Terms of Service

Welcome to ODA Tours. These Terms of Service govern your use of our website and services. By booking with us, you agree to these terms and conditions. Please read them carefully.

1. Definitions

• "ODA Tours," "we," "us," "our" refers to ODA Tours Ltd., a licensed tour operator registered in Tanzania.
• "You," "your," "client," "guest" refers to the person making the booking and all persons included in the booking.
• "Services" refers to safari packages, Kilimanjaro climbs, day trips, accommodation, transportation, and all other travel services we provide.
• "Booking" refers to any reservation or purchase of our services.

2. Booking and Payment

2.1 Booking Process

A booking is confirmed only when we receive your deposit payment and send you a written confirmation. Until then, all quotes and availability are subject to change.

2.2 Deposit

A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total trip cost is required to confirm your booking. For Kilimanjaro climbs and peak season bookings, a 50% deposit may be required.

2.3 Final Payment

The balance of your trip cost must be paid no later than 60 days before your arrival date. For bookings made within 60 days of travel, full payment is required at the time of booking.

2.4 Payment Methods

We accept the following payment methods:

• Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard)
• Mobile Money (M-Pesa, Airtel Money, Tigo Pesa)
• Bank Transfer

All prices are quoted in USD unless otherwise specified. Currency conversion rates are determined at the time of payment.

3. Cancellation Policy

3.1 Cancellation by Client

If you need to cancel your booking, the following cancellation fees apply based on the notice period before your trip start date:

• More than 90 days: Loss of deposit only
• 60-90 days: 50% of total trip cost
• 30-59 days: 75% of total trip cost
• Less than 30 days: 100% of total trip cost (no refund)

Cancellations must be made in writing via email to bookings@odatours.com. The cancellation date is the date we receive your written notice.

3.2 Cancellation by ODA Tours

We reserve the right to cancel or modify a trip due to circumstances beyond our control, including but not limited to: natural disasters, political instability, health emergencies, or insufficient participants. In such cases, we will offer:

• Full refund of all payments made, OR
• Credit toward a future trip, OR
• Alternative trip dates or itinerary of equal value

3.3 Changes to Bookings

Requests to modify your booking (dates, itinerary, number of guests) are subject to availability and may incur additional fees. Changes made within 30 days of travel may not be possible.

4. Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all our trips. Your policy must include:

• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage
• Emergency medical coverage (minimum $100,000)
• Medical evacuation coverage (minimum $50,000)
• Coverage for adventure activities and high-altitude trekking

For Kilimanjaro climbs, your insurance must specifically cover high-altitude trekking up to 6,000 meters. We may request proof of insurance before your trip.

5. Health and Fitness Requirements

5.1 General Health

You are responsible for ensuring you are fit and healthy enough to participate in your chosen activities. Please disclose any medical conditions, allergies, or dietary requirements at the time of booking.

5.2 Kilimanjaro Climbs

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is physically demanding and involves significant altitude exposure. You should:

• Consult your doctor before booking, especially if you have heart or respiratory conditions
• Be in good physical condition
• Understand the risks of altitude sickness

Our guides have the authority to prevent you from continuing if they believe your health is at risk. No refunds are provided if you are unable to complete the climb due to health reasons.

5.3 Vaccinations and Medications

You are responsible for obtaining required vaccinations and medications for travel to Tanzania. We recommend consulting a travel health clinic at least 6 weeks before departure.

6. Our Responsibilities

We commit to:

• Providing services as described in your confirmed itinerary
• Employing qualified, professional guides and staff
• Maintaining appropriate safety standards for all activities
• Arranging quality accommodations and transportation as specified
• Responding promptly to emergencies and providing appropriate support

7. Your Responsibilities

You agree to:

• Provide accurate personal information for bookings and permits
• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates
• Obtain appropriate visas and travel documents
• Have valid travel insurance as specified above
• Follow instructions from our guides and staff
• Respect local laws, customs, and wildlife
• Not engage in any illegal activities during your trip
• Be punctual for scheduled activities and departures

8. Liability Limitations

8.1 Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, ODA Tours is not liable for:

• Personal injury, illness, death, or property loss during your trip (except where caused by our negligence)
• Acts of third parties, including hotels, airlines, or other service providers
• Force majeure events (natural disasters, war, pandemics, government actions)
• Delays or changes to itineraries beyond our control
• Wildlife behavior or natural occurrences

8.2 Maximum Liability

In any event, our maximum liability is limited to the amount you paid for your trip. This limitation applies to all claims, whether in contract, tort, or otherwise.

9. Itinerary Changes

While we make every effort to operate trips as planned, we reserve the right to modify itineraries due to:

• Weather conditions
• Road conditions or accessibility
• Wildlife movements and sightings
• Park closures or regulations
• Safety concerns
• Accommodation availability

We will always endeavor to provide alternatives of equal quality and value.

10. Photography and Marketing

We may take photographs and videos during your trip for marketing purposes. By booking with us, you consent to such use unless you notify us in writing beforehand. You retain full rights to your own photographs and videos.

11. Complaints and Disputes

11.1 During Your Trip

If you have any concerns during your trip, please inform your guide immediately so we can address the issue promptly.

11.2 After Your Trip

Any complaints must be submitted in writing within 14 days of returning home. We will investigate and respond within 28 days.

11.3 Governing Law

These terms are governed by the laws of Tanzania. Any disputes shall be resolved through arbitration in Arusha, Tanzania.

12. Changes to Terms

We may update these Terms of Service from time to time. The terms in effect at the time of your booking will apply to your trip.

13. Contact Information

For questions about these terms or your booking, please contact:

• Email: reservation@odatours.com / info@odatours.com
• Phone/WhatsApp: +255 746 200 891
• Address: Arusha, Tanzania