General Terms and Conditions of Travel

These Terms & Conditions (Terms) govern all guided self-drive tours (Tours) offered by Quo Vadis 4x4 Tours (we, us, our), operating in Southern and Central Africa. By booking a tour, you (guest, traveller, participant, you) agree to be bound by these Terms.

These Terms apply to all guided self-drive tours across: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.

1. Definitions

• Tour Operator: Quo Vadis 4x4 Tours.
• Participant / Traveller: Any person who books or joins a tour.
• Lead Traveller: The person making the booking on behalf of a group.
• Rental Partner: External, third-party vehicle rental company recommended by us.
• Vehicle: A rented 4x4 vehicle (not owned or supplied by Quo Vadis 4x4 Tours).
• Guided Self-Drive Tour: A convoy-style itinerary where travellers drive their own or rented 4x4 while guided by our tour leader.

2. Nature of Our Tours

Our tours are adventure-based, off-road, remote-area expeditions involving:

• Gravel, sand, mud, river crossings
• Wildlife exposure
• Weather-dependent conditions
• Long distances and variable road quality
• Remote locations with limited services

By booking, you acknowledge and accept the inherent risks associated with 4x4 travel in Africa.

3. Vehicle Rental (Important)

3.1 We Do Not Provide the Vehicles

• Quo Vadis 4x4 Tours does not own, operate, manage, or supply the vehicles used during tours.
• You rent your 4x4 vehicle directly from our recommended rental partners or a provider of your choice.

3.2 Your Agreement Is with the Rental Company

Your rental contract, insurance, and financial obligations (including deposits and excesses) are strictly between you and the rental company – not us.

Quo Vadis 4x4 Tours is not liable for:

• Vehicle breakdowns
• Mechanical failures
• Off-road damage
• Insurance disputes
• Towing costs
• Replacement vehicle availability

3.3 Your Responsibilities

• You must understand your rental agreement and insurance cover.
• You must pay all rental costs, damages, deposits, and excesses directly to the rental company.
• You must drive responsibly and within your abilities.

4. Driver Requirements

All drivers must:

• Hold a valid driver's licence accepted in the destination countries
• Be confident driving a 4x4 vehicle
• Be physically and mentally fit
• Always follow the instructions of the tour leader

Failure to comply may result in removal from the tour without refund.

5. Booking & Payment

5.1 Booking

A booking is considered confirmed once:

1. We receive your completed booking form, and
2. Your deposit payment has been received.

The Lead Traveller is responsible for all payments and communication.

5.2 Payment Schedule

• Deposit: Payable within 3 days of invoice.
• Balance: Due 42 days before the tour start date.
• Bookings made within 42 days require full payment upfront.

6. Cancellation Policy (Percentage-Based)

If you cancel your booking, the following fees apply:

• 90+ days before departure: 10% of tour price
• 89–60 days: 25%
• 59–45 days: 50%
• 44–21 days: 75%
• 20 days or less: 100% (no refund)

Vehicle rental cancellation fees are determined by the rental company and may differ.

7. Changes by the Participant

Any requested changes (route, accommodation, dates) are subject to availability and may incur additional costs. If a participant leaves the tour early, arrives late, or misses any activity, no refund will be provided.

8. Changes by Quo Vadis 4x4 Tours

Due to the nature of adventure travel, we may alter itineraries at any time for reasons including:

• Weather
• Road conditions
• Border delays
• Safety concerns
• Vehicle issues
• Local regulations

We will always aim to maintain the quality of the experience.

9. Force Majeure

We are not liable for disruptions caused by:

• Natural disasters
• Political unrest
• Border closures
• Riots or strikes
• Epidemics or pandemics
• Extreme weather
• Any situation beyond our control

In such cases, refunds cannot be guaranteed.

10. Medical, Health & Fitness Requirements

You must:

• Be in good physical health
• Have no conditions preventing participation
• Inform us of any medical issues at the time of booking
• Bring necessary medication
• Carry valid medical insurance with emergency evacuation

Failure to disclose medical conditions may result in removal from the tour.

11. Mandatory Insurance

All participants must have:

• Comprehensive medical insurance
• Emergency evacuation cover
• Repatriation cover
• Travel insurance covering cancellation, loss, and theft

You must provide policy details before the tour begins.

12. Safety & Risk Acceptance

12.1 Wildlife Risks

Tours pass through wilderness areas where wildlife encounters may occur. Participants must follow all safety instructions.

12.2 Off-Road & 4x4 Risks

Risks include:

• Vehicle damage
• Rollovers
• Getting stuck
• Sand, mud, water crossings
• Remote-area travel

You participate entirely at your own risk.

12.3 Weather Risks

Conditions may change rapidly. Itinerary adjustments may be necessary for safety.

13. Liability

Quo Vadis 4x4 Tours is not liable for:

• Vehicle damage
• Breakdown delays
• Replacement vehicle costs
• Medical expenses
• Loss, theft, or damage to baggage
• Negligent driving by participants
• Injuries caused by wildlife or environmental conditions
• Acts or omissions of rental companies, accommodation providers, or third-party suppliers

Our liability is limited to the amount paid for the tour.

14. Passports, Visas & Border Requirements

You are responsible for:

• Valid passports
• Required visas
• Returning vehicle documentation
• Child travel documents
• Compliance with customs and immigration laws

We are not liable if you are refused entry at any border.

15. Travel With Children

Regulations vary across Africa. Many countries require:

• Unabridged birth certificates
• Consent letters
• Additional documentation for minors

It is your responsibility to verify current requirements.

16. Excursions by Third Parties

Any activities you book independently (not through us) are at your own risk. We are not responsible for injuries, delays, or service failures by external providers.

17. Complaints

If you have concerns during the tour, notify the tour leader immediately so we can resolve the issue. Formal complaints must be submitted within 14 days after the tour.

18. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of South Africa.