Cancellation and Refund Policy
Refund & Cancellation Policy
How BLS Safaris Ltd handles changes, cancellations and refunds, designed to be fair to travellers while protecting against unrecoverable third-party costs.
By confirming a booking and making payment, the client acknowledges and accepts the terms outlined in this policy. Please read carefully and contact us if you have any questions before paying a deposit.
1Introduction
At BLS Safaris Ltd, we understand that travel plans may change due to personal, medical, operational, or international travel circumstances. Our refund and cancellation policy aims to balance fairness to our clients while protecting the company from losses related to third-party bookings, permits, taxes, reservations, and operational commitments already made on behalf of travellers.
By confirming a booking and making payment, the client acknowledges and accepts the terms outlined in this policy.
2Non-Refundable Items
The following items are strictly non-refundable once purchased, secured, or paid to third parties:
- Gorilla trekking permits
- Chimpanzee tracking permits
- Park entrance fees already purchased
- Government taxes and statutory charges
- Visa processing fees
- Air ticket cancellation penalties charged by airlines
- Hotel or lodge deposits marked non-refundable by suppliers
- Third-party reservation charges already committed
These costs are controlled by government authorities, airlines, lodges, and other service providers and therefore remain non-refundable regardless of cancellation circumstances.
3Safari Cancellation & Refund Schedule
Refund eligibility applies only to refundable portions of the safari package — excluding permits, taxes, and other non-refundable third-party expenses listed above.
A · More than 60 days before travel
Of refundable safari costs. Administrative and banking charges may be deducted. Non-refundable items remain excluded.
B · 30 – 59 days before travel
Of refundable safari costs. Non-refundable items remain excluded.
C · 15 – 29 days before travel
Of refundable safari costs. Non-refundable items remain excluded.
D · Within 14 days of travel
Unless otherwise agreed in writing by BLS Safaris Ltd. Non-refundable items remain excluded.
4No-Show Policy
Failure by the client to arrive for the safari, tour, transfer, accommodation, or activity without prior written notice shall be treated as a no-show. In such cases:
- No refund shall apply.
- Unused services are non-transferable unless approved by suppliers.
5Amendment & Rescheduling Policy
BLS Safaris Ltd will reasonably assist clients wishing to reschedule their trip where possible. However:
- Rescheduling remains subject to availability.
- Permit transfers depend on government regulations.
- Additional costs caused by rate changes, seasonal pricing, airline adjustments, or lodge availability shall be borne by the client.
- Administrative fees may apply for major itinerary changes.
6Refund Processing Timeline
Approved refunds are processed within 14 to 30 business days, depending on:
- Banking procedures
- International transfer systems
- Third-party supplier refund timelines
Any bank transfer charges, transaction fees, or currency conversion losses may be deducted from the refund amount.
7Force Majeure
BLS Safaris Ltd shall not be held liable for cancellations, delays, changes, or interruptions caused by circumstances beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to:
- Natural disasters
- Political unrest
- Pandemics or public health emergencies
- Government restrictions
- Flight cancellations
- Border closures
- Weather disruptions
- Security concerns
- Strikes or operational shutdowns
In such circumstances, refunds shall depend on recoveries obtained from third-party suppliers. Where possible, the company may offer:
- Rescheduling
- Travel credit
- Itinerary adjustments
…instead of cash refunds.
8Client Responsibility
Clients are encouraged to:
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
- Ensure valid passports and visas
- Confirm health and vaccination requirements
- Review safari inclusions and exclusions carefully before payment
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for protection against cancellations, medical emergencies, and travel disruptions.
9Company Discretion
BLS Safaris Ltd reserves the right to assess exceptional cases individually and may, at its sole discretion, offer partial credits, rescheduling options, or goodwill adjustments where reasonable and operationally possible.
10Acceptance of Policy
By confirming a booking or making payment
…the client confirms that they have read, understood, and accepted this Refund & Cancellation Policy.