FAQ

1. Where exactly is Sharp Island Gorilla Lodge located?

- The lodge is located on Sharp Island, one of the 29 islands in Lake Bunyonyi, Kabale, in Southwestern Uganda.

2. How do I get to the lodge?

- Guests are typically transfered by boat or speedboat from the mainland docking points (usually Rutinda landing site) directly to Sharp Island.

3. Are the cabins/rooms private?

- Yes, the lodge features private, self-contained cabins or cottages, each offering exclusive views and facilities.

4. Is there electricity in the cabins 24 hours a day?

- Yes, it is available 24/7.

5. Is there Wi-Fi available at the lodge?

- Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the main public areas (e.g., the dining area or bar). The signal strength in the rooms may vary. It is usually none.

6. What is included in the room rate?

- Rates usually include accommodation and meals (often half-board or full-board). Please check your specific booking details.

7. Do the rooms have running hot water?

- Yes, all rooms are equipped with facilities to ensure hot water for showers.

8. Do you provide laundry services?

- Yes, laundry services are available for a small fee. Please inquire at the reception.

9. Are there mosquito nets in the rooms?

- Yes, all beds are fitted with high-quality mosquito nets for your protection, although mosquitoes are generally scarce due to the high altitude.

10. Is the lodge suitable for children?

- Yes, the lodge is family-friendly, but parental supervision is required, especially near the lake and docks.

11. Can I bring my pet?

- No, pets are generally not allowed to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests and local wildlife.

12. Are there any weight restrictions for transfers to the island?

- While there are no strict restrictions, guests are requested to inform the lodge in advance if they have exceptionally heavy or oversized luggage.

1. How do I book a stay at Sharp Island Gorilla Lodge?

- Bookings can be made directly through our website, via email or through platforms like Booking.com.

2. What currency do you accept for payment?

- We primarily accept payments in US Dollars (USD) and Ugandan Shillings (UGX). We also accept major credit cards (Visa/Mastercard).

3. Is a deposit required?

- Yes, a 50% deposit is required to confirm your reservation, with the balance due 14 days before arrival.

4. What is your cancellation policy?

- Our policy is detailed in the Guest Policy document.

5. Policy Guide

- 75% refund if cancelled 14+ days before arrival; 50% refund if cancelled 7+ days before arrival. Late cancellations/no-shows are non-refundable. More details can be found in our Guest Policy document.

6. Do you offer discounts for long stays?

- Yes, discounts may be available for stays exceeding a specified duration. Please contact us directly for extended stay rates.

7. Are your rates negotiable?

- Our published rates are generally final, but we may consider group rates or promotional offers during the low season.

8. What happens if my gorilla trekking permit date changes?

- Please inform us immediately. We will do our best to adjust your booking, subject to availability. Normal cancellation terms may apply if dates cannot be accommodated.

1. Is Lake Bunyonyi safe for swimming?

- Yes, Lake Bunyonyi is known to be one of the few Bilharzia-free lakes in the region and is generally safe for swimming.

2. Are there crocodiles or hippos in Lake Bunyonyi?

- No, Lake Bunyonyi is free of dangerous wildlife such as crocodiles and hippos.

3. What is the altitude of the lake?

- Lake Bunyonyi sits at a high altitude of approximately 1,962 meters (6,437 feet) above sea level.

4. What is the typical weather like?

- The weather is generally cool and temperate due to the altitude, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C. Nights can be quite cool.

5. When is the rainy season?

- The main rainy seasons are typically March to May and September to November, although rain is possible year-round.

6. Is the tap water safe to drink?

- No, we strongly recommend that guests drink only purified or bottled water, which is provided at the lodge.

1. What type of cuisine do you offer?

- We offer a mix of international and local Ugandan cuisine, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

2. Can you accommodate special dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, allergies)?

- Yes, we can accommodate most dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free). Please notify us at the time of booking.

3. Is alcohol available at the lodge?

- Yes, our bar is fully stocked with local and international beers, spirits, wines and soft drinks.

4. Do I need travel insurance?

- Yes, we highly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation and trip cancellations.

5. What safety measures are in place at the lodge?

- We have fire safety equipment (extinguishers), first aid kits, and 24-hour staff supervision.

1. What is the most popular activity from the lodge?

- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the main attraction, followed by community and island tours.

2. How far is the lodge from the gorilla trekking starting points?

- The drive time to the nearest Bwindi sectors (e.g., Rushaga or Nkuringo) can vary from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions and the specific sector.

3. Can the lodge arrange my gorilla permits?

- While we can advise, we recommend arranging permits through a registered tour operator well in advance, as they sell out quickly.

4. What water activities are available on the lake?

- We offer boat trips to local islands, deep-water swimming (at your own risk), and birdwatching or sunset watching from the water.

5. Do you provide life jackets for water activities?

- Yes, life jackets are available upon request for all water activities.

6. Is there a dedicated swimming area?

- Yes, our large dock is designated for swimming, but swimming is at your own risk as there are no lifeguard services.

7. Can I rent a kayak or boat?

- Yes, we offer boats and kayaks for rent.

8. What is Akampene (Punishment Island)?

- It is a historical island on the lake where unmarried pregnant girls were traditionally left to starve. It is a key site visited during historical boat tours.

9. Are there good birdwatching opportunities?

- Yes, Lake Bunyonyi is a superb location for birdwatching, home to over 200 species.

10. Can I hike around the island or the mainland?

- Yes, the surrounding hills and some islands offer fantastic hiking trails and community walking tours.

11. Do you offer nature walks or village visits?

- Yes, we can arrange guided nature walks and immersive visits to nearby Bakiga and Batwa (Pygmy) communities.

12. Can I fish in Lake Bunyonyi?

- Fishing is possible, though the lake's fish populations have seen changes. Local fishing experiences can be arranged.

1. Is there mobile phone reception on the island?

- Yes, most major Ugandan networks (MTN, Airtel) have reception on the island, though signal quality can vary.

2. Do you have secure luggage storage?

- Yes, we provide secure storage for your luggage before check-in or after check-out, upon request.

3. Is smoking allowed at the lodge?

- Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas, as per our policy guide.

4. Do I need cash, or can I rely on credit cards?

- While we accept cards, it is highly recommended to carry enough Ugandan Shillings (UGX) or small USD denominations for tips, small market purchases, and local activity payments.

5. What should I do if I have a complaint or concern during my stay?

- Please notify the lodge management immediately. We are committed to resolving any issues promptly to ensure your stay is comfortable.