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Cancellation Policy

Last updated: December 2024

1. Overview

We understand that plans can change. This Cancellation Policy outlines the terms and conditions for cancellations, refunds, and modifications to your booking with Yodsel Tours & Treks.

2. Cancellation by Client

If you need to cancel your booking, the following cancellation fees will apply based on when we receive your written cancellation notice:

  • 60+ days before departure: Full refund minus $100 administrative fee per person
  • 45-59 days before departure: 25% of total tour cost
  • 30-44 days before departure: 50% of total tour cost
  • 15-29 days before departure: 75% of total tour cost
  • 14 days or less before departure: 100% of total tour cost (no refund)

Note: The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is refundable if cancelled before the visa is issued. Once the visa is processed, the SDF is non-refundable per Bhutan government regulations.

3. Cancellation by Yodsel Tours & Treks

We reserve the right to cancel a tour under the following circumstances:

  • Insufficient number of participants for group tours
  • Force majeure events (natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics)
  • Government travel restrictions or advisories
  • Safety concerns

In such cases, you will be offered the choice of:

  • A full refund of all payments made
  • Credit towards a future tour of equal value
  • An alternative tour of similar value

4. Modifications to Booking

If you wish to modify your booking (change dates, itinerary, or number of travelers):

  • More than 45 days before departure: One free modification allowed (subject to availability)
  • 30-44 days before departure: $50 modification fee per person
  • Less than 30 days before departure: Treated as cancellation and rebooking; standard cancellation fees apply

Any price differences due to changes in travel dates or services will be charged or refunded accordingly.

5. No-Show Policy

If you fail to arrive for your scheduled tour without prior notice ("no-show"), no refund will be provided. This includes:

  • Missing your international flight to Bhutan
  • Failure to obtain required travel documents
  • Denied entry due to visa or passport issues

6. Early Departure

If you choose to leave a tour early for any reason:

  • No refund will be provided for unused services
  • Any additional costs incurred (transportation, accommodation) will be your responsibility
  • The SDF for remaining nights is non-refundable once the tour has commenced

7. Refund Process

  • All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email to bhutanyodsel@gmail.com
  • Refunds will be processed within 14-21 business days of receiving your cancellation request
  • Refunds will be made using the same payment method as the original transaction
  • Bank transfer fees or currency conversion differences may apply and will be deducted from the refund

8. Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage. This can protect you from financial loss due to unforeseen circumstances such as:

  • Medical emergencies
  • Family emergencies
  • Natural disasters
  • Travel delays or interruptions

Please ensure your insurance policy covers the full cost of your trip.

9. Force Majeure

Neither party shall be liable for any failure to perform due to circumstances beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to:

  • Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, landslides)
  • Severe weather conditions
  • War, terrorism, or civil unrest
  • Epidemics or pandemics
  • Government actions or travel restrictions
  • Airline cancellations or strikes

10. Group Bookings

For group bookings (6 or more travelers), special cancellation terms may apply. Please contact us directly for group booking terms and conditions.

11. Contact Us

For cancellation requests or questions about this policy:

Yodsel Tours & Treks

Thimphu, Bhutan

Email: bhutanyodsel@gmail.com

Phone: +975 17 127 071