These Terms & Conditions apply to all South American expeditions operated by Alpine Guides. They outline booking requirements, payments, cancellations, safety responsibilities, and participant obligations specific to international trips.
1. Assumption of Risk & Local Realities
By booking this expedition, you acknowledge that adventure travel in South America involves higher risks than conventional holidays.
Standards: You accept that accommodation, transport, hygiene, and medical facilities in South America may not meet the standards of your home country.
Third-Party Operators: Alpine Guides (Aoraki) Limited (AGL) often partners with local agencies for ground logistics. You acknowledge that AGL is not liable for shortcomings in service provided by these third parties.
Inherent Dangers: Risks include, but are not limited to, high altitude, extreme weather, political instability, and delayed medical evacuation. You choose to participate knowing these risks.
Government Advice: You are responsible for being informed of travel advisories from your home government (e.g., SafeTravel NZ, Smartraveller AU).
2. Health, Fitness & Medical Disclosure
Transparency: You must be honest about your medical history and mountaineering/trekking experience.
Medical Clearance: You must provide a medical questionnaire signed by your GP. AGL reserves the right to refuse participation on medical or fitness grounds at our absolute discretion. It is your responsibility to have the recommended vaccinations before travel.
Expenses: All medical and evacuation costs are your responsibility.
3. Payment & Cancellation
By using our booking software or submitting a booking form, you agree to these legally binding Terms and Conditions
No Partial Refunds: No refunds are given for unused services, including if you leave the expedition early for any reason.
Minimum Numbers: If AGL cancels the trip due to low participation, you receive a 100% refund. AGL is not liable for your personal expenses (flights, visas, gear) resulting from such a cancellation.
4. Itinerary Flexibility & Force Majeure
The Andes require "Plan B" thinking. Itineraries are statements of intent, not guarantees.
Modifications: AGL and your Guide reserve the right to change dates, routes, or objectives due to weather, hazardous conditions, or political instability.
No Compensation: If an itinerary is changed or delayed for safety or political reasons, you are not entitled to a refund or compensation.
Force Majeure: AGL is not liable for failure to perform obligations caused by "Acts of God," strikes, war, terrorism, pandemic, or government action beyond our control.
5. Insurance (Mandatory)
Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory condition of booking. Your policy must cover:
1- High-altitude mountaineering (check your policy's altitude limit).
2- Medical treatment and emergency evacuation.
3- Cancellation and trip curtailment.
Proof of Insurance: You must provide evidence of your policy to AGL before departure.
6. Gear & Equipment
You are responsible for bringing the items on the Equipment Check List. Your guide will inspect your gear on Day 1. If your gear is not suitable, you may be required to purchase or rent replacements before starting the expedition.
7. Prices & Exclusions
While we try to keep prices fixed, AGL reserves the right to adjust prices without notice due to fluctuations in exchange rates, fuel costs, or local taxes.
Exclusions: Prices do not include airfares, visas, vaccinations, personal insurance, or extra meals/accommodation outside the planned itinerary.
8. Release & Waiver of Liability
To the extent permitted by law, you waive all claims against Alpine Guides Ltd (including employees and contractors) for any loss, injury, or death arising from your participation. This agreement supersedes any previous oral or written statements and is binding for your family and estate.
