Last updated: 1 October 2026
In short
Your booking is confirmed with a 30% deposit, and the balance is due 60 days before you arrive. If you cancel, the charge depends on how much notice you give. We always try to move your trip to new dates before talking about charges.
Cancellation charges
| Notice before arrival | Charge (percentage of total trip price) |
|---|---|
| 61 days or more | Loss of the 30% deposit |
| 60 to 31 days | 50% |
| 30 to 15 days | 75% |
| 14 days or less, or no-show | 100% |
Notice must be in writing, by email to tours@charles-tours.com. Charges are based on the date we receive it.
Non-refundable items
Some costs cannot be recovered once paid, whatever the notice period. These include domestic and charter flights, hot-air balloon flights, chimpanzee trekking permits, and lodges or camps with their own non-refundable rates. We will tell you which items these are in your quote.
Moving your dates instead
If you need to postpone, tell us as early as you can. We will try to move your booking to new dates within 12 months, and transfer what you have paid to the new trip. You will only pay any extra costs charged by lodges or airlines, plus any difference in season prices.
If we cancel
If we cancel your trip for any reason other than an event outside our control, we refund everything you have paid us. If we have to cancel because of an event outside our control, such as a natural disaster, epidemic or government travel ban, we will offer new dates or refund all money we are able to recover from our suppliers.
Unused services
No refunds are given for parts of a trip you choose not to use once your safari has started, such as a missed game drive, meal or night’s accommodation. If you have to leave early because of illness or an emergency, please claim through your travel insurance. We will give you the paperwork you need.
How refunds are paid
Refunds are paid within 30 days, to the same account or card you paid from, in US dollars. Bank and card charges that we cannot recover are deducted.
Travel insurance
We strongly recommend travel insurance with cancellation cover from the day you book. It protects you if you have to cancel for reasons such as illness, injury or a family emergency.
Questions
Charles Tours
Mineral Market, Nyerere Road, Arusha, Tanzania
Email: tours@charles-tours.com
Phone and WhatsApp: +255 627 415 415
This policy forms part of our Booking Terms & Conditions.