Terms & Conditions
Welcome to Assal Trip's Terms and Conditions. We've organized this page to help you understand our policies for booking tours in Djibouti. Please take a moment to read through these important guidelines covering booking procedures, visa requirements, and practical travel information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
I Booking & Cancellation Policy
We aim to make your tour planning with Assal Trip simple, transparent, and fair. Please read the following policy carefully as it explains how your booking is confirmed, what deposit is required, and under what circumstances refunds are issued.
1. Confirmation of Booking
- A. To secure any booking, a 25% confirmation deposit of the total project or tour fee is required.
- B. Your booking is only confirmed once the deposit has been received and acknowledged by Assal Trip.
- C. The deposit ensures that the dates, accommodations, guides, and vehicles are reserved specifically for you.
- D. Until the deposit is received, the tour dates and services are not guaranteed.
- E. Any special requests may require additional deposits or full payment as advised at the time of booking.
2. Cancellation Policy
This policy applies when a booking is cancelled by the client. All cancellations must be submitted in writing to our reservations team.
A. Cancellation Timeframes & Refunds
1. More than 1 month before the scheduled tour start date:
- 100% refund of the deposit will be issued.
- This provides maximum flexibility if your plans change early.
2. Between 15 days and 1 month before the scheduled tour start date:
- 50% refund of the deposit will be issued.
- The remaining 50% will be retained to cover administrative and pre-booking costs.
3. Less than 15 days before the scheduled tour start date:
- No refund of the deposit will be available.
- The full deposit will be retained as compensation for the reserved scheduling and loss of business opportunities.
B. Important Notes
- Cancellation becomes effective only when acknowledged in writing by Assal Trip.
- If you cancel after this policy period, no further refund beyond the above terms will be issued.
- If you fail to join the tour, arrive late, or leave the tour before completion for any reason, no refund will be provided for the unused portion of services.
3. Cancellation by Assal Trip
- A. On rare occasions, Assal Trip may need to cancel a tour due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., weather, safety concerns, force majeure).
- B. If we cancel the tour before the departure date, you will be offered either:
- A full refund of all amounts paid, or
- A re-booking or reschedule for another available date.
- C. We will notify you as soon as possible in the event of such cancellation.
4. How Refunds Are Processed
- A. Refunds will be issued via the same payment method originally used, unless otherwise agreed.
- B. Please allow up to 30 days from the date of cancellation for the refund to be processed.
5. Exceptions & Special Cases
- A. Special custom tours, peak-season tours, or tours including third-party services (hotels, flights, activities) may have additional or different cancellation terms, which will be communicated at the time of booking.
- B. Travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover unexpected issues such as medical emergencies, travel disruptions, or personal changes.
II Visa Requirements
1. Djibouti E-Visa
All travelers visiting Djibouti must hold a valid passport with at least six (6) months validity from the date of entry.
To apply for a Djibouti e-visa, the following documents are required:
- A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- An invitation letter or a confirmed hotel reservation
- E-visa fee: 23 USD
Processing time:
- E-visa applications are generally processed within 1 to 3 working days.
- If the processing time exceeds this period, please contact Assal Trip for assistance.
Payment method:
- Card payments are accepted for e-visa applications.
2. Visa Entry Type
The Djibouti e-visa is issued as a single-entry visa. Once you leave Djibouti, you will be required to apply for a new visa to re-enter the country.
3. Visa on Arrival
Travelers may also obtain a visa on arrival at Djibouti International Airport, subject to the following conditions:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- An invitation letter or confirmed hotel booking
- Visa fee: 30 USD (payable in cash)
Important notice: Card payments are not accepted for visa on arrival. Payment must be made in cash only.
Need assistance? Assal Trip is available to support you with invitation letters, hotel bookings, and visa guidance to ensure a smooth entry into Djibouti.
III Climate and Environment
Djibouti has a hot and arid climate, with particularly high temperatures between May and September. During this period, daytime heat can be intense. Visitors are strongly advised to bring sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, breathable clothing to ensure comfort and safety while exploring the country.
IV Cultural Respect
Djibouti is a Muslim-majority country with conservative values. We expect travelers to dress modestly, especially outside tourist areas and when visiting religious sites. Alcohol consumption is limited to licensed hotels and restaurants. Respect for local traditions and customs is mandatory.
V Health & Medical Advice
Travelers are advised to bring any personal medications they may need during their stay. While basic medical services and pharmacies are available in the capital, access to medications and healthcare facilities can be limited outside Djibouti City, especially in remote or rural areas. We recommend carrying an adequate supply of essential medicines, along with copies of prescriptions if applicable, to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.