Tanzania: Safari the Serengeti

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Located in Arusha, an oasis of tranquility on Tanzania's gateway to major tour tourist destinations regardless of the season, the hotel comprises 178 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, 2 restaurants, 2 bars, 24-hour In-Room Dining service, an outdoor swimming pool, and a well-equipped gymnasium. Mount Meru Hotel provides the perfect venue for meetings and events with more than 1500 sqm of meeting and banquet space, perfect for seminars, large conferences, cocktail events, and corporate dinners, an ideal mix of categories to meet the needs of corporate and MICE visitors to the country.

The property offers uninterrupted views of Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania after Mount Kilimanjaro, and pristine landscaped private gardens overlooking the Golf Club. The Mount Meru Hotel is located only a 45-minute drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), 20 minutes from Arusha Airport (ARK), and a 10-minute walk from the Arusha International Conference Center (AICC), the historical Arusha Clock Tower, the German Boma, and the Maasai Market Curios and Crafts.

Hand plaited thatched roof tops, ample verandas and colonial interiors at Ngorongoro Farm House, a small and exclusive hotel built on a 500 acre coffee plantation, all of which has been designed to take you to the comfort and style of past times. Take a walk around the farm to contemplate the daily activities, relax in the fragrant gardens or enjoy the spectacular sunsets with the Oldeani volcano as a backcloth.

A wonderful stop-off during a safari on the north circuit of Tanzania and a privileged place from where one can visit the crater or enjoy activities such a walking safaris to the volcano or excursions to Lake Eyasi on the Rift Valley still inhabited by the Hadzabe tribe.

The Serengeti National Park is one of world’s greatest game parks. Meaning “endless plains” in the Maasai language, the Serengeti continues to be an ongoing source of inspiration to writers, filmmakers and photographers alike.

It is Tanzania’s oldest game reserve and is world-famous for the role it plays in the annual Great Migration, when an estimated two million herbivores – mostly wildebeest – migrate from the Serengeti to Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve. Hundreds of thousands of animals die along the way and the drama of this epic seasonal journey is a gripping, deeply moving experience and a wonderful photographic subject.

Its far-reaching plains of endless grass, tinged with the twisted shadows of acacia trees, have made it the quintessential image of a wild and untarnished Africa. Its large stone kopjes are home to rich ecosystems, and the sheer magnitude and scale of life that the plains support is staggering. Large prides of lions laze easily in the long grasses, plentiful families of elephants feed on acacia bark and trump to each other across the plains, and giraffes, gazelles, monkeys, eland, and the whole range of African wildlife is in awe-inspiring numbers.

The annual wildebeest migration through the Serengeti and the Masai Mara attract visitors from around the world, who flock to the open plains to witness the largest mass movement of land mammals on the planet. More than a million animals make the seasonal journey to fresh pasture to the north, then the south, after the biannual rains. The sound of their thundering hooves, raising massive clouds of thick red dust, has become one of the legends of the Serengeti plains. The entire ecosystem thrives from the annual migration, from the lions and birds of prey that gorge themselves on the weak and the faltering to the gamut of hungry crocodiles that lie in patient wait at each river crossing for their annual feed.

But it’s not just the wildebeest that use the Serengeti to migrate. The adjacent reserves of Maswa and Ikorongo, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and the Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya all allow the animals and birds of the area a free range of movement to follow their seasonal migrations. Indeed, in the wake of the wildebeest migration, many of the less attention-grabbing features of the Serengeti are often overlooked. The park has varied zones in which each ecosystem is subtly different. Serener in the centre of the park is the most popular and most easily visited area. The Grumeti River in the Western Corridor is the location for the dramatic river crossing during the wildebeest migration. Maswa Game Reserve to the south offers a remote part of the park rewarding in its game-viewing and privacy, and Lobo near the Kenyan border offers a change to see plentiful game during the dry season.

Aside from traditional vehicle bound safaris, hot-air ballooning over the Serengeti plains has become a safari rite-of-passage for travel enthusiasts. The flights depart at dawn over the plains and take passengers close over the awakening herds of wildebeest and zebra, gazelle and giraffe. The extra altitude allows guests to witness the striking stretches of plains punctuated only by kopjes. Up in the sky, you have Africa all to yourself.

July to November    

The weather during this time is usually dry and sunny, although October to December brings the short rains to Tanzania. The grass dies back and more and more animals congregate around the permanent sources of water making them easier to find. Visitor numbers (and prices) peak in August coinciding with holidays in the Northern Hemisphere.

The spectacular landscape of the world renowned Ngorongoro Crater has to be seen to be believed. It forms part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) within the Serengeti ecosystem and the Crater itself is home to more than 25 000 large mammals. Once a large volcano that later collapsed, it is now the largest intact caldera in the world. 

The Ngorongoro Crater is often called ‘Africa’s Eden’ and the ‘8th Natural Wonder of the World,’ a visit to the crater is a main draw for tourists coming to Tanzania and a definite world-class attraction. Within the crater rim, large herds of zebra and wildebeest graze nearby while sleeping lions laze in the sun. At dawn, the endangered black rhino returns to the thick cover of the crater forests after grazing on dew-laden grass in the morning mist. Just outside the crater’s ridge, tall Masaai herd their cattle and goats over green pastures through the highland slopes, living alongside the wildlife as they have for centuries. 

Ngorongoro Conservation Area includes its eponymous famous crater, Olduvai Gorge, and huge expanses of highland plains, scrub bush, and forests that cover approximately 8300 square kilometres. A protected area, only indigenous tribes such as the Masaai are allowed to live within its borders. Lake Ndutu and Masek, both alkaline soda lakes are home to rich game populations, as well as a series of peaks and volcanoes and make the Conservation Area a unique and beautiful landscape. Of course, the crater itself, actually a type of collapsed volcano called a caldera, is the main attraction. Accommodation is located on its ridges and after a beautiful descent down the crater rim, passing lush rain forest and thick vegetation, the flora opens to grassy plains throughout the crater floor. The game viewing is truly incredible and views of the surrounding Crater Highlands out of this world.

This truly magical place is home to Olduvai Gorge, where the Leakeys discovered the hominoid remains of a 1.8 million year old skeleton of Australopithecus boisei, one of the distinct links of the human evolutionary chain. In a small canyon just north of the crater, the Leakeys and their team of international archaeologists unearthed the ruins of at least three distinct hominoid species, and also came upon a complete series of hominoid footprints estimated to be over 3.7 million years old. Evacuated fossils show that the area is one of the oldest sites of hominoid habitation in the world.

The Ngorongoro Crater and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are without a doubt some of the most beautiful parts of Tanzania, steeped in history and teeming with wildlife. Besides vehicle safaris to Ngorongoro Crater, Olduvai Gorge, and surrounding attractions, hiking treks through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are becoming increasingly popular options. Either way you choose to visit, the Crater Highlands are an unforgettable part of the Tanzanian experience.

Please consult with your Travel Concierge prior to booking your flight or if you require assistance booking your flight

Be prepared with travel insurance coverage through Travel Guard. Plans can include coverage for medical expenses, trip interruption and more and include emergency travel services so you can be sure that Travel Guard has an insurance plan that meets your traveling needs. Travel Guard is available to assist 24 hours a day.  

Travel Guard's Trip Insurance Plans provide valuable coverage at an affordable price and includes an early purchase benefit of a waiver of Pre-existing Medical Condition Exclusion and Cancel for Any Reason option,  if purchased within 15 days of the initial trip payment.

Your travel insurance will need to cover medical expenses that could arise while traveling abroad. In the case of a Kilimanjaro climb, you’ll need to make sure that it covers you for medical evacuation too.

Unexpected injuries and doctor visits need to be covered, and emergency evacuation expenses should you need to be airlifted off the mountain. Those situations are rare, but they do occur and you need the proper insurance.

When purchasing travel insurance it is important you understand exactly what it does, and doesn’t cover. Most basic plans will offer basic protection for trip cancellation, lost bags, and delayed flights.

However, if you need coverage beyond that (medical expenses, evacuation, etc.) then you’ll likely have to purchase a higher-tier policy.

It’s important that whatever policy you choose also covers high altitude activities. That isn’t the case with every insurance plan, so be sure to ask for it specifically.

For climbing Kilimanjaro, please note, you are not taking part in technical mountaineering, but that you are high altitude trekking up to 6,000m.

We highly recommend you add the Adventure Sports Bundle to your insurance package.  

A Valid Passport      
All visitors to Tanzania planning to climb Kilimanjaro are required to carry and show a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into the country. Your passport should have at least one empty page for official stamps.   

Check your passport well in advance of travel, in case you need to renew it.

Tanzania Visitor Visa

Most foreign visitors are required to obtain a visa for entry into Tanzania, there are some exceptions. The visa doesn’t always need to be obtained prior to arrival as they can be issued at the port of entry.

Generally, all visitors from non-Commonwealth countries need a visa for entry, unless your country has an agreement with Tanzania under which this requirement has been waived.

Visitors from some Commonwealth countries don’t need a visa for entry, but citizens of the UK, Australia, New Zealand, India, United States, Canada, and most EU countries are not exempt.

Some travelers prefer to arrange their visas in advance, and this can be done by contacting the Tanzanian embassy in your home country. They normally require you to send in your passport, an application form and passport photos for processing.

Can you Get a Tanzania visa on Arrival?

In order to avoid lost passports or delays in obtaining the visa, it’s often a good idea to simply purchase a visa on arrival. Depending on the time of year, the queues can be quite long for visa issuance, but often it’s quick and trouble-free.

So how do you get a Tanzania visa?

Visas can be obtained at the following entry points to the United Republic of Tanzania: 

• Dar Es Salaam International Airport    
• Zanzibar International Airport    
• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)    
• amanga Entry Point (Tanzania-Kenya boarder point)    
• Tunduma    
• Sirari    
• Horohoro     
• Kigoma port

At the time of writing, the current Tanzania visa fees (purchased upon arrival) are:    

• US Citizens: $100 (Multiple entry) for one year    
• Non-US Citizens: $50 (Single entry) for six months    
• Non-US Citizens: $100 (Double entry) for six months

These fees will need to be paid in cash, and you’ll need a clean page in your passport for the stamp.

Can you apply for Tanzania visa online?

You can now apply for an Online Visa to visit the United Republic of Tanzania (both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar). You are required to fill in the online form, make payment, and submit your application online. Your form will be internally reviewed and processed.

Applicants will be notified through their e-mails whether their applications have been accepted or rejected. They may also TRACK their application statuses through the online system. Applicants may as well be required to visit the nearest Tanzanian Embassies or Consular Offices for interviews. Follow this link for online visa application : https://visa.immigration.go.tz/   

Keynote before you start your online visa Process.    

Please consider the following information beforehand.    

• Types of Visa    
• Required documents    
• Countries whose citizens do not require visa on entry    
• Countries whose citizens require approval by the Tanzania Commissioner General of Immigration.    

What are the  Tanzania Entry Requirements ?

• Yellow Fever Vaccination Card - If you are arriving from a country at risk of yellow fever (even if you’ve had a layover), you’ll need to show your Yellow Fever Vaccination card. 
• Proof of Return or Onward Journey  - As a visitor you will likely be asked to show proof of your onward or return ticket out of Tanzania, so be sure to have that information handy (a printout is best) once you land.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

You will have to have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Tanzania, and carry proof should you be asked. It’s not often that an immigration official asks for this, but it can happen. 

• We strongly recommend that you check your visa requirements well in advance of your trip to avoid unnecessary delays. 
• Don’t forget any visa requirements for other countries you are visiting or transiting through.

Additional Resources:   

You can obtain a tourist visa to Tanzania upon arrival, however, the US government encourages you to apply one in advance by post. For information, see www.tanzaniaembassy-us.org.   

Validity   
Single-entry (business and tourist) visa is valid for three months from the date of issue. A multiple-entry visa is valid for either six or 12 months from the date of issue.   

Transit   
Transit visas costing US$30 are available for those traveling through Tanzania to other destinations within a 14-day period. An onward ticket or tour itinerary/confirmation and sufficient funds for transit are required.    Please note that you can only obtain a transit visa to Tanzania at the point of entry.   

Temporary residence    Residence permits are granted to foreign nationals if they are employed by a Tanzanian company, or working long-term as missionaries or volunteers. You must apply for these through the Immigration Services Department (www.immigration.go.tz).   

Working days    Allow three working days (applications in person) or 10 days (postal applications) for visa processing if applying in advance. You can pay an additional fee for a 24-hour or same-day service.

Who Doesn’t Require a Visa? A list of Countries

As of August 2018, citizens from 66 countries can enter Tanzania without a visa. These countries are: Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Ashmore & Certie Island, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Belize, Botswana, British Indian Ocean Territory, British Virgin Island, Brunei, Cayman Island, Channel Island, Christmas Island, Cocoas Island, Cook Island, Cyprus, Dominica, Falkland Island, Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Grenada, Guernsey, Guyana, Heard Island, Hong Kong, Isle of man, Jamaica, Jersey, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Macao, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Namibia, Naue Island, Nauru, Papua new Guinea, Romania, Ross Dependency, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Helena, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, South African Republic, Solomon Island, Swaziland, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

This visa and passport information is updated regularly and is correct at the time of publishing,

We strongly recommend that you verify critical information unique to your trip with the relevant embassy before travel.

A month or two before you travel to Tanzania, you’ll need to make an appointment at your local travel clinic, or with your GP to discuss vaccinations. It’s a good idea to do this early so that any side-effects you might suffer are finished before you travel.

There are no mandatory vaccinations needed for climbing Kilimanjaro, with the exception of Yellow Fever which is compulsory for any traveler entering Tanzania from any country that is considered a risk zone for Yellow Fever.

You’ll need to consider what areas you’ll be traveling to before and after your climb.

Be prepared with travel insurance coverage through Travel Guard. Plans can include coverage for medical expenses, trip interruption and more and include emergency travel services so you can be sure that Travel Guard has an insurance plan that meets your traveling needs. Travel Guard is available to assist 24 hours a day.  

Travel Guard's Trip Insurance Plans provide valuable coverage at an affordable price and includes an early purchase benefit of a waiver of Pre-existing Medical Condition Exclusion and Cancel for Any Reason option,  if purchased within 15 days of the initial trip payment.

Your travel insurance will need to cover medical expenses that could arise while traveling abroad. In the case of a Kilimanjaro climb, you’ll need to make sure that it covers you for medical evacuation too.

Unexpected injuries and doctor visits need to be covered, and emergency evacuation expenses should you need to be airlifted off the mountain. Those situations are rare, but they do occur and you need the proper insurance.

When purchasing travel insurance it is important you understand exactly what it does, and doesn’t cover. Most basic plans will offer basic protection for trip cancellation, lost bags, and delayed flights.

However, if you need coverage beyond that (medical expenses, evacuation, etc.) then you’ll likely have to purchase a higher-tier policy.

It’s important that whatever policy you choose also covers high altitude activities. That isn’t the case with every insurance plan, so be sure to ask for it specifically.

For climbing Kilimanjaro, please note, you are not taking part in technical mountaineering, but that you are high altitude trekking up to 6,000m.

We highly recommend you add the Adventure Sports Bundle to your insurance package if you are running a marathon, climbing a mountain, scuba diving, etc.  Add the adventure sports bundle to ensure you are covered. 

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Enroll HERE → https://step.state.gov/

The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling. In tourist areas, US Dollars are also accepted and sometimes preferred. It’s best to carry both currencies. If bringing US Dollars, ensure they are in good condition and dated after 2006. You can exchange currency only at banks, so bring your passport and avoid street exchanges.

Tanzanian banknotes come in these amounts: 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 Shillings. The coins are available in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 Shillings. Currently, the exchange rate is about 1 US Dollar for 2,250 Tanzanian Shillings. For the most accurate rates, use a currency calculator.

ATM and credit cards in Tanzania

Make sure to bring enough cash for your safari. You’ll find ATMs at airports and big cities like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Moshi. In smaller places, there might not be any ATMs. If you go to northern Tanzania, look for ATMs in Karatu and Mto wa Mbu on your way to the parks. You can take out money up to 400,000 TSH, but it might be less in smaller areas. It’s also a good idea to bring a credit card so you don’t have to carry too much cash.

XE-perience currencies on the go. The XE Currency app - Everything you need for international currencies. Download Xe Currency Converter: for Android HERE  and for iOS HERE

Tanzania has 126 languages, with Swahili and English as the official ones. Swahili, or Kiswahili, is spoken by about 90% of the population and is the main language for social, political, and educational contexts. English, while the second official language, is often learned as a second or third language, with many people able to read it but struggling with spoken comprehension.

The Black Onyx Group Travel stands firmly committed to social responsibility and sustainability. The places we visit are more than just tourist attractions. They are homes to vibrant communities with rich traditions and cultures. We take it as our duty to respect and support these communities, ensuring that our travel choices positively impact them.

Our unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism and social responsibility reflects our deep care for the world we share. We passionately engage with residents and communities in the places we visit, valuing their input in shaping the course of tourism in their region. Deliberately selected local suppliers in our destinations have received comprehensive training in sustainable tourism practices. By fostering strong partnerships with local businesses, we enable them to thrive through tourism while safeguarding against exploitation. This approach effectively preserves their culture, traditions, and way of life, thereby honoring and uplifting their community.

At The Black Onyx Group Travel, we understand the crucial role of education, especially in rural areas where resources can be limited. As part of our mission, we work with our clients, business associates, partners, and donors to provide financial and essential resources such as books and clothes for children in remote areas, investing in their education and the future of their communities. Your support is vital in this effort.

At The Black Onyx Group Travel, we recognize that achieving cultural and social sustainability requires cooperation with local communities, travel companies worldwide, and the visitors we welcome. We are committed to preserving local cultures and communities and ensuring visitors have meaningful and authentic experiences. This commitment is a vital part of our mission and something we are deeply passionate about, and we will continue to uphold it in all our endeavors.

US Embassy
686 Old Bagamoyo Road,
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania 
+255 22 229 4000

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We highly recommend this product from our own personal experience.  In 2022, our TBOG Travel Team started using Mine Botanical Whipped Shea Butter with Lemongrass and Peppermint when traveling over a four month period to Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Jamaica, Australia and New Zealand.  Shocked is an understatement.  We could count on one hand how many mosquito bites the owner of TBOG Travel had gotten.  So if it works for her, who the mosquitos love..we hope it will work for you!

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Female Urination Device

Reusable Silicone Female Urinal Foolproof Women Pee Funnel Allows Women to Pee Standing Up, Women's Urinal with Drawstring Bags is The Perfect Companion for Travel and Outdoor.  For any outdoor activity, You can fold the female urinal device into the drawstring bag and carry it around. so easy and convenient, does not take up space.With it, you no longer have to worry about the dirtiness of public toilets.Highly recommended for all women who travel.  Keep in it a pouch along with Cottonelle Flushable wipes, Wet Ones or Wet Wipes, Travel Soap Sheets, and any other item you may need when using the restrooms.

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Effective January 12, 2026

The Black Onyx Group LLC, a New York limited liability company, doing business as The Black Onyx Group Travel and TBOG Travel, and operating under the trademark Reggae Runnerz (collectively referred to herein as "TBOG Travel"), establishes the following Cancellation Policy, which form part of and are incorporated into all travel bookings and agreements.

1.      Non-Refundable Travel Package
The travel package offered by TBOG Travel is non-refundable. By booking a travel experience, the traveler acknowledges and agrees that the travel package, including all amounts paid toward the package, is non-refundable except as expressly provided in this Cancellation Policy.

2.     Cancellation Submission Requirements
All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email to [email protected]. A cancellation shall not be considered received or effective unless sent to the designated email address above. The effective cancellation date shall be determined by the timestamp of the email received.

3.     Applicability and Governing Version
This Cancellation Policy applies to all bookings made on or after the Effective Date listed above. Bookings made prior to this Effective Date are governed by the Cancellation Policy in effect at the time of booking.

4.     Cancellation Deadlines and Travel Credit Eligibility
Cancellations made more than sixty (60) calendar days prior to the published departure date of the travel experience may be eligible for a travel credit, provided the traveler is in good standing and all applicable requirements under this Cancellation Policy are satisfied.

For purposes of this policy, a traveler is considered in good standing when all required payments have been made in accordance with the agreed payment schedule and no chargeback, payment dispute, or material policy violation has been initiated by the traveler.

Cancellations made sixty (60) calendar days or less prior to the published departure date of the travel experience are non-refundable and shall not qualify for travel credit under any circumstance.

5.     Non-Refundable Fees and Third-Party Supplier Charges    In the event of cancellation, certain fees are non-refundable and shall be retained by TBOG Travel. These include, but are not limited to, deposits, booking fees, administrative fees, service fees, credit card processing fees, late fees, reinstatement fees, donations, and any other specified charges associated with the travel package.

Additionally, TBOG Travel utilizes third-party suppliers, including but not limited to hotels, airlines, ground transportation providers, excursion operators, and other vendors. Such third-party suppliers may impose their own cancellation penalties, which may result in the forfeiture of up to one hundred percent (100%) of the booking cost. TBOG Travel is not responsible for refunding amounts forfeited due to third-party supplier policies.

6.     Automatic Cancellation for Non-Payment
Travelers are responsible for making all payments in accordance with their agreed payment schedule. If a payment is not received and an account becomes ninety-one (91) days past the scheduled payment due date, the reservation shall be subject to automatic cancellation for non-payment at the sole discretion of TBOG Travel. No refunds or travel credits will be issued in the event of cancellation due to non-payment.

If TBOG Travel incurs cancellation penalties, supplier charges, administrative expenses, or other related costs as a result of the traveler’s non-payment, the traveler agrees to be financially responsible for such amounts and to indemnify TBOG Travel for those costs.

7.     Cancellation by TBOG Travel
TBOG Travel reserves the right to cancel a travel experience prior to departure for any reason, including but not limited to insufficient participation, operational considerations, or circumstances beyond its control.

If TBOG Travel cancels a travel experience for reasons unrelated to force majeure, travelers will receive a travel credit equal to the total amount paid to TBOG Travel for the canceled travel package. No additional compensation, reimbursement, or damages shall be owed.

Force Majeure
TBOG Travel shall not be liable for any delay, alteration, interruption, or cancellation of a travel experience resulting from causes beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, natural disasters, weather events, government actions, travel advisories, civil unrest, labor disputes, pandemics, epidemics, airline disruptions, supplier insolvency, or other unforeseen circumstances. In such events, TBOG Travel may, at its sole discretion, offer a travel credit, but is not obligated to provide a refund.

8.     Travel Credit Policy
Travel credits issued under this Cancellation Policy may be applied solely toward designated TBOG Travel “Tour the World” travel experiences.
Travel Credit Validity
Travel credits shall expire according to the year in which the original trip was booked, as follows:
     Trips Booked in 2023 — Valid through December 31, 2026
     Trips Booked in 2024 — Valid through December 31, 2027
     Trips Booked in 2025 — Valid through December 31, 2028
     Trips Booked in 2026 — Valid through December 31, 2029

Travel credits must be applied to a new booking on or before the applicable expiration date. The new travel experience does not need to occur by the expiration date; however, the credit must be formally applied to a confirmed booking before it expires.

If the cost of the new travel experience exceeds the available travel credit, the traveler is responsible for paying the remaining balance. If the new travel experience costs less than the available credit, the unused portion shall remain as future credit subject to the original expiration date.

Travel credits:
-          Have no cash value and may not be redeemed for a refund.
-          May be transferred one (1) time to another traveler, subject to written approval by TBOG Travel and a $200 transfer fee.
-          Shall be forfeited if a chargeback or payment dispute is initiated in connection with the original booking.

9.     Chargebacks and Payment Disputes
In the event a traveler initiates a chargeback, payment dispute, or reversal with their financial institution without first providing written notice to TBOG Travel and a reasonable opportunity to resolve the matter, such action shall constitute a material breach of this agreement.

Upon initiation of a chargeback or payment dispute:
-          Any issued travel credits shall be immediately forfeited.
-          The traveler may be prohibited from booking future travel experiences with TBOG Travel.
-          TBOG Travel reserves the right to dispute and challenge the chargeback through all available legal and financial remedies.

The traveler agrees to be responsible for all administrative costs, bank fees, legal fees, arbitration costs, and collection expenses incurred by TBOG Travel as a result of any chargeback or payment dispute initiated in violation of this policy.

10.  Dispute Resolution and Binding Arbitration
Any dispute, claim, or controversy arising out of or relating to a booking with TBOG Travel, including but not limited to the interpretation, enforcement, or alleged breach of this Cancellation Policy, shall be resolved exclusively through binding arbitration.

Arbitration shall be conducted in the State of New York in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association (AAA). The arbitration shall be conducted by a single arbitrator, and judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction.

By booking a travel experience with TBOG Travel, the traveler knowingly and voluntarily waives the right to bring or participate in a lawsuit in court, including the right to a jury trial.

Class Action Waiver
The traveler further agrees that any arbitration or proceeding shall be conducted solely on an individual basis and not as part of any class, collective, consolidated, or representative action. The traveler waives the right to participate in any class action against TBOG Travel.

Governing Law
This Cancellation Policy and any dispute arising hereunder shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to conflict of law principles.

11.  Modification of Policy
TBOG Travel reserves the right to modify or update this Cancellation Policy at any time. Any such changes shall apply only to bookings made on or after the updated Effective Date. Continued use of TBOG Travel services constitutes acceptance of the most current version of this policy.

Effective December 26, 2024

The Black Onyx Group LLC, a New York limited liability company, doing business as The Black Onyx Group Travel and TBOG Travel, and operating under the trademark Reggae Runnerz (collectively referred to herein as "TBOG Travel"), establishes the following Terms & Conditions, which form part of and are incorporated into all travel bookings and agreements.

By booking with The Black Onyx Group, you acknowledge and accept the following terms and conditions:

Agent  
- The Black Onyx Group, LLC (including any affiliated entities) acts solely as a travel agent and booking intermediary. We arrange travel services provided by independent third-party suppliers such as airlines, hotels, transportation companies, cruise lines, and rail operators. These suppliers operate independently and are fully responsible for the services they provide.
- Our responsibility is limited to arranging reservations and facilitating the travel contracts between you and the independent service providers supplying your travel arrangements.
- We are not responsible for the performance, quality, or availability of any services provided by third-party suppliers. We do not make any warranties or guarantees regarding these services, and all requests remain subject to supplier approval.
- All bookings are governed by the terms, conditions, and liability limitations set by each independent service provider.
- You agree that any legal claim or remedy relating to the travel services must be directed solely to the independent service provider, not to The Black Onyx Group, LLC.

Service Classifications
- Escorted Group/Curated Packages: These experiences are sold as unified, all-inclusive itineraries that must be followed as presented. They are non-separable and non-reroutable, and may not be altered, partially used, or combined with independent arrangements. Voluntary non-participation in any scheduled tour, meal, or activity does not entitle the traveler to a refund and does not permit any independent deviations that conflict with the group schedule, escort direction, or safety requirements.
- Independent Travel Arrangements: For bookings consisting only of individual hotel and flight components without an escort, travelers have full autonomy over their daily activities. These arrangements are governed solely by the terms and conditions of the applicable third-party service providers.

Liability
- While we strive to ensure your travel arrangements meet expectations, we cannot accept liability of any kind—whether in contract, tort, or otherwise—for the acts, omissions, negligence, or defaults of any independent service provider over whom we have no direct or indirect control.
- If liability cannot legally be excluded, it is limited to the total amount paid for the specific travel arrangements. We are not responsible for any indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damage.
- We do not accept liability in contract, tort, or otherwise for any injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expense, or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by force majeure or by any other event beyond our control or not preventable through reasonable care.
- We are not responsible for any bodily injury, property damage, or other loss arising from circumstances beyond our control, including but not limited to transportation delays, airline turbulence, accidents, weather conditions, acts of God, government actions, war, terrorism, civil unrest, natural disasters, mechanical failures, illness, quarantine, theft, pandemics, epidemics, failures of public internet or telecommunications systems, or other unforeseen events. We are also not responsible for issues resulting from your physical, medical, or mental conditions, your failure to obtain required travel documents, or your failure to follow travel instructions. Under no circumstances shall The Black Onyx Group, LLC be liable for any special, incidental, or consequential damages.

Participant Conduct and Authority
- All travelers must adhere to the scheduled itinerary and instructions provided by The Black Onyx Group escort or tour leader.
- We reserve the right to terminate the participation of any traveler who refuses to follow the group itinerary or whose behavior is incompatible with the safety and interests of the group.
- If a traveler is removed from the trip or chooses to deviate from the escorted group itinerary, no refunds will be issued for unused services, and the traveler assumes all associated risks and costs.

Deposits
- A deposit is required at the time of booking. All deposits are strictly non-refundable, including cancellations, changes of mind, or any modification to the reservation.

Professional Service Fees
- A non-refundable Professional Service Fee is charged per traveler to cover itinerary planning, research, vendor coordination, reservation management, and support from registration through trip completion.
- This fee is separate from the travel package cost and is retained by The Black Onyx Group, LLC, regardless of cancellation, modification, or any change to the reservation.

Passport
- All travelers are responsible for ensuring they possess a valid passport and any required visas or travel documents for every destination on their itinerary.
- Passports must meet all entry requirements, including minimum validity rules set by immigration authorities.
- Any fines, penalties, expenses, or losses resulting from invalid, expired, or insufficient travel documentation are the traveler’s sole responsibility.

Non-Transferable
- All travel documents issued (including airline tickets, hotel vouchers, and tour vouchers) are non-transferable.
- These documents may be non-refundable, non-changeable, and subject to cancellation or amendment fees set by the service provider.

Payment & Credit Card Transactions
- If a travel service provider is unable to deliver the services contracted, all remedies must be pursued directly with that provider.
- By paying The Black Onyx Group, LLC via credit card, you agree not to initiate a chargeback for any reason.
- If a credit card or check is declined, the traveler must promptly pay all outstanding amounts by an approved payment method.

Price Variations
- Prices are subject to change based on fluctuations in exchange rates, supplier pricing, or availability.
- All published rates may be altered or withdrawn at any time until full payment is received.

Taxes and Baggage Fees
- Airline baggage policies vary by carrier. Travelers are responsible for reviewing their airline's baggage rules and fees.
- Additional airline taxes or fees may apply and are the traveler’s responsibility.

Cancellation
- All travel bookings are non-refundable and non-reroutable.
- Canceled bookings may incur charges up to 100% of the total booking cost, regardless of whether travel has commenced
- Travelers agree to indemnify The Black Onyx Group, LLC for any cancellation fees or charges assessed by suppliers.
- The Black Onyx Group, LLC reserves the right to deny or limit any requested reservation changes, including requests to deviate from the escorted group itinerary.
- Group travel packages are sold as non-separable escorted experiences; “land‑only” or “hotel‑only” modifications are not permitted once booked.

Travel Insurance
- Travelers are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance to protect their travel investment. Insurance is provided by third-party providers and is subject to their terms and conditions.

Health and Special Requirements
- Travelers must inform The Black Onyx Group, LLC of any medical, dietary, or accessibility requirements.
- While reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate requests, fulfillment is not guaranteed and depends entirely on third-party providers.

Refusal of Service
Service providers and The Black Onyx Group, LLC reserve the right to refuse service to any traveler who:
- lacks proper documentation
- has a contagious illness
- is under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- engages in disruptive or unsafe behavior
- refuses to follow escorted group instructions

By submitting payment, the traveler confirms that they have read, understood, and agree to these Terms & Conditions.

Effective December 26, 2024

The Black Onyx Group, LLC, a New York limited liability company, doing business as The Black Onyx Group Travel and TBOG Travel (“TBOG Travel,” “we,” or “our”), is committed to protecting the privacy of personal information collected through our website, booking platforms, and related services.

Information We Collect
We collect personal information voluntarily provided by you in connection with travel registrations, inquiries, and communications. This may include your name, contact information, passport details, travel preferences, payment information processed by secure third-party processors, and limited health or accessibility information necessary to coordinate travel services.

We may also collect technical information such as IP address, browser type, and website usage data through cookies and analytics tools.

How We Use Information
Personal information is used to administer travel bookings, coordinate with suppliers and service providers, communicate regarding itineraries and payments, provide customer service, improve our services, and comply with legal obligations. We may also use contact information to send updates or marketing communications, which you may opt out of at any time.

Disclosure of Information
We may disclose personal information to travel suppliers, booking platforms (including YouLi), email marketing providers (including Constant Contact), insurance partners (including Travel Guard AIG), payment processors, and professional advisors as reasonably necessary to perform our services.

We may also disclose information when required by law or to protect our legal rights and the safety of our clients. We do not sell personal information.

International Transfers
Because we coordinate international travel, personal information may be shared with service providers located outside the United States as necessary to fulfill your booking.

Data Security and Retention
We maintain reasonable administrative and technical safeguards to protect personal information. Information is retained only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes described herein or as required by law.

Privacy Rights
Depending on your state of residence, including California, you may request access to, correction of, or deletion of personal information, subject to applicable legal limitations. Requests may be submitted to [email protected].

Governing Law
This Privacy Policy is governed by the laws of the State of New York.

Policy Updates
We reserve the right to update this Privacy Policy at any time. Any changes will be posted with a revised effective date.

Contact
The Black Onyx Group Travel
[email protected]
www.theblackonyxgroup.com