Kisoro - Discovering Uganda

Travelling to Kisoro

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kisoro, a pretty good destination in Uganda (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kisoro and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kisoro, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Uganda, here's everything to know about Kisoro for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kisoro

Kisoro is a town located in the southwestern part of Uganda, near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is surrounded by beautiful scenic views of mountains, forests and lakes. Kisoro is also known for its various national parks, including Mgahinga Gorilla National Park that is home to endangered mountain gorillas. The town itself offers basic amenities and accommodation options for travelers, and serves as a gateway to explore the nearby natural wonders.

What to visit in Kisoro

Kisoro, located in southwestern Uganda, is a beautiful district with several tourist attractions. Here are some of them: 1. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: This national park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. It is one of the three national parks in the world where you can find these gentle giants. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is also the only place in Uganda where you can spot the golden monkeys. The park also offers scenic hiking trails and stunning views of the Virunga Mountains.
2. Lake Mutanda: This picturesque lake is surrounded by hills and is a great place for a boat ride or fishing. You can also take a walk along the lake and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Batwa Cultural Experience: The Batwa are a forest people who once lived in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The Batwa Cultural Experience gives visitors a chance to learn about the traditional way of life of the Batwa people and their unique relationship with the forest.
4. Virunga Volcanoes: Kisoro is located near the Virunga Volcanoes, which are a chain of volcanic mountains that straddle the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Visitors can hike up Mount Sabinyo or Mount Gahinga and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Bird Watching: Kisoro is a great place for bird watching. You can spot over 200 species of birds in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Lake Mutanda.
6. Hot Springs: The nearby Batwa Trail leads to a hot spring where you can relax and soak in the warm water. The hot springs are considered to have medicinal properties and are a popular destination for visitors.
7. Igongo Cultural Centre: The Igongo Cultural Centre is located in nearby Mbarara and offers visitors a chance to learn about the culture and traditions of the Ankole people. The centre includes a museum, art gallery, and traditional restaurant.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Uganda, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kisoro.

When to go on holiday to Kisoro

The best time to go on holiday to Kisoro, Uganda is during the dry season, which is from June to August and late December to February. During this time, the roads are more accessible, and the weather is suitable for outdoor activities such as gorilla trekking, hiking, and wildlife safaris. The weather is generally cooler and drier, making it ideal for exploring the town and its surroundings. However, if you are interested in seeing the lush scenery or bird watching, then the wet season, from March to May and September to November, is a good time to visit. Bear in mind that the weather is unpredictable during the wet season, and some roads might be impassable.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kisoro

Kisoro is a town located in southwestern Uganda, near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Here are a few options for how to get there: 1. By air: The closest airport to Kisoro is the Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, about 114 km away. From there, you can hire a private taxi or take a minibus to Kisoro.
2. By bus: Buses run regularly from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, to Kisoro. The journey takes about 10-12 hours and the buses usually depart in the early morning.
3. By taxi: You can also hire a private taxi from Kampala or Entebbe to Kisoro. This is a more expensive option, but it is also more comfortable and convenient.
4. By shared taxi: From Kabale, there is daily transport at a cost of Ugx 15,000 to Kisoro with a shared taxi. It's important to note that the road from Kampala to Kisoro is quite bumpy and winding, so if you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to factor in some extra time for rest breaks.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kisoro, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kisoro

Sure, here are some typical foods of Kisoro, Uganda along with a brief description: 1. Matoke: This is a popular dish made from mashed green bananas and is the main staple in the region. It's often served with a stew or soup.
2. Groundnut Sauce: This is a thick sauce made from ground peanuts and onion. It's usually served with matoke, rice, or sweet potatoes.
3. Chapati: This is a type of flatbread made from flour, water, and oil. It's often served as a side dish with stews or curries.
4. Ghee: This is a type of clarified butter that's often used in cooking. It has a rich, buttery flavor and is commonly used in sauces and stews.
5. Cassava: This is a starchy root vegetable that's often boiled or roasted. It's a staple food in many African countries and can be eaten on its own or used in stews and soups.
6. Beans: Beans are commonly used in stews and soups and are often boiled with onions and tomatoes.
7. Milk: Milk is a common ingredient in many dishes in Kisoro. It's often used to make sauces and is also used in tea and coffee.
8. Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a popular root vegetable in Kisoro. They're often boiled or roasted and can be eaten on their own or used in stews and soups.
9. Matooke Chips: This is a popular snack made from thinly sliced and fried green bananas. It can be served with groundnut sauce or chili sauce.
10. Nsenene: These are edible grasshoppers that are commonly eaten in Kisoro. They're usually roasted and seasoned with salt and chili powder.
You can find general info about typical foods in Uganda here.

Is Kisoro an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Uganda, Kisoro can be considered a bit more expensive due to its location and the costs associated with accessing the gorilla tracking areas in nearby Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. However, it is still possible to find affordable lodging and dining options in Kisoro. The costs of gorilla permits and guided tours can also add to the overall expense of a trip to Kisoro. It's important to do your research and budget accordingly to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

Where to find accomodation in Kisoro

Kisoro is a district located in southwestern Uganda. For visitors planning to stay overnight, the best areas to find accommodations in Kisoro are usually around the town center or in nearby towns such as Mutanda, Lake Bunyonyi, and Bwindi National Park. These locations are easily accessible to the popular tourist attractions in the area, including gorilla trekking, hiking, and sightseeing. Additionally, many accommodations offer stunning views of the nearby mountains and landscape, creating a truly immersive experience for visitors.
You can check hotel prices at Kisoro here:
Booking.com

Is Kisoro a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kisoro in Uganda is generally a safe place for tourists. However, it is always important to take necessary precautions when traveling to any new place. It is recommended to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid carrying large sums of money and valuables, and follow the advice of local authorities. Also, it is advisable to book your tours and accommodations with reputable and trusted companies to avoid any safety risks.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Uganda here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kisoro.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kisoro the most?

Kisoro, Uganda is a beautiful destination that offers a variety of experiences for everyone. However, it is more suited for couples, families, and travelers looking for adventure and outdoor activities such as hiking, nature walks, gorilla trekking, bird watching, and gorilla habituation experiences.
While there are some nightlife options, the town is relatively quiet and peaceful, making it an excellent choice for people looking to relax and rejuvenate in a more serene environment. Kisoro also provides opportunities to learn about the local culture, history, and traditions of the Batwa and Bakiga people.
Overall, Kisoro is a great place for those who love the outdoors, nature, and wildlife, making it an ideal destination for adventurous couples, families, and responsible travelers.

How to get around Kisoro

The most common mode of transportation for moving around Kisoro, Uganda is by using a motorcycle taxi, locally known as a boda-boda. Other options include private taxis, buses and walking. However, due to the hilly terrain and poor road conditions, walking can be quite challenging and time-consuming.

What to see around Kisoro

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kisoro (Uganda): 1. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: If you are interested in gorilla trekking, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a great destination. You can see the endangered mountain gorillas up close and learn about their behavior and habitat in their natural surroundings.
2. Lake Mutanda: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride or kayaking on the tranquil waters of Lake Mutanda. The stunning view of the Virunga Mountains in the distance will truly leave you in awe.
3. Lake Bunyonyi: Lake Bunyonyi is known for its picturesque scenery, tranquil waters, and various activities such as swimming, kayaking, and hiking.
4. Batwa Trail: Experience the Batwa culture and history on a Batwa Trail. Experiencing their lifestyle, dances, and music will be worth the visit.
5. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Another park where you can go gorilla trekking in Uganda. You can also explore various hiking trails in this park.
6. Kibale Forest National Park: If you want to see chimpanzees close up, you could take a day trip to Kibale Forest National Park. You can also explore various hiking trails in the beautiful forested park. These tourist destinations are only a short trip from Kisoro, and they offer unique experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
For every travel information about Uganda you can click here.

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