Frequently Asked Questions

Fanifo Lofa Resort FAQs

Everything you need to know — from whale swims to water systems.

Sign and return

We have an indemnity waiver form for everyone to read and sign and email to us before you arrive. Please do this so we can keep it on file. Sometimes we cannot print at the island and EVERYONE who is visiting us needs to fill in a form. Thanks so much for your understanding on this Indemnity form.

Download Form
Information
  • Phone/whatsapp Number: +676 845 8188
  • Email: info@kitesurftonga.com

Whale Encounters FAQs

We run whale encounters during the migration season — typically start of July to mid-October.

By law and our conservation protocol, each swim group is limited to 4 guests + 1 guide at a time, to protect both you and the whales.

We can provide masks, snorkels, and fins (some spare gear is available), but we strongly advise you bring your own for comfort. Please bring Wetsuits (e.g. 3/2 mm shorty) are recommended. If you get cold please bring something warm to wear in the water

Yes. You must be a confident swimmer. Conditions can sometimes be rough, and you will be swimming in open ocean. Strong swimming ability is essential for your safety and enjoyment.

Please enquire with us directly regarding age limits and participation for children, as this depends on conditions, swimming ability, and experience.

Every day on the water is different. Whale encounters vary depending on conditions and whale behaviour—some days you may encounter a mother and calf, other days single sub-adults. Some days offer multiple in-water swims, while other days may offer none. Booking multiple days greatly increases your chances of a variety of encounters and a more rewarding overall experience.

We are a licensed, conservation-first operator and aim to swim every trip. But whales are wild — if conditions or whale behavior don’t allow it, we may observe them without entering the water. In such cases, your safety and their wellbeing take priority.

Typically from 8:30 am to 2:00 pm. In the event of poor weather, we may cancel or reschedule.

If you are prone to seasickness, please bring appropriate seasickness medication with you. Being prepared will help ensure a more comfortable experience.

No. Entering the water is optional. You can stay on the boat at any time and still enjoy watching the whales from the surface.

Your safety is our top priority. Our team consists of highly qualified and experienced professionals, including internationally certified skippers with over 40 years of combined experience. Our guides are professionally trained in-water guides, trained lifesavers, PADI-certified instructors, certified swimming instructors, highly trained medics, and Tonga-certified. We also have many years of experience working with wildlife in the water and a strong understanding of whale behaviour, ensuring encounters are conducted responsibly and safely.

Wind Sports & Water Activities FAQs

Yes. Wing foiling is possible in the lagoon for approximately two hours either side of high tide. At other times, wing foiling takes place on the leeward (outside) side. Wing foiling and kitesurfing are available at all tides, either in the lagoon or on the leeward side, when the rescue boat is operating.

Yes bring your own kites and wings and harnesses for comfort.

We use  –  7-12 m kite sizes and 3-6 m Wing sizes
Yes, for kiters we have some twintips and surfboards, we have harnesses.
Yes for wingfoilers we have a 3 and 6m Wing for hire, we have a 149L wingfoil board with full foil setup, we have 3 seek north boards, board only you will need to bring your own foil set up. 
You will need to enquire with us before yo9u book for beginner lessons
We can offer those that are up and riding suggestions and tips during their stay.

Yes — a few kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) are available free for guest use.

That’s up to you. The rescue boat is generally available Monday through Saturday, 9 am–4.30 pm, but you can kite outside those hours at your own discretion

Accommodation FAQs

We supply all bedding. You should bring beach towels (bath towels provided), toiletries, insect repellent, sun protection, rash vests or shorties, reef shoes, torch/headlamp, and any medications.

Fridge space is limited. We’re happy to store medications, but other items should be kept minimal.

Yes. We can accommodate children, with a family fale that includes a king bed plus bunk beds. Bring your own cot or highchair if needed.

Yes — we run entirely on solar and wind power. Devices can be charged via outlets in fales. Note: hairdryers and hair straighteners are not permitted to reduce power strain.

Yes we do, checkout is by 9am and check in is 2pm.  Please note we do one island boat transfer and all our guests arrive as a group at the same time and all our guests depart at the same time.

Food & Drink FAQs

Yes — We have an all inclusive package (breakfast, lunch, dinner). There’s no self-catering. Lunch is a packed meal for day excursions.

Breakfast includes fruit, toast, cereals, tea, coffee. Dinner is two courses hearty and home-cooked. Fish is served about twice a week depending on local availability. We can cater to vegetarians — please inform us in advance.

You may bring personal alcohol, but due to local licensing laws, drinking it in our bar/communal area is restricted. Alcohol is available for purchase on-site.

Getting Here & Transfers FAQs

First fly internationally into Nuku’alofa Tongatapu. From there, you’ll take a domestic flight to Haʻapai (Lifuka) and then we will arrange an airport transfer which is a short taxi ride and a boat transfer to our island home Uoleva. All our guests arrive together and depart together 

We will always organise your transfers from Lifuka airport to Uoleva island.

Yes you can however the ferry timetable isn’t set till the week before.  It is an 8 hour plus journey.

Domestic flights include 5 kg carry-on + 23 kg checked. Oversized or overweight luggage incur additional fees.

We can assist with this or Go to https://www.lulutai-airlines.to/

Sustainability FAQs

We rely entirely on rainwater harvesting, stored in above ground tanks for drinking.  We utillise an underground reservoir for all other water requirements.

We use composting toilets that convert waste into safe compost. Greywater is filtered naturally through sand and soil.

All power comes from solar panels and a wind turbine. We’re committed to operating as a solar-powered, off-grid eco resort.

Never. Whale swims follow strict national guidelines. We use reef-safe products and teach guests how to interact respectfully with nature.

General Guest Experience FAQs

Most visitors will automatically receive a 30-day tourist visa on arrival when entering Tonga, provided their passport is valid for at least six months. Some nationalities are not eligible for visa-on-arrival and must apply for a visa in advance. Please check the official Tonga Government Immigration website for the full list of countries and current entry requirements:
https://www.revenue.gov.to/immigration-and-general-services

Yes — WIFI  is available in the common areas and fales for a small additional fee.

Full comprehensive insurance is highly recommended. We do not reimburse for nights missed due to disruptions, bad weather, flight changes, cancellations, or emergencies.  Tonga is a third world country and sometimes things don’t go according to plan.

All payments are non refundable and non transferrable. 30% non-refundable deposit to secure a booking; a second payment is due 6 months prior. Final payment due 3 months prior.  Cancellations must be made in writing. Transfer of dates will be considered if requested 6 months prior to the booking arrival date and increase in rates may apply 

Yes, we have a friendly resort dog, Jenga and we have a friendly resort cat, Tiger.



We’re very remote here on Uoleva Island — there are no roads, no shops, and no nightlife. All food and supplies are brought in from the main island once a week by ferry, and life here moves at a relaxed “island time” pace. You won’t find a pool with a cocktail bar or the typical first-world resort amenities, but you will find beautiful beachfront fales, peaceful surroundings, a friendly family-style atmosphere, and a unique experience in one of Tonga’s most tranquil places.

We accept bank transfer, AuD, nZD top, and cash in any currency. Please note that guests are responsible for settling their bar tab (snacks and drinks), transfer fees, and any additional activities, day trips, gear hire, or lessons. In some cases, these charges will be added to your bar tab and settled before departure.

Yes we do, checkout is by 9am and check in is 2pm.  Please note all our guests arrive at the same time and all our guests depart at the same time.

Yes — Tongan regulations currently permit drones, so long as you comply with local laws.

By Tongan law, Sunday is a day of rest. Shops and flights don’t operate. There are no whaleswim or boating activities. We still allow kiting and winging, but our rescue boat does not run that day.

We are a family-run operation offering a genuine, personal experience in a truly remote part of Tonga. Beyond years of experience in wind sports and wildlife encounters, we have strong conservation backgrounds—our team includes a marine ecology graduate and guides who have worked in conservation projects in Fiji, the Philippines, and beyond. This means your experience is not just about fun on the water, but also about connecting responsibly with wildlife and the environment. Guests enjoy uncrowded conditions, knowledgeable guides, and a relaxed, welcoming environment where safety, sustainability, and small-group attention are our priorities.

Tonga & Mainland Tips

There are several options in Nuku’alofa to suit different needs. Some recommendations include: Dateline Hotel, Tonga Airport Cottages, Seaview Hotel, Treehouse Hotel, and Capisi. The Tonga Airport Cottage (near the airport) and Capisi are very basic, but fine if you’re just transferring quickly. You can also try Airbnb in Tongatapu—sometimes you’ll find something suitable.

You can catch a taxi directly outside the international or domestic airport. Trips into town typically take around 45 minutes and cost about TOP 70. You can request to be dropped at a hotel, Airbnb, or other location in town.

When you land in Nuku’alofa, there is an ATM where you can withdraw local currency (TOP – Tongan Pa’anga). Some places accept cards, but cash is still king in Tonga, so it’s best to carry some for small purchases.

On the outer islands, you can wear bathing suits and bikinis. In Nuku’alofa or other populated areas, please dress modestly: wear skirts below the knee, cover your arms, and be respectful, especially when visiting churches or cultural activities.

By law, Sunday is a day of rest for Tongans. Shops and flights are generally closed. If you’re staying at a resort, some activities may still be available. In Nuku’alofa, a few Chinese restaurants remain open, but most other services are closed.

There is a hospital in Nuku’alofa and one in Ha’apai. The Ha’apai hospital is very basic, so plan accordingly if you have specific medical needs.

There are a couple of local carriers in Tonga, including Digicel and ucall. Most places have mobile coverage, though it can be patchy in very remote areas. eSIMs are now an option for some phones, and many modern phones also work on roaming. On Uoleva island, mobile internet speed may be slower, and coverage can be limited, so we have star link internet which is fast and reliable. 

© Copyright Fanifo Lofa 2025

Close