Terms and Conditions

Terms & Conditions           

Openbill Safaris Uganda SMC-LTD
Effective Date: 1^st /Jan/2025

1. Definitions

• “Company” means Openbill Safaris Uganda SMC-LTD, its officers, employees, agents, and subcontractors.
• “Client” / “Traveller” / “You” means the individual or group booking services with the Company.
• “Services” means all tours, safaris, transportation, accommodation, permits, guiding, and related arrangements provided by the Company.
• “Booking” means the confirmed reservation of services made by the Client.
• “Permit” means any entry, gorilla tracking, chimpanzee tracking, or activity permit issued by authorities.

2. Application of Terms

These Terms & Conditions apply to all bookings with Openbill Safaris Uganda SMC-LTD. By confirming a booking, paying a deposit, or using the Company’s services, the Client acknowledges and accepts these terms in full.

3. Booking, Confirmation & Payments

• A deposit of 40% of the total safari cost is required to secure a booking.
• The balance payment (60%) must be received no later than 30 days before the safari start date.
• Bookings made within 30 days of departure must be paid in full.
• Gorilla and chimpanzee permits are subject to full advance payment at the time of booking and are non-refundable and non-transferable.
• All payments must be free of bank charges, with the Client bearing any transaction or transfer fees.

4. Prices & Currency

• All prices are quoted in US Dollars (USD) unless otherwise stated.
• Prices are based on prevailing rates of fuel, park fees, government taxes, and supplier charges. The Company reserves the right to adjust prices if such costs change before travel.
• Any surcharges will be communicated promptly.

5. Cancellations & Refunds

• Cancellations must be communicated in writing.
• Cancellation charges apply as follows:

• No refunds are made for gorilla/chimp permits, air tickets, or services already purchased on the Client’s behalf.
• No refunds for late arrivals, early departures, or unused services.
• NOTE: Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits are non-refundable, as they are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and cannot be transferred.
• If we are required to cancel your safari due to force majeure (such as natural disasters, travel bans, or national emergencies), you will be offered: The option to reschedule your safari at no extra charge

6. Changes & Alterations

• By Client: Requests for changes after confirmation may attract administration fees and additional costs.
• By Company: The Company reserves the right to modify itineraries, accommodation, transport, or services due to weather, safety, government regulations, or other factors beyond control. Alternatives of comparable standard will be arranged where possible.

7. Client Responsibilities

• Ensure valid passport, visa, vaccinations, health certificates, and travel documents.
• Disclose any medical conditions, dietary needs, or disabilities at booking.
• Abide by instructions from guides, rangers, and authorities.
• Respect park rules, wildlife, and local communities. Failure to comply may result in removal from the safari without refund.

8. Insurance

The Client is strongly advised to obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering:

• Medical expenses & evacuation,
• Trip cancellation or curtailment,
• Loss or theft of baggage & personal belongings,
• Personal accident & injury.

The Company shall not be held responsible for costs arising from lack of adequate insurance.

9. Liability & Limitations

• The Company acts as an agent for third-party providers (lodges, transport, airlines). It is not liable for their acts, negligence, or omissions.
• Liability is limited to the amount paid for the services booked.
• The Company shall not be liable for indirect losses, delays, or damages caused by accidents, strikes, weather, war, pandemics, government actions, or other force majeure events.

10. Force Majeure

The Company shall not be liable for any failure to perform its obligations if prevented by events beyond its control, including natural disasters, wars, strikes, epidemics, border closures, extreme weather, or government restrictions.

11. Health, Safety & Conduct

• Some activities (e.g. gorilla trekking, hiking) require physical fitness. Clients should ensure they are in suitable health.
• The Company reserves the right to refuse participation if a Client is unfit or poses risk to self, others, or wildlife.
• Clients engaging in disruptive, unsafe, or illegal behavior may be removed without refund.

12. Photography & Marketing

Unless otherwise stated in writing, the Company may use photos or videos taken during the safari for promotional purposes. Clients may opt out in advance.

13. Complaints

• Any dissatisfaction should be reported immediately to the guide or Company representative for resolution.
• If unresolved, a written complaint must be submitted within 30 days after safari completion.
• The Company will make reasonable efforts to resolve disputes in good faith.

14. Governing Law & Jurisdiction

These Terms & Conditions are governed by the laws of Uganda. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of Ugandan courts.

15. Acceptance

By booking with Openbill Safaris Uganda SMC-LTD, paying a deposit, or utilizing services, the Client confirms acceptance of these Terms & Conditions.

Reviewed and Approved

MAKOHA EMMANUEL

MANAGING DIRECTOR /CEO

OPENBILL SAFARIS UGANDA SMC-LTD

DATE: 1^st/Jan/2025