Terms & Conditions – Thandile Wild Heart Volunteers

1. Duration of Stay
All volunteers commit to a minimum stay of 3 weeks. This ensures a meaningful experience for both volunteers and the animals they work with.

2. Application & Payment

• To confirm your place, we require an initial deposit.

• The program cost can be paid in 2 to 4 instalments, depending on what suits you best.

• The first payment counts as a non-refundable deposit.

• Full payment must be completed at least 2 weeks before arrival, unless otherwise agreed.

3. Right of Withdrawal (EU Law)
You have a 14-day cooling-off period, during which you may cancel your participation without any cost. We will refund your deposit in full.

4. Cancellation Policy

• Cancellation more than 30 days before arrival: 50% refund of total amount paid.

• Cancellation less than 30 days before arrival: no refund.

• Exceptions may be made in case of serious illness, death of a loved one, or force majeure. In such cases, a refund or credit for future participation may be considered.

5. Travel Arrangements & Insurance

• Thandile offers optional airport transfers to and from the lodge for an additional fee.

• All participants are required to have valid travel and health insurance, covering medical emergencies, cancellation, liability, and loss/theft of personal items.

• Thandile Wildheart Volunteers is not liable for injuries, damages, or losses that occur during your travel or stay.

6. Health & Safety

• You must be in good mental and physical health to participate. If you have medical conditions that may affect your participation, please inform us beforehand.

• We reserve the right to request a medical certificate or deny participation based on health risks.

• Volunteers must follow all safety guidelines provided by the team and behave responsibly around animals and equipment.

7. Code of Conduct

• Respectful behaviour towards staff, fellow volunteers, animals, and the environment is expected at all times.

• Discrimination, aggression, or unsafe behaviour will not be tolerated.

• Thandile Wildheart Volunteers reserves the right to terminate your stay without refund in case of inappropriate conduct.

8. Volunteer Responsibilities

• Volunteers contribute to the daily running of the lodge, including horse care, construction tasks, and supporting events or guests.

• Working hours are approximately 08:00–13:00, five days per week, but flexibility is expected.

• You are encouraged to take part in activities and contribute to the overall atmosphere of the lodge.

9. Changes to the Program
The program is subject to change due to weather, animal health, or logistical reasons. We always aim to provide a rewarding alternative when adjustments are needed.

10. Accommodation & Facilities

• You will stay in shared volunteer housing on or near the lodge grounds.

• Three meals per day are included in the program fee.

• Laundry and WiFi are available but may be limited in certain areas or times.

• You are responsible for keeping your space clean and respecting the shared facilities.

11. Free Time & Extra Activities
After working hours, you are free to relax, explore, or book additional activities (e.g. safaris, elephant experiences). These are at your own cost and can be arranged on request.

12. Use of Photos & Content

• We may use photos or videos taken during your stay for promotional purposes.

• If you do not wish to appear in our content, please inform us in advance.

13. Liability & Risk

• Participation is at your own risk. Although we take safety seriously, working with animals and being in nature always involves a level of risk.

• Thandile Wildheart Volunteers is not liable for injuries, illnesses, accidents, or damage to personal belongings.

14. Contact & Support
If you have questions or concerns before or during your stay, please contact us at:
info@thandilewildheartvolunteers.com 
or send us an message:  +31640825534