Book Your Safari with Confidence
Transparent policies, flexible credit notes, and clear terms — so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
At Collective African Tours & Safaris (C.A.T.S), we believe in transparency and flexibility. These booking terms are designed to protect both you and our trusted network of tour operators, guides, lodges, and transport partners — while giving you the peace of mind to plan your dream safari.
Booking Confirmation & Deposit
A 40% deposit secures your safari. This deposit is structured to give you flexibility if your plans change:
Your Flexibility Guarantee
If your plans change, 25% of your deposit is held as a credit note — use it toward any future safari within 12 months (non-peak bookings). You never lose the full amount.
A confirmation email with full booking details is issued once your deposit is received. Bookings are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Payment Schedule
| Stage | Amount | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit | 40% of total cost | Within 5 days of booking confirmation |
| Final Payment | Remaining 60% | Standard60 days before departure Luxury90 days before departure Peak Season120 days before departure Groups & Corporate90 days before departure |
All prices are in USD and per person based on double/twin room occupancy unless otherwise stated. For bookings made within 30 days of departure, full payment is required at time of booking.
Accepted Payment Methods
Bank details and payment instructions are provided upon booking confirmation.
Safari Seasons
Pricing, availability, and cancellation terms vary by season. Understanding the seasons helps you plan and budget for the best safari experience.
🔴 Peak Season
The Great Migration, holidays, and East Africa's most sought-after wildlife moments.
- • July 1 – October 31
- • December 20 – January 5
- • Easter Holidays
Strictly non-refundable — book with certainty
🟡 High Season
Excellent wildlife viewing with good availability and fewer crowds.
- • May 1 – June 30
- • November 1 – December 19
Standard cancellation terms apply
🟢 Low Season
Best value rates, lush landscapes, and incredible birding. A hidden gem for savvy travellers.
- • January 6 – April 30
Most flexible terms & best rates
Cancellation Policy
If You've Paid the Deposit Only
We understand plans change. Here's what happens if you need to cancel before making your final payment:
| Cancellation Timing | Non-Refundable | Credit Note | Refund |
|---|---|---|---|
| More than 60 days before departure | 15% | 25% | — |
| 60 – 30 days before departure | 15% | 25% | — |
| 29 – 15 days before departure | 15% | 25% | — |
| Less than 15 days / No-show | 100% | — | — |
If You've Paid in Full
Cancelling after full payment? Here's the breakdown — the earlier you let us know, the more we can return to you:
| Cancellation Timing | Penalty Retained | Refund or Credit |
|---|---|---|
| More than 60 days before departure | 40% | 60% refunded or credited |
| 60 – 30 days before departure | 50% | 50% refunded or credited |
| 29 – 15 days before departure | 75% | 25% refunded or credited |
| Less than 15 days / No-show | 100% | — |
Peak Season & No-Show Policy
All peak season bookings (July 1 – Oct 31, Dec 20 – Jan 5, Easter) and late arrivals or no-shows are strictly non-refundable. Credit notes do not apply to peak season or no-show bookings. We recommend booking peak season only when your dates are confirmed.
About Your Credit Note
Credit notes are valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation and can be applied toward any future safari booking during high or low season. They are non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash.
Amendments & Rescheduling
- Date changes are welcome and subject to availability. We'll work with you to find the best alternative.
- Credit notes can be applied toward your new dates (excluding peak season bookings).
- If the new dates are at a higher rate, the rate difference applies. Lower rates do not generate a refund of the difference.
- Amendments to itineraries (adding destinations, upgrading accommodation) can be made up to 30 days before departure, subject to availability and rate adjustments.
Refund Processing
- Eligible refunds are processed within 14 – 21 business days of the approved cancellation request.
- Bank transfer fees, credit card processing charges, and any currency conversion differences are non-refundable and borne by the client.
- Where applicable, you may choose between a cash refund or a credit note for future use (non-peak bookings only).
Force Majeure
C.A.T.S shall not be held liable for cancellations, delays, or changes caused by events beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to:
In such cases, we will work with you to reschedule your safari or issue travel credits. Cash refunds are not guaranteed in force majeure situations, as costs may have already been committed to our supplier partners.
Travel Insurance — Highly Recommended
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. A good policy provides peace of mind and can cover:
C.A.T.S is not responsible for expenses arising from medical emergencies, trip interruptions, or lost baggage. Travel insurance ensures you're covered regardless of circumstances.
What's Included & Excluded
Typically Included
- Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
- Ground transportation in 4x4 safari vehicles with pop-up roof
- Accommodation as specified in your itinerary
- All meals as specified (usually full board on safari)
- Park and conservancy entrance fees
- Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Unlimited game drives as per itinerary
- Bottled drinking water during game drives
- Flying Doctors emergency evacuation cover (where applicable)
* Exact inclusions vary by itinerary — your booking confirmation will list all details.
Typically Not Included
- International and domestic flights (unless specified)
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, mini-bar, etc.)
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Alcoholic and premium beverages
- Any items not specifically mentioned as included
Safari Transport
All safaris are conducted in well-maintained 4x4 safari vehicles (Land Cruisers or safari minivans) with pop-up roofs for optimal game viewing and photography. Each guest is guaranteed a window seat. Vehicles are operated by our trusted transport partners.
Safari Accommodation
We offer accommodation options ranging from comfortable camps to luxury lodges, sourced through our network of trusted lodge and camp partners. Accommodation is based on double/twin occupancy. Single supplements apply for solo travellers. Child rates available upon request.
Alterations & Cancellations by C.A.T.S
C.A.T.S reserves the right to alter itineraries due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, road conditions, park closures, or supplier availability. In such cases, suitable alternatives of equal or greater value will be provided.
In the rare event that we must cancel a safari entirely, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule at no additional cost.
Liability
Collective African Tours & Safaris (C.A.T.S) coordinates safari experiences through a network of trusted third-party service providers including tour operators, guides, lodges, camps, and transport partners. While we carefully vet and select our partners, we cannot be held liable for any loss, injury, damage, or expense arising from their services.
Participation in safari activities involves inherent risks associated with wildlife and remote environments. Guests participate at their own risk and are advised to follow all safety guidelines provided by guides and lodge staff.
Feedback & Complaints
Your satisfaction is our top priority. If you experience any concerns during your safari, please inform your guide or contact our office immediately so we can resolve the issue on the spot.
For feedback or complaints after your safari, please email us at info@catssafaris.com within 14 days of your return. We take every concern seriously and aim to respond within 48 hours.
Acceptance of Terms
By paying a deposit (credit note + non-refundable portion) or the full safari amount, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted these terms and conditions, including:
Questions About Our Terms?
Our team is happy to walk you through any details before you book.
Last updated: April 2025. These terms may be updated periodically. The version in effect at the time of booking applies to your reservation.