Terms & Conditions
1. Legal Notice, Assumption of Risk & Indemnity
Participation in guided hikes with Up the Mountain involves outdoor adventure activities conducted in a natural mountain environment.
Table Mountain presents inherent and unavoidable risks, including but not limited to slips, falls, exposure to heights, rapidly changing weather conditions, falling rocks, physical exertion, wildlife encounters and remote terrain.
By booking and participating, you confirm that:
• You understand and accept the inherent risks associated with hiking.
• You are voluntarily participating in the activity.
• You are physically fit and medically able to undertake the selected route.
• You will follow all instructions given by the guide at all times.
Up the Mountain and Johann Strauss will take all reasonable steps to ensure participant safety in accordance with professional guiding standards.
However, except in cases of gross negligence, Up the Mountain and Johann Strauss shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage or expense arising from participation in the hike.
By confirming your booking, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless Up the Mountain and Johann Strauss from claims arising from ordinary risks inherent to hiking activities.
2. Participant Fitness & Responsibility
By booking a hike, you confirm that:
• You have reviewed the route grading and difficulty level.
• You are physically capable of completing the selected hike.
• You have disclosed any relevant medical conditions before hike.
• You understand that hikes may involve exposure to heights and scrambling.
Up the Mountain reserves the right to refuse participation if a guest is:
• Deemed physically unfit
• Improperly equipped
• Under the influence of alcohol or substances
• Acting in a manner that compromises group safety
No refund will be provided in such cases.
3. Authority of the Guide
Johann Strauss is a legally registered local adventure guide holding a SAQA-accredited qualification within the CATHSSETA framework and is Wilderness Level 3 First Aid certified.
All decisions made by the guide regarding:
• Route selection
• Pace
• Turnaround times
• Safety management
• Weather-related adjustments
are final and made in the interest of group safety.
Participants agree to comply fully with all instructions given.
4. Booking & Payment
• All hikes must be booked in advance.
• Full payment is required to secure your booking.
• Bookings are confirmed only once payment has been received.
• Prices are quoted in South African Rand (ZAR).
Up the Mountain reserves the right to adjust pricing without prior notice. Confirmed bookings will not be affected by future price changes.
5. Cancellation Policy
Participant Cancellation
If you cancel:
• 7 days or more before your hike – 100% refund
• 3 – 6 days before – 50% refund
• Less than 48 hours before – No refund
No-shows are non-refundable.
Refunds (where applicable) will be processed within 7 working days.
6. Weather & Safety Cancellations
Table Mountain weather can change rapidly and unpredictably.
Up the Mountain reserves the right to cancel, postpone or modify a hike due to:
• High winds
• Storm activity
• Extreme heat
• Fire risk
• Unsafe route conditions
• Any safety concern identified by the guide
If a hike is cancelled by the guide for safety reasons, you will be offered:
• A full refund
OR
• The option to reschedule
Safety decisions are final.
7. Equipment Requirements
Participants are responsible for arriving properly equipped.
Minimum required gear includes:
• Suitable hiking shoes with good grip
• Sufficient drinking water
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Sun protection
• Snacks
Failure to bring appropriate equipment may result in exclusion from the hike without refund.
8. Limitation of Liability
Up the Mountain and Johann Strauss shall not be liable for:
• Personal injury (except where caused by proven gross negligence)
• Loss or theft of personal belongings
• Indirect or consequential damages
Participants are responsible for arranging appropriate travel and medical insurance.
9. Photography & Media
Photographs may be taken during hikes for promotional purposes.
If you do not wish to appear in marketing material, please inform the guide before departure.
10. Governing Law
These Terms & Conditions are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa.
Any disputes shall be subject to the jurisdiction of South African courts.
Final Note
Table Mountain is one of the world’s most iconic natural landmarks and also one of its most dynamic environments.
Every hike is approached with professionalism, preparation and respect for the mountain.
Your safety comes first. Always.
