Terms and conditions for tours with driver-guide in Madagascar

Confirming a booking with Roadtrip Africa signifies that you have read, fully understood, and accepted the terms and conditions outlined below.

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    The ‘’Driver’’ means the person appointed and authorised by RTK to drive the vehicle. 
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 & camping equipment 

1.    The Vehicle may only be driven by the Driver appointed by RTM. Other terms and conditions apply for self-drive rentals. 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 Vehicle is provided with a full fuel tank and must be returned with a full tank to avoid refuelling charges.
4.    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. 
5.    Any losses or severe damages to the camping gear shall be charged to the Hirer at replacement value.

Restricted areas & recommendations

7.    The Driver is not allowed to drive in the dark (before 6:00 AM and after 6:00 PM). 
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.    Hirers are strongly advised to purchase a local SIM card with airtime and internet for easier communication. 

Vehicle maintenance

10.    The Driver 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. 
11.    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.

Accidents & mechanical breakdowns 

12.    In case of an accident or mechanical breakdown of the Vehicle that cannot be repaired within 24 hours, the Owner will provide and pay for a replacement vehicle. Delays within the first 24 hours are at the Hirer's expense. RTA or the Owner cannot be liable for refunding car rental, park fees, activities, or hotels.

Liability

13.    RTA and RTM are not liable for loss of personal belongings or injuries. The Hirer is advised to take out travel and medical insurance.
14.    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. 
15.    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.

Payment & cancellation policy

16.    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. 
17.    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.
18.    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.