Before You Go
Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking & Tanzania Safari
Overview
Trip Snapshot
We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every trip is different depending upon the group, other trips on the water, and sometimes the weather. Please refer to your confirmation letter for the exact dates of your trip.
| MEETING PLACE: | Kilimanjaro International Airport, Tanzania |
| MEETING TIME: | Arrive any time on day 1 |
| RETURN TIME: | Anytime on day 16 for departing flights |
| TREKKING MILES: | 43 |
| ACTIVITIES: | Hiking, wildlife safari |
| TRIP LENGTH: | 16 days/15 nights |
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1
Soon after you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport an OARS representative will meet you and transport you to your lodging accommodations in the bustling city of Arusha, the gateway city to Mount Kilimanjaro and your Tanzania safari adventure. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy lunch at the lodge. The afternoon is yours to relax after a big day of travel, or explore on your own. The group will gather for dinner together at the lodge, before settling in for the evening.
Day 2 – 15
Refer to the trip page for a more detailed sample itinerary.
The Last Day of Your Trip
You’re welcome to depart at any time today. We will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for return flights home.
Included in Your Trip Cost
- Skilled, professional guide service provided by our affiliate operator
- 8 nights lodging and luxury safari accommodations (based on double occupancy)
- 7 nights camping with sleeping bag, sleeping cot with air mattress, and tent provided
- Roundtrip ground transport between Arusha and Kilimanjaro
- Rescue equipment including, portable Gamow Bag (portable hyperbaric chamber), bottled oxygen for emergencies, pulse-oximeters, first-aid kit
- Flight to Serengeti and return ground transportation to Arusha
- All meals and non-alcoholic beverages from lunch on day 1 through breakfast on day 16 (limited alcoholic beverages provided at safari camps)
- All Tanzania government Value Added Taxes
- Limited emergency ground rescue provided by Kilimanjaro Rangers
- Park fees
Not Included in Your Trip Cost
- Airfare to and from Ashura, Tanzania
- Travel visa (required by Tanzania)
- Pre- and post-trip accommodation and meals
- Single supplement fee
- Personal trekking gear (available as a supplement)
- Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan or mandatory emergency medical & evacuation coverage
- Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan or mandatory emergency medical & evacuation coverage
- Emergency air evacuation from Kilimanjaro (available as a supplement)
- Items of a personal nature (see suggested packing list below)
- Gratuities
Getting Ready
Pre-Trip Checklist
☐ Purchase Travel Protection: In order to take part in this trip, each participant must have a minimum of Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage in place for the dates of the trip. This can be purchased as stand-alone coverage, independent of a comprehensive travel protection plan. You can learn more about the plan we highly recommend and get a quote for this type of policy by entering a trip cost amount of $0.
Please note: By entering a trip cost amount of $0, the plan will not include Trip Cancellation coverage and you may not be eligible for Emergency Medical Expense benefits relating to any pre-existing conditions.
☐ Trip Forms: Each participant will need to complete the required trip forms within two weeks of making a booking. Refer to your confirmation email for the link to the online forms. If you prefer to fill out paper forms, please let us know right away. If you are reserving within 90 days of departure, your forms must be completed immediately to ensure we can properly plan for your trip.
☐ Reserve flights, shuttles, and lodging: Verify with your adventure consultant that your trip has met minimum numbers prior to booking flights and/or reserving overnight lodging for the night before and after your trip, if applicable. It is important to make reservations early as rooms may be limited during peak travel periods.
☐ Physical Requirements: Your outdoor adventure will be an active participatory trip. Please inform us of any physical limitations you may have as soon as possible. Make sure you are exercising frequently in the months leading up to your trip and can meet our Essential Eligibility Criteria.
☐ Payments: Final payment is due in our office 90 days prior to your trip (refer to your invoice for final payment date). Please let us know if you would like us to automatically charge your credit card on file when final payment is due.
Travelers’ Responsibility Code
1. Read the pre-trip literature and arrive at the meeting place on time.
2. Understand the risks: your safety is ultimately your responsibility.
3. Treat your fellow guests and guides with respect and courtesy; harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
4. Wear clothing and personal protective equipment suitable for the current conditions.
5. Listen to and follow the guides’ instructions.
6. Abide by the managing agency’s rules.
7. No drugs or alcohol during the day; alcohol is allowed in moderation in the evening.
8. Minimize your impact on the environment.
9. Your children are your responsibility!
Essential Travel Documents
Passports
If you don’t have a passport, apply for one immediately because the process can be lengthy. If you do have a passport, find it and check the expiration date to see that it is valid for at least 6 months from your planned entry into Tanzania. It also must have at least two blank pages.The Tanzanian government does not accept passports with the “X” gender marker. This applies to travel to, within, or through Tanzania. Make a photocopy of the photo page of your passport and carry it separately from your passport. It is also a good idea to leave a copy with your emergency contact at home. We also request that you send us a copy to keep on file for emergencies during your trip. If your passport is lost or stolen, a photocopy will help the local consulate speed up authorization for replacement. Do not pack your passport in your checked luggage.
Visas
Tourists must obtain a one-year multiple entry visa for $100. Applicants can apply online for an e-visa in advance of travel. If approved, the applicant will receive a “grant notice” via email which they present to the Immigration Officer upon arrival at the airport in Tanzania. U.S. citizens can also obtain a tourist visa upon arrival, but it is highly recommended to obtain it in advance.
Be sure to review all entry, exit and visa requirements for Tanzania prior to travel.
Travel Arrangements
GETTING TO KILIMANJARO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, TANZANIA
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is served by several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, Ethiopian Airlines, KLM, and Qatar Airways. Many U.S. travelers find it most economical to fly from a major U.S. air hub to Amsterdam and then catch KLM Airlines to JRO.
Let us know if you’d like assistance with arranging your international flight logistics. Our partners at Exito Travel specialize in international destinations, and we’d be happy to obtain a quote from them on your behalf.
If you are delayed, catching up can be not only inconvenient but very costly. Remember, a full coverage travel insurance policy (as opposed to the minimum required medical evacuation insurance) may cover additional expenses due to travel delays.
PRE- AND POST-TRIP ACCOMMODATIONS
Your first and last night accommodations are included in the trip. If you decide to arrive a day or two early, or stay longer, we recommend that you make reservations well in advance in order to guarantee lodging. Please let us know if you would like OARS to book additional nights at the lodge, visit Zanzibar, or continue on another safari (pre- and post-trip lodging is not included in the trip cost).
Useful Information
Time ZoneS
The time in Tanzania is 3 hours ahead of UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) which is 10 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time and 7 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
LANGUAGE
The official language in Tanzania is Swahili, but there are hundreds of other local dialects. English is the second official language. You will find that the majority of the people that you come in contact with are fluent in English and have a surprisingly good command of the language.
Money Matters
The local currency in Tanzania is the shilling. Both Tanzanian shillings and US dollars are widely accepted for payment almost everywhere, however, it is recommended to have some local currency. All hotels and lodges have money exchange so you can easily change your money, though the exchange rate is not always favorable. Also, US dollar bills printed before the year 2010 may be rejected.
Credit Cards
Except in larger restaurants and hotels/lodges, there is limited use of credit cards in Tanzania, though they are becoming more widely accepted in tourist areas. The most accepted cards are Visa and Mastercard, and the lodges where you stay on our trip accept both Visa and Mastercard. Do note, however, that there is a 3-6% standard charge for using a debit/credit card in Tanzania. Check the currency on the credit card charge form before appending your signature. The use of credit cards for purchasing goods should be highly monitored to prevent forgery. For this reason, we recommend getting cash out when you can. Visa is probably the more useful card, in that you can withdraw money from more ATMs than with MasterCard.
Shopping
It is a serious crime to carry/buy/travel with ANY animal trophies without any papers from relevant authorities. This includes bones, plants, animal skins, or anything of that nature. Request a receipt and/or certificate from relevant authorities/buyers. Be aware that Tanzanian authorities are very strict and might confiscate your souvenirs (even if bought in another country) at the airport and give you a fine if the item you possess does not have a legal document to travel and/or if it is an illegal product. US authorities also have regulations on the importation of animal products.
Health & Medical Info
There are no required immunizations unless entering Tanzania from a country with Yellow Fever, however, we recommend you contact your doctor or local travel clinic for information about recommended “routine” vaccinations. They may suggest you get inoculated against Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus, Typhoid, and Meningitis. Health guidelines strongly suggest that you consider protecting yourself against Malaria, such as minimizing insect bites and considering a prescription anti-malarial prophylaxis. Learn more about CDC recommendations for travel to Tanzania.
Diarrhea
Despite the many precautions we all take to stay healthy, occasionally, one may experience diarrhea. The major problem associated with this is fluid loss, leading to severe dehydration, so it is important to maintain plentiful fluid intake. Avoid milk and caffeine, as it will only further dehydrate you. The best drinks are weak tea, mineral water, and caffeine-free soft drinks. Ideally, it is best to let diarrhea run its course. However, you may want to bring over-the-counter medication to minimize your potential discomfort.
Hiking at High Altitude
While the itinerary is designed for adequate altitude conditioning, there are no guarantees that your body will acclimatize properly. It is a good idea to come prepared with proper elevation sickness medicine, which can be prescribed by your local doctor before your trip. If you have a heart condition or high blood pressure, we request that you check with your physician prior to traveling at high altitude. Please familiarize yourself with symptoms, treatment, and more about altitude illness.
CPAP Machine
If you require the use of a CPAP machine and intend to bring one with you, be sure to alert your OARS Adventure Consultant prior to your trip to let us know the dimensions of the machine, description of battery(s), and any protective case(s). Travel-sized CPAPs are readily available and often come with a battery kit. You must assess the power needs of your CPAP and bring the battery(s) needed to operate it for each night of your travels. We’re typically able to accommodate the transportation of your machine and accessories on the trip; however, please understand that despite efforts to protect your equipment, we can’t guarantee your machine and accessories won’t suffer water or impact damage, and therefore we recommend additional protective case(s) for your machine and accessories.
DIETARY RESTRICTIONS
We need to know as soon as possible about any dietary restrictions we must consider in planning your trip. If you have food allergies or restrictions, we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Beyond our standard menu, we can provide options for vegetarian, vegan, and many allergy-restricted diets. However, we cannot always provide the same diversity or sophistication for restricted diets as we do for our regular menu. Similarly, certain allergen-free snack foods are difficult or impossible to source in our location, so feel free to bring your own favorite snacks to supplement our provisions.
We cannot guarantee that cross-contamination from allergens will not occur during meal prep and reserve the right to refuse service to anyone as it relates to safety, including the potential for a medical emergency caused by a severe food allergy. Also, due to the constraints of cooking for a large group in a wilderness setting, the availability of ingredients or specialty items in remote locations, and limited packing space, we are unable to cater to dietary preferences (likes or dislikes).
BEVERAGES/WATER
We recommend you drink only bottled or purified water when traveling through Tanzania. Bottled water is widely available, especially in tourist areas. During the Kilimanjaro trek, all water will be purified by your guides.
Refreshments and wine will be provided during the trip. Other alcoholic beverages, including beer and cocktails are available at an additional cost at the lodges.
TOILETS & BATHING
Each of the luxury safari camp properties you’ll be staying at offers private tents with ensuite bathrooms that include flush toilets and showers.
While hiking Kilimanjaro, there are public toilets stationed along the way on each route, but if the toilet is out of reach you will need to find a discreet place out in nature to handle your business. It is best practice to “pack it in, pack it out,” including toilet paper and human waste. We suggest packing WAG bags (Waste Alleviation and Gelling bags) for emergency use on the trail, if needed. You can discard it in the trash at the next campsite.
In camp, a large, private toilet tent with portable flush toilets will be available. For 7+ climbers, two toilet tents are provided. Each toilet has hand sanitizer available in a handy push-top dispenser and a built-in wastebasket.
Bathing on the Kilimanjaro Trek
While there are no showers available during the trek, each hiker will be provided with a basin filled with hot water and soap for washing in camp each evening. Some people also find bathing wipes extremely useful for backcountry bathing.
ELECTRICITY
In Tanzania, Type D and Type G power plugs and outlets are commonly found. The standard electric voltage is 220 volts. Electric devices designed for 110 volts will need the use of a power converter. While some lodges may have adapters available for guests at a small rental fee, it’s best to bring your own. Learn more and review the outlet types by country.
LAUNDRY
If you need to do laundry during the trip, all of the lodges and safari camps where you’ll be staying provide laundry service at an extra cost.
Cameras
We strongly recommend you take out a rider on your homeowner’s policy to cover your camera—especially if it’s fine equipment. If you are planning on bringing a digital camera make sure to bring additional memory cards, batteries, and any other extras you will need.
Photography
While traveling throughout Tanzania, do not photograph military installations, official buildings, border posts, or uniformed police or military personnel. Also, do not take pictures of the local people without permission, as some feel offended. For example, the Maasai people are very superstitious and believe that by taking a picture of them, you are taking their soul away.
Electronics & Technology
The use of electronic devices, especially music players and flying drones, on your trip may represent an intrusion to your fellow guests. We ask that you please be mindful of the impacts on others and respect the cultural nature of the trip. Please bring headphones if you intend to listen to music during the trip and leave your drone at home*.
On a trip like this, there is always the risk of damage to smartphones and other electronic devices. If you intend to take your phone with you, consider investing in a protective case just for your phone.
*Drones are prohibited in Kilimanjaro National Park and all other national parks in Tanzania, including animal parks.
Portable Power
While hiking Kilimanjaro, we are not able to provide a power source for recharging devices. To keep cameras, phones, GPS, and other devices working, you may need spare batteries or portable power. Options include compact portable solar panels that can recharge devices directly, portable power banks that store power, or a combo unit that can be charged before the trip and recharged with a built-in solar panel. Power is available at the lodges, but some lodges use generators, which are sometimes switched off during the day, as well as between the hours of midnight to 5 a.m.
Communication
Once you are on your adventure there will be times with limited communication with the “outside world.” However, the majority of the region has cellular coverage and internet. If you have someone who needs to contact you about an emergency at home, they should call our office (800-346-6277). If possible, we will relay the message to you. Keep in mind, it could be several days or longer before the message actually reaches you. For your family at home, you should define for them what you consider an emergency and provide them with instructions to call our office in the event one occurs during your vacation.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available at Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge, Sametu Camp, and Lion’s Paw Camp in public areas.
Weather
We recommend checking one week before your trip for an up-to-date weather forecast for Arusha, Serengeti National Park, as well as Kilimanjaro’s hiking route which shows the dramatic change in conditions between different elevations on the mountain. Being properly prepared for weather variations is an important factor in fully enjoying your trip.
Hiking Kilimanjaro’s Lemosho route offers varied weather conditions, with warm temperatures and clear skies at the lower elevations, becoming cool and misty as you ascend through the rainforest. Higher altitudes bring colder temperatures, with the potential for rain or snow, especially near the summit. Overall, hikers should be prepared for a range of extreme weather, from sunny days to freezing, windy conditions as they approach the peak.
In September, average temperatures at the base range from 59°F to 68°F, while temperatures at higher elevations can drop significantly, reaching below freezing at the summit. The summit temperature will be below freezing ranging anywhere between -20°F to 20°F when factoring in windchill. Rainfall is generally low, with the region receiving around 1-2 inches throughout the month. Due to Mount Kilimanjaro’s high altitude, it generates its own variable weather that is difficult to predict and requires appropriate gear.
In Serengeti National Park and nearby Ngorongoro, the weather in September is generally warm with cool nights, minimal rainfall, and clear skies. You can expect daytime temperatures ranging from 68°F to 82°F, while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 59°F.
Packing for Your Trip
We want you to be prepared and comfortable for your trip. Below, you’ll find some general tips for how to dress, what to pack, and a comprehensive packing checklist. You will need warm weather and cold weather items considering the different elevations and ecosystems that you will experience.
Clothing for physical activity should be quick-drying and made of synthetics or merino wool. Warmth and comfort are the main objectives of this outline. Weather conditions can vary considerably. It’s important to dress in layers so that you can maintain a comfortable body temperature no matter what Mother Nature may have in store. The inner base layer should move perspiration outside, where it can evaporate. The intermediate layer should insulate, while the outside layer should act as a barrier to wind and rain.
Clothing
Hiking wear: For the trekking part of your adventure, lightweight and comfortable clothing that packs small is best. Consider long sleeves and pants for sun and bug protection. You can add additional layers, such as merino, synthetic, or wool tops and bottoms, depending on the weather. Keep these extra layers handy in your day pack to adjust your layering as temperatures vary with elevation and weather. You will want an insulated jacket for the higher elevations.
Campwear: After a long day on the trail, you may want to refresh and change into clean, comfortable clothing. Soft, loose-fitting pants, t-shirt, sweater, etc. will allow you to settle in for the evening. You will want to have something dry and warm to put on. Temperatures can be cold at night, so bring a warm down or synthetic insulated jacket, hat, and gloves. These extra clothes will also come in handy for summit day.
To avoid being cold: You need to be prepared for extreme changes in conditions. In addition to an insulated jacket, hat, and gloves, synthetic or Merino wool long underwear is a must-have. It can be worn under pants, fleeces, rain gear, etc., and then stripped off when temperatures rise. Double up on your synthetic layers so you’ll have a set of warm, dry clothes for the evening. Be aware that cotton items, once wet, do not insulate; only synthetic and wool materials will keep you warm if wet.
On safari: While on safari, casual wear is recommended. We recommend long-sleeved shirts/blouses and trousers in the evenings and at night to avoid mosquito bites, especially while outside your room. Light colors are also recommended to keep insects away.
Footwear
For the trail: You’ll need a pair of sturdy, comfortable hiking boots that are waterproof and provide good ankle support. You should also wear gaiters to help keep dirt and snow out of boots. If you plan to buy footwear for the trip, make sure you have time to break them in until they’re comfortable—if your feet hurt, you will not have a successful climb. Taking off your trail shoes at the end of the day will feel good, so plan to have comfortable and warm footwear for the evenings. Mountaineering boots are unnecessary as you won’t wear crampons, so no need for any extra weight.
On safari: An athletic shoe or light hiker are good options. Find professional-grade options made by Chaco®, the official footwear sponsor of OARS guides.
If you buy new shoes for the trip, make sure you break them in first!
Headwear
A wide-brimmed hat or ball cap is a good choice for sun protection. A warm beanie for chilly nights and mornings is critical.
Rain Gear
A hooded jacket and pants that are 100% waterproof and breathable, not just water resistant, are required. Make sure there are secure closures around your head, neck, wrists, and ankles.
Sun Protection
This trip takes place at very high elevations and protecting yourself from the sun should be taken very seriously! In many cases, a long-sleeve shirt is the best method for preventing sunburn on your upper body. Lightweight long pants are also appropriate to protect your legs. A hat, sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses are also a must.
Bugs & Mosquitoes
Bugs and mosquitoes vary depending on location and time of year. It’s a good idea to come prepared with insect repellent. Light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants may be desirable at times.
MENSTRUAL CYCLE
Even if you aren’t anticipating your menstrual period, come prepared for it. We recommend you bring some sandwich-size zip-close bags. These bags can be used to store products during the day while hiking and disposed of in the trash at camp.
Packing List
Equipment and Personal Items
☐ 30-40 liter daypack with rain cover
☐ Soft-sided, water-resistant duffel or dry bag with 80-90 cubic liter capacity for porters to carry during trek and for the safari
☐ Extra bag to store personal items in Arusha you do not need during the trek or safari
☐ Durable water bottle(s) and hydration bladder with at least 3 liters capacity
☐ Polarized sunglasses suitable for high altitudes (consider bringing a spare)
☐ Trekking poles: adjustable and collapsible
☐ Toiletries
☐ Headlamp or flashlight (consider bringing spare batteries)
☐ Sunscreen and lip protection: sweatproof & SPF 30 or higher
☐ Moisturizing lotion or cream
☐ Insect repellent
☐ Personal first-aid kit (Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment, ibuprofen, moleskin, eye drops, etc.)
☐ Spare pair of glasses and/or contacts
☐ Cash for gratuities and incidentals
Footwear
☐ Hiking boots: waterproof, with good ankle support
☐ Athletic shoes or light hikers (for in camp and on safari)
☐ Gaiters
☐ Socks: wool or synthetic trekking socks and liner socks
Clothing
☐ Base layers: moisture-wicking long-sleeve tops and bottoms
☐ Mid layers: insulating layers such as fleece jackets and pants
☐ Outer layers: waterproof and windproof jackets and pants
☐ Down or synthetic insulated jacket. Very important for summit day.
☐ Long-sleeved shirts: lightweight and light color for sun protection
☐ Long pants: lightweight and light color for sun protection
☐ Casual wear: comfortable and lightweight for travel and evenings
☐ Shorts
☐ T-shirts/tops
☐ Shade hat or visor with securing strap and a spare
☐ Rain jacket and pants
☐ Swimwear
☐ Underwear: quick-drying
☐ Warm hat & gloves (lightweight inner gloves and heavyweight insulated outer gloves)
☐ Neck gaiter (“buff”) for warmth and sun protection
Optional Items
☐ Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, and other high-calorie snacks
☐ Camera and accessories
☐ Small portable charger
☐ Small bags: stuff sacks, zip-close bags, or similar for organizing items in your duffel bag
☐ Ear plugs (for sleeping, due to surrounding noise)
☐ Bathing wipes: pre-moistened disposable towels
☐ Binoculars
☐ Lightweight cord and clothespins for drying clothes
☐ Sketchbook, notebook and pen, paperback book
☐ Bandana
☐ Stand-up urination device
Packing Your Gear
You will carry your own day-size backpack, which should be able to accommodate rain gear, extra layers, water bottle(s) or hydration bladder, and any other personal items you’d like to have along the trail (such as a camera, binoculars, etc.). The remainder of your personal belongings that you need during the trek should be packed in a soft-sided duffel bag that will be carried by the porters. Each trekker is allowed to bring a maximum of 44 pounds.
The weight limit for the in-country flight to Serengeti National Park is 33 pounds per person. If you exceed the baggage allowance, a penalty will be charged. The soft-sided duffel used during the trek can be used for the safari trip as well to ease packing into the plane and vehicles.
Extra Luggage
If you have extra luggage it can be stored at the lodge in Arusha and retrieved upon return on day 10. After the trek, any climbing gear that you prefer not to take on safari can also be stored until you return to Arusha on day 15.
Valuables
We recommend you check your personal insurance policy before your trip to ensure that you are covered for theft and loss while traveling. As a safety precaution, do not travel with excessive amounts of cash or jewelry if it is not necessary. We recommend that you leave your valuables at home.
HELPFUL LINKS
- Find some of the gear you need for your trip online in the OARStore, and 15% of your purchase helps provide under-resourced youth with outdoor adventure experiences.
Reminders
GRATUITIES
Guests often ask whether gratuities are appropriate and in what amount. “Thank you” is always enough to put a smile on the faces of your guides and staff, but tipping is one of the many ways to reward them for their extra efforts. Because this adventure consists of several components with specific staff, we have created a list to assist you with extending a gratuity to the people who make your trip more enjoyable and safe. You’ll want to plan ahead and have cash – US dollars are welcome and it’s a good idea to bring smaller denominations. A reminder that US dollar bills printed before the year 2010 may be rejected.
For the Kilimanjaro trek, it is customary for the group to give the tip at the end of the climb during the tipping ceremony. Tips are handed directly to the lead guide, who will then distribute them among the team.
Per pay guidelines (in USD) per group based on recommendations from the Kilimanjaro Porter’s Assistance Project:
- Lead Guide: $40 – $45 per day | ~$360 divided by the group
- Assistant Guide: $30 – $40 per day | ~ $320 divided by the group
- Cook: $20 – $30 per day | ~$240 divided by the group
- Porter: $8 – $10 per porter, per day | ~$80/porter divided by the group
You will be advised of more detailed tipping suggestions based on the number of porters, which is ultimately determined by the final group size. The porters and support crew will not continue with you on safari, so you’ll want to plan ahead and have cash to give them the morning of day 10.
There are no specific guidelines on tipping in lodges, it is entirely up to the guest. However, for safari guides please consider $10 per guest per day.
SOMETHING VOLUNTARY
In reviewing your statement, you’ll notice a $1 per person per day donation to International Rivers, a non-profit conservation organization dedicated to protecting rivers and defending the rights of the surrounding communities. Their work helps stop destructive dams and promotes water and energy solutions for a just and sustainable world. One hundred percent of these funds go directly to protecting rivers and your contribution is tax-deductible. Please notify our office if you would prefer to delete the donation from your balance.
Terms & Conditions
Reservations and Deposits
A $1850/person non-refundable deposit is required at the time of reservation. Final payment is due 90 days before departure. Accounts on which final payment has not been received 80 days before the departure date will be canceled without exception. Payments can be made by check, money order, eCheck, wire transfer, Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover. Prices are in US Dollars, and all payments must be made in US Dollars. Payment of the deposit establishes your acceptance of our complete Terms and Conditions. Individual departures and trip capacity are strictly limited by the managing agency. Your payment is fully refundable for 7 days, less a 3% processing fee, after making a reservation when you reserve a trip 7 days or more prior to the final payment due date.
Cancellations and Refunds
Canceling your trip after your deposit is processed will incur cancellation fees because OARS has absorbed costs on your behalf and will turn others away who would like to book the spaces we’re holding for you. If you must cancel your reservation after the rescission period described above, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the schedule below.
| DATE OF CANCELLATION | CANCELLATION FEE |
| 90 or more days before your trip | Deposit |
| 89 to 60 days before your trip | 50% of the trip price/person |
| 59 day or less before your trip | 100% of the trip price/person |
Requests to transfer a date will be treated as a cancellation, per the terms above.
We regret we cannot make exceptions to the cancellation policy for any reason, including foul weather, poor air quality, wildfire activity, acts of terrorism, civil unrest, or personal emergencies. There is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to consider purchasing a travel protection plan.
Canceled Trips
OARS International and the outfitter WildReality Safari reserve the right to cancel any trip due to insufficient registration or other factors that make the trip impractical to operate. Do not make nonrefundable travel arrangements unless you have spoken to your Adventure Consultant regarding the status of your trip.
If a trip must be canceled or postponed due to force majeure (factors outside the control of OARS), OARS will provide full credit for payments made toward future travel, or a refund less the initial deposit amount and any non-refundable payments made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers. OARS will make good faith efforts to recover deposits made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers, however, we can’t guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made. OARS is not responsible for expenses incurred by participants in preparation for a canceled trip.
Medical
Under most circumstances, if you are of an adventurous spirit and in reasonably good health, you should have no problem enjoying an OARS International trip. People with medical conditions, including pregnancy, should have a physician’s approval before taking an adventure travel trip.
Travel Protection
Because there are costs that you will incur if you cancel the spaces on this trip that we’re now holding for you, or in the event you need to be evacuated during the trip due to an unforeseen illness or injury, we strongly encourage our guests to purchase an optional travel protection plan. A travel protection plan may help reimburse the cost of your pre-paid, non-refundable payments in the event you are prevented from taking your trip for a covered reason. Trip participants must understand that in the event of an illness or injury on a wilderness trip, evacuation can be prolonged, difficult, and expensive. Learn more about the plan we recommend.
Please note: To be eligible for coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, you must purchase the plan within 21 days of your initial trip payment and you must be medically fit to travel at the time you pay for the plan.
In order to take part in this trip, each participant must have a minimum of Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage in place for the dates of the trip. This can be purchased as stand-alone coverage, independent of a comprehensive travel protection plan. You can get a quote for this type of policy by entering a trip cost amount of $0 when getting a quote.
Please note: By entering a trip cost amount of $0, the plan will not include Trip Cancellation coverage and you may not be eligible for Emergency Medical Expense benefits relating to any pre-existing conditions.
Liability Release / Assumption of Risk
Everyone is required to sign a standard liability release/assumption of risk form before the trip, confirming awareness that there are inherent risks associated with the trip. Due to the nature of the activities, a condition of your participation is that you will sign this form and return it to our office before the trip begins. Anyone who refuses to sign the form will not be allowed to participate, and consistent with OARS International’s cancellation policy, there will be no refund of the trip fees at that time.
Responsibility – An Important Notice
O.A.R.S. International, Inc., WildReality Safari, and cooperating agencies act only in the capacity of agent for the participants in all matters relating to transportation and/or all other related travel services and assume no responsibility however caused for injury, loss or damage to person or property in connection with any service, including but not limited to that resulting directly or indirectly from acts of God, detention, annoyance, delays and expenses arising from quarantine, pandemics, strikes, theft, pilferage, force majeure, failure of any means of conveyance to arrive or depart as scheduled, civil disturbances, government restrictions or regulations, and discrepancies or change in transit over which it has no control. Reasonable changes in the itinerary may be made where deemed advisable for the comfort and well-being of the participants, including cancellation due to insufficient bookings (this trip requires a minimum of 2 guests) and other factors. We may decide, at any time, to exclude any person or group for any reason we feel is related to the safety of our trips. We are experienced in accommodating people with various disabilities. Please give us an opportunity to make you feel welcome. We need to discuss any special requirements ahead of time.
OARS trips occur in areas where unpredictable environmental conditions are to be expected. To moderate dangerous situations for our guests and guides, all travelers must obey the rules and regulations as determined by the managing agencies and the Trip Leader, and demonstrate reasonable consideration for other guests and OARS employees. We reserve the right to remove any guest from a trip if, in our opinion, that guest’s actions or behaviors pose a threat to the safety of her/himself or others, or if those actions or behaviors compromise the enjoyment of the trip for others. Should a guest be asked to leave a trip, there will be no refund for the unused portion, nor will OARS be responsible for additional expenses incurred by the guest for accommodations, return transport, change fees, etc. Prices subject to change without notice. Upon advancement of deposit, the depositor agrees to be bound by the above-recited terms and conditions. OARS is an equal opportunity provider.
WildReality Safari
WildReality Safari, a travel partner of O.A.R.S. International, Inc., is the operator of this trip. A representative will escort you throughout the program. These staff members are the very best and will strive to ensure your complete satisfaction.