General FAQs
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General FAQs
What services does Ratib Tours and Travel offer?
We offer tailor-made wildlife safaris, gorilla and chimpanzee tracking, birding tours, boat cruises, cultural encounters, domestic and international holiday packages, and group or school tours across Uganda and East Africa.
Where is Ratib Tours and Travel located?
Our main office is located in Kampala, Uganda at Makindye Lukuli (after Papaz Spot), Lukuli Plaza SP 06.
Can you customize our safari itinerary?
Yes. Every itinerary can be tailored to suit your preferred travel dates, budget, group size, and interests—whether you want a short weekend trip or an extensive cross-country expedition.
How can I contact Ratib Tours and Travel for inquiries?
You can reach our team via email at talk2us@ratibtours.com or by phone/WhatsApp at +256 750 541 378, +256 751 701 522, or +256 705 721 213.
Booking & Cancellation FAQs
How do I confirm my tour booking?
You can easily book your safari package directly through our website by choosing the “Book Now, Pay Later” option. Once submitted, our support agent will reach out to confirm your trip details via phone call, WhatsApp, or email—whichever is most convenient for you.
After confirmation, you can complete your payment either with the assistance of our support agent or by transferring funds directly to the official bank account details provided on the form.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept international bank wire transfers (SWIFT), authorized electronic payment links, and cash payments at our Kampala office. Payments are invoiced in US Dollars (USD) or Uganda Shillings (UGX).
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations must be sent in writing via email. Land safari refunds are processed according to the schedule below:
61+ days before departure: Full refund less the non-refundable deposit and permit fees.
31 to 60 days before departure: 50% refund (excluding permits).
15 to 30 days before departure: 25% refund (excluding permits).
0 to 14 days before departure / No-show: 0% refund.
Are gorilla and chimpanzee permits refundable?
No. Primate permits issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable once purchased, except in cases where the wildlife authority issues a direct refund.
Policies & Safety FAQs
Is travel insurance required?
Yes. All travelers are required to purchase comprehensive travel and medical insurance prior to departure. Your policy must cover emergency medical evacuation, hospitalization, trip cancellation, and safari activities.
What health requirements and vaccinations do I need?
A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Uganda. We also strongly recommend consulting your physician regarding routine immunizations and malaria prophylaxis prior to travel.
Are wildlife safaris and nature walks safe?
Yes. All game drives, boat cruises, and forest treks are conducted in the presence of experienced professional guides and armed Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers. Travelers must follow all safety briefings and ranger guidelines at all times.
What is the minimum age for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking?
Under Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) regulations, the strict minimum age requirement for tracking mountain gorillas and chimpanzees is 15 years.
Extras FAQs
What is typically excluded from your safari packages?
Package exclusions include international airfares, entry visas, travel insurance, tips and gratuities, alcoholic beverages, laundry services, souvenirs, and optional activities not detailed in the agreed itinerary.
Can you arrange domestic flights within Uganda?
You can book directly through our website by selecting your desired tour and following the checkout process. If you need a custom itinerary or personal help, our travel experts are happy to assist you via chat, email, or phone.
Can you accommodate special dietary needs?
Yes. Most safari lodges accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-specific diets. Please notify our team of any dietary requirements at the time of booking so we can arrange with your lodges in advance.
Should I tip my safari guide and lodge staff?
Tipping is entirely optional and discretionary, but it is customary in East Africa. If you are pleased with the service, tips are gratefully received by guides, rangers, and lodge hospitality teams.
On the Trip FAQs
What kind of safari vehicles do you use?
We use private 4×4 safari land cruisers and safari minivans equipped with pop-up roofs for clear 360-degree game viewing and photography, charging ports, and bottled drinking water.
What should I pack for a safari and primate trek?
Recommended essentials include lightweight neutral-colored safari clothing, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, a rain jacket or poncho, gardening/hiking gloves (for forest treks), insect repellent, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and a personal daypack.
How much time do we spend with mountain gorillas once located?
To protect the animals and minimize human impact, all encounters with habituated mountain gorilla families are strictly limited to exactly one hour.
What happens if weather conditions affect the itinerary?
In the event of severe weather, impassable roads, or park management directives, our professional guides will adjust timings or routes to ensure your safety and provide the closest suitable alternatives.