Terms and Conditions

Welcome to Silverback Gorilla Tours. These Terms and Conditions govern the relationship between Silverback Gorilla Tours (“the Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) and the client (“you,” “the traveler”). By booking a safari or service with us, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to be bound by these terms. 

1.Booking and Reservations

1.1. A booking is considered “confirmed” only upon receipt of a deposit and a written confirmation from Silverback Gorilla Tours.

1.2. Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permits: Due to high demand and limited availability, permits must be paid for in full at the time of booking. Permits are subject to availability at the time of payment to the respective Wildlife Authorities (RDB in Rwanda, UWA in Uganda). 1.3. A deposit of at least 30% to 50% of the total safari cost (excluding permits) is required to secure your accommodation and transport. 1.4. The balance must be paid at least 30 days before the start of the safari, unless otherwise agreed upon in writing. 

2. Pricing and Payments

2.1. All prices are quoted in US Dollars (USD) unless specified otherwise.

2.2. Prices include services as outlined in your specific itinerary (e.g., transport, English-speaking driver-guide, park entry fees, accommodation, and meals as specified).

2.3. Prices exclude: International flights, visas, tips/gratuities, laundry, drinks (other than water provided in the vehicle), and personal insurance. 2.4. Payments can be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Credit Card (subject to a processing fee, typically 5%). 

3. Cancellations and Refunds

Cancellations must be submitted in writing. The following cancellation fees apply to the total safari cost (excluding permits): 

• 101 days and above: 30% of tour cost. 

• 61 – 100 days: 40% of tour cost. 

• 46 – 60 days: 60% of tour cost. 

• 16 – 45 days: 90% of tour cost. 

• 0 – 15 days: 100% (No refund). 

3.1. Primate Permit Refunds: Gorilla and Chimpanzee permits are 100% non-refundable as per the policy of the National Park authorities. In the event of an illness (documented by a park doctor), a partial refund or rescheduling may be requested at the sole discretion of the respective Wildlife Authority. 

4. Itinerary Changes

4.1. While we make every effort to adhere to the agreed itinerary, Silverback Gorilla Tours reserves the right to alter routes, accommodation, or services due to local conditions, road closures, or safety concerns.

4.2. In the event of a change in accommodation, we will provide an alternative of equal or superior standard. 

5. Gorilla Trekking Regulations

5.1. The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years.

5.2. Sightings of gorillas are not 100% guaranteed as they are wild animals in their natural habitat, though the success rate is approximately 98%.

5.3. Travelers with communicable diseases (e.g., flu, cough, or cold) may be barred from trekking by park authorities to protect the primates. In such cases, the park’s refund policy applies. 

6.Travel Insurance and Health

6.1. It is a mandatory requirement that all clients have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, personal injury, death, and trip cancellation.

6.2. Clients are responsible for ensuring they meet the health and vaccination requirements (e.g., Yellow Fever) for entry into Rwanda, Uganda, or DR Congo. 

7. Liability

7.1. Silverback Gorilla Tours acts as an agent for hotels, airlines, and park authorities. We shall not be held liable for injury, damage, loss, delay, or irregularity caused by the default of any third-party supplier.

7.2. We are not responsible for “Force Majeure” events, including but not limited to war, civil unrest, border closures, or natural disasters. 

8. Complaints

8.1. Any complaints must be reported immediately to the driver-guide or our head office so that we may attempt to rectify the situation during the tour.

8.2. If the issue remains unresolved, a written complaint must be submitted within 15 days of the completion of the safari. 

9. Governing Law

These terms and conditions are governed by the laws of the Republic of Rwanda. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in Kigali. 

Contact Information: 

Silver Gorilla Tours Email:

info@silverbacktour.com

info@silverbackgorillatour.com

Website: www.silverbacktour.com