Discover the Best Coffee Shops in Kisoro Town

Kisoro town, a charming and vibrant town located just 14 kilometers from the famous Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, is home to some of the most recommendable coffee shops in Uganda. Whether you’re a visitor on your way to explore the majestic gorillas or a local resident looking for a cozy spot to relax, Kisoro has several coffee shops that offer exceptional experiences. Among these, the top three include Gorilla Highland Coffee Shop, Café Volcano, and Coffee Pot Café. Each of these establishments brings something unique to the table, making them must-visit spots in Kisoro.

Gorilla Highland Coffee Shop.

Located just next to the Central Police Station in Kisoro, Gorilla Highland Coffee Shop stands out as one of the finest coffee destinations in the town. This coffee shop is not just a place to grab a cup of coffee; it is a hub for shopping souvenirs, crafts, and local products. The shop offers a wide variety of meals throughout the day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, catering to both locals and tourists.

The atmosphere at Gorilla Highland Coffee Shop is welcoming and vibrant, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee brewed from locally sourced beans. The shop’s location next to the police station makes it easily accessible, and its proximity to the central part of Kisoro town ensures that it’s a convenient stop for anyone exploring the area. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet meal or pick up some unique crafts to take home, Gorilla Highland Coffee Shop has something for everyone.

Café Volcano: A Gateway to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Just a two-minute walk from the Central Police Station and conveniently located at the junction leading to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Café Volcano is another gem in Kisoro. This coffee shop is a favorite among both locals and visitors, offering a variety of coffee, food, and shopping options. The café’s strategic location makes it an ideal stop for those heading to or returning from the national park.

Café Volcano is known for its friendly service and cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of gorilla trekking or sightseeing. The café’s menu is diverse, featuring a range of local and international dishes that cater to different tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a quick snack, Café Volcano provides a delightful culinary experience in the heart of Kisoro.

Coffee Pot Café

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Kisoro, Coffee Pot Café has been a cornerstone of the town’s café culture for over a decade. This quintessential African café and restaurant offer a unique blend of Ugandan charm and global flavors, making it a favorite among tourists and locals alike. The café is renowned for its rich Arabic coffee, which is a must-try for any coffee enthusiast visiting the area.

In addition to coffee, Coffee Pot Café offers a variety of culinary delights that cater to a global palate. From delectable German cakes and authentic Italian pizzas to juicy American burgers, the café’s menu is as diverse as it is delicious. The welcoming team at Coffee Pot Café takes pride in delivering exceptional service, ensuring that every visitor feels the warm embrace of Ugandan hospitality.

The café’s location in the heart of Kisoro makes it a convenient stop for anyone exploring the town or heading to nearby attractions. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a leisurely meal, Coffee Pot Café promises an unforgettable dining experience.

Activities to do around Kisoro

Kisoro, located in southwestern Uganda, is a scenic area surrounded by stunning landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and national parks. It offers a variety of activities for tourists seeking adventure, culture, and nature. Here are some activities you can enjoy around Kisoro:

1. Gorilla Trekking

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Kisoro is a gateway to the southern sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you can embark on a gorilla trekking adventure. Encountering the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Another option for gorilla trekking near Kisoro is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This park also offers the chance to trek and observe mountain gorillas, along with opportunities to see golden monkeys.

2. Golden Monkey Tracking

• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Besides gorillas, Mgahinga is famous for golden monkey tracking. These lively and rare primates are a delight to watch as they leap through the bamboo forests.

3. Volcano Hiking

• Mount Sabinyo: Known as the “Old Man’s Teeth,” Mount Sabinyo offers a challenging hike with the reward of standing at the intersection of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Mount Gahinga: This hike is relatively easier compared to Mount Sabinyo and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
• Mount Muhabura: The highest of the three Virunga volcanoes in Uganda, Mount Muhabura offers a more strenuous hike with stunning views of the Virunga Mountains.

4. Batwa Cultural Experience

• Batwa Trail: The Batwa, also known as the “Pygmies,” are the original inhabitants of the forests around Kisoro. The Batwa Trail in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a cultural experience where you can learn about the Batwa’s traditional forest lifestyle, hunting techniques, and medicinal knowledge.

5. Lake Mutanda Exploration

• Canoeing and Boating: Lake Mutanda, a picturesque lake surrounded by hills and volcanoes, is perfect for a tranquil canoe ride. You can explore the lake’s islands and enjoy the serene environment.
• Bird Watching: The area around Lake Mutanda is rich in birdlife, making it a great spot for bird watchers. You can spot species such as the grey-crowned crane, African fish eagle, and various kingfishers.

6. Nature Walks and Hikes

• Echuya Forest Reserve: This forest is home to a variety of bird species, primates, and other wildlife. Guided nature walks through Echuya Forest offer an opportunity to experience the biodiversity of the area.
• Sabinyo Gorge Walk: A hike through the Sabinyo Gorge in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a chance to see beautiful waterfalls, bird species, and sometimes even golden monkeys.

7. Visit to Kisoro Market

• Local Market Experience: The Kisoro market is vibrant and offers a glimpse into the local culture. You can shop for fresh produce, crafts, and interact with the local community. It’s very important to note that, Kisoro market operates on Mondays and Thursdays.

8. Bird Watching

• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Lake Mutanda: Kisoro is a birding paradise, with various bird species found in the national parks and around the lakes. Specialties include the Rwenzori turaco, Shelley’s crimsonwing, and the African green broadbill.

9. Community Visits

• Cultural Tours: Engage with local communities to learn about the customs, traditions, and way of life of the people in Kisoro. You can visit local homesteads, schools, and community projects.

10. Explore Local Caves

• Garama Cave: Located in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Garama Cave is a historical site where the Batwa once lived. A guided tour of the cave offers insights into the history and culture of the Batwa people.

How long is Kisoro to Kampala?

The distance from Kisoro to Kampala is approximately 480 kilometers (about 298 miles) by road. The journey typically takes around 8 to 10 hours by car, depending on road conditions and traffic.

How many gorillas are in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park?