Special Terms & Conditions – Wild + indulgent africa 2027
july 5 - 13, 2027 | Zimbabwe & south africa
The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC | Personal Africa
These Terms and Conditions constitute a legally binding agreement between The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC and the Traveler/Participant. By submitting your booking form and deposit, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to all terms set forth herein. If you do not agree, do not submit payment.
1. COMMUNICATION & CONTACT INFORMATION
Any concerns, requests, or questions regarding your travel package must be submitted in writing to The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC:
• Website: www.theunfilteredtraveler.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +19288305171
Reservations are not accepted until independently confirmed by The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC in writing.
2. PARTIES & INTERMEDIARY LABEL
2.1 This agreement is between The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC ("The Advisor") and the Traveler/Participant.
2.2 The Advisor is acting solely as an intermediary between the Traveler/Participant and third-party suppliers including but not limited to Personal Africa (DMC), Pamarah Lodge, Kapama Southern Camp, InterContinental Johannesburg, and all excursion and activity operators.
2.3 Third-party supplier policies supersede The Advisor's policies where applicable. The Advisor is not responsible for the acts, omissions, delays, or defaults of any third-party supplier.
2.4 The Advisor will provide supplier terms and conditions upon request. By booking, you acknowledge you have had the opportunity to review them. a Paragraph
3. PAYMENT TERMS
3.1 Pricing
• Double Occupancy: $11,818 per person
• Solo Traveler (Single Supplement): $15,483 per person
• Youth Ages 12–17 (sharing family room with 2 paying adults): $8,517 per person
All prices are in U.S. dollars. Prices are subject to change until deposit is received.
3.2 Payment Schedule
• Deposit: $1,818 per person — due at booking (non-refundable)
• Payment 2: $3,333 per person (Double) / $4,555 (Solo) / $2,233 (Youth): due October 8, 2026
• Payment 3: $3,333 per person (Double) / $4,555 (Solo) / $2,233 (Youth): due January 8, 2027
• Payment 4: $3,333 per person (Double) / $4,555 (Solo) / $2,233 (Youth): due April 8, 2027
Reservations are not confirmed until the deposit is received. Spots are held on a first-come, first-served basis.
3.3 Late Payments
Failure to submit payment by the designated due date may result in cancellation of your reservation without prior notice. The Traveler/Participant agrees to be subject to the cancellation policy in such cases.
3.4 Change Fees
Changes to reservations including travel dates, room type, or package components are subject to availability and supplier approval. Changes requested less than 90 days prior to departure may be subject to change fees assessed by third-party suppliers. The Traveler/Participant is responsible for any increase in price resulting from a change. The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC cannot guarantee changes will be accommodated.
4. CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY
4.1 Deposit
The $1,818 deposit is non-refundable under all circumstances.
4.2 Staged Penalty Tiers
• Cancellation before October 1, 2026: Deposit forfeited. Payments 2–4 refundable.
• Cancellation October 1, 2026 – January 14, 2027: Deposit + Payment 2 forfeited. Payments 3–4 refundable.
• Cancellation January 15, 2027 – March 31, 2027: Deposit + Payments 2–3 forfeited. Payment 4 refundable only if spot is filled.
• Cancellation on or after April 1, 2027 (Drop Dead Date): All payments non-refundable.
Penalties reflect supplier obligations incurred by The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC at each stage. Personal financial hardship does NOT qualify as grounds for exception to this policy.
4.3 Transfer of Reservation
Transfers to another traveler are permitted up to January 15, 2027, subject to approval by The Advisor and applicable supplier fees. No transfers will be accepted after this date.
4.4 Early Departure
No refunds will be issued for early departure from the trip. If a Traveler/Participant elects to leave the trip in progress, they are solely responsible for all costs incurred as a result of their departure. The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC has no responsibility for the traveler's safety or activities once they depart the group.
4.5 Unused Components
No refunds will be made for unused or partially used accommodations, excursions, meals, activities, or any other trip components, regardless of the reason.
5. PARTICIPANT ELIGIBILITY & REQUIREMENTS
5.1 Age Requirement: All participants must be at least 12 years old at the time of travel. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a paying adult guardian.
5.2 Physical Fitness: This trip includes optional physically active excursions including whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River, walking tours of Victoria Falls, and safari game drives on uneven terrain. Participants should be in good general health and physically capable of participating.
5.3 Misrepresentation: Participants are responsible for accurately representing their physical fitness and health conditions at booking. Failure to disclose relevant limitations may result in removal from activities without refund.
5.4 Conduct: Disruptive, unsafe, disrespectful, or discriminatory behavior will result in immediate removal from the trip without refund. The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC maintains a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, discrimination, and disorderly conduct.
5.5 Right to Refuse: The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC reserves the right to refuse or remove any participant whose conduct, health condition, or behavior may negatively impact the safety or experience of the group. No refund will be issued in such cases.
5.6 Minimum Group Size: A minimum of 16 participants is required for this trip to operate. If fewer than 16 participants are confirmed, The Advisor reserves the right to cancel the trip and issue full refunds of all payments received.
5.7 Unacceptable Behaviors - Zero Tolerance Policy
The following behaviors will result in immediate removal from the trip without refund. Parties who engage in these behaviors irrevocably waive any right to a refund for payments made:
• Discrimination, Sexual Harassment & Bullying: The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. Zero tolerance means every claim is taken seriously and may result in immediate dismissal.
• Drunkenness & Disorderly Conduct: Behavior that negatively impacts the experience of other travelers, guides, staff, or suppliers, including threats or physical violence, will result in immediate removal.
• Controlled Substances: Travelers must comply with all local laws regarding alcohol and controlled substances. Consumption of illegal substances is strictly prohibited. A Traveler/Participant who consumes alcohol or legal controlled substances does so at their own risk and assumes full liability for any resulting injury, death, or legal consequence. The Traveler/Participant waives all claims against The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC related to voluntary consumption of alcohol or controlled substances.
5.8 Pregnancy
Travelers who have entered or will enter their 24th week of pregnancy during the trip may not be permitted to book or participate in certain activities. Airlines and local suppliers may have additional restrictions. The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC cannot be held responsible for complications relating to pregnancy at any stage. Pregnant travelers are strongly encouraged to consult with their physician before booking.
6. PASSPORT, VISA & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
6.1 Passport Validity: All travelers must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the return date of July 13, 2027. Passports must be valid through at least January 13, 2028.
6.2 Blank Pages: Travelers must have a minimum of two blank pages in their passport for entry stamps.
6.3 KAZA UniVisa: U.S. citizens traveling to Zimbabwe are eligible for the KAZA UniVisa, which covers both Zimbabwe and Zambia. Travelers are solely responsible for obtaining and verifying all visa requirements prior to departure.
6.4 South Africa Entry: U.S. citizens do not require a visa for South Africa for stays under 90 days. Travelers with passports showing full name discrepancies or damaged pages may be denied entry. Travelers are responsible for ensuring their documents are current and in good condition.
6.5 Denied Boarding or Entry: The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC is not responsible for costs, losses, or disruptions arising from a traveler being denied boarding or entry due to passport, visa, or documentation issues.
6.6 Passport Information Deadline: Full passport details must be submitted to The Advisor no later than February 1, 2027 to ensure accurate travel arrangements.
6.7 Travelers are strongly encouraged to visit travel.state.gov and cdc.gov for current entry requirements and travel advisories.
7. TRAVEL INSURANCE
7.1 Mandatory Requirement: Travel insurance is mandatory for all participants. Coverage must be in place for the full duration of the trip including travel days.
7.2 Minimum Required Coverage
• Emergency Medical: minimum $200,000 USD
• Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: minimum $500,000 USD
• Adventure Activity Coverage: policy must explicitly cover whitewater rafting and safari/game drives
• Trip Cancellation & Interruption: recommended minimum coverage equal to total trip cost paid
7.3 Proof of Coverage: Participants must provide proof of valid travel insurance to The Advisor no later than February 1, 2027. Failure to provide proof by this date may result in removal from the trip without refund.
7.4 Additional Coverage Recommended: Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage is not required but is strongly recommended given the staged penalty structure of this trip. Baggage loss and delay coverage is also recommended.
7.5 Guidance: The Advisor will provide guidance and recommendations to assist travelers in selecting appropriate coverage. Final responsibility for purchasing, verifying, and maintaining adequate coverage rests with the individual traveler.
7.6 No Refund Without Insurance: Travelers who fail to maintain required coverage assume all financial risk. The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC is not responsible for any losses sustained as a result of inadequate or lapsed coverage.
8. INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
8.1 Included in Trip Price
• 1 night accommodation at InterContinental Johannesburg (arrival night)
• 3 nights accommodation at Pamarah Lodge, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe (B&B basis)
• 4 nights accommodation at Kapama Southern Camp, Limpopo, South Africa (all-inclusive)
• All internal transfers and group transportation as outlined in the itinerary
• Guided Victoria Falls walking tour
• Zambezi River sunset dinner cruise
• Elephant Cafe experience
• Group spa treatments (25 x 60-minute sessions at Kapama)
• Stargazing experience (subject to weather conditions — see Section 10)
• Welcome gift basket
• Gratuities for included activities and services as detailed in the trip documentation
8.2 NOT Included in Trip Price
• International airfare to/from Johannesburg
• Travel insurance
• Visa fees
• Personal expenses and incidentals
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Optional activities and add-ons not listed above
• Baggage fees
• Room service, honor bar, laundry, long distance calls, or other personal charges
• Child care
9. ACCOMMODATIONS & LODGING
9.1 Standard check-in time is 4:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM local time. Times may vary by property. Early check-in and late check-out are subject to availability.
9.2 Properties may require a valid credit card and government-issued photo ID at check-in to cover incidentals.
9.3 Rooming configurations are confirmed at the time of booking based on availability. If you have booked a Double Occupancy room, Solo room, or Family Villa, your accommodation type is confirmed subject to the terms of your reservation. Specific room locations, floor preferences, and connecting room requests within your booked category are on a request basis only and subject to availability at time of check-in. The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC cannot guarantee specific room numbers, locations, or floor levels, but will honor the booked room category.
9.4 Travelers with disabilities requiring accessible accommodations should contact The Advisor prior to booking. All accommodations are subject to availability and not all destinations guarantee accessibility.
9.5 Smoking is prohibited in all rooms. Room recovery fees charged by the property are the sole responsibility of the traveler.
10. FLIGHT ARRANGEMENTS
10.1 International airfare is not included. Participants are responsible for independently booking flights to and from Johannesburg (JNB).
10.2 The Advisor can provide guidance on flight options upon request. Final responsibility for booking, confirming, and managing flights rests with the traveler.
10.3 Arrival Requirements: Travelers must arrive at JNB by Day 1 (July 5, 2027) in time to join the group. Specific arrival coordination details will be communicated prior to departure.
10.4 The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC is not responsible for costs or disruptions arising from flight delays, cancellations, or missed connections.
10.5 Baggage and personal effects are at all times the sole responsibility of the Traveler/Participant.
11. COVID-19 & COMMUNICABLE DISEASE
11.1 Assumption of Risk: The Traveler/Participant acknowledges that an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19, its variants, and other communicable or infectious diseases exists in any public place and during international travel. No precautions can eliminate this risk entirely.
11.2 Voluntary Participation: By booking this trip, the Traveler/Participant voluntarily assumes all risks related to exposure to COVID-19 or any other communicable disease, including illness, injury, or death of themselves or others.
11.3 Entry Requirements: Vaccination, testing, or health documentation requirements for Zimbabwe and South Africa may change between booking and departure. Travelers are solely responsible for monitoring and complying with all destination entry requirements related to communicable disease.
11.4 No Refund: If a traveler is unable to travel due to a positive COVID-19 test, quarantine requirement, or related health restriction, the standard cancellation policy applies. No exceptions will be made. Travelers are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for COVID-related cancellation.
11.5 Minor Children: For any minor child included in this reservation, the signing adult confirms they are the minor's legal guardian and authorized to waive and release claims on the minor's behalf related to communicable disease exposure.
11.6 Waiver: The Traveler/Participant agrees to release and hold harmless The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC from any and all claims arising out of or related to exposure to COVID-19 or any other communicable disease during the trip.
12. HEALTH, VACCINATIONS & MEDICAL
12.1 No vaccinations are currently required for U.S. citizens traveling to Zimbabwe or South Africa. However, certain vaccinations and medications (e.g., malaria prophylaxis) are strongly recommended. Participants should consult their physician prior to booking.
12.2 Participants with pre-existing medical conditions are responsible for disclosing these at the time of booking and consulting with their physician before travel.
12.3 The Advisor is not responsible for medical expenses, evacuation costs, or losses arising from illness, injury, or medical emergencies during the trip.
13. ACTIVITY-SPECIFIC RISK DISCLOSURES
The following activities are optional and/or included in this trip and carry inherent risks that the Traveler/Participant voluntarily assumes:
Whitewater Rafting - Zambezi River - Optional Activity:
Risks include drowning, hypothermia, injury from falling overboard, collision with rocks or other objects, vessel capsizing, injury during embarkation and disembarkation, trauma from sun or cold water, and attack or injury by wildlife or marine animals.
Safari Game Drives - Kapama Southern Camp:
Risks include falling, collision, being struck by objects while traveling on uneven terrain, injury from jolting or being thrown, exposure to extreme temperatures, heat exhaustion, sunburn, dehydration, and attack or injury by wildlife.
Victoria Falls Walking Tour:
Risks include slipping, falling, injury on uneven or wet terrain, disorientation, extreme heat, sun exposure, and dehydration.
Elephant Cafe Experience - Animal Activities:
Risks include injury by animals that may act unpredictably, kick, bite, stomp, or move suddenly. Participants assume full risk of injury arising from interaction with wildlife.
Helicopter Flight Over Victoria Falls - Optional Activity
This activity is not included in the base trip price and is available as an optional add-on. Risks include motion sickness, vertigo, disorientation, altitude-related discomfort, mechanical failure, adverse weather conditions, and emergency landing. Participants who elect this activity do so voluntarily and assume all associated risks. The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC is not responsible for costs, injuries, or losses arising from participation in this optional activity.
By booking this trip, the Traveler/Participant confirms they have reviewed the activity descriptions and selected a trip appropriate for their physical abilities, and that they do not have any impairment that would present a safety risk during these activities.
14. ITINERARY & SERVICE VARIANCE
14.1 The Advisor will make every reasonable effort to operate the trip as described. However, The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC and its suppliers reserve the right to modify the itinerary, activities, accommodations, meals, or transportation as deemed necessary for safety, operational, or logistical reasons.
14.2 Excursions and activities are not guaranteed. They may be modified, limited in availability, or cancelled due to weather, safety concerns, capacity, supplier changes, or circumstances outside The Advisor's control.
14.3 Substitutions may occur. Where a planned component cannot be delivered, The Advisor will use reasonable efforts to substitute a comparable alternative. No refund or compensation is guaranteed for operational changes outside The Advisor's control.
14.4 Itinerary deviations do not entitle the traveler to price adjustments, credits, or refunds.
15. STARGAZING & NATURAL EXPERIENCES
15.1 Stargazing is included in the trip itinerary. This is a natural experience and availability is subject to weather conditions, cloud cover, and other factors outside the control of The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC.
15.2 No refund or compensation will be provided if stargazing or any other natural experience is altered, rescheduled, or unavailable due to conditions outside The Advisor's control.
16. CODE OF CONDUCT
16.1 Participants are expected to respect local communities, guides, fellow travelers, wildlife, and the environment at all times.
16.2 Possession or use of illegal substances, participation in exploitative practices, or unsafe behavior will result in immediate removal from the trip without refund.
16.3 This is a group experience. Participants agree to adhere to the group itinerary and follow instructions provided by guides and trip leaders.
17. FORCE MAJEURE
17.1 The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC is not liable for any loss, delay, cancellation, or disruption caused by circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to: acts of God, natural disasters, extreme weather, earthquakes, floods, fires, pandemics, epidemics, government restrictions, civil unrest, war, terrorism, strikes, or political instability.
17.2 In the event of a Force Majeure cancellation, refunds will be limited to amounts recoverable from third-party suppliers. The Advisor will make every reasonable effort to recover funds on behalf of travelers, but cannot guarantee full or partial refunds where suppliers do not provide them.
17.3 Personal financial hardship does NOT qualify as a Force Majeure event.
17.4 Severe Weather Protocol - Pre-Departure
If a natural disaster or severe weather event is forecast to directly impact the destination within 3 days of the group's arrival date, The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC reserves the right to choose one of the following options: (i) cancel and issue refunds of amounts recoverable from suppliers, less the non-refundable deposit; (ii) postpone the trip to a later date; or (iii) proceed as planned. If postponed and the Traveler/Participant cannot attend on the new dates, a refund of recoverable amounts will be issued, less the non-refundable deposit.
17.5 Severe Weather Protocol - During Trip
If a weather emergency occurs during the trip, The Advisor will follow guidance from local authorities. Additional expenses incurred due to early departure or relocation due to weather are the sole responsibility of the Traveler/Participant. This is another reason travel insurance with Force Majeure coverage is strongly recommended.
18. ACTIVE CONFLICT & GOVERNMENT ADVISORIES
18.1 The Traveler/Participant is solely responsible for monitoring and understanding current travel advisories for Zimbabwe and South Africa. The Advisor will communicate known changes in destination safety, but is not responsible for geopolitical developments after booking.
18.2 The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC reserves the right to modify or cancel the trip in response to U.S. State Department Level 3 or Level 4 advisories for the destination, or in response to active conflict or declared emergencies in the destination regions.
18.3 Travelers assume the risk of geopolitical changes and are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance with Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage.
19. PHOTO & VIDEO RELEASE
19.1 By joining this trip, participants grant Rachel McDowell and The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC the irrevocable right and permission to use their image, likeness, voice, and appearance in photographs and video recordings taken during the trip.
19.2 These materials may be used for promotional, educational, or commercial purposes on websites, social media, print materials, or other platforms.
19.3 Participants will not receive financial compensation for the use of these materials.
19.4 Travelers who wish not to be photographed must inform the trip leader in writing prior to departure.
20. LIABILITY DISCLAIMER & HOLD HARMLESS
20.1 Assumption of Risk: Participants voluntarily assume all risks associated with this trip including whitewater rafting, safari game drives, wildlife encounters, walking near Victoria Falls, and international travel.
20.2 Liability Waiver: Rachel McDowell and The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC are not liable for injuries, accidents, illnesses, death, or property loss sustained during the trip.
20.3 Hold Harmless: The Traveler/Participant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC, its owners, employees, contractors, and representatives from any and all claims arising out of their participation in the trip.
20.4 Third-Party Providers: The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC is not responsible for the acts or omissions of third-party service providers.
21. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
The Traveler/Participant acknowledges that The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC's name, brand, logo, website content, trip materials, and all associated intellectual property are owned by The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC. The Traveler/Participant agrees not to reproduce, distribute, or use any of The Advisor's intellectual property without written permission.
22. GENERAL CONDITIONS
22.1 Governing Law: This agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Texas.
22.2 Entire Agreement: This agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior representations, oral or written.
22.3 Modification: This agreement may not be modified except by written amendment signed by both parties.
22.4 Severability: If any provision is found to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
22.5 Age Confirmation: By submitting payment, the Traveler/Participant confirms they are at least 18 years of age, or that a parent/legal guardian is completing this agreement on their behalf.
22.6 Non-Disparagement: The Traveler/Participant agrees not to publicly criticize or disparage The Unfiltered Traveler, LLC or its representatives regarding services covered by this agreement, including on social media.
22.7 Attorney Fees: In the event of any legal action to enforce this agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys' fees and costs.
22.8 Counterparts: This agreement may be executed in counterparts. Electronic and digital signatures are accepted as originals.
22.9 Duty to Cooperate: Both parties agree to act in good faith and cooperate in compliance with all terms of this agreement.
23. BINDING ARBITRATION
ANY DISPUTE, CLAIM, OR CONTROVERSY ARISING UNDER OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT SHALL, UPON ELECTION BY EITHER PARTY, BE RESOLVED BY BINDING ARBITRATION RATHER THAN IN COURT. BY AGREEING TO THESE TERMS, THE TRAVELER/PARTICIPANT WAIVES THE RIGHT TO A JURY TRIAL AND TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLASS ACTION. Arbitration will be administered by the American Arbitration Association (AAA) in accordance with their rules. Proceedings will take place in Texas unless otherwise agreed by both parties
