THE HIKER’S HUB – TERMS, CONDITIONS & OWNER AGREEMENT
1. INTRODUCTION
Welcome to The Hiker’s Hub.
The Hiker’s Hub is an online platform that connects:
- Owners (providers of outdoor activities, events, and experiences)
- Guests (adventurers booking and participating in activities)
By using this platform as either a Guest or Owner, you agree to be bound by this document.
2. PLATFORM ROLE
The Hiker’s Hub:
- Provides a digital marketplace for outdoor experiences
- Connects Owners and Guests
- Facilitates bookings and payment processing
Important:
The Hiker’s Hub does not organise, operate, supervise, or manage any activities listed by Owners.
3. DEFINITIONS
- Owner: A provider of activities, events, or experiences
- Guest: A person booking or participating in an activity
- Platform: The Hiker’s Hub website and services
SECTION A: GUEST TERMS & CONDITIONS
4. GUEST RESPONSIBILITIES
Guests agree that they:
- Participate at their own risk
- Are physically and medically fit
- Will follow all instructions from the Owner
- Understand that outdoor activities may be dangerous
5. BOOKINGS & PAYMENTS
- All bookings must be made through The Hiker’s Hub
- Payments are collected by the Platform
- Funds are released to Owners after completion of the activity
- Prices are set by Owners
6. CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS
- Cancellation policies are set by Owners
- Refunds depend on Owner policies
- Some bookings may be non-refundable
7. RISKS
Guests acknowledge risks including:
- Injury or illness
- Weather changes
- Terrain hazards
- Wildlife encounters
- Equipment failure
8. LIABILITY WAIVER (GUESTS)
8.1 Assumption of Risk
Guests accept full responsibility for all risks associated with participation, whether known or unknown.
8.2 Platform Limitation
The Hiker’s Hub does not:
- Run or control any activities
- Guarantee safety or quality
- Supervise Owners or Guests
8.3 Release of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Hiker’s Hub is not liable for:
- Injury, illness, or death
- Loss or damage to property
- Any incident during an activity
- Actions of Owners or Guests
8.4 Indemnity
Guests agree to indemnify The Hiker’s Hub against any claims arising from their participation.
8.5 No Warranty
All services are provided “as is” without guarantees.
SECTION B: OWNER AGREEMENT
9. OWNER STATUS
Owners operate as independent contractors.
They are not employees, partners, or agents of The Hiker’s Hub.
10. OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES
Owners must:
- Provide accurate listing information
- Deliver services as advertised
- Maintain permits, licences, and insurance
- Ensure safety compliance
11. LISTINGS
Owners are fully responsible for:
- Content accuracy
- Pricing
- Availability
- Service delivery
The Platform may remove listings at its discretion.
12. COSTING STRUCTURE & FEES
12.1 Commission Model
- Owners set their own prices
- Guests pay through the Platform
- The Platform deducts commission per booking
- Remaining balance is paid to the Owner
Commission Range:
5% – 20% per booking
12.2 Subscription Plans (Optional)
Owners may choose subscription plans:
- Free Plan → Higher commission, limited visibility
- Growth Plan → Reduced commission, increased visibility
- Pro Plan → Lowest commission, premium exposure
12.3 Featured Listings
Optional paid services include:
- Featured placement
- Homepage exposure
- Promotional campaigns
12.4 Payment Handling
- Payments are collected by The Hiker’s Hub
- Funds are held until service completion
- Payouts are made after completion (typically 24–72 hours)
12.5 Taxes
Owners are responsible for:
- Declaring income
- Paying applicable taxes
- Legal financial compliance
12.6 Refunds & Chargebacks
- Refunds follow Owner policies
- Platform may mediate disputes
- Chargebacks may be deducted from Owner payouts
13. LIABILITY (OWNERS)
Owners are fully responsible for:
- Safety of their activities
- Insurance coverage
- Any incidents involving Guests
14. INDEMNITY (OWNERS)
Owners agree to hold The Hiker’s Hub harmless against any claims arising from:
- Their services
- Their negligence
- Any injury, loss, or damage
15. PLATFORM LIABILITY EXCLUSION
The Hiker’s Hub is not liable for:
- Injuries or accidents
- Loss or damages
- Disputes between Users
- Service failures by Owners
16. REVIEWS
- Guests may leave reviews
- The Platform may moderate content
- Fake or abusive reviews are prohibited
17. ACCOUNT RULES
Users must:
- Keep login details secure
- Provide accurate information
- Not misuse the platform
Accounts may be suspended for violations.
18. DATA PROTECTION
Users agree to:
- Use personal data responsibly
- Comply with privacy laws
- Not misuse Guest information
19. PLATFORM CHANGES
The Hiker’s Hub may:
- Update features
- Modify pricing or structure
- Change these terms
Continued use constitutes acceptance.
20. GOVERNING LAW
This agreement is governed by the laws of South Africa.
21. ACCEPTANCE
By using The Hiker’s Hub as a Guest or Owner, you confirm that:
- You have read and understood this agreement
- You agree to be legally bound by it