Terms & Conditions
Welcome to MASANA
Reservations & Booking Confirmation
Reservations are confirmed only after receipt of: completed Booking Form, signed Safari Agreement, and non-refundable deposit of US$3,000. Reservations are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Dates are not guaranteed until deposit is received.
Reservation Deposit
A non-refundable deposit of US$3,000 is required to secure your reservation. This deposit will be credited toward the total safari cost. Failure to pay the deposit within the specified timeframe may result in your reservation being released to other guests.
Final Payment
The remaining balance is payable before departure from the lodge. Accepted payment methods include:
- Bank Transfer
- Cash (USD or ZAR)
- VISA, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club (South Africa only)
Credit card processing fees: VISA & Mastercard 2.5%, American Express 3%. All bank charges and currency conversion fees are the client's responsibility.
Taxes (VAT)
All prices exclude 15% South African Value Added Tax (VAT) unless stated otherwise. VAT applies to all products and services provided. The statutory VAT rate at the time of invoicing will apply.
Trophy Fees
Trophy fees are charged for animals successfully harvested or wounded and not recovered after every reasonable effort has been made. The Professional Hunter's assessment is final.
Safari Packages
Package prices include only the services specifically listed in your safari itinerary. Any services not explicitly listed are excluded and will be charged separately.
Cancellations
Cancellations must be submitted in writing. The US$3,000 deposit is non-refundable under all circumstances. Any refund of additional monies paid is at MASANA's sole discretion. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance.
Changes to Your Booking
Amendments to your booking will be accommodated where possible, subject to availability. Additional costs may apply for changes made after initial confirmation.
Passports, Visas & Travel Documentation
Guests are solely responsible for ensuring all required travel documentation is valid and in order. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date and contain a minimum of two blank pages.
Firearms & Ammunition
Guests are responsible for complying with all airline regulations, customs procedures, and SAPS (South African Police Service) firearm import requirements. MASANA provides invitation letters and guidance but accepts no responsibility for:
- Airline firearm policies
- Permit processing delays
- Customs inspections
- Permit refusals
- Firearm confiscation
- Changes to import legislation
Rifle Hire
Guests are responsible for any negligent damage to or loss of hired rifles. All rental firearms remain the property of MASANA throughout the safari.
Health Requirements
Guests must be physically and medically fit to participate in safari activities. Any medical conditions, allergies, mobility limitations, dietary requirements, or medications should be disclosed to MASANA before arrival.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended covering:
- Trip cancellation
- Medical expenses
- Emergency evacuation
- Lost baggage
- Firearm cover
- Personal belongings
- Travel delays
MASANA accepts no responsibility for losses arising from inadequate insurance coverage.
Liability
Participation in safari activities involves inherent risks which are accepted voluntarily by the guest. MASANA and all associated parties are not liable for:
- Personal injury, illness, or death
- Theft, loss, or damage to personal belongings
- Firearm damage or loss
- Delayed or cancelled flights
- Mechanical breakdowns
- Wildlife encounters
- Weather events
- Force majeure circumstances
- Any indirect or consequential loss
Participation is entirely at the guest's own risk.
Hunting Ethics
All guests must:
- Respect wildlife and the natural environment
- Follow the Professional Hunter's instructions at all times
- Practice safe firearm handling
- Respect fellow guests and staff
- Comply with all hunting laws and regulations
Unsafe or unethical behaviour may result in immediate termination of the safari without refund.
Wounded Game Policy
Every reasonable effort will be made to recover wounded game. If an animal is not recovered after an extensive search, the trophy fee remains payable. This policy reflects internationally accepted fair-chase hunting standards.
Trophy Care & Taxidermy
Trophies will be transferred to Splitting Image Taxidermy or a taxidermist of the client's choice. MASANA is not responsible for:
- Taxidermy workmanship
- Export or shipping delays
- Customs inspections
- Damage during transport
- Import restrictions in destination countries
Taxidermy and shipping agreements are directly between the client and the service provider.
Trophy Export & Import
Guests are responsible for understanding and complying with wildlife import regulations in their own country. Certain species may require additional permits or may be prohibited. MASANA is not responsible for trophies refused entry into any country.
Photography & Media
MASANA may capture photos and video during your safari for promotional purposes. Guests who prefer their images not be used for marketing should notify MASANA in writing before the safari commences.
Alcohol Policy
Alcohol may be enjoyed responsibly at the lodge. No hunting activities will commence if a guest is believed to be under the influence of alcohol. The Professional Hunter's decision is final.
Guest Conduct
MASANA reserves the right to terminate any safari without refund should a guest:
- Endanger themselves or others
- Display abusive or threatening behaviour
- Fail to follow safety instructions
- Intentionally damage property
- Violate South African law
Force Majeure
MASANA is not liable for delays or cancellations caused by circumstances beyond our control, including:
- Natural disasters
- Floods or wildfires
- Pandemics or epidemics
- Government restrictions
- Border closures
- Political unrest or civil disturbances
- Airline disruptions
- Power outages
- Severe weather conditions
Where possible, MASANA will work with guests to reschedule affected safaris.
Governing Law
These Terms & Conditions are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa. Any disputes arising from these terms fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of South African courts.
Acceptance of Terms
Payment of the reservation deposit confirms that the client has read, understood, and accepted these Terms & Conditions in their entirety.
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