Terms of Service
Please read these terms carefully before booking your tour with us.
Last Updated: March 26, 2025
Agreement to Terms
By accessing or using the services of Omo Valley Tours Ethiopia ("we," "us," or "our"), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you disagree with any part of these terms, you may not access our services or book tours with us.
These terms apply to all visitors, users, and others who access or use our services, including tour bookings, website usage, and any related services.
Contact Information
For any questions regarding these terms, please contact us:
Booking and Payment
Booking Confirmation
A booking is confirmed only after we receive a deposit of 30% of the total tour price. The remaining balance must be paid no later than 14 days before the tour start date. For bookings made within 14 days of the tour, full payment is required at the time of booking.
Payment Methods
We accept the following payment methods:
- Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
- Bank Transfer (details provided upon booking)
- PayPal
- Cash (for in-person payments in Ethiopia)
Price Inclusions
Tour prices typically include:
- Accommodation as specified
- Meals as per itinerary
- Ground transportation
- Professional guide services
- Entrance fees
- Tribal permits and fees
Price Exclusions
Tour prices typically exclude:
- International flights
- Ethiopian visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Alcoholic beverages
Cancellation Policy
Important: Cancellation fees apply
Note: For special tours (Danakil Depression, photography tours) and festival packages (Timkat, Meskel), different cancellation policies may apply. These will be communicated at the time of booking.
Tour Modifications
Changes by You
If you wish to modify your booking (dates, number of participants, or tour type), please contact us at least 30 days before departure. Changes are subject to availability and may incur additional fees.
Changes by Us
We reserve the right to modify tour itineraries due to weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances, or local events that may affect the safety or quality of your experience. In such cases, we will provide reasonable alternatives or offer a full refund if the changes are significant.
Travel Requirements
Passport and Visa
All travelers must have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of entry into Ethiopia. Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa before travel. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the necessary travel documents.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all our tours. Your insurance must cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and personal liability. Please provide proof of insurance before your tour begins.
Health Requirements
Please consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations for travel to Ethiopia. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for the Omo Valley region. You are responsible for your own health and well-being during the tour.
Liability
Omo Valley Tours Ethiopia acts as a tour operator and is not liable for:
- Loss, damage, or theft of personal belongings
- Personal injury or illness during the tour
- Delays or changes caused by weather, road conditions, or local events
- Actions of third-party service providers (accommodation, transportation, etc.)
- Events beyond our reasonable control (force majeure)
We will take all reasonable precautions to ensure your safety and satisfaction, but you acknowledge that travel to remote areas involves inherent risks.
Cultural Responsibility
As a visitor to the Omo Valley, you agree to:
- ✓Respect local customs and traditions
- ✓Ask permission before photographing people
- ✓Dress modestly when visiting villages
- ✓Support local communities through ethical tourism
- ✓Follow your guide's instructions at all times
- ✓Contribute to cultural preservation efforts
We are committed to responsible tourism that benefits local communities and preserves their cultural heritage.
Photography and Media
We may take photographs or videos during tours for promotional purposes. By booking with us, you consent to the use of your image in our marketing materials unless you notify us otherwise in writing.
When photographing tribal communities, always ask permission first. Some tribes may request a small photography fee (typically 5-10 birr per photo). Your guide will provide guidance on respectful photography practices.
Privacy Policy
Your privacy is important to us. Please review our Privacy Policy to understand how we collect, use, and protect your personal information.
Dispute Resolution
Any disputes arising from these terms or your use of our services shall be governed by the laws of Ethiopia. We encourage you to contact us first to seek an amicable resolution.
If a dispute cannot be resolved informally, you agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Jinka, Ethiopia.
Changes to Terms
We reserve the right to modify these terms at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting to this page. Your continued use of our services after any changes constitutes acceptance of the modified terms.
Acknowledgment
By booking a tour with Omo Valley Tours Ethiopia, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service.