Cancellation and Refund Policy

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Effective Date: July 29, 2026

At Embakai Safaris, we understand that a Tanzania safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers. Planning your journey involves significant preparation and investment, including international flights, safari arrangements, accommodation, transportation, park fees, and other travel expenses.

Because of this commitment, we believe clear and transparent cancellation and refund policies are essential. While we understand that unexpected situations may require changes to your travel plans, many services involved in organizing your safari must be reserved and paid for in advance.

Our goal is to provide fair and flexible solutions while ensuring that the costs involved in preparing your safari experience are properly covered.

Why Full Refunds Are Not Always Possible

A safari involves the coordination of multiple service providers, including lodges, hotels, transportation companies, national park authorities, guides, and local partners.

To guarantee availability and ensure a smooth safari experience, many arrangements must be confirmed and paid for before your arrival in Tanzania.

These services may include:

• Safari vehicle arrangements

• Professional guides

• Accommodation bookings

• National park entrance fees

• Domestic flights

• Meals and special arrangements

• Logistics and operational preparations

Once these services have been confirmed and payments made to suppliers, some costs may become non-refundable.

Hotels, Lodges, and Accommodation Providers

Embakai Safaris works with carefully selected hotels, lodges, and camps across Tanzania’s safari destinations.

Although we always aim to secure flexible cancellation terms, each accommodation provider has its own cancellation conditions. Cancellations made close to the travel date may result in penalties or non-refundable charges.

Any unrecoverable accommodation costs may affect the final refund amount.

National Park Fees and Safari Permits

Tanzania safaris require entrance fees and permits for destinations such as:

• Serengeti National Park

• Ngorongoro Conservation Area

• Tarangire National Park

• Lake Manyara National Park

• Other protected areas

These fees are paid in advance to ensure smooth access and avoid delays during your safari.

Once submitted to the relevant authorities, these fees are generally non-refundable.

Transportation and Safari Logistics

Every safari requires advance planning, including:

• Safari vehicle preparation

• Fuel arrangements

• Driver-guide scheduling

• Airport transfers

• Internal transportation

• Special travel requests

These services involve operational costs and local suppliers who prepare specifically for your journey. As a result, some expenses cannot be recovered after cancellation.

Our Team and Local Community Commitment

A successful safari depends on the dedication of many people, including safari planners, professional guides, drivers, reservation teams, and local partners.

At Embakai Safaris, we are committed to responsible tourism and supporting local communities in Tanzania. Tourism provides important opportunities for many families and businesses, and we work to maintain sustainable partnerships.

For this reason, cancellation policies help us manage commitments to our guests, suppliers, and local teams.

Our Commitment to Flexibility

Although our cancellation terms apply as standard, every cancellation request is reviewed individually.

In exceptional situations, such as:

• Serious illness

• Family emergencies

• Natural disasters

• Major travel disruptions

we will work with our partners to find the best possible solution and reduce penalties where possible.

Once we receive a written cancellation request, our team will review the case and respond within 72 hours.

Cancellation Fees

The refund amount depends on the date we receive your written cancellation request.

Deposit Policy

A deposit is required to confirm your safari booking.

The deposit amount depends on the safari package and travel arrangements.

Deposits are generally non-refundable but may be transferred toward a future safari with Embakai Safaris under certain conditions.

Standard Cancellation Policy

Cancellation fees apply as follows:

• More than 90 days before safari start date: 10% cancellation fee

• 60–89 days before safari start date: 30% cancellation fee

• 30–59 days before safari start date: 60% cancellation fee

• 8–29 days before safari start date: 80% cancellation fee

• 0–7 days before safari start date: No refund

Please note:

• If cancellation charges from hotels, lodges, airlines, or other suppliers exceed the percentages above, additional non-refundable costs may apply.

• Bank transfer charges or payment processing fees related to refunds will be deducted from the refunded amount.

Safari Credit Option

Instead of canceling completely, guests may choose to keep their payment as credit for a future safari with Embakai Safaris.

The credit can be applied toward another travel date, subject to availability.

If prices increase due to changes in park fees, accommodation rates, or operational costs, the difference will need to be covered when rebooking.

Rescheduling Your Safari

If you prefer to change your travel dates rather than cancel your safari, we will do our best to assist.

We will work with accommodation providers, transportation partners, and other suppliers to move your booking to new dates whenever possible.

However, any additional charges or penalties remain subject to the policies of the suppliers involved.

Peak Season Considerations

Cancellations during peak travel periods, including:

• July to October

• December to March

may result in higher penalties due to increased demand for lodges, camps, vehicles, and flights.

During these periods, suppliers often have stricter cancellation conditions, and refundable amounts may be limited.

Travel Insurance Recommendation

Embakai Safaris strongly recommends purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers:

• Trip cancellation

• Travel interruptions

• Medical emergencies

• Flight delays or cancellations

• Lost luggage

Travel insurance provides additional protection against unexpected situations that may affect your safari plans.

Embakai Safaris will provide the necessary documentation required to support your insurance claim whenever applicable.