Gorilla Trekking and Safaris is a leading tour company in Rwanda, specializing in wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking adventures, and cultural experiences. To ensure a seamless booking process and a smooth travel experience for its clients, the company has established clear booking terms and policies. These guidelines cover reservation procedures, payment terms, cancellations, refunds, and other important details travelers need to know before embarking on their journey.
Reservation and Booking Process
Booking a tour with Gorilla Trekking and Safaris is a straightforward process designed for the convenience of clients. Travelers can make inquiries via the company’s website, email, or phone, where dedicated travel consultants assist in customizing itineraries based on personal preferences and travel dates.
To confirm a booking, clients are required to provide the following details:
- Full names as per passport
- Passport numbers and nationality
- Preferred tour package and travel dates
- Special requests (e.g., dietary preferences, accommodation upgrades)
Once the details are provided and the itinerary is finalized, the company issues a Booking Confirmation Invoice outlining the total cost, payment schedule, and terms.
Payment Terms and Conditions
To secure a booking, Gorilla Trekking and Safaris requires a deposit of 30% of the total tour cost at the time of confirmation. This deposit is necessary for the company to make essential reservations, including accommodation, park permits, and transportation arrangements.
The remaining balance must be paid at least 30 days before the tour start date. If a booking is made less than 30 days before the departure date, full payment is required at the time of confirmation.
Accepted Payment Methods
The company offers multiple payment options, including:
- Bank wire transfers
- Online payment through secure payment gateways (Visa, Mastercard, PayPal)
- Mobile money payments for regional clients
Clients are responsible for any bank charges or transaction fees incurred during payments.
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Permits
For tours that include gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park or chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, permits must be secured in advance. These permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and are non-refundable and non-transferable once booked.
Since gorilla trekking permits are in high demand and limited in number, Gorilla Trekking and Safaris advises clients to book at least 3 to 6 months in advance to ensure availability. The cost of a Rwanda gorilla permit is $1,500 per person, while a chimpanzee tracking permit costs $90 per person.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Gorilla Trekking and Safaris understands that travel plans can change due to unforeseen circumstances. However, cancellations are subject to the following terms:
- Cancellations made more than 60 days before the tour start date: Full refund, minus administrative fees.
- Cancellations between 30 and 59 days before the tour start date: 50% refund of the total tour cost.
- Cancellations less than 30 days before the tour start date: No refund.
Since gorilla and chimpanzee permits are non-refundable, their cost will be deducted from any eligible refund amount. Clients are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance to cover cancellations due to personal emergencies, illness, or other disruptions.
Changes and Amendments to Bookings
If a client needs to make changes to their travel dates or itinerary, Gorilla Trekking and Safaris allows modifications subject to availability and possible additional costs. Date changes for gorilla trekking permits are difficult to accommodate due to strict regulations by the Rwanda Development Board, so clients should finalize their plans before booking.
Travel Insurance Requirement
Gorilla Trekking and Safaris strongly recommends that all clients purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers:
- Trip cancellations and interruptions
- Medical expenses and emergency evacuation
- Lost or delayed baggage
- Accidents or injuries during activities like gorilla trekking and safaris
The company is not responsible for any financial losses incurred due to unforeseen circumstances beyond its control.
Health and Safety Guidelines
For gorilla trekking and other wildlife experiences, the company follows strict health and safety regulations to protect both travelers and endangered species. These include:
- Visitors must be at least 15 years old to participate in gorilla trekking.
- Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms may not be allowed to trek, as gorillas are highly susceptible to human illnesses.
- Travelers must maintain a minimum distance of 7 meters from gorillas during trekking.
- Face masks may be required in certain situations to prevent disease transmission.
Additionally, clients should ensure they are up to date on recommended vaccinations such as yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and COVID-19 before traveling to Rwanda.
Liability and Responsibility
While Gorilla Trekking and Safaris takes every precaution to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the company is not liable for:
- Injuries, accidents, or loss of personal belongings during the trip.
- Changes to itineraries due to weather conditions, political events, or park regulations beyond the company’s control.
- Delays or cancellations caused by airlines, transportation providers, or third-party service providers.
Clients are expected to adhere to the instructions given by tour guides and park rangers to ensure their safety.
Code of Conduct and Ethical Tourism
Gorilla Trekking and Safaris promotes ethical and responsible tourism practices, and clients are expected to follow guidelines that protect Rwanda’s wildlife, environment, and local communities. Visitors are advised to:
- Avoid littering and practice eco-friendly travel habits.
- Respect local cultures and traditions during cultural tours.
- Refrain from using plastic bags, as Rwanda has strict anti-plastic regulations.
Final Confirmation and Travel Documents
After full payment is received, clients will receive:
- A final itinerary with detailed tour information.
- Copies of gorilla trekking permits (if applicable).
- Contact details of the assigned tour guide or travel consultant.
Clients should carry a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and obtain the necessary Rwanda visa before traveling.
Gorilla Trekking and Safaris is committed to providing unforgettable travel experiences in Rwanda while maintaining transparency in its booking terms and policies. By adhering to these guidelines, clients can enjoy a stress-free journey, whether they are trekking with gorillas, exploring national parks, or immersing themselves in Rwanda’s rich culture. Understanding the booking terms, cancellation policies, and travel requirements ensures a smooth and enjoyable adventure in the Land of a Thousand Hills.