Terms & Conditions - Highland Tour


1. Introduction
These Terms and Conditions govern all bookings made with Highland Tour (hereinafter "the Company," "we," "us," or "our"). By making a booking, you (hereinafter "the Client," "you," or "your") agree to be bound by these terms. Please read them carefully.

2. Booking and Payment

· Booking: A booking is confirmed once you receive a written confirmation from the Company and a deposit or full payment (as specified at the time of booking) has been received.
· Payment: A non-refundable deposit of 20% is required to secure your booking. The remaining balance is due on tour day
· Payment Methods: We accept payment via Bank Transfer, Credit/Debit Card, Cash.

3. Pricing
The Company reserves the right to amend advertised prices due to unforeseen circumstances such as significant changes in fuel costs, government taxes, or exchange rates. We will provide notice of any surcharges before your booking is confirmed. Once a booking is confirmed, the price is guaranteed.

4. Client Responsibilities

· Accuracy of Information: You are responsible for providing accurate personal details, including full names, contact information, and any special requirements (e.g., dietary restrictions, mobility issues) at the time of booking.
· Travel Documents: It is your responsibility to ensure you have the necessary travel documents and insurance. Non-British citizens are responsible for ensuring they have the appropriate visa or entry clearance for the UK.
· Conduct: You agree to conduct yourself in a reasonable and responsible manner throughout the tour. The Company reserves the right to terminate the tour of any client whose behavior is deemed to be unlawful, disruptive, or a danger to the safety or enjoyment of others, without any refund or liability.
· Seating & Luggage: The Company's vehicles have limited luggage space. You must adhere to the luggage allowance specified in your booking confirmation. The driver/guide has final authority on seating arrangements for safety and operational reasons.

5. Health, Safety & Fitness

· Fitness Level: Many of our tours in the Highlands involve walking on uneven terrain, hills, and in changeable weather conditions. You acknowledge that you are suitably fit and healthy to participate in the booked itinerary.
· Disclosure: You must disclose any medical condition, physical disability, or other relevant health information at the time of booking that may affect your participation or the safety of the tour.

6. Itinerary & Flexibility

· "Typical" Itinerary: The itineraries advertised are typical and are intended as a guide. The Scottish weather, road conditions, closures, and other unforeseen events may necessitate changes.
· Company Discretion: The Company and its guides retain full discretion to alter, curtail, or cancel any aspect of the tour as deemed necessary for the safety and comfort of clients. We will make every effort to provide a suitable alternative.
· Force Majeure: The Company is not liable for failure to perform its obligations if such failure is a result of Acts of God, war, terrorism, industrial disputes, natural disasters, adverse weather conditions, or any other event beyond our reasonable control.

7. Cancellation by the Client
All cancellation notices must be received in writing by the Company. The following cancellation charges will apply:

· More than [e.g., 30 days] before departure: Loss of deposit.
· [e.g., 15-29 days] before departure: [e.g., 50%] of total cost.
· Less than [e.g., 14 days] before departure: 100% of total cost.

We strongly recommend you take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover cancellation costs.

8. Cancellation or Modification by the Company

· The Company reserves the right to cancel a tour for any reason. In this event, you will be offered a full refund of all monies paid or an alternative tour date.
· The Company is not liable for any additional costs or expenses you may have incurred (e.g., flights, accommodation) as a result of such cancellation.

9. Liability

· The Company acts as an agent in arranging accommodation, transportation, and other services and shall not be held liable for any loss, damage, injury, accident, delay, or irregularity arising from the acts or defaults of any third-party supplier.
· The Company's maximum liability to the Client for any valid claim shall be limited to the cost of the tour per person.
· The Company shall not be liable for any indirect or consequential loss.

10. Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all clients. Your insurance must cover medical expenses, personal accident, repatriation, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of personal belongings. You may be asked to provide details of your insurance policy.

11. Complaints
In the unlikely event of a complaint, you must inform your guide/driver immediately so that they can attempt to resolve the issue. If the matter is not resolved, you must notify the Company in writing within [e.g., 28 days] of the tour's completion.

12. Data Protection
Any personal data you provide will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy and the UK GDPR. We will only use your data to fulfil your booking and, with your consent, for marketing purposes.

13. Governing Law
These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Scotland, and the Scottish courts shall have exclusive jurisdiction.

14. Acceptance
By making a booking with Highland Tour, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.

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Key Highland-Specific Clauses Explained:

· Flexibility & Itinerary (Clause 6): This is crucial. The weather in the Highlands can close roads (e.g., Bealach na Bà), cause landslides, or make certain paths unsafe. This clause protects you when you need to make a last-minute change for safety reasons.
· Fitness Level (Clause 5): Manages client expectations. Many visitors underestimate the terrain. This makes it clear that a basic level of fitness and mobility is required.
· Luggage (Clause 4): The vehicles used for private tours (often premium vans or premium cars) have strict space limitations, unlike large tour buses. This prevents clients from bringing excessive luggage.
· Travel Insurance (Clause 10): Making this mandatory is a best practice. It protects both you and the client from significant financial loss due to cancellation or medical emergency in a remote location.