At Uncharted Tours, we strive to find balance in every decision we make—between being fair to our travelers and honoring the livelihoods of the local experts, guides, drivers, artisans, and small businesses who help bring each journey to life.

Many of these partners are contracted well in advance and, in some cases, are legally guaranteed payments once a booking is confirmed. These advance payments are often non-refundable to us, even when plans change.

Our cancellation and refund policies are designed to reflect this balance—ensuring our guests are treated with care, while protecting the communities and teams who make your experience possible.

Cancellation by the Client

All cancellations must be submitted in writing by email. The date your cancellation email is received will determine the applicable terms.

Standard Tour Cancellations

60+ days before tour start date

• Your deposit is non-refundable but may be applied as credit toward another tour of equal or greater value.
• No additional cancellation fees apply.
• Your deposit is forfeited and cannot be transferred.

31–59 days before tour start date

• 50% of the total tour cost is non-refundable.

0–30 days before tour start date

• 100% of the total tour cost is non-refundable.

These terms apply to the total invoiced amount, including deposits and any additional services booked through us.

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Cancellation of Add-on Services

60+ days before start date

• 100% of add-on costs are refundable.

Within 60 days of start date

• Add-on costs are non-refundable.

Why Deposits and Payments Are Non-Refundable

• Local partners require early payment to secure your reservation.
• Payments are often non-refundable to us once issued.
• Our group sizes are small, and late cancellations often cannot be filled.
• Your deposit directly supports community-based services and guarantees operational readiness.

Cancellation by Uncharted Tours

We reserve the right to cancel a tour if:

• Minimum group size is not met (with at least 60 days’ notice)
• A force majeure event occurs (e.g. natural disaster, political unrest, public health crisis)
• A destination or supplier becomes unavailable for unforeseen reasons

In the event of cancellation, you may choose:

• A transfer to another available tour (cost differences may apply)
• A full-value credit for future use (no expiration)
• A full refund of monies paid, minus unrecoverable costs in the case of force majeure

We will always aim to notify you as early as possible and assist with alternatives where possible.

Force Majeure Refunds

If your tour is cancelled due to uncontrollable external circumstances:

• You will be refunded for all recoverable costs
• You may alternatively receive a travel credit equal to the total amount paid

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Please note: We are not responsible for losses related to external expenses (e.g., flights, travel insurance, visa fees, or personal incidentals).

Early Departures and Unused Services

Refunds or credits will not be issued if:

• You voluntarily leave the tour early
• You are dismissed for behavior that compromises safety or violates laws or community standards
• You are unable to participate due to personal emergency, illness, or travel disruption

Amendments and Transfers

• Booking changes requested more than 60 days prior to departure may be accommodated (subject to availability and re-pricing)
• No amendments or transfers are allowed within 30 days of the scheduled start date

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Refund Method and Timeline

• Approved refunds are processed within 30 days of written confirmation
• Refunds are issued to the original form of payment unless otherwise agreed in writing

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Travel Insurance Requirement

All travelers are required to carry comprehensive travel insurance that includes:

• Emergency medical and evacuation coverage
• Trip cancellation, interruption, or curtailment
• Personal liability

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Minimum recommended coverage: $200,000 USD
Proof of valid travel insurance must be submitted prior to the start of your tour.

Final Note

We understand that plans can change—and while we do our best to remain flexible, we also have firm obligations to the local communities and service providers we work with. This policy reflects our commitment to responsible operations and the fair treatment of all parties involved, including you, our valued guests. By confirming your reservation, you agree to the cancellation and refund terms outlined above, which are also incorporated into our Terms & Conditions.