1. Introduction

Welcome to AstralHike. By using our website and services, you agree to comply with and be bound by the following terms and conditions. These terms govern your relationship with AstralHike regarding your use of the platform to book hiking tours.

2. AstralHike as a Marketplace

Service Provider:

AstralHike provides an online platform that connects hikers with independent third-party tour operators and guides ("Organizers").

No Direct Service:

AstralHike does not own, create, sell, or manage the hiking tours. The contract for the tour is directly between the Hiker and the Organizer.

Accuracy:

While we strive for accuracy, the Organizers are responsible for the details, prices, and availability listed in their itineraries.

3. Booking and Payments

Confirmation:

A booking is considered confirmed only after the full payment or required deposit is processed through the AstralHike platform.

Pricing:

All prices are set by the Organizers. AstralHike may charge a platform service fee which is clearly indicated at checkout.

Payment Security:

We use secure third-party payment gateways. AstralHike does not store your credit card or sensitive financial information on our servers.

4. Cancellation and Refunds

Unified Policies:

Each tour is subject to a specific cancellation policy (Flexible, Moderate, or Strict) as chosen by the Organizer and displayed on the listing page.

Weather and Force Majeure:

Hiking is weather-dependent. If an Organizer cancels due to safety concerns (e.g., typhoon, volcanic activity, or government closure), the Hiker is entitled to a refund or rescheduling based on the Organizer's specific policy and AstralHike's safety guidelines.

Processing Time:

Refunds may take 7-14 business days to process depending on your bank or payment provider.

5. Health and Safety

Physical Fitness:

By booking a hike, you represent that you are in good physical health and have no medical conditions that would make the activity dangerous for you.

Assumption of Risk:

You acknowledge that hiking involves inherent risks, including but not limited to physical injury, altitude sickness, and exposure to nature. You agree to assume all such risks.

Adherence to Rules:

You agree to follow all safety instructions provided by the Lead Guide and to respect the "Leave No Trace" principles to protect the environment.

6. Limitation of Liability

No Liability for Accidents:

AstralHike shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, or delay that may occur during the fulfillment of the tour organized by third-party Service Providers.

Insurance:

We strongly recommend that all hikers obtain their own personal travel and medical insurance prior to any climb.

7. Prohibited Conduct

Users agree not to:

• Use the platform for any illegal purpose.
• Bypass the platform to pay an Organizer directly (this helps us protect your booking).
• Post false or defamatory reviews about Organizers.