Clou Travel Terms & Conditions
Contact Information
Address:
Taba Wom-6,
Kinley Penjor Building, Flat No. 08,
Taba, ThimThrom,
Thimphu, Bhutan | 11001
SPECIAL TERMS & CONDITIONS
(Addendum to General Travel Terms & Conditions (ARB 1992))
Preface Trekking in Bhutan, Nepal, and India is generally safe, except for the Snowman, Everest Trek—a challenging 30+ day expedition at altitudes exceeding 4,000 meters, considered one of the world’s toughest treks. High-altitude treks may present difficulties due to elevation, temperature, and physical exertion, all of which require proper acclimatization. While most destinations in Bhutan, Nepal, India, and Tibet are secure, remote locations may experience delays in external assistance during emergencies. These Special Terms & Conditions supplement the General Travel Terms & Conditions (ARB 1992), with the BRB taking precedence in case of contradictions.
Our Commitment We are dedicated to promoting fair tourism that positively impacts local communities. Our local guides, when required, facilitate cross-cultural interactions and ensure seamless communication with the locals.
Registration & Payment
- Booking Process:
- Registration must be submitted in writing via email.
- A travel contract is confirmed once both parties agree on terms, including prices, services, and dates, followed by a written acknowledgment.
- Payment Policy:
- Full payment is due upon receiving the travel confirmation.
- Credit card payments are accepted with a 4% surcharge.
- For bookings made through agents (e.g., airlines), their payment terms apply.
Cancellation Policy
- 60+ days before departure: 40% of the tour cost.
- 59 to 30 days: 70% of the tour cost.
- 29 to 20 days: 90% of the tour cost.
- 19 days or less: 100% of the tour cost.
- Flight cancellations: Airline fees apply, plus a $100 handling fee.
Personal Responsibility & Health
- Participation is at your own risk, with the understanding of inherent challenges.
- Travelers must adhere to passport, visa, currency, customs, and health regulations.
- We recommend consulting a doctor for preexisting conditions or unstable health.
- Fitness requirements for specific trips will be communicated in advance.
- Trip interruptions do not warrant refunds.
Adventure Travel Considerations
- Trekking, expeditions, and hiking involve inherent risks and may require changes to the itinerary due to factors such as weather, road conditions, or unforeseen circumstances.
- Delays, limitations, or cancellations caused by such factors are not considered defects. No warranty claims can be made.
- We guarantee meticulous planning and liability for damages resulting from our negligence. However, we are not responsible for damages due to participant negligence or failure to follow guide instructions.
- Transportation is functional but not luxurious, and road conditions can be challenging. We are not liable for luggage damage.
Force Majeure
- Unforeseen events such as natural disasters or political unrest may lead to itinerary changes. Additional costs incurred due to such events (e.g., airfare, accommodation) will be borne by the traveler.
- Shared room arrangements may occasionally be necessary due to unforeseen circumstances, without warranty claims.
Route Adjustments
- Our tours are tailored and not pre-packaged. Route adjustments may be necessary due to weather, road conditions, participant health, or vehicle repairs. Such changes are not defects, nor do they warrant claims.
- Hiking times are approximate and may vary based on conditions.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in our packages but is strongly recommended, especially for trekking, expeditions, and hiking tours.
Operator & Jurisdiction
Address:
Taba Wom-6,
Kinley Penjor Building, Flat No. 08,
Taba, ThimThrom,
Thimphu, Bhutan | 11001
Bank details available upon request.
Legal Framework
- Travel Agency as Intermediary:
- Bookings can be made in writing or orally, with written confirmation required.
- Travel agencies act as intermediaries and are not liable for services provided by third-party operators.
- Travel Agency as Organiser:
- Contracts are binding once all terms (price, services, dates) are agreed upon.
- Changes to traveler details are permitted, subject to conditions and additional costs.
- Liability:
- Organizers are liable for damages resulting from their negligence but are not responsible for risks inherent to high-risk activities like expeditions.
- Travelers should avoid carrying valuables and are advised to secure belongings.
Disruptions & Claims
- Customers must immediately report issues to the organizer’s representative to facilitate resolution.
- Warranty claims for non-performance must be made within three months of the trip. Claims for damages expire after six months.
Cancellation Rights
- Customer Cancellation: Customers may cancel without penalty if significant contract elements change (e.g., price increases exceeding 70%).
- Organiser Cancellation: The organiser must provide equivalent alternatives or issue refunds for cancellations caused by factors beyond the customer’s control.
Price & Service Changes
- Price changes due to external factors (e.g., fuel costs, airport fees) may apply if notified at least two months before departure.
- Service changes after departure will be addressed per the terms outlined above.
Customer Support
We value our relationship with our guests and encourage immediate communication for any concerns. Promptly addressing issues ensures a mutually agreeable resolution.
For detailed terms and conditions, including downloadable PDFs, please visit our website. Thank you for choosing Clou Travel for your travel experience.
