Terms & Conditions

Last updated: January 2025
These Terms & Conditions govern your use of the Tripmates Safaris website and the booking of any tours or services offered by us. By submitting an enquiry or booking, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these terms.

1. About Us

Tripmates Safaris is a licensed tour and travel company based in Kampala, Uganda. We design and operate safari tours, gorilla trekking experiences, wildlife safaris, and other travel packages across Uganda and East Africa. Our contact details are provided at the bottom of this page.

2. Enquiries and Bookings

Submitting an enquiry form on our website does not constitute a confirmed booking. A booking is only confirmed when:

• You have received a written confirmation from Tripmates Safaris
• A deposit or full payment has been agreed and received
• Both parties have agreed on the itinerary and price

We reserve the right to decline any booking at our discretion. All prices quoted are subject to availability and may change prior to confirmation.

3. Prices and Payment

All prices displayed on our website are indicative starting ranges in US Dollars (USD) unless otherwise stated. The final price will be confirmed in writing after we have discussed your specific requirements, travel dates, group size, and comfort level preference.

• Prices may vary by season, group size, and accommodation choice
• A deposit (typically 30%) is required to confirm a booking
• The remaining balance is due no later than 30 days before your travel date
• For bookings made within 30 days of travel, full payment is required upfront
• Payment methods will be agreed directly between you and our team

4. Cancellations and Refunds

We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation policy is as follows:

Refunds (where applicable) will be processed within 14 business days. Gorilla permits and other third-party permits are non-refundable once purchased. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes cancellation cover.

5. Changes to Bookings

If you wish to change your travel dates or itinerary after confirmation, we will do our best to accommodate your request subject to availability. Changes made within 30 days of travel may incur additional charges. We reserve the right to make minor modifications to itineraries due to weather, road conditions, wildlife movements, or operational reasons without prior notice, while maintaining the overall character and value of your tour.

6. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for all participants. Your insurance must cover at minimum: medical expenses (including emergency evacuation), trip cancellation, and personal liability. For trekking tours (gorilla trekking, mountain trekking), your policy must also include emergency mountain rescue and repatriation cover. Tripmates Safaris accepts no liability for costs arising from inadequate insurance coverage.

7. Health, Fitness and Medical Conditions

It is your responsibility to ensure you are medically fit to participate in your chosen activities. You must inform us of any medical conditions, disabilities, or dietary requirements at the time of booking. Certain activities (such as gorilla trekking and mountain climbing) have minimum age and fitness requirements. We reserve the right to exclude any participant from an activity if we believe their participation poses a risk to themselves or others.

8. Our Liability

Tripmates Safaris acts as a tour operator and takes all reasonable steps to ensure the quality and safety of your experience. However, we are not liable for:

• Events beyond our control including but not limited to: weather, natural disasters, government actions, civil unrest, wildlife behaviour, or pandemics
• Loss, damage, or theft of personal belongings
• Injuries sustained during participation in adventure activities where the inherent risk was made known
• Services provided by third-party suppliers (hotels, airlines, national parks)
• Any indirect or consequential losses

Our total liability to you shall not exceed the total amount paid for your tour.

9. Your Responsibilities

• Ensure all travel documents (passport, visa, permits) are valid and obtained in time
• Arrive on time for all scheduled departures and activities
• Follow the instructions of your guide and park rangers at all times
• Respect local customs, wildlife, and the natural environment
• Behave in a manner that does not endanger yourself, other travellers, or wildlife
• Provide accurate personal and health information at the time of booking

10. Photography and Media

With your permission, Tripmates Safaris may photograph or film you during tours for marketing purposes. You may opt out at any time by informing your guide. You are responsible for complying with all photography rules in national parks (e.g. no flash photography near gorillas).

11. Complaints

If you have a complaint during your tour, please raise it immediately with your guide or our team so we can resolve it promptly. Complaints submitted after the tour must be made in writing within 28 days of your return date. We will respond within 14 business days.

12. Governing Law

These Terms & Conditions are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Uganda. Any disputes arising from these terms shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of Uganda.

13. Changes to These Terms

We reserve the right to update these Terms & Conditions at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated date. Continued use of our website after changes constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.