The following terms and conditions govern the car hire and use of vehicles hired from Africa Adventure Safaris. By confirming a booking or taking possession of the vehicle, the renter acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to comply with these conditions.
Driver requirements
For all self-drive rentals, the primary driver must present a valid and original driving license that is recognized in the country of rental. International clients are required to provide an International Driving Permit together with their domestic driving license where applicable. The minimum driver age is typically between 23 and 25 years, depending on the vehicle category, and the driver must have held a valid license for at least two years.
Only drivers listed and approved in the rental agreement are permitted to operate the vehicle. If additional drivers are required, they must be registered with the company before the rental begins and may attract an extra driver fee. The renter accepts full responsibility for the vehicle and any incidents that occur while it is in their possession. Any accident, loss, or damage caused by an unauthorized driver will not be covered by insurance and will be fully charged to the renter.
Insurance and damages
All vehicles are provided with standard insurance coverage as outlined in the rental agreement, typically including third-party liability insurance. However, this coverage does not eliminate the renter’s financial responsibility. In the event of an accident, theft, or damage, the renter is liable for the insurance excess amount unless additional coverage or a damage waiver has been purchased.
The renter will be fully responsible for the total cost of repairs or replacement if damage occurs under the following circumstances:
- Reckless, dangerous, or negligent driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Use of the vehicle outside agreed geographical areas
- Use by an unauthorized driver
- Violation of traffic laws or rental terms
- Water damage due to flooding or river crossing where prohibited
- Use of wrong fuel type
All accidents, thefts, or damages must be reported to the company immediately and to the nearest police station within 24 hours where required. Failure to report promptly or to provide a police report may result in full liability being transferred to the renter.
Fuel policy
Vehicles are supplied with a specified fuel level, usually full tank unless otherwise stated in the rental agreement. The renter is required to return the vehicle with the same fuel level as provided at pick-up.
If the vehicle is returned with less fuel, the company will refill the tank and charge the renter for the missing fuel at the prevailing market rate plus an administrative or service fee. No refunds are issued for excess fuel returned above the agreed level.
The renter must ensure the correct fuel type (petrol or diesel) is used at all times. Any mechanical damage resulting from misfuelling will be fully charged to the renter, including recovery costs, repairs, and loss of business.
Mileage limits
Mileage terms vary depending on the selected rental package and will be clearly stated in the quotation and rental agreement. Some rentals include unlimited mileage within agreed usage areas, while others operate on a limited daily mileage allowance.
Where mileage limits apply, any distance driven beyond the agreed allowance will attract an additional per-kilometer charge. The renter is responsible for monitoring their mileage usage during the rental period. Clients planning long-distance travel, safaris, or cross-border trips are strongly advised to confirm mileage terms before confirming the booking.
Late returns
Vehicles must be returned on the agreed date and time as specified in the rental agreement. A grace period, if applicable will be communicated at the time of booking. Returns beyond the allowed grace period will attract additional hourly charges or a full extra day’s rental fee, depending on the length of delay.
If the renter anticipates any delay in returning the vehicle, they must notify the company as early as possible to request an extension. Extensions are subject to vehicle availability and approval. Unauthorized late returns may lead to penalties and may affect the renter’s eligibility for future rentals.
Cancellation policy
All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email or through the company’s official communication channels. Cancellation charges may apply depending on how close the cancellation is to the scheduled pick-up date. Cancellations made well in advance of the rental start date may qualify for a full or partial refund, subject to administrative fees.
Cancellations made within the late cancellation window may attract a cancellation penalty. Failure to show up at the agreed pick-up time without prior notice (no-show) may result in forfeiture of the deposit or full rental amount.
Any approved refunds will be processed within the company’s standard refund timeline using the original payment method where possible.
Proper use of the vehicle
The renter agrees to use the vehicle responsibly, safely, and only for lawful purposes. The vehicle must not be used for racing, towing beyond approved limits, overloading passengers or cargo, off-road driving unless the vehicle is designed and authorized for such use, or for any illegal activities.
Smoking inside the vehicle is strictly prohibited unless otherwise permitted. The renter is responsible for any cleaning or damage costs resulting from misuse, excessive dirt, stains or odors. Africa Adventure Safaris reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions at any time without prior notice. Clients are advised to review the latest version before confirming their booking.
