To protect our business, non-profit partners, and commitment to wildlife conservation, SOSA has implemented the following cancellation policy. By booking a trip with SOSA, you agree to the terms outlined below.

1. Payment Terms

1.1 Deposit Requirements

• A minimum 25% non-refundable deposit* is required to secure your spot.
• *This deposit is non-refundable, except in cases where cancellations are made 90 or more days before the trip start date. In such cases:
• Guests may receive a refund of the deposit amount, less a $100 cancellation fee per spot canceled.
• Any additional payments made toward the trip cost are non-refundable.
• Full payment for the trip is required no later than 60 days prior to the start of the experience.
• Bookings made within 60 days of the trip start date require immediate full payment.

1.2 Payment Plans

• Guests may choose between a deposit with monthly payments, a 50/50 payment plan, or payment in full. All payments must be completed no later than 60 days before the trip start date.
• Regardless of the payment option, a minimum 25% deposit of total trip cost is required to secure your spot.

1.3 Non-Refundable Payments

• All payments are non-refundable and non-transferable except as outlined in Section 3 (Cancellation by SOSA).

2. Guest Cancellations

2.1 Cancellation Process

• Cancellations must be submitted in writing to connect@thesosa.com.
• The cancellation is effective only once SOSA confirms receipt of your written notice.

2.2 Refund Terms

• 90+ days before trip start date:
• Guests may receive a refund of the down payment, less a $100 cancellation fee per spot canceled.
• Any additional payments are non-refundable.
• Guests may alternatively choose to receive a credit for the down payment amount, less the $100 cancellation fee, toward a future trip.
• 89 days or less before trip start date:
• All payments, including the down payment and any additional payments, will be retained by SOSA and are non-refundable.

2.3 No Refunds for Unused Services

• If a guest leaves a trip for any reason after it has commenced, no refunds will be provided for unused services.
• No refunds will be issued for no-shows, late arrivals, or early departures.

2.4 Refund Fees and Processing Time

• Guests are responsible for a 2.9% transaction fee for refund processing.
• Refunds, where applicable, may take up to 30 days to process.

3. Cancellation by SOSA

3.1 Right to Cancel

• SOSA reserves the right to cancel any booking for any reason up to 45 days before the trip start date.
• In the event of cancellation, guests may choose to:
• Transfer all payments to an alternate trip.
• Receive a full refund of the down payment and any additional payments made.

3.2 Force Majeure

• SOSA shall not be liable for cancellations or disruptions due to circumstances beyond its control, including but not limited to natural disasters, government actions, or pandemics.
• In such cases, SOSA will make reasonable efforts to transfer payments to an alternate trip. Refunds are not guaranteed.

3.3 No Liability for Incidental Expenses

• SOSA is not responsible for any expenses incurred as a result of the cancellation, including but not limited to visas, vaccinations, travel insurance excess, or non-refundable flights.

4. Additional Terms

4.1 Trip Modifications

• SOSA reserves the right to modify or reschedule the trip itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., weather, safety concerns). No refunds will be provided for itinerary changes, but alternative dates or trips may be offered.

4.2 Travel Insurance Requirement

• To participate in a SOSA experience, all guests are required to have comprehensive travel insurance that meets the following minimum requirements:

• Medical Coverage: A minimum of USD $200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

• Activity-Specific Coverage: Coverage must include all activities and destinations specified in your booking.

SOSA will request proof of your insurance coverage prior to departure. Failure to provide proof may result in denial of participation without refund.

While medical insurance is mandatory, we also strongly recommend that your travel insurance includes:

• Trip cancellation and curtailment coverage.
• Protection for loss, damage, or delay of personal belongings.
• Coverage for any other expenses or inconveniences that may arise during travel.

Important Notes:

• Travel insurance is not included in the cost of SOSA trips and must be obtained separately at your own expense.
• It is your responsibility to ensure your insurance plan complies with these requirements.
• SOSA assumes no liability for guests who fail to secure adequate coverage or who encounter issues related to insufficient insurance.

4.3 Transfer of Bookings

• Bookings are non-transferable unless explicitly approved by SOSA. Transfers, if approved, may incur an administration fee.