At Back to the Source Tours, we offer multiple secure and flexible payment methods to accommodate your convenience and location. Below is a detailed guide to help you understand our accepted payment channels, associated fees, and best practices for settling your tour balance.
For assistance with making a payment or setting up a plan, please contact our bookings team. We’re here to ensure your payment experience is smooth, secure, and transparent.
1. Bank Wire Transfers, Preferred Method
Our strongest recommendation is a bank wire transfer, because it is typically the most cost-effective option for full-package travelers. It avoids third-party gateway charges, reduces processing delays, and keeps more of your money focused on the experience, not fees.
Best-value schedule we recommend
- 25% down payment to confirm your booking (+ any primate trekking permits)
- 75% balance due 3 months prior to arrival, or earlier if you prefer
This approach is usually cheaper than making many smaller international payments, which can add up through repeated bank wire fees, intermediary bank charges, and in some cases interest or card-related costs.
Important note about wire fees
Banks charge a transaction and/or wire fee, and fees vary by bank and region. Please include any expected charges so the net amount received matches your invoice and avoids an accidental shortfall.
Avoiding payment blocks and denials
International transfers can occasionally be flagged or delayed due to bank security controls, international transaction settings, or routing between global and African banking systems. To reduce friction:
- Inform your bank in advance that you will be making an international transfer, especially if you plan multiple smaller installments
- Confirm your bank has international transfers enabled for your account
- If a transfer is delayed or declined, contact us and we will guide you on the fastest fix based on what your bank is flagging or recommends
If your bank asks for documentation, we can provide the invoice and booking confirmation details needed for verification. FYI: On our “About Us” page you can find a link to Uganda Tourism Board where we are registered by mandate with our license as a travel agent.
2. Credit and Debit Cards, Available as a Last Alternative
We accept major international cards through PesaPal, a secure East Africa payment processor.
What to expect with card payments
- A 3.5-5% surcharge applies to card payments, these are a third-party processing fees and should be factored into the amount paid
- Currency conversion and international banking fees can create small differences, we may adjust the final balance to reconcile any discrepancies
- Card payments are processed through encrypted, PCI-compliant systems, and your financial details are not stored by us
How card payment works
- We provide a personalized payment link upon request or as scheduled
- For ongoing payments, you may use our online payment portal if applicable
3. Deposits, Balance Deadlines, and Booking Security
To secure your booking, a deposit is required. Your remaining balance is typically due 3 months before arrival, unless a different timeline is agreed in writing for your itinerary.
Cost-saving recommendation
After your deposit, we recommend paying the remaining balance in one lump sum whenever possible, especially for international travelers, to minimize cumulative transaction charges.
4. Interest-Free Payment Plans
If you prefer smaller installments, we can coordinate an interest-free payment plan from our side. There are no additional charges from Back to the Source Tours for using a payment plan.
What still applies
- Bank fees and platform fees still apply to each installment, so multiple payments can cost more overall
- Payments must follow the agreed schedule to maintain your reservation
Our goal is flexibility with clear guardrails, so your booking stays protected, and your money moves efficiently.
Optional Activities, How Payment Works on the Ground
When an itinerary lists an activity as optional, it typically means you can choose to add it during planning or while on the trip, and payment may be handled separately from the package.
Common on-ground payment norms
- Many optional experiences are paiddirectly to the provider, often in cash
- Some providers acceptcredit cards on site, depending on location and connectivity
Ask us about your specific tour’s optional activities and we will provide the practical do’s and don’ts, including recommended payment method, typical pricing expectations, and what to avoid so you do not overpay or miss out due to last-minute limitations.
Trekking Permits, Priority Items
Some components require advance payment to lock availability. Gorilla and chimpanzee permits must be paid in full to secure them for your dates.
Current permit reference pricing:
- Gorilla trekking permit:$825
- Chimpanzee trekking permit:$215
Minimum ages: - Gorilla trekking:15 years
- Chimpanzee trekking:12 years
Give Back Through Travel
We believe in responsible tourism that gives back to local communities.
We often hear travelers express a genuine desire to make a positive impact during their journey. It warms our hearts to see this spirit of giving. To channel this enthusiasm, we’ve meticulously curated wishlists filled with essential items that directly benefit local communities through our trusted partner organizations. Discover how you can make a difference by visiting our CSR Blog playlist.
Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant impact.
We are committed to sustainable tourism. For more information about our sustainability practices, please refer to our policies page.
All tours offered by Back to the Source Tours adhere to Ugandan tax and business ethical laws. Your tour price includes VAT, and all our vehicles and guides are fully insured for your safety and peace of mind.
