Terms and conditions
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General Terms and Conditions of Business
Dear customer,
Thank you for your interest in our activities. All our activities are subject to the following general terms and conditions. The business purpose of Saas-Fee Guides AG is to arrange mountain and glacier tours, ski and splitboard tours, bike guiding, and hiking activities.
SAAS-FEE GUIDES AG only arranges IVBV mountain guides or IVBV mountain guide candidates, as well as hiking guides, climbing guides, bike guides, or snow sports instructors with a federal certificate in the outdoor sector (hereinafter referred to as "guides"). SAAS-FEE GUIDES AG organizes tours and courses on behalf of the guides and handles administrative tasks such as reservations, advertising, and debt collection. SAAS-FEE GUIDES AG only arranges guides who possess a valid license in their sport, including all legally required insurances such as liability insurance, personal accident insurance, etc.
1. Scope of application, service content
All services provided by Saas-Fee Guides AG are governed exclusively by the following General Terms and Conditions (GTC). Customers are required to comply with the instructions of the guides to ensure the safe execution of the tour. Failure to follow the instructions releases the guide from any responsibility for the consequences.
To ensure a successful tour experience, participants must be in good physical and mental health, and their equipment should meet the CE requirements. Additionally, a high level of fitness is advantageous when taking part in the tours offered by Saas-Fee Guides AG.
While we make every effort to plan and guide our tours correctly, we cannot guarantee that the tour goal will be achieved due to potential interruptions caused by various external factors. It's also possible that short-term changes may be made during the tour if the guide determines that the originally planned route is not sufficiently safe for certain reasons.
Saas-Fee Guides AG reserves the right to cancel or modify tours if participants fail to meet the tour requirements despite prior clarification of their knowledge and experience, as this could compromise general safety. In such cases, the customer will be responsible for covering the total cost of the booked tour.
In group events, our aim at Saas-Fee Guides AG is to ensure fairness to all participants. This assumes that all group members have an understanding and tolerance for different ability levels within the chosen tour's difficulty level. We reserve the right to exclude group participants who cannot adapt and may have a negative impact on the tour experience of others, without any entitlement to a refund.
2. Registration
Registrations for all activities can be made through various channels, including telephone, email, our website, or in-person at our office. Upon registration, the general terms and conditions become part of the contract between participants and Saas-Fee Guides AG. Once registered, customers will receive written confirmation via email or SMS (subject to change). Shortly before the tour, customers will be informed about the feasibility of the tour and provided with details such as the meeting point/time and contact information of the guide. It is recommended that all participants obtain cancellation insurance.
Participants are required to notify us in advance of any health issues, specific dietary requirements, or any other concerns to ensure appropriate preparations and measures can be taken by the guide.
For individual and group activities, the minimum age for participation is set at 18 years. Younger participants may be allowed to join tours or courses upon request, but a written declaration of consent from their legal representative is required.
In the case of private groups, the designated group leader will enter into a contract on behalf of the entire group. By doing so, the group leader confirms that all participants have authorized them for this legal transaction and accept the general terms and conditions.
3.Change in the customer`s person
If a customer is unable to participate in the booked activity, they have the option to transfer the booked service to another person. However, it is essential that the replacement individual possesses the necessary fitness and experience levels required for the specific activity.
4. Liability
Despite the guide's experience and recognized training, it is important to note that they cannot provide a guarantee of 100% safety. There are inherent residual risks in outdoor activities that participants must acknowledge and accept, even with proper guidance.
Regarding errors in prices, illustrations, or texts, any claims for damages from customers are strictly excluded. In the event of such errors, Saas-Fee Guides AG will make reasonable efforts to rectify them, but no liability can be assumed for any resulting damages or claims.
5. Insurance
All guides from Saas-Fee Guides AG are covered by the legally required liability insurance. However, it is important to note that participants are responsible for obtaining their own private insurance, such as accident insurance. This ensures that individuals are adequately protected during the activities. Helicopter and terrestrial mountain rescue operations often involve significant costs that are typically not covered by social security agencies. To avoid participants having to bear these costs themselves, we strongly recommend taking out travel and cancellation insurance. This provides coverage in case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, it is the customer's responsibility to comply with all visa and customs regulations. If entry is refused, the customer will be responsible for covering the costs of the booked tour themselves.
6. Indemnification
The guide will not be held responsible in cases of negligence on the part of the client. Similarly, the guides of Saas-Fee Guides AG cannot accept responsibility for accidents or damages resulting from alpine hazards, including but not limited to falling rocks, falling risks, avalanche danger, glacial crevasse falls, altitude sickness, dizziness, and fear of heights. In the event of a proven and culpable breach of contract, the guide's liability will be limited to the compensation covered by the liability insurance taken out. Saas-Fee Guides AG excludes any claims for compensation based on lost holiday enjoyment following accidents.
7. Prices
All tour costs with Saas-Fee Guides AG include an agency fee and VAT, in addition to the guide costs. If the tour concludes at a different location than the starting point, the prices listed on our website typically include return transport, unless otherwise specified. However, it's important to note that tour prices do not include drinks, rental equipment, and mountain railway tickets. All prices are stated in Swiss francs, and for payments in euros, the current exchange rate will be applied. Please be aware that Saas-Fee AG reserves the right to make price adjustments at any time.
8. Incidental expenses
Unless specifically arranged otherwise, the customer is responsible for covering all additional costs associated with the tour, including overnight stays in huts, mountain railway tickets, meals, rental equipment, accommodation, and travel expenses. Similarly, the customer is also responsible for covering the costs related to the guide, such as accommodation in huts, meals, and transportation expenses, including mountain railway fees.
9. Rental equipment
The person renting the equipment assumes full responsibility for it. The use of the rental equipment is at the customer's own risk. Saas-Fee AG, along with all partners and manufacturers, disclaim any liability for any damages incurred by the user of the equipment or any third parties. It is the customer's responsibility to return the rental equipment to Saas-Fee AG in its original condition. The customer will be held accountable for any damage or loss of the rental equipment.
10. Booking Fee
To confirm and secure any reservation with Saas-Fee Guides, a booking fee is required at the time of booking. This fee serves as a confirmation of the client's intention to participate in the scheduled activity and allows us to allocate guides, equipment, and other essential resources accordingly.
Please note the following conditions regarding the booking fee:
Cancellations by Saas-Fee Guides
If, on the scheduled date, the planned activity cannot take place due to unfavorable weather conditions, safety risks, or other operational constraints, Saas-Fee Guides will make every reasonable effort to reschedule the tour to a later date that is mutually acceptable for both the client and our team.
However, if no suitable alternative date can be arranged or if rescheduling proves impossible, the booking fee will be fully refunded.
Client Rescheduling Requests
Once a booking is confirmed, cancellation by the client is not permitted. However, if the client is unable to attend the activity on the scheduled date due to personal reasons or unforeseen circumstances, they may request to reschedule the tour.
We will do our best to accommodate such requests, provided that the new date is mutually acceptable and the request is made with sufficient notice.
The booking fee will be transferred to the new date and remains non-refundable.
Purpose of the Booking Fee
The booking fee is not an additional charge; it is deducted from the total cost of the activity. It represents a partial prepayment and demonstrates mutual commitment between the client and Saas-Fee Guides.
By completing a booking and paying the booking fee, the client acknowledges and accepts these terms.
11. Tour guide short notice cancellation
If the assigned guide becomes unavailable at short notice for various reasons, Saas-Fee Guides AG will make every effort to provide a replacement guide if one is available. In such cases, the tour can proceed as planned with the replacement guide.
However, if a replacement guide is not available, the tour may need to be postponed or canceled. Saas-Fee Guides AG will work closely with the customer to find the best possible solution in such situations, taking into consideration the customer's preferences and availability of alternative options.
12. Customer itinerary changes
If the customer requests to change the planned tour at short notice, specifically less than 3 days before the scheduled tour, to a cheaper alternative, the customer will be responsible for covering the price difference between the original tour and the new, cheaper tour. The price adjustment will reflect the difference in cost between the two tours, and the customer will be required to pay the additional amount if the new tour is less expensive than the originally booked one.
13. Customer complaints
To ensure prompt resolution of any damage suffered and complaints, it is important to report them to Saas-Fee Guides AG in writing within a period of 30 calendar days. You can submit your report either by email or by post. It is crucial to adhere to this timeframe, as failure to do so may result in the expiration of all claims related to the complaint.
14. Visuals
During tours and courses, our guides may have the capability to capture pictures and videos that prominently feature the participants. These visuals may be used for advertising purposes and on social media platforms. By making a booking, participants automatically grant consent for the use of their images in such materials. However, if a participant does not wish to have their images used in this manner, they must inform us in writing before the commencement of the tour/course. At the latest, the participant must notify us when the pictures/videos are being taken. This ensures that their preferences regarding the use of their visuals are respected.
15. Data protection
Saas-Fee Guides AG respects the privacy and confidentiality of customer data. In order to provide a personalized and enhanced experience, customer data will be shared with the respective tour guide responsible for the specific booking. This enables the guide to efficiently cater to the customer's needs during the tour or course. Additionally, SAAS-FEE GUIDES AG may use customer data, with the customer's explicit consent, to send newsletters and advertising materials. This allows customers to stay informed about new offerings, updates, and promotions. However, the customer's consent is essential for such communications, and their preferences will be respected.
16. Animals
Please note that pets and any other animals are strictly prohibited from participating in any of our activities. This policy is in place for the safety and well-being of all participants, as well as to maintain the integrity of our tours and courses.
17. Scope of Application
Saas-Fee Guides AG, based in Saas-Fee, owns the rental mountain bikes and provides the service of bike rental. By entering into the rental agreement, the customer automatically agrees to the general terms and conditions and confirms that they have read and accepted the terms and conditions.
18. Contractual Relationships
The contracting parties entering into the contract are Saas-Fee Guides AG and the customer.
19. Prerequisites for Mountain Bike Rental Contract
Children and adolescents under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Alternatively, rental mountain bikes may be issued to customers under the age of 16 if they can provide a written consent form from a legal guardian. The minimum age for riding an electrically assisted bike is 16 years according to Swiss law, or 14 years with a valid moped license.
20. Rental Equipment Handover
By accepting the contract, the customer undertakes to return the mountain bike before the expiration of the contractually agreed rental period and during the opening hours of the bike station at the agreed return location. Any complaints by the customer must be reported to the rental provider immediately upon receiving the mountain bike. Any costs associated with late returns or incorrect return of the mountain bike are the responsibility of the customer. All rental equipment must be returned in complete and impeccable condition. Damaged or lost equipment will be charged to the customer. The renting person bears full responsibility for the rental equipment. Usage is at the customer's own risk. Saas-Fee AG, as well as all partners and manufacturers, assume no liability for any damages to the user of the equipment or third parties.
21. Prices
The prices published on the website of Saas-Fee Guides AG are applicable. All prices are stated in Swiss Francs. For payments in Euros, the current exchange rate will be applied. Saas-Fee AG reserves the right to make any price adjustments at any time. Discounts cannot be combined.
22. Extension of Rental Period
An extension of the rental period is only possible with prior clarification and approval from the rental provider. The rental provider reserves the right to refuse an extension without providing specific reasons. The additional fee for the extension must be paid upon return of the mountain bike the latest.
23. Damages, Theft, and Loss
The customer is liable for any damages caused to the rental item during the rental period, including theft, vandalism, falls, manipulation, and misuse. The customer is obligated to immediately report any damage or loss cases to Saas-Fee Guides AG. In the event of damage to the rental item caused by the customer, the customer may replace it with an equivalent item or alternatively be financially responsible for the damage and any additional costs. The customer is responsible for the return transportation of the damaged rental item to the designated return location. If this is not possible, the customer must bear the additional costs. Minor damages or losses will be charged to the customer directly upon return of the mountain bike at the bike station, according to the official price list of Saas-Fee Guides AG. The customer is responsible for securing the rental items and assumes full liability for any theft or vandalism by third parties during the rental period. In such a case, the customer is responsible for the full extent of the damage. If the customer hands over the rental item to a third party, the customer is also liable for damages caused by third parties.
24. Accidents
All accidents involving property damage or personal injury must be reported immediately to Saas-Fee Guides AG. In addition, personal injuries, damage to third-party property, and involvement of a third party in an accident must be documented in an accident report and reported to the police. A copy of the accident report must be provided to Saas-Fee Guides AG.
25. Use and Prohibitions of Rental Items
During the rental period, the customer is obliged to comply with the Swiss Road Traffic Act and is responsible for any damages resulting from non-compliance. The use of rental items for racing purposes is strictly prohibited. The transportation of more than one person at a time is not allowed, and the customer is liable for any damages resulting from misuse of the mountain bikes. The customer is required to wear a helmet at all times during the tour/rental period. Responsible behaviour, and especially the proper self-assessment during challenging sections of the route, is expected from the customer. The customer is obligated to carry sufficient provisions and, if needed, medication. Saas-Fee Guides AG disclaims any liability for incidents resulting from insufficient supplies. Any allergies or health restrictions (such as bee allergies or asthma) must be communicated to the staff at the bike station prior to the start of the rental period.
26. Additional Insurance
Saas-Fee Guides AG offers its guests the option to purchase a cancellation insurance for a fee of 5% of the booking price. This insurance covers the contractually owed costs in the event of illness, injury, medical issues, death, or cancellation due to other reasons listed in the general insurance terms and conditions. The customer must notify Saas-Fee AG about his interest to arrange for this additional insurance upon booking. The insurance can only be purchased if the customer provides all the necessary information for the insurance application.
27. Place of jurisdiction
In the event of a dispute arising from any matters related to our services or agreements, the exclusive jurisdiction for resolving such disputes shall be the Swiss courts. The designated place of jurisdiction is Visp, located in the canton of Valais.
28. Modification to the terms and conditions
Saas-Fee Guides AG retains the right to modify the General Terms and Conditions (GTC) at any given time. It is important to note that the most up-to-date version of the GTC can be accessed on our official website: www.saasfeeguides.com
29. Supplementary clause
In the event that any provision mentioned in the contract is deemed ineffective or invalid, it is important to note that the validity of the remaining provisions is unaffected. In such a situation, both parties are committed to applying a provision that closely resembles the intent and purpose of the invalid clause to the greatest extent possible.