On this page you can find out how to book your trip, and the main points about the contract you are entering into when you ride with us. We have presented it as 'frequently asked questions', to show the intent of the contract, and avoid a lot of legalese. The actual contract will be available when booking.
-
How much is the deposit, and when will I need to pay the full amount?
In order to secure your place on a trip you need to pay a deposit of £200. The full amount will then be due 10 weeks before the start of the trip.
What happens if I cancel my trip after paying?
If you cannot come on the trip, let us know at least 4 weeks before the start, and we will refund the cost of the trip, less your deposit. If you can only give us between 2 weeks and 4 weeks notice you will lose 50% of the cost of the trip, and with less than 2 weeks notice we will unfortunately be unable to give a refund. If you have a genuine reason why you can't make it, your own insurance should cover any loss.
What happens if the trip doesn't run?
If we do not get the minimum of 4 people booked on a trip, we may not run it. In this case we will notify you 1 month before the start date. We will either suggest an alternative trip if available, or give you a full refund including deposit. We will not be obliged to offer more than this.
What if the 'itinerary' changes?
Mongolia is not the sort of place where you can stick to strict schedules and plans. It has a high element of the unexpected. Which is probably part of the reason why you want to go there. Consequently we may need to make small changes to the plan prior to departure, in which case you will be notified. If the change is substantial you will have seven days in which to cancel your booking and receive a full refund.Mongolia is a relatively safe country to travel in. It's highly unlikely, but these days you never know when a war, epidemic, terrorist attack, tsunami?? or hurricane might strike. This is known as 'force majeure' and we can't be held responsible for any changes due to these sorts of reasons, which are beyond our control.
More likely is that we will need to make small changes in response to conditions while on the trip, such as taking a different route to avoid a collapsed bridge, in which case we will not be able to offer any compensation.
If a necessary change in the trip plan through no fault of ours results in you being delayed getting back to Ulaan Baatar, and missing your international connection, we will assist you with any insurance claim you may need to make. We advise allowing an extra day when booking your return journey in case of delays.
Is my money safe if Zavkhan Trekking fails financially?
Yes. We are bound by the UK Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992. In accordance with the regulations the money you pay to us is actually held in trust by a third party and will not be released to us until you have received the trip you paid for.Do I need to wear a hard hat?
No, we do not require you to wear a hat. In fact the locals will think it is quite odd. However your own insurance may have something to say about this. Please check firstly that your policy does cover you for 'dangerous activities' (!) like horse riding, and secondly that in the event of a claim (such as breaking an arm) you will still be covered if not wearing a hat.
Can Zavkhan Trekking be held responsible if I get injured?
Yes, but only if it is through negligence on our part, such as supplying you with a horse which is not suited to your riding ability. It is important to remember that we are offering a serious wilderness trekking experience, which carries an inherent level of risk. While we endeavour to minimise this risk, we cannot be held responsible for injuries sustained through no fault of ours. In the unlikely event of an injury we will do all that is required to help you. John is trained in Wilderness First Response, so can deal with most things through to emergency child birth...
Who can come on the trips?
If you are of average health and fitness, and weigh no more than 100kg, then you'll be fine. If you have a known medical condition which could be a problem you will need to let us know before the trip. There is no upper or lower age limit, but you should satisfy yourself that you are capable of undertaking the trip. If unsure, please ask us. Children are welcome but are the responsibility of their parent or guardian. Mongolia is actually a great place to bring kids, being relatively safe and healthy.
What are my responsibilities as a client?
Firstly and most importantly, you should have fun. You are also responsible for your own visa (which we can help with), travel insurance, and any necessary vaccinations (none are legally required). While riding, we like to operate as a team, making group decisions on where to go and when to stop, rather than being told what to do. However when necessary the group leaders authority will need to be respected.
Finally, if you have any worries or questions please don't hesitate to get in touch.