items.
2.3 Prices on our website or quoted to clients are subject to change without prior notice and are not guaranteed until confirmed in writing.
2.4 The Company holds the right to adjust prices if there are fluctuations in exchange rates or increases in costs associated with the tour. We will make efforts to minimize any price increases.
Execution of the Tour
3.1 It is a privilege to observe wildlife in its natural habitat; therefore, we cannot guarantee wildlife encounters. Clients must exercise caution when viewing animals and adhere to instructions from tour guides or wildlife rangers.
3.2 A gorilla or chimpanzee permit ensures clients can track these primates, but it does not guarantee visibility of the animals.
3.3 Accommodation is generally based on a twin- or double-bedded room, tent, or banda, with private bathrooms where available. Single rooms may be available for an additional fee, but availability cannot be assured.
3.4 Majestic Africa Exploration has the right to replace accommodations with others of equal or higher quality. If an equivalent hotel is unavailable, the next best quality hotel may be substituted, potentially incurring extra charges.
3.5 The mode of transport will depend on the number of clients and the chosen itinerary. We strive to provide roadworthy vehicles; however, we accept no liability for punctures, breakdowns, damage, or delays due to poor road conditions.
3.6 Experienced English-speaking driver/guides are integral to your tour, and only they are permitted to drive. They will determine route choices based on conditions.
3.7 The Company reserves the right to modify routes or arrangements, cancel tours, or change safari services due to unforeseen circumstances such as road closures, adverse weather, issues with national parks or accommodations, or security concerns. Alternative arrangements will be made as feasible.
3.8 Majestic Africa Exploration reserves the right to hire subcontractors to fulfill any or all services as agreed.
3.9 We reserve the right to exclude any individual from participating in or continuing the tour if they engage in behavior that endangers or inconveniences others, causes property damage, or disrupts ecosystems. No refunds will be issued, and we will not be liable for expenses incurred due to such exclusion.
Payment
4.1 All tours will only be booked and confirmed upon receiving a 40% deposit of the basic program rate. Full payment for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits is required in advance to secure the reservation.
4.2 The remaining balance must be paid no later than 30 days before the safari, unless otherwise agreed.
4.3 Bookings made within 30 days of arrival must be paid in full at the time of confirmation.
4.4 If payment is not received as stipulated, Majestic Africa Exploration has the right to cancel the booking.
4.5 Payments can be made via bank transfer or cash prior to the safari’s commencement.
4.6 All costs related to international transactions must be fully covered by the client.
Cancellations and Refunds
5.1 Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing and will be effective upon actual receipt by Majestic Africa Exploration.
5.2 The following cancellation charges apply to the basic program rate:
60 days or more prior to arrival: 10% fee
50 – 30 days prior to arrival: 25% fee
31 – 8 days prior to arrival: 50% fee
7 – 3 days prior to arrival: 75% fee
48 hours or less prior to arrival: 100% fee
Majestic Africa Exploration Ltd retains the right to deduct all incurred expenses from payments received.
5.3 Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits are non-refundable.
5.4 No refunds will be issued for unused services, late arrivals, or no-shows.
Complaints
6.1 Majestic Africa Exploration strives to exceed expectations in all aspects of tour arrangements. Suggestions for improvement are welcome.
6.2 Complaints must be communicated to the Majestic Africa Exploration representative and the service provider immediately, who will attempt to resolve the issue. If not resolved satisfactorily, complaints should be submitted in writing within 30 days of the tour’s completion.
6.3 Liability for complaints not reported in accordance with this process cannot be accepted.
Liability
7.1 While Majestic Africa Exploration aims to ensure all arrangements and services are delivered efficiently, we do not have direct control over services provided by suppliers. Thus, we accept no liability for errors or omissions by these suppliers.
7.2 The Company is not liable for any loss, damage, or injury of any kind, whether personal or property-related.
7.3 We are not responsible for direct or indirect costs arising from loss or damage to luggage or personal belongings.
7.4 Majestic Africa Exploration is not liable for unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, including travel disruptions due to flight delays, mechanical issues, civil unrest, and more.
7.5 It is the responsibility of guests, travel agencies, or wholesalers to ensure that all tour participants possess appropriate documentation, including visas and health certificates.
7.6 Clients must take necessary health and safety precautions and obtain proper health advice before traveling.
7.7 Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended for all clients before their visit to East Africa.
7.8 The laws of the respective country govern the Company’s liability to passengers transported in its vehicles. All claims are subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of the country where the event occurred.
Should you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch! Your enjoyment, comfort, and safety are our top priorities. We utilize high-quality 4×4 minibuses, land cruisers, and vehicles designed for off-road travel, ensuring each tour participant has a guaranteed window seat for better animal viewing and photography—unlike other companies that may crowd guests into poorly maintained vehicles.
Age Restrictions for Activities
Children under 12 years are not permitted in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Kibale National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe National Park, Virunga National Park, and Kahuzi Biega National Park. However, children over 8 years are welcome in other savannah parks for game drives.
Children must be 15 years or older to participate in gorilla and chimpanzee trekking and white rhino tracking activities.
Passports, Visas, and Travel Documentation
Clients are entirely responsible for ensuring that their passports, visas, health certificates, vaccination proof, and any other required documentation are organized for all countries included in the tour. The Company will not be liable for the loss or damage of any client’s luggage due to circumstances beyond our control.
Health
Clients recognize that participation in the tour necessitates a certain level of physical fitness. It is the client’s responsibility to confirm their medical fitness for the tour. Clients over 90 years old must provide a medical certificate or letter confirming their fitness to participate. A medical questionnaire is also required for clients over 90 years old. Majestic Africa Exploration will not accept reservations without this documentation.
Authority on Tour
Clients must comply with the laws, customs, and foreign exchange regulations of all countries visited during the tour. Disruptive, dangerous, or unsafe behavior will not be tolerated, and the Company reserves the right to exclude any individual from the tour in such cases. The Company is not responsible for any associated costs or expenses, nor will clients receive refunds or compensation in such instances.
Marketing
The Company reserves the right to use photographs and video taken during the tour for marketing or other promotional purposes.
Unforeseen Circumstances
Unexpected events, including but not limited to war, mechanical issues, weather, and riots, may cause delays or alterations to the tour. The Company cannot be held accountable for such occurrences or their consequences.
Travel Documents
Upon booking, clients will receive our tour dossier and pre-departure information. It is the client’s responsibility to read and comprehend these documents ahead of travel.
Indemnification and Liability Exclusion
Clients accept that the tour is adventurous and involves personal involvement. The Company, including its directors, officers, employees, representatives, and agents, shall not be liable for any loss or damage arising from the client’s participation in the tour or related activities. Clients irrevocably release the Company from all such liabilities. Additionally, clients indemnify and hold the Company harmless from any loss, damage, actions, or claims arising from their tour participation.