Disclaimer, acceptance of risks and travelers declaration in high mountain trekking activities and nature experiences
salento@quintoelementotours.com
Phone: +57 311 636 8881
Website: www.quintoelementotours.com
PURPOSE OF THIS DOCUMENT
The purpose of this document is to inform travelers about the characteristics, conditions, physical requirements, natural risks, and responsibilities associated with participating in high-altitude activities, trekking, expeditions, and nature experiences operated by 5TO ELEMENTO S.A.S.
These activities may take place in natural environments with varying conditions and require physical and mental preparation, as well as a responsible attitude from the participant.
By signing this document or electronically accepting its terms and conditions, the traveler declares having received sufficient information about the contracted activity and voluntarily agrees to participate under the conditions established herein.
APPLICABLE ACTIVITIES
This document applies specifically to activities such as:
- Ascents and expeditions to Nevado del Tolima.
- Multi-day treks.
- High-altitude trekking.
- Hiking in high-altitude moorland ecosystems.
- Routes above 3,000 meters above sea level.
- Activities with prolonged exposure to changing weather conditions.
- Adventure and nature experiences with high physical demands.
This may also apply to any activity that, according to the operational criteria of 5TO ELEMENTO S.A.S., requires a special acceptance of risks.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF THE NATURE OF THE ACTIVITY
The traveler acknowledges that mountain and nature activities involve conditions different from conventional tourist activities.
The participant understands that the development of these experiences may be affected by natural factors that cannot be completely controlled by the company.
These factors include:
- Sudden weather changes.
- Rain, wind, intense cold, or sun exposure.
- Low temperatures.
- Fog and reduced visibility.
- Uneven terrain.
- Trails with mud, rocks, slopes, or unstable surfaces.
- Altitude and decreased oxygen levels.
- Physical fatigue.
- Dehydration.
- Altitude-related effects.
- Contact with wildlife or natural elements.
- Delays or itinerary changes for safety reasons.
The traveler declares that they understand and accept that these factors are an inherent part of the activity.
RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ACTIVITY
The participant acknowledges that, although 5TO ELEMENTO S.A.S. implements prevention, planning, and safety measures, no activity carried out in natural environments is completely risk-free.
Possible associated events include:
- Falls.
- Blows or injuries.
- Sprains.
- Cuts or wounds.
- Physical exhaustion.
- Altitude sickness.
- Hypothermia or cold-related effects.
- Sunstroke.
- Unpredictable physical reactions.
- Temporary disorientation.
- Evacuations or rescues due to medical or environmental situations.
The traveler accepts these inherent risks and agrees to act responsibly throughout the activity.
DECLARATION OF PHYSICAL FITNESS AND HEALTH STATUS
- The traveler declares under their own responsibility that:
- They are in adequate physical condition to participate in the contracted activity.
- They understand that high-altitude activities require physical effort, endurance, and adaptation to demanding environmental conditions.
- They have previously informed us of any relevant medical condition that may affect their participation.
- They are not participating under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or substances that may impair their physical abilities or decision-making.
- If they have a specific medical condition, they have consulted with a healthcare professional beforehand, if necessary.
RELEVANT MEDICAL INFORMATION
The traveler agrees to inform the company before the start of the activity if they have or have had any of the following conditions:
- Cardiovascular problems.
- Respiratory problems.
- Asthma or other respiratory difficulties.
- Altitude-related conditions.
- Recent injuries.
- Recent surgeries.
- Physical limitations.
- Conditions that may be aggravated during the activity.
Failure to provide relevant medical information may affect the company’s ability to make appropriate safety decisions.
TRAVELER RESPONSIBILITY
The participant agrees to:
- Follow the instructions of the guide and operational team.
- Respect the established schedule.
- Maintain a responsible attitude.
- Promptly report any physical discomfort.
- Use the recommended equipment correctly.
- Wear the required clothing and equipment.
- Remain within the authorized routes.
- Respect environmental regulations.
PARTICIPANT EQUIPMENT AND PREPARATION
The traveler acknowledges that for certain activities, it may be mandatory to have appropriate equipment such as:
- Appropriate footwear.
- Thermal or warm clothing and all required layers.
- Waterproof clothing.
- Sun protection.
- Sufficient hydration.
- A suitable backpack.
- Personal items specified by the organizers.
Lack of recommended equipment may affect the participant’s safety and may result in restrictions on continuing the activity.
SAFETY DECISIONS DURING THE ACTIVITY
The traveler accepts that the guides or operational managers may make decisions related to the safety of the group, including:
- Changing the route.
- Reducing the pace.
- Modifying schedules.
- Partially suspending the activity.
- Requesting the return of a participant.
- Canceling a stage of the experience.
These decisions will be made to protect the safety of the traveler and the group.
The participant agrees to respect these decisions, even if they involve modifications to the initially planned itinerary.
WEATHER CONDITIONS AND FORCE MAJEURE
The traveler understands that natural conditions may cause changes to the activity.
5TO ELEMENTO S.A.S. may modify, postpone, or suspend an activity when conditions exist that may represent a risk, such as:
- Adverse weather.
- Environmental alerts.
- Park or protected area closures.
- Unsafe terrain conditions.
- External situations beyond the company’s control.
These decisions do not constitute a breach of contract when their purpose is to protect the safety of the participants.
TRAVEL INSURANCE AND ASSISTANCE
The traveler acknowledges the terms and conditions of the included insurance or assistance, if applicable.
Furthermore, the traveler understands that:
- Insurance policies have specific coverage and limitations.
- Not all events may be covered.
- The information provided by the participant is essential for the proper management of any eventuality.
RELEASE OF LIABILITY
The traveler declares that they are participating voluntarily in the activity and acknowledges its inherent risks.
Consequently, the traveler releases 5TO ELEMENTO S.A.S., its representatives, guides, collaborators, and operational partners from liability for situations arising exclusively from:
- Natural risks inherent to the activity.
- Reckless actions by the participant.
- Failure to comply with safety instructions.
- Concealment of relevant medical information.
- Improper use of equipment.
- Personal conduct that increases the level of risk.
The foregoing does not limit any applicable legal responsibilities when there is an action attributable to the company under Colombian law.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT
The traveler agrees to participate under the principles of responsible tourism:
- Leave no waste.
- Respect flora and fauna.
- Do not extract natural elements.
- Respect local communities.
- Comply with protected area regulations.
The participant will be responsible for environmental damage caused by voluntary or negligent actions.
EMERGENCY AUTHORIZATION
In case of emergency, the traveler authorizes 5TO ELEMENTO S.A.S. and its operational team to take the necessary measures to protect their well-being, including:
- Requesting medical assistance.
- Evacuation.
- Transfer to medical facilities.
- Communicating with emergency contacts.
Medical costs or services not covered by insurance will be the traveler’s responsibility.
TRAVELER’S FINAL DECLARATION
To ensure adequate preparation and safety during the experience, all participants must complete, sign, and submit this document prior to the activity.
We appreciate you submitting it in advance, as its acceptance is a necessary requirement for participation in high-altitude activities, trekking, and more demanding expeditions.