These are the General Terms and Conditions for African Horse Safaris. You will be required to confirm that you’ve read and accepted any ride-specific Terms and Conditions sent to you separately by your Horse Safari Specialist.
In agreeing to the Terms and Conditions you confirm you’re over 18 or the parent/guardian of the client.
If you’re booking for a group, you accept responsibility for your booking on behalf of all related clients.
In these Booking Conditions, the following expressions shall have the meanings set out below unless the context requires otherwise:
“African Horse Safaris”, “AHS”, “we”, “us”, “our”
Means African Horse Safaris LLC, registered in the Isle of Man, acting solely as a booking agent for independent third-party suppliers.
“Agreement Form”
Means the document issued at the time of booking, setting out the agreed services, costs, and payment schedule.
“Application Form”
Means the form completed by the Participant providing personal information, medical details, riding experience, and any other required disclosures.
“Booking”
Means the request for and subsequent confirmation of travel arrangements made with African Horse Safaris, becoming legally binding upon the issue of the Confirmation Invoice.
“Booking Conditions”, “Terms and Conditions”, “Conditions”
Means the terms set out herein governing the contractual relationship between African Horse Safaris and the Client.
“Client”, “participant”, “you”, “your”
Means the person(s) named on the Confirmation Invoice who has entered into a contract with African Horse Safaris LLC.
“Confirmation Invoice”
Means the written confirmation issued by African Horse Safaris acknowledging acceptance of the Booking, thereby forming the Contract.
“Contract”
Means the legally binding agreement between African Horse Safaris LLC and the Client, comprising these Booking Conditions, the Agreement Form, the Application Form, and the Confirmation Invoice.
“Deposit”
Means the initial payment required to secure the Booking, as specified in the Agreement Form and Application Form.
“Final Balance”
Means the remaining amount due for the trip after payment of the Deposit, payable by the dates set out in the Confirmation Invoice.
“Force Majeure”
Means any event which neither African Horse Safaris nor its suppliers could, even with all due care, foresee or avoid, including but not limited to war, civil unrest, terrorism, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather, fire, pandemic, or similar events beyond reasonable control.
“Holiday”, “trip”, “safari”, “riding holiday”, “horse safari”, “arrangements”
Means all services booked through African Horse Safaris LLC, including but not limited to accommodation, meals, transfers, horse riding activities, non-riding activities, and services provided by third-party suppliers.
“Insurance”
Means comprehensive travel insurance held by the Client that meets the minimum requirements set out in these Conditions, including cover for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, repatriation, horseback riding activities, cancellation, delay, loss or damage of baggage, and related risks.
“Itinerary”
Means the outline of activities and services provided to the Client prior to travel, forming a general guide only and subject to alteration.
“Medical Conditions”
Means any physical, mental, or health-related conditions, disabilities, allergies, or relevant considerations that may affect the Client’s ability to participate safely in the trip.
“Riding Ability”
Means the Client’s declared level of horse riding competence and experience, used to assess suitability for participation.
“Service and Bank Fee Charge”
Means the non-refundable fee retained by African Horse Safaris when processing reimbursements, as specified in these Conditions.
“Supplier”, “third-party supplier”, “operator”, “service provider”
Means any independent company or individual responsible for delivering services forming part of the trip, including but not limited to safari operators, accommodation providers, transfer companies, guides, and activity providers.
“Website”, “brochure”, “advertising material”
Means all descriptive or promotional materials produced or provided by African Horse Safaris in any medium.
These booking conditions form the legally binding contract between you (the client) and African Horse Safaris LLC (registered office: Commerce House, Bowring Road, RAMSAY, IM8 2LQ, ISLE OF MAN, company registration no: 001023L). These conditions outline the rights and responsibilities of both parties. Please read them carefully as they define our obligations and your commitments when booking a horse safari with us. By paying your deposit, you acknowledge and accept these conditions.
1. Payment
To confirm your chosen trip, the participant must pay a deposit at the time of booking. The deposit amount will be specified in the Booking Form.
All remaining payments must be received in accordance with the payment timetable set out in the Booking Form, with due dates clearly shown on your confirmation invoice.
If we do not receive full payment by the specified due dates, we are entitled to assume that the participant wishes to cancel the booking. In such cases, we will retain all payments due up to that point. If we delay cancellation because imminent payment has been promised, the cancellation charges outlined in Clause 7 will apply, based on the date we reasonably treat the booking as cancelled.
2. The Contract
A binding contract comes into existence between African Horse Safaris LLC and the participant once we issue our confirmation invoice. Both parties agree that Isle of Man law (and no other jurisdiction) will apply to the contract and to any dispute, claim, or other matter of any description (“claim”) arising between us, except as otherwise stated. We also agree that any claim must be dealt with exclusively by the Courts of the Isle of Man.
3. The Cost of the trip
Once the price of the participant’s chosen trip has been confirmed at the time of booking, the cost will not change unless one of the following occurs:
(a) Changes in transportation costs resulting from fluctuations in fuel prices or other power sources;
(b) Changes in the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties not directly involved in delivering your trip, including tourist taxes, landing taxes, embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports; or
(c) Significant fluctuations in exchange rates relevant to the booked trip.
Exchange Rate Fluctuations: Invoices are issued based on the current exchange rate at the time of booking. In rare cases, if the exchange rate fluctuates by more than 2.5% by the time your final balance is due, African Horse Safaris may reissue your invoice to reflect the updated rate.
Please note that this adjustment would have been discussed with you at the time of booking if applicable. If it was not mentioned during the booking process, no adjustment will be applied.
4. Medical Conditions
You must notify us in writing of any special requests, dietary requirements, allergies, medical conditions, disabilities, riding ability, weight, height, or fitness considerations at the time of booking.
We will pass on your requests to suppliers but cannot guarantee they will be met. If your health or ability is deemed unsuitable for participation by the supplier, you may be refused riding or other activities without refund. Failure to provide accurate information may lead to cancellation without compensation.
Participants are responsible for carrying necessary medication, following medical advice, and disclosing any conditions that may impact their ability to safely take part in the safari.
5. Rider Competency and Fitness Requirements
It is a condition of your booking that all information provided regarding your riding ability, experience, and physical fitness is complete and accurate. Horseback safaris take place in remote wilderness areas, often in proximity to wildlife, and require an appropriate level of competence, balance, and control in the saddle.
You acknowledge and agree that:
1. Assessment on Arrival:
Upon arrival, the guides reserve the right to assess your riding ability and physical fitness. If, in their sole discretion, they determine that your riding level is not sufficient to participate in the planned activities safely, or if your presence poses a risk to yourself, other riders, staff, or horses, you may be restricted from riding.
2. Alternative Arrangements:
Where it is deemed unsafe for you to continue riding, you may be required to undertake non-riding activities, ride only in controlled areas, or remain at the camp or lodge. In such circumstances, no refund, compensation, or alternative riding arrangements will be offered.
3. Western Riders Transitioning to English Tack:
If you predominantly ride Western, you are required to take sufficient English riding lessons prior to travel to ensure you are fully comfortable riding in English tack and using English aids. You will be required to be able to post in the trot, ride in a two-point canter and maintain steady contact. Failure to prepare adequately may impair your ability to control your horse at all paces and may result in you being unable to participate in riding activities for safety reasons. No refunds or compensation will be provided where inadequate preparation or inaccurate disclosure of riding experience results in restrictions.
4. If you have booked a trip that required an Intermediate Plus or Advanced riding level, you must be capable of independently managing and controlling your horse in open terrain and at varying paces. The horses used on safari are not “strong” in the conventional sense, but they are forward-going, responsive, and require confident riders with appropriate experience.
By confirming your booking, you accept full responsibility for ensuring that your declared riding ability is truthful and that you have undertaken sufficient preparation to participate safely.
6. Changes to confirmed arrangements by you
If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of £50/$50, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible.
Note: Certain travel arrangements may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.
7. Cancellation by you
Please refer to the cancellation policy specific to your trip. This will be sent to you as a PDF together with your booking confirmation. By clicking “Agree” below, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted these terms.
8. Changes or cancellation by us
Occasionally, we have to make changes to and correct errors in our literature and other details both before and after bookings have been confirmed. Whilst we always endeavour to avoid changes, we must reserve the right to do so.
Horseback safaris are subject to change due to wildlife movements, weather, terrain, and local conditions. Riding pace and activities may vary from those described in our materials. Flexibility is required, and no refunds or compensation will be provided for alterations made in the interest of safety or enjoyment of the group.
In the highly unlikely event of us having to cancel your trip for reasons other than: a) Fault of the client, b) Force majeure, c) Insufficient numbers to proceed with ride, we will offer you an alternative holiday of at least comparable standard if available. If this alternative holiday option costs less than your original booking, we will refund the difference. If the alternative trip you decide upon costs more that of the original option, we will invoice for the additional amount. Should you not wish to book an alternative, or one is not available, a full refund will be paid with the exception of insurance premiums, amendment charges and bank fees.
Please note that we will not be liable to refund you for any incidental expenses that you may have incurred as a result of your booking, such as visas, vaccinations, non-refundable flights, etc. African Horse Safaris cannot offer refunds or compensation in the event of cancellation or amendments as a result of force majeure. In these booking conditions, “force majeure” means any event which we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include, whether actual or threatened, war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events outside our control.
9. Insurance and Third-Party Responsibility
Before you travel, you must be covered by comprehensive travel insurance that includes:
· Adequate medical and hospitalisation expenses, including emergency medical evacuation or airlift and repatriation.
· Coverage for horseback riding and trail riding activities, specifically horseback safaris.
· Trip cancellation, delay, baggage, and other standard travel cover as required.
It is your responsibility to ensure that your chosen insurer covers all activities you will be undertaking on your trip. African Horse Safaris LLC acts solely as a booking agent and does not provide insurance or guarantee the terms of your policy.
While African Horse Safaris LLC can assist with communication and provide support in contacting your insurer, we accept no liability if your insurance provider refuses to cover or settle a claim, nor for any actions or omissions of the third-party operator. It is your sole responsibility to:
· Verify your insurance coverage before travel.
· Follow the procedures required by your insurer and the operator in the event of an incident or claim.
· Understand that African Horse Safaris LLC cannot be held responsible for the outcome of any insurance claim or for services provided by third-party suppliers.
Once you arrive and commence your trip, you will be under the direct care and supervision of our independent third-party suppliers (including but not limited to safari operators, accommodation providers, transfer companies, and activity providers), who are responsible for delivering the services booked. While we take great care in selecting reputable suppliers, your contract for on-the-ground services is directly with them. When you book with African Horse Safaris, you are also entering into a contract with these suppliers.
Once your trip commences and you are under the care of the third-party supplier:
· Operational responsibility transfers to the supplier. They are fully responsible for your safety, welfare, accommodation, activities, and adherence to local laws and safety protocols.
· Liability for incidents rests with the supplier and/or your travel insurer. African Horse Safaris LLC is not liable for any injuries, losses, damages, expenses, delays, or issues arising from the actions or omissions of third-party suppliers, you (the client), or other participants on the trip.
· Insurance claims are your responsibility. While we will assist with providing information or facilitating communication with suppliers and insurers, African Horse Safaris LLC cannot guarantee or influence the outcome of any insurance claim, nor accept responsibility if an insurer refuses to pay out.
10. Liability Understanding – Horse Riding
In confirming your booking, all persons accept that horse riding is classed as a high risk sport and being in the vicinity of horses poses risks. Whilst on your holiday trip and in the care of the tour operator or guide on your holiday, you must comply at all times with their instructions. It is a condition of your booking that you accept the aforementioned is entitled to insist that you dismount, refuse you the right to ride for any reason including your inability, health or behaviour, if they consider you may endanger the safety or welfare of any persons or horses, including yourself. In the event of such circumstances, you will not be entitled to any compensation or refunds.
Riding Helmets: African Horse Safaris strongly advise, whilst in the vicinity of horses and riding, that clients wear suitable safety equipment with specific reference to hard hats. We actively advise clients not to ride without a helmet and cannot be liable to any injuries that occur or are exacerbated as a result on not wearing a helmet. We advise that hats comply with relevant safety standards, are purchased from reputable suppliers and fitted by qualified persons. On signing the booking form, you accept our suppliers may require you to sign separate acknowledgment and personal liability forms before being allowed to ride. Refusal to sign may result in clients not being allowed to participate in riding or other activities. In this instance you will have no claim against African Horse Safaris or the supplier and will not be entitled to any refunds or compensation.
11. Travel Risks, Flexibility, Safety Standards and Public Liability Insurance
Your booking is accepted on the understanding that you acknowledge and accept the potential hazards inherent in this type of travel. These risks may include, but are not limited to, injury, disease, loss or damage to property, inconvenience, or discomfort.
Horseback safaris are adventurous by nature and require flexibility. The services and conditions provided on a riding holiday or safari are different from conventional holidays and may change due to factors beyond our control. The outline itineraries we provide should be taken as a general guide to what is planned, not as a contractual obligation. Circumstances such as unpredictable horse behaviour, wildlife movements, terrain conditions, adverse weather, or other local factors may influence the pace, distance, and manner of riding on any given day. Horses may also perform differently for various riders or under certain conditions. Any alterations made for safety, animal welfare, or group benefit will not entitle participants to a refund or compensation.
You acknowledge that the infrastructure, travel arrangements, accommodation, and safety standards in Africa may be lower than those in your home country. While African Horse Safaris LLC and its third party suppliers will make every effort to ensure smooth arrangements; delays, cancellations, weather events, mechanical issues, and other unforeseen circumstances may disrupt services. We cannot provide refunds or compensation for unused services, nor make special arrangements for delays or cancellations on your outbound or return journey, including where you have made independent travel arrangements.
Please note, it is the requirements and standards of the country in which any services which make up your trip are provided which apply to those services and not those of your home country. As a general rule, these requirements and standards will not be the same as your home country and will often be lower.
12. Passports, Visas, and Health Requirements
Any information or advice provided by African Horse Safaris regarding permits, visas, vaccinations, climate, clothing, baggage, or other travel-related matters is given in good faith. However, we cannot accept responsibility for its accuracy or for any consequences resulting from reliance on this information.
It is the participant’s sole responsibility to ensure that they are in possession of all required travel documents, visas, permits, and health certifications necessary for their trip. All costs incurred in obtaining such documentation are the responsibility of the participant.
We accept no liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure to carry the required documents. If failure to obtain the necessary travel or health documentation results in fines, surcharges, or other penalties being imposed on or incurred by African Horse Safaris, you will be required to reimburse us in full for any such costs.
We strongly recommend that you check entry requirements, visa regulations, and health advice well in advance of travel with your local embassy or consulate and consult a qualified medical professional for up-to-date health recommendations and vaccinations.
13. Brochure / website / advertising material accuracy
The information contained in our brochure, on our website and in our other advertising material is believed correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of printing or publication. However, errors may occasionally occur and information may subsequently change.
14. Sharing Rate
If you have booked the sharing rate – This means you are happy to share a twin/double room with your travelling partner, or a twin room with another solo-traveller of the same sex if the ride should fully-book.
