Kisoro Town is located in Kisoro District in the southwestern part of Uganda. The town borders Rwanda to the south and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west.
Kisoro also shares boundaries with Kanungu District to the north and Kabale District to the east. It is about 550 kilometers from Kampala, Uganda’s capital.
According to statistics, Kisoro is home to four main ethnic groups: the Bakiga, Banyarwanda, Batwa, and Bafumbira. The district’s population, as of the 2024 national census, is estimated at 431,175 people.
Kisoro lies in a mountainous area with fertile volcanic soils that support farming. Common crops grown include tea, Irish potatoes, and beans.
Beyond agriculture, Kisoro is well known as a major tourism hub for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It is home to the endangered mountain gorillas found in both Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Gorilla trekking is the main tourist activity in the area, allowing visitors to search for and observe mountain gorillas in their natural forest habitat.
Other popular activities include golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and visiting Lake Mutanda, located about 14 kilometers north of Kisoro. At Lake Mutanda, tourists can enjoy canoeing, island hopping, and scenic views. Cultural visits along the Batwa Trail offer a chance to learn about the traditions and lifestyle of the Batwa people. Birdwatching in Echuya Forest Reserve and cave exploration are also available for visitors.
Kisoro offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury lodges. Some of the top choices include Traveler’s Rest Hotel, Kisoro Tourist Hotel, Mount Gahinga Lodge, Mutanda Lake Resort, and Ikoro Hotel.
Because Kisoro has a cool mountain climate, tourists are advised to pack warm clothing.
It is also important to book gorilla permits early—about 3 to 6 months before the trekking date—as they sell out quickly, especially during the dry season.
Hiring a local guide is highly recommended since they know the culture, environment, and hidden attractions of the area, which will enrich your travel experience.
Always exchange money into Ugandan shillings before arriving in Kisoro for easier transactions.
The best time to visit Kisoro is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, when there is less rainfall and the trails are easier to walk on.
Kisoro offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking wildlife, culture, and adventure in Uganda’s highlands.
