Legal
General terms and conditions
The conditions that govern bookings, payments, and our mutual obligations.
These terms apply to all journeys operated by Heritage and Routes. They are summarised here; the full contractual terms are sent in writing with each booking proposal and signed by both parties before deposit.
1. Booking and confirmation
A booking is confirmed when (a) a written proposal has been issued by Heritage and Routes, (b) the traveller or B2B partner has signed and returned the contract, and (c) the deposit has been received. Until all three steps are completed, the booking is not confirmed and Heritage and Routes does not hold dates or accommodation.
2. Payment
Deposit of 25% of total programme cost is due at booking confirmation. Balance is due 60 days before departure. Payments are accepted by international bank transfer in USD or EUR. We do not accept credit card payments for full programme costs.
3. Cancellation by traveller
More than 90 days before departure: full refund minus 25% deposit. 60–90 days: 50% refund. 30–60 days: 25% refund. Less than 30 days: no refund. Travel insurance is mandatory and we recommend a policy with trip-cancellation coverage.
4. Cancellation by Heritage and Routes
In the event of force majeure (political instability, public health emergency, natural disaster, festival cancellation by traditional authorities), Heritage and Routes will offer alternative dates within 12 months or refund 100% of payments minus non-recoverable third-party costs.
5. Liability and insurance
Heritage and Routes carries professional liability insurance and is registered with the appropriate Beninese tourism authorities. Travellers are required to carry comprehensive travel insurance including medical, evacuation, and trip cancellation. Heritage and Routes is not liable for personal injury or loss arising from non-compliance with our health and safety briefings.
6. Code of conduct
Travellers are expected to follow the protocols we brief on — respect for traditional authorities, religious spaces, and the communities we visit. Heritage and Routes reserves the right to remove a traveller from a programme without refund in cases of serious or repeated breach.
7. Applicable law and jurisdiction
These terms are governed by Beninese law. Any dispute is subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of Cotonou. For B2B partners, alternative jurisdiction may be specified in the partnership agreement.
Last updated: June 2026. These conditions are summary; full contractual terms are provided in writing at booking.
Questions on anything not covered here?