Travel should be a respectful, safe, and enjoyable experience for everyone. The Traveler Conduct Policy is intended to set standards for travelers to follow on their Interior safaris East African tour.
In addition to compliance with applicable laws in any destination a traveler may visit, travelers are expected to comply with this policy for the safety, security, and enjoyment of all.
Why have a Traveler Conduct Policy?
Interior safaris East Africa is proud of our reputation as an African leader in innovative, authentic adventure tours and travel, and we work hard to make sure we stay at the top. We are a community of diverse individuals united by a profound respect for, and enthusiastic belief in, our values and each other.
This unique combination of respect and enthusiasm prevents us from losing sight of what matters most community, people, cultural exchange and reminds us that creating happiness is a privilege we all share together.
Tourism is about respecting people, places, and cultures
Tourism is about mutual understanding and respect between peoples and societies. The resources involved in tourism belong to the common heritage of human beings and we have a duty to protect these vulnerable resources for future generations.
Respect people.
Travelers are expected to respect others. This includes other travelers, Interior safaris EA staff, third-party service providers and the local people and cultures in the destinations they visit.
Travelling in a group offers the opportunity to learn about other travelers, cultures, thoughts, ideas and Values. This is one of the many benefits of group travel.
When travelling, keep the following in mind:
- Be aware of your own cultural values, biases, and how they impact your judgement of others.
- You do not have to agree with the opinions or beliefs of others but you must be respectful of them.
- Do not enter another traveler’s room unless you are invited to do so.
- Do not use another traveler’s belongings without their permission.
Abusive behavior or violence.
We can remove you from a tour immediately if we witness abusive or violent behavior or receive a report that you are behaving in an abusive or violent manner. This includes: using abusive, threatening, or offensive language towards others, uninvited physical contact, solicitation, harassment, vandalism, theft, violence, use of fake/false identification, underage drinking, providing alcohol to those under the allowed age, possession of illegal substances/items, or any other illegal or offensive conduct.
Physical relationships between staff and travelers are prohibited.
Interior safaris East Africa staff are prohibited from engaging in physical relationships with travelers. Interior safaris East Africa staff are friendly, outgoing, and strive to provide amazing service. We hire great people, and it’s their job to be helpful and ensure that each traveler has a great experience. Respecting the boundaries between staff and travelers is important for the safety and well-being of everyone involved.
Illegal drugs and alcohol.
Travelers are responsible for their actions at all times. Consuming alcohol in excess impairs your judgment and reduces your ability to recognize and avoid potentially dangerous situations. Travelers who choose to consume alcohol do so at their own risk.
Excess alcohol consumption that puts you, other traveler’s, or Interior safaris East Africa staff at risk is ground to removal from a tour. Use and possession of illegal drugs and other illegal substances are prohibited. Travelers who abuse illegal substances are subject to arrest and prosecution under applicable laws and removal from their tour.
Safety and security.
Travelers should immediately report any concerns about safety, security, or unsafe or illegal behavior to their CEO or an Interior safaris East Africa staff member. If you fail to immediately report these concerns this may delay our ability to respond to the situation.
Swimming and water safety.
Water safety is important for swimmers of all abilities. Do not swim or participate in a water activity alone, after consuming alcohol, in an unattended area, or after sundown.
Do the right thing.
Say NO to sexual tourism of any kind. Refuse to support any business or organization that utilizes child labor.
Respect places and cultures.
You may be visiting sites that are holy or significant places within local culture. When visiting a place, please do not forget its primary purpose and respect its meaning to others who are present. Ask about and respect dress codes. Ensure that you have permission before taking photographs of people, and that it is appropriate to take photos in holy or significant places. Respect local communities and be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas and at night. Set an example for other travelers.
Minimize impact.
Wherever possible, avoid the use of plastic bags and disposable plastic water bottles. Plan ahead to ensure you have biodegradable toiletries if you are camping. Do not leave behind any litter or solid waste. Do not remove objects from the natural environment or any site you visit. Do not remove artifacts or historical objects from a site or purchase them illegally. Do not hand out sweets, change, or gifts as this may create or re-enforce a begging mentality.
Respect animal welfare.
Travelers are expected to refrain from supporting businesses that do not respect animal welfare. This includes purchasing items made from or harmful to animals.
Do not support the purchase or traffic of items made from exotic or endangered animal products. Animal welfare is important to Interior safaris East Africa. Read our Animal Welfare Policy for more information.
Consequences
If a traveler fails to adhere to this policy and we determine, in our discretion, that there is a concern for the safety, security, or well-being of others, Interior Safaris East Africa limited may remove the traveler from a tour immediately. Interior safaris East Africa may also report incidents to local authorities and seek other legal action where appropriate.
Travelers removed from a tour for failure to adhere to this Traveler Conduct Policy are responsible for all costs related to their removal including accommodations and transportation back home at their own expense. No refunds will be issued if you are removed from a tour because of a violation of this Traveler Conduct Policy.