Cancellation Policy Drivers

An initial deposit of 30% of the total trip cost is required at the time of booking and is non-refundable. This deposit is used to secure permits (e.g., Gorilla and Chimpanzee permits) from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) well in advance due to the highly competitive nature of obtaining these permits. UWA’s current policy does not allow refunds for permits if a tourist cancels or fails to show up. Therefore, we make it clear that this 30% advance deposit is never refundable.

If the tourist has paid the full amount (100%) of the trip cost in advance, the cancellation fees are calculated based on the remaining 70% of the trip charges.   Since we are financially affected because of cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows:

If your deposit included upfront payment for gorilla permits or domestic flights, please note that these costs are nonrefundable. As such, they will be retained in addition to the standard cancellation fees outlined above.

However, if your reason for cancellation is covered by your travel insurance policy, you may be eligible to reclaim these costs. Upon request, we can provide a cancellation invoice to support your insurance claim.

Additional Important Notice:

Certain camps apply higher cancellation fees during peak seasons—typically from December to February and May to July. These charges may exceed our standard cancellation terms. If your booking falls within this period and is subject to increased cancellation fees, we will inform you in writing during the quotation process and before any deposit is made. Once your deposit is paid and a confirmation invoice has been issued, you will be responsible for any such higher cancellation charges.

1. Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permits: Permits issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Rwanda Development Board (RDB), and Institute Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature (ICCN) are strictly non-refundable, regardless of the reason for cancellation.
2. Unused Services, Late Arrivals, and No-Shows: No refunds will be provided for any unused services, including missed activities, late arrivals, or no-shows by any tour participant.
3. Travel Insurance Recommendation: We strongly advise all travelers to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, and personal belongings.
4. Tour Cancellations by Wildlife Safaris Tanzania: We reserve the right to cancel a tour at any time. In such cases, clients will receive a full refund of all monies paid or be offered an alternative tour option.
5. Liability for Connecting Flights: Wildlife Safaris Tanzania is not responsible for any penalties, change fees, or losses associated with connecting flights or other travel arrangements affected by a change in tour schedule, date, or cancellation.