Terms & Conditions

1. Introduction & Acceptance

These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern all safari packages, tours, and travel services provided by Tawny Expedition (“we,” “us,” or “the Company”), a registered tour operator based in Arusha, Tanzania. By making a booking, paying a deposit, or participating in any of our tours, you (“the Client” or “you”) acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms. These Terms apply to all participants in the booking, and the lead traveller is responsible for ensuring that all members of their party are aware of and accept these Terms.

2. Booking & Reservations

All bookings are subject to the following conditions:

1. A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total trip cost is required to confirm your reservation.
2. The remaining balance (70%) is due no later than 60 days before your departure date.
3. Bookings made within 60 days of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
4. Your booking is confirmed only upon receipt of the deposit and a written confirmation email from Tawny Expedition.
5. We reserve the right to cancel unconfirmed bookings if the deposit is not received within 7 days of the initial inquiry agreement.

3. Pricing & Payment

1. All prices are quoted in US Dollars (USD) unless otherwise stated.
2. We accept payment via bank transfer and major credit/debit cards. Payment instructions are provided upon booking confirmation.
3. Quoted prices are based on current national park fees, accommodation rates, and transport costs. Prices are subject to change in the event of government park fee increases, currency fluctuations, or fuel surcharges imposed after the date of your booking.
4. If a price adjustment is necessary, we will notify you as soon as possible and offer the option to accept the revised price or cancel with a full refund.
5. Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff are not included in the quoted price and are at your discretion.

4. Cancellation Policy

All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email to info@tawnyexpedition.com. The following cancellation fees apply based on the date we receive your written cancellation notice:

1. 60 or more days before departure - full refund minus a $100 USD administrative fee.
2. 30 to 59 days before departure - 50% refund of the total trip cost.
3. Less than 30 days before departure - no refund.
4. No-shows - no refund will be issued for no-shows or early departures.

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellation to protect your investment.

5. Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers booking with Tawny Expedition. Your insurance policy must, at a minimum, cover medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation (including air ambulance), trip cancellation and interruption, personal baggage and belongings, and personal liability. Proof of valid travel insurance may be requested prior to departure. Tawny Expedition accepts no responsibility for costs incurred due to inadequate or absent travel insurance coverage.

6. Itinerary Changes

While we make every effort to operate trips as described, the nature of safari travel in East Africa means that flexibility is sometimes necessary:

1. We reserve the right to modify itineraries, routes, or accommodation due to weather conditions, road conditions, safety concerns, wildlife movements, or government regulations.
2. When changes are required, we will provide alternatives of equal or comparable value.
3. In the unlikely event that a significant change materially affects your trip, we will discuss options with you, which may include an alternative itinerary, future travel credit, or a partial refund.
4. Minor changes to timings, routes, or the order of activities do not constitute a significant change and are not grounds for a refund.

7. Health & Safety

Travellers are responsible for their own health and safety preparation:

1. Vaccinations - you are responsible for obtaining all recommended and required vaccinations for Tanzania, including Yellow Fever (a certificate may be required at the border). Consult your doctor or a travel health clinic at least 6 weeks before departure.
2. Fitness for activities - certain activities such as walking safaris, hiking, and mountain treks require a reasonable level of physical fitness. You must disclose any medical conditions, allergies, or physical limitations at the time of booking.
3. Guide instructions - for your safety and the safety of others, you must follow the instructions of your safari guide at all times, particularly regarding wildlife interactions and vehicle safety procedures.
4. Malaria prevention - Tanzania is a malaria-risk area. We strongly recommend consulting your doctor regarding anti-malarial medication.

8. Liability Limitations

Tawny Expedition acts as an intermediary between you and various third-party service providers including accommodation operators, transport companies, and activity providers. Accordingly:

1. We are not liable for any injury, illness, loss, damage, delay, or expense arising from acts of nature (including but not limited to weather, earthquakes, and flooding), government actions (including border closures, permit restrictions, and civil unrest), or third-party service failures beyond our control.
2. Safari activities inherently involve risks including, but not limited to, encounters with wild animals, rugged terrain, remote locations, and variable weather conditions. By booking with us, you acknowledge and accept these inherent risks.
3. Our total liability, where applicable, shall not exceed the total amount paid by you for the specific trip or service in question.
4. We are not responsible for loss or theft of personal belongings during the trip.

9. Wildlife & Environment

Tanzania's national parks and conservation areas are protected ecosystems. All travellers must abide by the following:

1. Follow all park rules and regulations as enforced by TANAPA (Tanzania National Parks Authority) and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority.
2. Do not disturb, feed, or provoke wildlife under any circumstances.
3. Maintain safe distances from all animals as instructed by your guide. Never exit the vehicle in game-drive areas unless expressly permitted by your guide.
4. No littering - all waste must be disposed of responsibly. We operate a “leave no trace” policy.
5. No collection of natural specimens - removing rocks, plants, bones, or any natural items from national parks is prohibited by Tanzanian law.

Violation of park rules may result in fines imposed by park authorities and/or removal from the park. Tawny Expedition is not liable for any fines or penalties incurred by travellers who fail to comply with park regulations.

10. Photography & Media

During your safari, our guides and team members may take photographs and videos for marketing, social media, and promotional purposes. By participating in our tours, you consent to the use of such images and footage unless you notify us in writing before or during the trip that you wish to opt out. If you opt out, we will make reasonable efforts to exclude you from any published material. Any photographs you share on social media and tag Tawny Expedition in may be reposted or featured on our platforms with credit, unless you request otherwise.

11. Complaints & Disputes

We are committed to providing an exceptional safari experience. If you are dissatisfied with any aspect of your trip:

1. Notify your guide immediately - many issues can be resolved on the spot if brought to our attention promptly.
2. If the matter is not resolved during the trip, submit a written complaint within 14 days of your return to info@tawnyexpedition.com.
3. We will acknowledge your complaint within 48 hours and provide a full response within 14 business days.
4. These Terms are governed by the laws of Tanzania. Any disputes that cannot be resolved amicably shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of the United Republic of Tanzania.

12. Contact Information

If you have any questions about these Terms and Conditions, please do not hesitate to reach out: