Kisoro

Uganda, Africa

Nestled in the scenic southwestern corner of Uganda, Kisoro is famed for its breathtaking landscapes and proximity to the dramatic Virunga mountain range. It serves as a gateway to mountain gorilla trekking, offering an unforgettable encounter with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The area boasts cultural richness, with local communities engaging in vibrant traditions. Adventurers can also explore the nearby Mgahinga National Park, known for its diverse wildlife, hiking trails, and stunning volcanic vistas.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Active

Airport

Gisenyi

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

9 Best Things to Do in Kisoro

1

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Gorilla Trekking

Experience a thrilling encounter with mountain gorillas.

Booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Lake Bunyonyi

Relax by one of Africa's deepest lakes.

No booking required
3

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Hike trails with stunning views of volcanoes.

Booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Cultural Tours with Batwa Tribe

Immerse in the culture of the indigenous Batwa people.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Bird Watching

Spot diverse bird species in their natural habitat.

No booking required
6

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Hike the Virunga Mountains

Challenge yourself with breathtaking mountain hikes.

Booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Kisoro Town Market

Shop for local crafts and fresh produce.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Boat Ride on Lake Bunyonyi

Enjoy scenic views while paddling on the lake.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kisoro Museum

Learn about the history and culture of Kisoro.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-18 (#207 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Uganda Shilling

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Ganda

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Matoke or Matooke

VE

Steamed green bananas dish. (National dish)

Luwombo

Meat stew with groundnut sauce.

Posho

VE

Maize porridge, staple food.

Rolex

V

Rolled chapati with eggs and vegetables.

Groundnut Sauce

VE

Peanut sauce, often served with dishes.

Phrases to learn

English

Ganda

Hello

Gyebale ko

(Jeh-bah-leh koh)

Yes/No

Yee / Nedda

(Yay / Ned-dah)

Thank you

Weebale

(Weh-bah-leh)

Excuse me

Nsonyiwa

(N-soh-nee-wah)

How much?

Meka?

(Meh-kah)