Travel Terms and Conditions
1. Company Information
Tilman Safaris is a registered and licensed tour operator based in Kenya, specializing in wildlife safaris, Mount Kenya trekking expeditions, cultural tourism experiences, and tailor-made travel services across East Africa. All services are provided in accordance with Kenyan tourism regulations and park authority guidelines.
By making a booking with Tilman Safaris, the client acknowledges that they have carefully read, understood, and accepted these Terms and Conditions, which form a binding agreement between the client and Tilman Safaris.
2. Booking & Confirmation
A booking is considered provisional until a deposit or full payment has been received by Tilman Safaris. Once payment is received, a written confirmation will be issued via email, WhatsApp, or official invoice, confirming the services booked, travel dates, and agreed itinerary.
The individual making the booking confirms that they have the authority to accept these Terms and Conditions on behalf of all members of the traveling party. It is the responsibility of the lead traveler to ensure that all participants are aware of and comply with these terms.
3. Payments & Pricing
A deposit is required to secure accommodations, park permits, transport, guides, porters, and other services related to the tour. The remaining balance must be paid in full prior to the commencement of the tour, unless otherwise agreed in writing.
All quoted prices are based on current park fees, government taxes, accommodation rates, and service costs at the time of booking. Tilman Safaris reserves the right to revise prices in the event of changes to government taxes, park entry fees, fuel surcharges, or currency fluctuations beyond our control.
4. Cancellation, Refunds & No-Shows
All cancellations must be submitted in writing. Cancellation charges apply from the date written notice is received by Tilman Safaris, not from the date of departure.
Cancellations made more than 30 days before travel may qualify for a partial refund, less administrative, banking, and non-refundable third-party costs.
Cancellations made 15–30 days before travel will incur a charge of 50% of the total tour cost.
Cancellations made 7–14 days before travel will incur a charge of 75% of the total tour cost.
Cancellations made less than 7 days before travel, early departures, or no-shows will be charged 100% of the total tour cost.
Please note that park fees, trekking permits, accommodation, charter flights, and porter services are often non-refundable once confirmed.
5. Changes to Itinerary & Services
Tilman Safaris reserves the right to alter or substitute elements of the itinerary when necessary due to weather conditions, safety considerations, wildlife movements, road conditions, park regulations, or other circumstances beyond our control.
Any changes will be made with the client’s best interests in mind, and reasonable alternative arrangements of similar standard and value will be provided wherever possible. Such changes do not constitute grounds for a refund.
6. Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all clients traveling with Tilman Safaris. Insurance must cover medical treatment, emergency evacuation (including helicopter rescue for trekking), trip cancellation or interruption, personal accident, loss or theft of personal belongings, and activities included in the itinerary.
Tilman Safaris shall not be held responsible for any costs, losses, or disruptions arising from insufficient or lack of travel insurance coverage.
7. Health, Fitness & Medical Disclosure
Clients are responsible for ensuring that they are medically and physically fit to participate in the booked activities. This is particularly important for physically demanding experiences such as Mount Kenya trekking, hiking, and high-altitude activities.
Clients must disclose any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, injuries, or special requirements at the time of booking. Tilman Safaris reserves the right to refuse participation or modify activities if a client’s health condition poses a risk to themselves, other travelers, guides, or staff.
8. Liability & Assumption of Risk
Tilman Safaris acts as an agent for third-party suppliers, including hotels, lodges, transport providers, park authorities, and service crews. While we take all reasonable care in selecting our partners, we cannot be held liable for acts, omissions, or negligence of third-party providers.
Safari tours, mountain trekking, and outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including wildlife encounters, altitude sickness, weather changes, and rough terrain. By booking with Tilman Safaris, clients acknowledge and accept these risks and agree that participation is entirely at their own responsibility.
9. Client Conduct & Compliance
Clients are required to follow all instructions provided by guides, drivers, rangers, and park authorities at all times. Respect for wildlife, local communities, cultural sites, and environmental conservation practices is mandatory.
Tilman Safaris reserves the right to terminate a client’s participation in a tour without refund if their behavior is deemed unsafe, disruptive, illegal, or harmful to others, wildlife, or the environment.
10. Luggage & Personal Belongings
Luggage allowances may be limited depending on the type of vehicle or aircraft used. Clients are advised to pack soft bags where possible, especially for safari vehicles and trekking expeditions.
Tilman Safaris shall not be held liable for loss, theft, or damage to personal belongings during the tour. Valuables should be kept secure at all times.
11. Mount Kenya Trekking – Specific Conditions
a) Altitude & Safety
Mount Kenya trekking involves high-altitude hiking, and clients must understand the risks associated with altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization is essential, and guides reserve the right to adjust ascent rates or terminate a trek if a client shows signs of severe altitude-related illness.
b) Guides, Porters & Crew
All Mount Kenya treks are conducted with licensed mountain guides and support staff. Porters are assigned based on group size and equipment requirements. Clients are expected to treat all crew members with respect and follow ethical trekking practices.
c) Equipment & Gear
Clients are responsible for bringing suitable trekking clothing, footwear, and personal gear. Tilman Safaris may provide or arrange rental of certain equipment; however, responsibility for proper use remains with the client.
d) Weather & Summit Attempts
Summit attempts are subject to weather conditions, trail safety, and client fitness. Summit success is not guaranteed, and decisions made by the guide regarding safety are final.
e) Emergency Evacuation
In the event of illness or injury, evacuation will be arranged where necessary. Any evacuation, rescue, or medical costs are the responsibility of the client and must be covered by their travel insurance.
12. Photography & Marketing Use
Tilman Safaris reserves the right to use photographs or videos taken during tours for promotional and marketing purposes, including on websites and social media platforms. Clients who do not wish to be featured must notify Tilman Safaris in writing prior to travel.
13. Complaints & Feedback
Any issues or complaints must be communicated immediately to the guide or company representative during the tour to allow prompt resolution. Written complaints must be submitted within 14 days of tour completion.
14. Governing Law & Jurisdiction
These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of the Republic of Kenya, and any disputes arising shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of Kenyan courts.
15. Acceptance of Terms
By confirming a booking with Tilman Safaris, clients confirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions in full.