Terms & Conditions

Last Updated: October 23, 2026

Welcome to Fathom Africa Safaris. By accessing our website, booking a safari, or using our services, you agree to be bound by the following terms and conditions. Please read them carefully before making any bookings.

These terms govern your relationship with Fathom Africa Safaris Limited, a registered tour company in Uganda (Registration No. 80043459926071).

All bookings are subject to availability and confirmation. A booking is considered confirmed only when you have received a written confirmation from us via email.

To secure your booking, a deposit of 30% of the total safari cost is required at the time of booking. For gorilla trekking permits and other special activities, full payment may be required at the time of booking due to limited availability.

The remaining balance must be paid no later than 60 days prior to your travel date. If you book within 60 days of travel, full payment is required at the time of booking.

We accept payments via:

• Bank Transfer — Direct transfer to our bank account (details provided upon booking)
• Credit/Debit Card — Via our secure payment gateway
• Cash — In person at our office in Kampala

All payments must be made in US Dollars (USD) unless otherwise agreed.

We understand that sometimes plans change. Our cancellation policy is as follows:

• More than 60 days before travel: Full refund minus administrative fees (10% of total cost)
• 30–60 days before travel: 50% refund of total cost
• 15–29 days before travel: 25% refund of total cost
• Less than 15 days before travel: No refund

Note: Gorilla trekking,chimpanzee golden monkey tracking permits, and other special activity fees are non-refundable once purchased, regardless of cancellation timing. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to protect your investment.

Fathom Africa Safaris reserves the right to cancel any safari due to circumstances beyond our control, including but not limited to:

• Natural disasters or extreme weather conditions
• Political instability or civil unrest
• Government travel restrictions
• Insufficient bookings for group tours

In the event of cancellation by us, you will receive a full refund of all payments made, or we will offer you an alternative safari of equivalent value.

Fathom Africa Safaris acts as a tour operator and booking agent. We take reasonable care to ensure that all services provided are of a high standard and delivered as described. However, we are not responsible for:

• Acts of God, natural disasters, or extreme weather
• Political instability, civil unrest, or terrorism
• Illness, injury, or death during your safari
• Loss, theft, or damage to personal property
• Delays or cancellations caused by airlines, hotels, or other third-party suppliers

As a guest, you are responsible for:

• Having a valid passport and any required visas for your destination
• Ensuring you have adequate travel insurance covering medical evacuation, cancellation, and personal liability
• Following the guidance and instructions of your safari guide and park rangers at all times
• Respecting local customs, cultures, and wildlife conservation regulations
• Informing us of any medical conditions, allergies, or special needs before your safari

Gorilla trekking is a physically demanding activity that takes place in remote and challenging environments. You acknowledge that:

• Gorilla trekking involves walking on steep, muddy, and slippery terrain
• There is a risk of injury, illness, or fatigue during the trek
• You have disclosed any medical conditions that may affect your ability to participate
• You follow all instructions provided by your ranger guide and park authorities

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all guests. Your insurance must cover:

• Medical expenses and emergency evacuation
• Cancellation and curtailment
• Personal liability and baggage loss
• Gorilla trekking and other adventure activities

Fathom Africa Safaris may take photographs and videos during your safari for promotional purposes. By booking with us, you grant us permission to use these images, unless you specifically request otherwise in writing.

These terms and conditions are governed by the laws of the Republic of Uganda. Any disputes arising from your safari or these terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Uganda.

We reserve the right to update these terms and conditions at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date. We encourage you to review these terms periodically.

Most nationals require a visa to enter Uganda. The standard fee is USD 50 per person per entry. We strongly recommend applying for and securing your visa in advance, at least one week before your date of arrival.

Visas are issued online only. Please follow the link below to apply for your Uganda visa:

visas.immigration.go.ug

If your itinerary covers Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda, you may be eligible for the East African Tourist Visa. This costs USD 100 and should be issued by the country that is your first point of entry into the East African region. It remains valid for 90 days.

Please ensure you apply for the correct visa type based on your travel itinerary.

A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is an essential entry requirement for Uganda and forms part of the documentation needed for Uganda and East African Tourist Visa applications. We encourage our guests to confirm the latest guidelines with the nearest Ugandan embassy or consulate.

Your travel clinic or physician can advise on all recommended immunizations. Please note the following exemptions:

• Persons older than 60 years are exempt
• Persons younger than 1 year are exempt
• Anyone who presents a doctor's letter confirming they are unable to take the vaccine

Important: We also recommend that travellers consult a qualified travel-health professional well ahead of departure to discuss vaccinations, malaria prevention, and other health precautions suited to their itinerary.