Ruganos Wild Adventures Privacy Policy

At Ruganos Wild Adventures, we are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information with the same care and respect we show for Kenya’s wilderness and communities. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, protect, and share your personal information when you use our services or visit our website.

As a locally-owned Kenyan safari company, we understand the importance of trust in creating meaningful travel experiences. This policy reflects our commitment to transparency and responsible data handling practices.

Information We Collect

Personal Information You Provide

When you book a safari or contact us for information, we collect various types of personal information to ensure we can create the perfect Kenyan adventure for you. This includes:

Your contact information: such as name, email address, phone number, and mailing address.

Essential travel details: like passport information, nationality, travel dates, and accommodation preferences. 

Health-related information: including dietary restrictions, allergies, medical conditions relevant to safari activities, and any mobility requirements to ensure your safety and comfort during wildlife encounters and outdoor activities. 

Emergency contact information is crucial for us to have, as we operate in remote wilderness areas where quick communication can be vital.

Payment information: including credit card details and billing address is processed securely through our trusted payment partners, while your travel preferences help us understand your wildlife interests, photography goals, desired cultural experiences, and preferred accommodation style. 

All communication records: including messages, emails, and phone calls related to your safari planning, are maintained to ensure continuity of service and personalized attention throughout your journey.

Information Collected Automatically

When you visit our website to explore Kenya’s wilderness offerings, we automatically collect certain technical information to improve your browsing experience and help us understand how visitors interact with our content. This includes technical details such as your IP address, browser type, device information, and operating system, which help us optimize our website for different devices and browsers.

We also track usage data including which pages you visit, how much time you spend exploring different sections of our site, and which websites referred you to us, allowing us to understand what aspects of Kenya’s wildlife and culture interest you most.General geographic location information at the country or city level helps us provide relevant content and understand our global reach.

We also use cookies and similar technologies, which are small files stored on your device, to enhance your browsing experience by remembering your preferences and providing personalized recommendations for safari destinations and activities.

Information from Third Parties

We may receive information from various trusted partners and platforms that help us deliver exceptional safari experiences.

Our travel partners: including hotels, lodges, airlines, and other service providers, may share relevant information about your bookings and preferences to ensure seamless coordination of your trip.

Payment processors: provide us with transaction confirmation and fraud prevention data to protect both you and our business.

Our network of local guides and community partners: To provide updates relevant to your safari experience, such as wildlife movement patterns, weather conditions, or cultural events that might enhance your visit. 

We also monitor review platforms where you might share public reviews and ratings about our services, helping us understand your experience and improve our offerings for future travelers.

How We Use Your Information

We use your personal information to create authentic, meaningful safari experiences that connect you with Kenya’s incredible wildlife and vibrant local communities while ensuring your safety and comfort throughout your journey.

1. Deliver Safari Services

Your personal information is essential for us to plan and customize your unique safari experience, taking into account your specific interests, physical requirements, and travel dreams. We use this information to arrange the perfect combination of accommodations, transportation, and activities, carefully coordinating with our trusted network of local guides, community-owned lodges, and conservation partners who share our commitment to responsible tourism.
Throughout your trip, we provide 24/7 support, and your contact and health information becomes crucial if we need to handle emergency situations or ensure your safety in Kenya’s remote wilderness areas. This comprehensive approach allows us to deliver the personalized, life-changing adventures that set Ruganos Wild Adventures apart.

2. Communication and Support

We use your contact information and preferences to maintain ongoing communication that enhances your safari experience from the moment you first inquire until long after you return home. This includes responding promptly to your inquiries and booking requests, sending detailed pre-trip information and preparation materials to help you make the most of your
Kenyan adventure, and providing real-time updates about your safari itinerary, weather conditions, or exciting wildlife sightings.
After your trip, we follow up to gather your feedback and ensure you have everything you need to share your amazing experiences with others. With your consent, we also send newsletters about Kenya’s wildlife, conservation efforts we support, and updates about the local communities you’ve helped through your visit.

3. Business Operations and Improvement

We process payments and manage bookings efficiently while maintaining detailed customer records and trip histories that allow us to provide consistent, personalized service across multiple visits. Your feedback and our internal analysis of customer experiences help us continuously improve our services, develop new authentic experiences, and enhance our ability to showcase Kenya’s hidden gems.
We also use this information to comply with Kenyan tourism regulations and international travel requirements, ensuring that all our operations meet the highest standards for responsible tourism and contribute positively to wildlife conservation and community development.

4. Marketing and Engagement

With appropriate permissions, we share inspiring stories and updates about the conservation efforts your safari directly supports, invite you to special events or introduce you to new safari offerings that align with your interests, and provide personalized recommendations for future trips based on your previous experiences and stated preferences.
We may also feature anonymous testimonials and reviews that help other travelers understand the transformative nature of authentic Kenyan safari experiences, always with your explicit permission and in ways that respect your privacy while showcasing the positive impact of responsible tourism.

Legal Basis for Processing (GDPR Compliance)

We process your personal information based on:

• Contract Performance: Processing necessary to fulfill your safari booking
• Legitimate Interests: Improving our services, ensuring safety, business communications
• Consent: Marketing communications, photography/videography during trips
• Legal Obligations: Compliance with Kenyan tourism regulations and international travel requirements

Information Sharing and Disclosure

We share your information based on the following categories:

With Service Partners

We share relevant information with trusted partners who help deliver your safari experience:

• Accommodation Providers: Hotels, lodges, and camps
• Transportation Services: Airlines, ground transport operators, domestic flight providers
• Local Guides and Communities: Experienced guides and community-based tourism partners
• Activity Providers: Conservancies, cultural centers, and specialized tour operators
• Emergency Services: Medical facilities and emergency response teams when necessary

With Your Consent

• Photography and Marketing: With explicit permission, we may use photos/videos featuring you in marketing materials
• Testimonials and Reviews: Sharing your feedback publicly with your approval
• Travel Companions: Sharing itinerary details with other members of your travel group

Legal Requirements

We may disclose information when required by:

• Kenyan law enforcement or government agencies
• Court orders or legal proceedings
• Immigration and customs authorities
• Emergency situations to protect health and safety

Business Transfers

In the event of a merger, acquisition, or business sale, your information may be transferred to the new entity, with continued protection under this policy.

Data Security and Protection

We implement comprehensive security measures to protect your information:

Technical Safeguards

• Encryption: Sensitive data encrypted in transit and at rest
• Secure Payment Processing: PCI-compliant payment systems
• Access Controls: Limited access to authorized personnel only
• Regular Security Audits: Ongoing assessment of our security practices

Physical Security

• Secure Offices: Controlled access to facilities where data is stored
• Document Handling: Secure storage and disposal of physical documents
• Mobile Device Security: Encrypted devices for guides and staff in the field

Staff Training

• Regular privacy and security training for all team members
• Clear protocols for handling sensitive customer information
• Background checks for staff with access to customer data

Your Rights and Choices

Access and Control

You have the right to:

• Access: Request copies of your personal information we hold
• Correction: Update or correct inaccurate information
• Deletion: Request deletion of your personal information (subject to legal requirements)
• Portability: Receive your data in a structured, machine-readable format
• Restriction: Limit how we process your information
• Objection: Object to processing based on legitimate interests

Communication Preferences

• Opt-out: Unsubscribe from marketing communications at any time
• Preference Center: Manage the types of communications you receive
• Direct Contact: Email us directly to update your preferences

Photography and Marketing

• Consent Withdrawal: Withdraw consent for using your photos/videos
• Review Rights: Request to review content before publication
• Exclusion: Request not to be photographed during group activities

International Data Transfers

As a Kenyan company serving international travelers, we may transfer data:

• Within Kenya: To our local partners and service providers
• International Partners: To airlines, international hotel chains, and travel insurance providers
• Cloud Services: Data may be stored on secure cloud platforms with global infrastructure
• Adequate Protection: All transfers include appropriate safeguards to protect your privacy

Data Retention

We retain your information for different periods based on purpose:

• Active Bookings: During trip planning and execution
• Completed Trips: Up to 7 years for business records and customer service
• Marketing Communications: Until you unsubscribe or request deletion
• Legal Requirements: As required by Kenyan tourism and tax regulations
• Safety Records: Emergency contact information retained for ongoing safety purposes

Children’s Privacy

We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 without parental consent. Family safaris require:

• Parental consent for all children’s activities
• Guardian supervision for wildlife encounters
• Special arrangements for child-friendly accommodations and activities

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect:

• Changes in our business practices
• New legal requirements
• Enhanced security measures
• Expanded service offerings

We will notify you of significant changes through:

• Email notification to registered users
• Prominent notice on our website
• Updated “Last Modified” date at the top of this policy

Regulatory Information

Kenya Data Protection Compliance This policy complies with the Kenya Data Protection Act, 2019. For complaints about our data handling practices, you may contact the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner of Kenya.

GDPR Compliance For European Union residents, this policy complies with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). You may contact your local data protection authority with concerns.