Terms and Conditions

These terms and conditions, along with any additional information provided during the booking process, constitute the basis of your contract with Scotia Escapes, hereinafter referred to as "us," "we," or "the Company."

1. General Provisions

1.1 In these terms and conditions, "you" and "your" refer to all persons included in the booking. The person making the booking ("lead passenger") accepts these conditions on behalf of all party members.

1.2 While we strive to ensure all information provided is accurate, we reserve the right to correct any errors that may occur in our quotations or communications.

1.3 "Written" or "in writing" includes email communications.

1.4 These terms comply with The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 and the Consumer Rights Act 2015, and your statutory rights remain unaffected.

2. Booking and Payment

2.1 Booking Process

  • Bookings can be made via telephone or email (info@scotiaescapes.com)

  • Your booking is confirmed only when:

    • You have accepted these terms and conditions

    • We have received your deposit

    • We have issued your booking confirmation

2.2 Payment Terms

  • 25% non-refundable deposit required at booking

  • Full balance due 6 weeks prior to tour commencement

  • Bookings made within 6 weeks require immediate full payment

  • Prices quoted are based on group size and may be adjusted if numbers change

2.3 Administrative Changes

  • Changes after confirmation may incur an administration fee of 10% of the total tour cost

  • Additional supplier charges may apply

3. Cancellation and Refunds

3.1 Cancellation by You

  • More than 42 days: Loss of deposit only

  • 41-29 days: 40% of total tour cost

  • 28-15 days: 70% of total tour cost

  • 14 days or less: 100% of total tour cost

  • No-shows: 100% of total tour cost

3.2 Cancellation by Us

  • Full refund provided if we cancel due to unforeseen circumstances

  • Alternative tour of equivalent or higher value offered where possible

  • Refunds processed to original payment method

4. Tour Modifications

4.1 Changes by Us We reserve the right to:

  • Alter itineraries if required

  • Modify transport arrangements

  • Change accommodation (to similar standard)

  • Adjust timing of services

4.2 Changes by You

  • All change requests must be in writing from the lead passenger

  • Changes subject to availability and additional costs

  • Transfer to another person possible with minimum 7 days notice

  • Transfer fees and supplier charges apply

5. Our Services

5.1 Included Services

  • Professional guide services

  • Transportation as specified

  • Tour planning and coordination

5.2 Excluded Services

  • Accommodation costs

  • Entrance fees (unless specified)

  • Meals and beverages (unless specified)

  • Personal insurance

6. Activities and Personal Responsibility

6.1 Activity Participation

  • Participation in any suggested activities is entirely voluntary

  • Customers must exercise common sense and good judgment regarding their capabilities

  • Customers are responsible for assessing their own fitness levels and abilities

  • We provide suggestions and guidance only; the decision to participate is yours

6.2 Specific Activities

  • Wild swimming and water activities require participants to:

    • Be competent swimmers

    • Assess water conditions themselves

    • Know and respect their personal limitations

    • Never swim alone

    • Follow local safety guidelines

  • Hiking and walking activities require participants to:

    • Assess their own fitness levels

    • Wear appropriate footwear and clothing

    • Carry necessary supplies (water, etc.)

    • Stay on marked paths where applicable

6.3 Assumption of Risk

  • By participating in any suggested activities, you acknowledge:

    • These activities carry inherent risks

    • You are voluntarily assuming these risks

    • You are physically capable of participating

    • You will follow safety guidelines and instructions

  • Scotia Escapes will not accept liability for:

    • Injuries or accidents during voluntary activities

    • Incidents resulting from disregard of safety advice

    • Consequences of overestimating personal abilities

    • Events arising from failure to use common sense

6.4 Safety Instructions

  • All safety instructions provided must be followed

  • Disregard of safety guidance may result in exclusion from activities

  • We reserve the right to prevent participation if we reasonably believe there is a risk to safety

7. Liability and Limitations

7.1 Our Liability We accept responsibility for:

  • Proper delivery of contracted services

  • Reasonable skill and care in service provision

  • Accurate representation of services

7.2 Liability Limitations We are not liable for:

  • Acts or omissions of third-party suppliers

  • Circumstances beyond our reasonable control

  • Personal injury or loss resulting from client negligence

  • Changes required due to unforeseen circumstances

8. Client Responsibilities

8.1 Travel Requirements

  • Ensuring valid travel documentation

  • Arriving at departure points on time

  • Meeting any health requirements

  • Suitable travel insurance coverage

8.2 Conduct

  • Appropriate behavior throughout the tour

  • Compliance with guide instructions

  • Respect for other travelers and local customs

9. Special Requirements

9.1 Medical Conditions

  • Must be disclosed at time of booking

  • Assessment of tour suitability

  • Possible requirement for doctor's certificate

9.2 Special Requests

  • Must be made at time of booking

  • Cannot be guaranteed

  • Reasonable attempts to accommodate

10. Force Majeure

We cannot accept liability for circumstances beyond our control, including:

  • Political unrest

  • Natural disasters

  • Terrorist activities

  • Industrial action

  • Weather conditions

  • Public health emergencies

11. Complaints Procedure

11.1 During the Tour

  • Report issues immediately to tour guide

  • Opportunity for immediate resolution

11.2 After the Tour

  • Submit in writing within 28 days

  • Email: info@scotiaescapes.com

12. Data Protection

12.1 We will:

  • Process personal data securely

  • Use information for booking purposes only

  • Share only with necessary service providers

  • Comply with current data protection legislation

13. Governing Law

These terms and conditions are governed by Scottish law, and any disputes shall be dealt with by Scottish courts.

Last Updated: 07/01/2025