Booking terms and conditions

All quotations and bookings made with Marula Hill Travel (Pty) Ltd (Registration Number 2019/092872/07) (“we”, “us”) are subject to these Terms and Conditions (“Terms”), which form the basis of the contract between Marula Hill Travel and the Client (“you”, “the Client”). Together, we are referred to as the “parties”. By confirming your booking, you acknowledge and agree to these Terms on your own behalf and on behalf of all other travellers included in your booking.

1. Introduction

1.1 Nature of services
Marula Hill Travel is a tour operator and not a travel agency. We contract with and rely on Third-Party Suppliers (such as property owners, airlines, and other travel operators) to deliver the services included in your itinerary.

1.2 Third-Party Supplier terms
By engaging our services, you also accept the terms and conditions of the relevant Third-Party Suppliers. These terms are binding and may affect aspects of your booking, including changes, cancellations, and refunds. We select and vet all suppliers to ensure high-quality service.

2. Confirmation of booking and deposit

2.1
To confirm your booking, a deposit is required. The amount will be detailed on your invoice unless stated otherwise in your quotation. Additional deposits may be required for:

• 100% upfront payment for air travel, as air tickets must be issued immediately.
• Peak season travel, specialist services, or when mandated by Third-Party Suppliers.

2.2 Non-refundable deposits
Deposits are non-refundable due to commitments made with Third-Party Suppliers. We strongly recommend securing travel insurance to protect against potential losses.

2.3 Payment deadlines

• The balance of the total booking price is due no later than 60 days prior to travel.
• Bookings made within 60 days of travel must be paid in full immediately.

2.4 Failure to pay
If payments are not received on time, your booking may be cancelled, and any deposits paid may be forfeited.

2.5 Price and availability
Prices and availability are subject to change until your deposit is received.

2.6 Passport information
You must provide updated copies of all traveller passports upon confirmation of booking.

3. Prices and payments

3.1 Payment methods
Payments must be made via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) or Telegraphic Transfer (SWIFT). Cash and alternative payment methods are not accepted.

3.2 Price variations
Quotations are based on external supplier costs, for example airfares, accommodation, and park fees, and may change before final payment is received. These variations will be for your account.

3.3 Payment failures
Failure to pay by the due date may result in cancellation of your booking, forfeiture of deposits, and additional fees.

4. Changes to bookings

4.1 Voluntary changes
You are responsible for all costs arising from changes requested after your booking is confirmed. This includes any additional charges from Third-Party Suppliers and our administration fee per person for amendments.

4.2 Involuntary changes
If changes are required due to circumstances beyond our control, for example airline schedule changes or Force Majeure events, we will:

• Offer reasonable alternatives at no additional cost where possible.
• Refund affected services, subject to Third-Party Supplier policies.

5. Cancellations and refunds

5.1 Client cancellations
Cancellations must be made in writing. The following charges apply:

• More than 60 days prior to departure: non-refundable deposits are forfeited.
• 60 days or less prior to departure: 100% of the total booking price is non-refundable.

5.2 Refunds
Refunds are subject to Third-Party Supplier terms and may incur an administration fee.

5.3 Force Majeure cancellations
In circumstances beyond our control, we reserve the right to cancel services and provide refunds for affected services only.

6. Covid-19 and pandemic-related changes

We will make every effort to negotiate refunds or postponements with Third-Party Suppliers, but these cannot be guaranteed. Proof of circumstances, such as travel bans or medical reasons, may be required for cancellations.

7. Third-Party Supplier terms

Third-Party Supplier terms apply to all bookings. You are responsible for reviewing and accepting these terms before proceeding with your booking.

8. Passports and visas

8.1 Responsibility
It is your responsibility to ensure you have the required passports, visas, and permits. Passports must:

• Have at least two blank pages per country to be visited.
• Be valid for at least six months beyond your return date.

8.2 Travelling with minors
Travelling with minors may require additional documentation, such as unabridged birth certificates and letters of consent.

9. Travel insurance

Full travel insurance is essential when travelling to African countries. We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance for all eventualities at the time of booking. Please consult your insurance broker to ensure you have adequate cover for your specific travel needs.

If you fail to secure the necessary travel insurance, you acknowledge that you will be liable for all costs arising from any cancellations, re-routing, or rescheduling of your trip, evacuation, repatriation, or any emergency, medical or otherwise, that may arise during your travels.

In the event that you fail to purchase adequate travel insurance, you specifically agree that you will not hold Marula Hill Travel (Pty) Ltd responsible for any harm, loss, damages, or inconvenience that you may suffer before, during, or after your trip.

10. Liability and indemnity

10.1
Participation in activities is at your own risk. We act as an agent for Third-Party Suppliers and are not liable for their actions, omissions, or errors.

10.2 Indemnity
You indemnify Marula Hill Travel, its employees, and agents against any claims arising from your participation in activities or the failure of Third-Party Suppliers.

11. Intellectual property

All content on our website, including text, images, logos, and designs, is the intellectual property of Marula Hill Travel and may not be used without permission.

12. Complaints

Complaints must be reported to us immediately and followed up in writing within 30 days. While we will endeavour to assist, resolution cannot be guaranteed for services outside of our control.

13. General provisions

13.1 Governing law
These Terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa, and disputes will be settled in its courts.

13.2 Updates to Terms
We may update these Terms as required. The version in effect at the time of your booking will apply unless regulatory changes require immediate amendments.