Definitions 

o    "RTA" refers to Roadtrip Africa, the travel company registered in the Netherlands.
o    "RTM" or "Owner" refers to Roadtrip Madagascar Limited, the travel company registered in Madagascar. 
o    "You" or "Hirer" refers to the individual who has signed the Rental Agreement, along with their authorized travel companions included in the agreement.
o    "Rental Agreement" refers to this contract between the Hirer and the Owner.
o    "Vehicle" refers to the rented car. 

General use of the vehicle

1.    The Vehicle may only be driven by the Hirer and authorized travel companions. If a driver-guide is required, RTM will arrange one. The Hirer may not provide their own driver-guide. Any losses or damages caused by an unauthorized driver are the Hirer's responsibility.
2.    The Hirer shall return the Vehicle on the agreed date and time, as specified in your reservation overview. Returns must be made by 6 PM at the latest unless the Owner has specifically agreed otherwise. No refunds shall be given for early returns. 
3.    The Hirer must carry a valid driver’s license (International Driver’s License). 
4.    The Hirer is responsible for paying any fines issued by the traffic police that arise from their driving behaviour.
5.    The Vehicle is provided with a full fuel tank and must be returned with a full tank to avoid refuelling charges.
6.    Only fuel from major stations such as Jovenna, Shell and Total should be used. Never purchase bottled fuel from roadside vendors. Poor-quality fuel can damage the engine. 

Restricted areas & recommendations

7.    Driving in the dark (before 6:00 AM and after 6:00 PM) is prohibited. 
8.    The following areas are restricted: 
a.    The RN5 – Travel is prohibited north of Soanierana – Ivongo 
b.    The RN 12 – Travel is prohibited north of Manakara to Fort Dauphin 
c.    The RN13 from Ihosy to Ambovombe 
d.    Travel to Belo-sur-Mer is only permitted with a pisteur or local driver guide arranged through RTM. 
9.    Our vehicles are equipped with car trackers. Failure to comply with this clause results in breach of contract, full liability, and loss of the security bond. 
10.    Hirers are strongly advised to purchase a local SIM card with airtime and internet for easier communication. 

Vehicle maintenance

11.    Vehicles are inspected and serviced before rental, and the Hirer will receive the Vehicle in a safe and roadworthy condition.The Hirer must return the Vehicle in the same condition.
12.    The Hirer is responsible for basic maintenance, including checking engine oil, coolant, and tyre pressure. If fluids are depleted, the Hirer covers the costs to replenish them. 
13.    If dashboard warning lights appear, consult the driver’s manual. If in doubt, contact RTM. The team in Madagascar is available via WhatsApp or telephone 24/7. 
14.    We don’t do field repairs or send a replacement vehicle when a problem occurs with the A/C or fridge. Wiring and piping are sensitive and suffer from bumpy roads and dust. Sadly, the knowledge and equipment (Frigo gas) to repair A/C or fridges are unavailable in the field. We understand it's unfortunate when your fridge stops working. In the rare case this happens, do let us know, and the Roadtrip Africa office in the Netherlands will issue a refund for the fridge rental.

Mechanical breakdowns & repairs

15.    In case of a breakdown, always contact the Roadtrip Madagascar office in Ivato first. You can reach us 24/7, and our main goal is to get you on the road as fast as possible. Each problem is unique and requires a tailor-made solution. Usually, the best solution is to get the car repaired in the field. We will direct you to the nearest workshop or send a mechanic. Repairs should only be conducted with RTM’s authorization. Mechanics in remote areas may attempt to overcharge; do not pay them. RTM handles all payments.
16.    If repairs take longer than 24 hours, a replacement car will be provided from Ivato. Delays within the first 24 hours are at the Hirer’s expense. RTM or RTA cannot be liable for refunding car rental, park fees, activities, or hotels.
Accidents

17.    If you are involved in an accident, whether it is your fault or that of a third party, notify RTM immediately and follow their instructions. 
18.    The Hirer should obtain a police report. 
19.    In case of an incident involving one or more vehicle(s), details of these vehicle(s) and their driver(s) should be identified and reported, such as the driver’s ID, telephone number, number plate and insurance registration number.
20.    After an accident, the Hirer should not leave the Vehicle unattended.

Damage, waiver and insurance

21.    During the rental period, the Hirer is liable for:
a.    Loss of or damage to the Vehicle
b.    Third-party property damage
c.    Third-party bodily injury

22.    In the event of an unintended collision between the Vehicle and any other vehicle or object during the rental period that results in damage to the Vehicle or to the property of any third party, RTM waives your liability under clause 21 provided:
a.    You have complied with the Terms of the Rental Agreement 
b.    The cause of the accident has been determined and supported by a police report

23.    Theft liability is waived if:
a.     The car was parked at a secured, private compound, and there were clear signs of a break-in
b.    A police report is obtained
c.    You have provided RTM with any details of the incident that RTM requests

24.    Liability is not waived for:
a.    Speeding 
b.    Single-vehicle incidents or rollovers 
c.    Damage from negligence (e.g., ignoring overheating warnings)
d.    Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
e.    Driving in restricted areas
f.    Water submersion or saltwater damage
g.    Using the wrong fuel

25.    A €250 excess fee applies. This means that in the event of damage for which liability is waived, the first €250 is at your own expense (the excess fee).

26.    The following damages do not fall under the waiver subject to this paragraph and are not covered by insurance:
a.    Personal injuries/belongings
b.    Tires. The vehicle is provided with quality tyres; however, a flat tyre may occur during your road trip. If this happens, the Hirer will be responsible for the cost of repairs. If a tyre is damaged beyond repair, the Hirer must replace it with a tyre that matches the same dimensions, type, and wear characteristics as the original. The Hirer will bear the cost of the replacement tyre. Always call RTM for advice and approval on suitable tyre types.
c.    Undercarriage damage (considered the result of careless driving)
d.    Window damage
e.    Camping gear damage or loss

Liability

27.    RTA and RTM are not liable for loss of personal belongings or injuries. The Hirer is advised to take out travel and medical insurance.
28.    RTA and RTM are not liable for events beyond their control, including flight delays, civil disturbances, road closures, extreme weather, epidemics, and similar force majeure events. 
29.    RTA aims to provide accurate and up-to-date information on its website and through email communication, but no claims or rights can be derived from this.

Security Bond

30.    A deposit of €500 is required via a credit card hold. This is a temporary hold, which shall be released after the car is returned in acceptable condition and inspected. Any losses or severe damage to the camping gear shall be charged to the Hirer at replacement value.

Payment & cancellation policy

31.    After RTA receives the signed terms and conditions, you will be sent two invoices: (1) a non-refundable deposit of 40% to confirm the booking so that RTA can pay the deposit for your accommodations, and (2) the final invoice with the remaining amount due 7 weeks prior to the commencement of your trip. 
32.    If a proposed accommodation is no longer available, we will suggest a suitable alternative and ask for your approval. We will also balance any rate differences.
33.    When the Hirer cancels or reschedules their booking, RTA will levy cancellation charges as defined below. If you want to be covered, take out travel or cancellation insurance.
a.    Up to 7 weeks before the start of your trip: 40% cancellation fee of the total trip amount
b.    Between 48 - 21 days before the start of your trip: 70% cancellation fee of the total trip amount
c.    Less than 21 days before the start of your trip: 100% cancellation fee.