Camel Treks Australia Pty Ltd 

9. PRIOR TO YOUR CAMEL TREK / JOURNEY

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9.1 Travel Insurance:

Attendance requires adequate insurance for the entire Camel Trek or International Journey duration. We strongly recommend comprehensive coverage for cancellation, medical needs, evacuation, luggage, and additional expenses. The choice of insurer is yours. Purchase insurance when paying your deposit, as cancellation fees may apply from that point. CTA further requests that individual policies are emailed to us which would be used in the event of an unforeseen medical emergency. 

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9.2 Passports, Visas & Vaccinations:

For non-Australian citizens, ensure a valid passport with sufficient validity and required visas for arrival in Australia or if joining International Journeys facilitated by third-party operators. Responsibility also includes obtaining necessary vaccinations or preventive medicines for the entire Journey.

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9.3 (a) Health & Fitness:

Ensure you have a suitable level of health and fitness for the Camel Trek, drawing insights from testimonials on Trip Advisor and Google. Complete the 'Medical Waiver Form' after receiving the Booking Confirmation and before travel. Failure to do so may result in booking cancellation without a refund. The Medical Waiver form is used in conjunction with our commitment to collaborate with The Royal Flying Doctor Service. It is accessed to ensure a correct flow of information regarding your medical history in the event of a medical emergency.

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Some Outback Treks involve steep sand dunes and uneven gibber plains, potentially tiring for guests walking versus riding camels. Adaptability is crucial without commonplace indoor comforts. Reasonable mobility is required, including entering and exiting ground-level swags and alighting vehicles unaided by Cameleers. Notify us in advance for wheelchair or walker accommodation, as our vehicles lack lifts or ramps.  Advanced notice is essential for proper planning, especially for those requiring a support person.

PLEASE NOTE: Do not book without prior discussion if a support person is needed, as individual assessments are required for feasibility. 

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Further please understand that Camel Treks Australia operates in remote landscapes across Australia, Mongolia, India, and Morocco, where good general fitness is a requirement for attendance. It is vital that all individuals booking a trek meet the outlined criteria. We take all due care to communicate the fitness standards necessary for participation, and we reserve the right to refuse entry to anyone whose health may be compromised. If you are experiencing discomfort, injured, or unwell, we kindly ask that you refrain from participating in particular activities. In certain cases, a letter of medical support may be required, especially for conditions outlined here in our BOOKING TERMS & CONDITIONS.

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9.3 (b) Weight Limit:

The weight limit for participants attending Australian based Camel Treks 100 kg. This limit is established because our camel treks involve full riding days, where participants may be in the saddle from morning until afternoon. Exceeding this weight can compromise balance and safety. After many years of facilitating treks, we have found that participants over the 100 kg weight limit have often been unable to walk distances when not riding, requiring vehicle pickups. However, we are not always in locations where vehicle access is readily available, making it difficult to provide the necessary support in a timely manner. In the past, we have had participants who exceeded the weight limit struggle to maintain balance, risking falls, and requiring the immediate support of our cameleers to adjust saddles and hold them steady. This situation is not sustainable and poses safety risks for riders, camels and cameleers. To ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, as well as the welfare of our camels, we will have scales available on treks to confirm compliance with the weight limit if there is any doubt regarding a participant's weight. Exceeding this limit can impact the rider's experience and place undue stress on the camels, compromising their health and performance.

If you are over 100 kg and would like to discuss your individual circumstances, please email Camel Treks Australia at cameltreksaustralia@gmail.com.

 

Our Cameleers offer general assistance throughout the Camel Trek but cannot meet the needs of guests requiring regular medical attention or act as carers. For special assistance, be accompanied by a support person. If unsure about your ability to undertake the Camel Trek, email us to discuss your circumstances before booking.

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9.3 (c) Disabilities We Are Unable to support:

Our camel trekking experiences take place in remote desert environments that require participants to manage the physical and environmental demands of these conditions. Our cameleers are either outdoor trained or possess extensive outdoor experience, which informs our ability to support guests with specific needs.

Note: Individuals with disabilities that significantly impact their ability to participate in camel trekking should be aware that certain conditions may prevent participation. This includes short-term conditions (e.g., fractured limbs, temporary illnesses like influenza) and certain physical limitations. Individuals with conditions such as hip and knee replacements may participate if their range of movement has been assessed by a doctor or physiotherapist and deemed suitable for camel trekking. A letter of medical support must be submitted to Camel Treks Australia to help us understand how to best assist guests upon arrival.

Categories of Disabilities

Hearing/Deaf:
Individuals with hearing impairments may encounter challenges in communication, which could result in missing important safety instructions. Those with a letter from a health professional confirming their ability to participate may be accommodated, potentially with the assistance of a carer.

Please note that while we strive to provide support, none of our staff members are trained in sign language, specifically Auslan (Australian Sign Language). Auslan is the primary sign language used by the Deaf community in Australia, and it employs specific signs, grammar, and syntax distinct from spoken English. As such, we may not be able to fully support guests who rely on Auslan for communication.

Physical:
Disabilities that affect mobility or dexterity, such as amputation, chronic arthritis, or conditions like cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis, can impact a person's ability to mount a camel or walk distances. A letter from a healthcare provider is necessary, and participants may alternate between full participation and activities supported by camp staff or vehicles.

Intellectual:
Individuals with intellectual disabilities are required to attend with a suitably trained carer who can provide necessary support throughout the experience. The carer must submit a letter of medical support to ensure that the individual’s needs are adequately addressed.

Learning:
Learning disabilities may affect a person's ability to follow instructions or process information. Participants with learning disabilities can join if they provide a letter from a healthcare professional, allowing us to tailor our support. A support person may be beneficial for navigating the trek.

Mental Illness:
Individuals experiencing mental health challenges may find it difficult to cope with the demands of a remote environment. A letter from a mental health professional is essential to outline the individual's needs, and accommodations can be made as necessary. A support person may also be required for assistance.

Acquired Brain Impairment:
Individuals with cognitive impairments resulting from brain injury may face challenges with memory, processing, and coordination. A letter from a healthcare provider is essential to outline their capacity for participation. A support person may be required to ensure safety and facilitate participation in the trek.

Vision:
Individuals with partial or complete loss of sight may have significant challenges navigating the uneven terrain. A medical letter indicating their ability to participate is required, and we will work to ensure appropriate support is available. A support person may also be necessary to assist with navigation.

Medical Condition:
Temporary or permanent medical conditions can lead to fluctuating health levels that may pose risks in a remote trekking environment. Participants should provide a letter from a healthcare professional detailing their condition and any necessary accommodations. A support person is required to ensure safety and well-being.

Other:
This category includes disabilities not covered by the above points, such as spectrum disorders. A letter from a healthcare provider is essential to assess how we can best support individuals during the trek. A support person may be necessary to ensure a safe and inclusive experience.

Conclusion: Camel Treks Australia is ever mindful of our responsibilities when taking guests into remote landscapes. Our policies and procedures are designed to protect individuals who may otherwise face significant challenges in environments that are not suited for specialised health care support. We would like to conclude this point by sharing that 99% of our clients are over 65 years of age, with our eldest regular repeat guest now aged 82. We do not impose age limits, as health can vary widely, and often mature individuals are fitter than younger participants. Guests wishing to participate in treks with known disabilities must initially contact Camel Treks Australia via email. Attendance will be determined at the discretion of the Director of Camel Treks Australia, taking into consideration medical support letters, the number of current bookings for the specific trek dates, and our capacity to provide adequate support. Ultimately, we hold full responsibility for the acceptance of individuals attending with known disabilities. ​​​

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9.3 (d) Regarding Medical Conditions:

The importance of transparency regarding medical conditions prior to participating in our treks cannot be understated. Over our 27 years of operations, we have encountered guests arriving without prior notification of serious medical issues, including but not limited to: brain tumours, broken ankles in moon boots, broken arms in casts, heavily pregnant women, advanced Parkinson's disease, mental illness, chronic drug addiction, acute infections, and various forms of cancers (pancreatic, brain, bowel, kidney, and bladder).

While we are passionate about welcoming guests from all walks of life, we must prioritise the safety and well-being of all participants. Arrivals with undisclosed medical conditions can significantly impact our ability to facilitate our programs and can lead to distress among other guests.

Moving forward, any individuals arriving with undisclosed medical conditions that exceed our capacity to manage will be transported to the Marree Medical Centre at their own expense. They will remain there until we can arrange a return charter to Port Augusta City or until deemed appropriate by the medical professionals in Marree township who work in conjunction with the Royal Flying Doctor Service. 

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9.4 Existing Medical Conditions:

If you have a medical condition that could reasonably be expected to increase your risk of requiring medical attention or special assistance, or that could significantly impact the standard conduct of the Camel Trek, please inform us before making your booking. We may request an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If the assessment indicates that you are unfit for the Trek and would require special assistance that we cannot reasonably provide, we may, regrettably, have to decline your booking unavoidably.

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9.5 New Medical Conditions:

You are required to inform us of any new or changed medical conditions that could reasonably be expected to increase your risk of requiring medical attention, special assistance, or that may significantly affect your ability to participate in a Camel Trek. We may request an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If the assessment indicates that you are unfit to travel or will require special assistance that we cannot reasonably provide, or if you fail to provide a medical assessment within a reasonable timeframe upon our request, this will be considered a cancellation by you, and cancellation fees will apply based on the timeframe of the cancellation. The possibility of a support person attending as an alternative for your participation can be discussed; see 9.3.

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9.6 Illness, Intoxication, and Behaviour at Commencement:

Camel Treks Australia reserves the right to refuse confirmation of your Camel Trek booking, permit you to commence the Camel Trek/Journey, or remove you from the Trek/Journey without liability or obligation to provide an alternative if, at the commencement of the Camel Trek, you present with a visible illness, infection, injury, disease, or other medically considered condition that could jeopardise the safety of yourself, other guests, or our employees. Furthermore, if we consider a person to be under the influence of recreational drugs or alcohol, displaying symptoms of intoxication, we may proceed to either a Medical Clinic, Hospital, or the local police station for assessment and appropriate action.

​Additionally, disruptive or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated. Camel Treks Australia reserves the right to take appropriate action, including removal from the Camel Trek, without any liability or alternative obligation, if a participant engages in behaviour deemed unsafe, disrespectful, or disruptive to the Camel Trek's overall well-being.

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9.7 Dietary Requirements:

Special dietary requests must be communicated to us within 30 days after we issue your Booking Confirmation. We will make every effort to relay your requirements to relevant suppliers. However, we cannot guarantee that suppliers will meet all requests and Cameleers are located in a remote location. It remains your responsibility to verify that meals and beverages align with your allergen specifications. We explicitly disclaim any liability for meals or beverages containing allergens, except in instances where our negligence is evident. Notwithstanding this disclaimer, we routinely accommodate guests with known anaphylactic conditions and severe allergies. Such guests are encouraged to either bring their own supplies which we can easily store and keep cool, or trust us to cater to them to the best of our abilities.

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9.8 Medical and Risk Waiver Form

At the time of booking you will be directed to read our medical and risk waiver form.  You acknowledge that your Camel Trek may expose you to inherent personal risks which may be greater than those present in your everyday life. This could be because of the adventurous nature of the Camel Trek, travelling through and visiting remote destinations, and interactions with wildlife. You travel on the basis that you accept these inherent risks and that to the fullest extent permitted by law we will not be responsible for any personal injury or death resulting from the materialisation of an inherent risk.

​You acknowledge and agree that your participation in the Camel Trek may be subject to you agreeing to a form of risk acceptance and waiver of liability for participation in the activity. This form applies to our Australian and International Camel Treks / Journeys.

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9.9. Deemed Acceptance:

If you make a booking on behalf of another party, you affirm and assure us that you are duly authorised to convey the agreement and consent of the other party to be bound by these Booking Conditions. By doing so, you acknowledge that you will be accountable for any loss or damage incurred by us, which would not have occurred had the other party's agreement and consent been accurately represented. All guests however must complete their own medical waiver form and participants under the age of 18 years must be assisted by their guardian/parent, and signed by the guardian/parent.

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10. Safety and Health Considerations

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10.1 Seatbelts:

In instances where a vehicle, vessel, or aircraft is equipped with seatbelts, adherence to wearing them while on board is mandatory. To the fullest extent permitted by law, our liability for personal injury, death, or other damages arising from an accident involving a vehicle, during the Trek will be limited or excluded to the extent that the failure to wear a supplied seatbelt contributed to or caused the injury or death.

 

10.2 General Good Health

In order to participate, persons must be in good general health. If in doubt please consult with your health professional. Camel Treks Australia's staff are not trained medical professionals and we facilitate Camel Treks in remote locations. We are therefore unable to offer responsibility for persons with mental health challenges or physical challenges. In the past we have made exceptions for persons with physical challenges with prior consultation, which at times has included conversations with an individual's Doctor, and or family members attending to act as support persons throughout the Camel Trek. Camel Treks Australia is focused on a Camel Trek flowing smoothly so as to best look after all Camel Trekkers and therefore avoid delays in our daily Camel Trek facilitation. Persons arriving with significant signs of illness, such that it would prevent their participation, may be requested to engage in conversation with a Royal Flying Medical Doctor representative, and potentially be transported at their own expense to the nearest medical centre.

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10.3 Vaccination policy

We do not require proof of vaccination, however we do ask that persons avoid arriving unwell and will defer their Camel Treks for persons unwell prior to their Camel Trek departure date. In the event of a true illness, unavoidable emergency, all or part of your Trek fee may be applied to a future trek. We will do our very best to reschedule your Camel Trek for another time that is convenient to you. We will however require a Doctor's certificate or other such evidence for short notice cancellations.

 

10.4 COVID 19 - Pandemic and viruses

Under work health and safety laws, Camel Treks Australia is required to take care of the health, safety and welfare of its cameleers and guests. Should COVID 19 or any other similar virus instigate State guidelines, or another pandemic scenario occur, Camel Treks Australia will act in accordance with State regulations, which may prevent our normal trekking calendar. This is beyond our personal control and any booked Camel Treks cancelled would be rescheduled.

 

10.5 Extreme Weather Events

Camel Treks Australia accepts that extreme weather events can impact our capacity to facilitate advertised and booked scheduled Camel Treks. Should a Camel Trek departure date be negatively affected we will do our utmost to offer advanced notification and will additionally do our best to reschedule all inconvenienced guests into their next preferred Camel Trek date depending on vacancies and availability.

 

All Camel Treks are conducted outdoors and are subject to weather conditions. In the event of extreme changes in wind speed, temperature, or rain, itineraries may be cancelled or altered to ensure your safety and provide the best possible experience during your time with us.

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10.6 In the event of an emergency

In the event of an emergency, I hereby authorise Camel Treks Australia Pty Ltd, or any member of its staff (including contracted staff), to call the Royal Flying Doctor Service. This may involve utilizing a remote ambulance service from Marree township or a Royal Flying Doctor flight landing at the airstrip on Clayton Station on my behalf. Additionally, I authorize the staff to arrange for my transportation to the appropriate medical practitioner.

For emergencies that occur during any International Journeys, we will engage with local translators to access the best support services available. I acknowledge that I am fully responsible for any expenses incurred as a result of these actions. This is why travel insurance is compulsory when booking any Camel Treks Australia Australian Journey or International Tour.

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10.7 Remote Areas

You acknowledge that all Australian Camel Treks are conducted in remote Outback locations, involving overnight stays in areas considerably distant from hospitals, medical centres, or other medical facilities. Additionally, Camel Treks Australia traverses extremely remote areas for multiple consecutive days.

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You acknowledge that there may be occasions when you require first aid due to an accident, illness, injury, or other health conditions. You consent to our CTA Cameleers providing you with first aid under the understanding that: (a) our personnel are not qualified medical professionals; (b) we make no warranties and expressly disclaim all warranties regarding the standard of care provided; and (c) to the fullest extent permitted by law, we will not be liable (nor will our CTA Cameleer staff) for any care given or omitted. If you are unable to do so yourself, you consent to us seeking and securing any medical treatment that we reasonably consider you require. This may include attendance or evacuation by the Royal Flying Doctor Service or a similar service. You agree to reimburse us for any costs incurred in seeking medical treatment on your behalf.

 

Director and senior staff of Camel Treks Australia possess remote first aid training skills and adhere to the directives of the Royal Flying Doctor Service's medical doctor representatives when administering first aid beyond their skill set. CTA carries a fully stocked and up-to-date Royal Flying Doctor Chest, as well as a comprehensive General First Aid Chest. These chests are kept padlocked, containing prescription-only life-saving medications.

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Additionally, CTA treks with a new defibrillator unit designed for use in the event of a heart attack. This device can help restore the heart's normal rhythm and resume normal beating. CTA staff are trained to use this defibrillator as part of their CPR and resuscitation course attendance.

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11. Authority on Camel Treks

Our Treks are under the guidance of its Director and Head Cameleers. The decisions made by these individuals are considered final on all matters that may impact the safety or well-being of any traveller or staff member participating in the Trek. Failure to comply with decisions made by Director and Head Cameleers or engaging in actions that compromise the well-being or cohesion of the group may result in the Director and Head Cameleers arranging for your removal from the Trek. In such cases, no alternative Trek experience  (in whole or part) is applicable, and you are obligated to reimburse Camel Treks Australia promptly for any costs associated with your removal. Additionally, we reserve the right to decline your participation in any future Treks.

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12. Privacy Policy on Camel Treks

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12.1 Photography and Recording Preferences:

 

We understand that personal preferences regarding photography and recording vary among our guests. It's important to note that our Treks often involve a shared experience where participants capture their moments through photographs and recordings. While we respect individual choices, we kindly advise that by joining our Camel Treks, you acknowledge and understand that photography and filming are integral parts of the shared experience. Guests often capture the beauty and excitement of the journey, and it is likely that fellow guests may take photographs and record videos during the trip.

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If you have concerns about being photographed or recorded, we recommend considering this aspect before joining the Camel Trek. We strive to foster a positive and collaborative environment for all participants, and your understanding of the communal nature of Camel Trek photography is appreciated.

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12.2 Photography and Recording Consent:

During your Camel Trek / International Journey, both we and our suppliers may capture photographs or recordings that include you and depict your activities. These images may be used for promotional and marketing purposes. By participating in the  Camel Trek / International Journey , you provide your consent for the use of these images and recordings. 

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12.3 Consent Acknowledgment:

It's important to note - You acknowledge and consent to the use of your image or likeness for promotional and marketing purposes. You understand that you will not be entitled to any payment or compensation for the use of these images and recordings.

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12.4 Privacy Guidelines:

We strive to capture and share the beauty of your Camel Trek experience while respecting your personal space. Participants are welcome to take personal photographs for their memories.

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12.5 Cameleer Requests:

There may be instances where our cameleers request no photography. This could be due to specific circumstances, cultural considerations, or to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

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12.6 Filming and Photography on Treks:

Filming and photography may take place during Camel Treks, both in a professional capacity with external third-party professionals and with other participating guests. Camel Treks Australia will notify all trek participants if there is scheduled filming on your Camel Trek. We value transparency and want you to be informed about any media activities during your experience. This is not a frequent occurrence, but is typically exciting having a film crew visit.

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12.7 Medical Information provided by you:

CTA collects and stores the medical information you provide. This information is only shared if you require medical assistance during a Camel Trek. Otherwise, it is not disclosed to any other third party. In the event of sharing with a medical provider, the recipients will be the doctors and nurses contracted with the Royal Flying Doctor Service, as well as their handover providers at such as Port Augusta Regional City  Hospital or an Adelaide City Hospital.

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12.8 Your personal information and email address:

CTA strictly maintains the confidentiality of guests' contact information and email addresses, refraining from sharing them with any third party without explicit consent. On occasion, film crews or professional photographers express interest in joining our treks. In such instances, we proactively inform participants, and only with their permission, the film or photography team may seek to communicate directly with each trekking participant to provide details about their project. It is important to note that this is a rare occurrence, emphasising our commitment to refraining from any form of spamming and our unwavering policy of not sharing personal contact information without consent.

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13. Cancellation by CTA

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13.1 If CTA cancels:

If CTA cancels your Camel Trek for reasons other than a Force Majeure event, or a failure to satisfy minimum numbers, we will provide you with the option of an alternative  Camel Trek of comparable quality, if appropriate and possible. Alternatively, you may choose to receive a CTA Credit Note for all funds received, valid for use in the same and or following year. CTA Treks in 2025 are subject to CTA's ability to secure suitable Public Liability Insurance in an era where insurance costs are escalating, forming the most substantial percentage of the 2024 trek price expenditure. 

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13.2 CTA in 2024 & 2025:

In the event CTA is unable to secure suitable insurance, we will issue a letter for your travel insurer, allowing you to seek a full refund from your preferred provider. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we will not be liable for any additional losses or costs incurred by you (such as airfares not included in your Camel Trek, insurance, and visa expenses) if your Camel Trek is cancelled for any reason, particularly due to a Force Majeure event or a failure to satisfy minimum numbers.