Nature Walks in Kisoro: Where to Go and What to See. Kisoro is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a blend of scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and authentic cultural encounters. Nestled between majestic volcanoes and tranquil lakes, the region provides countless opportunities for nature walks suited to all fitness levels. Whether you’re exploring highland forests, wetlands, or lakeshores, each trail promises unique sights and experiences.

One of the most popular spots for a nature walk is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where guided forest walks take you through bamboo and montane vegetation rich in birdlife, small mammals, and rare plant species. The Gorge Trail, which winds through a lush valley between Mount Gahinga and Mount Sabinyo, is especially recommended for birdwatchers and botanists. Visitors often spot species like the Rwenzori Turaco and Golden Monkeys, along with stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes.

For a gentler and equally rewarding experience, try a lakeside walk along Lake Mutanda. These trails pass through picturesque villages, terraced hills, and papyrus wetlands, offering a peaceful setting ideal for photography, birding, and cultural interactions. You can also walk to viewpoints above the lake for sweeping panoramic views. For those interested in cultural experiences, guided village walks around Kisoro provide insights into traditional farming, local customs, and daily life in the highlands.

1. Forest Trails in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

For those seeking a wilder and more immersive nature walk, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a top choice. Though best known for its gorilla and golden monkey tracking, the park also offers less strenuous but highly rewarding guided nature walks. The Gorge Trail is a popular route that leads hikers between Mount Gahinga and Mount Sabinyo, through lush montane forest and bamboo zones. The trail reveals a rich variety of flora and fauna, including forest elephants (rarely seen), golden monkeys, and several Albertine Rift endemic birds like the Rwenzori Turaco.

Another beautiful walk within the park is the Sabyinyo Gorge Walk, which winds along a small stream and offers excellent birdwatching. With the backdrop of towering volcanoes and the gentle rustle of bamboo, this trail is a serene escape into Uganda’s unique mountain ecosystems. Walks in the park are guided by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers and can last 2–4 hours, depending on the chosen route and your pace.

2. Lakeside Walks Around Lake Mutanda

Just a few kilometers from Kisoro town lies the breathtaking Lake Mutanda, a crater lake surrounded by terraced hills, small islands, and distant volcanoes. It’s one of the most scenic areas in all of Uganda and a perfect setting for a peaceful lakeside nature walk. Trails around Lake Mutanda pass through rural farmland, banana plantations, and small settlements where you may see fishermen, local women harvesting crops, and children herding goats.

One of the most rewarding walks is to hike up to Mutanda Viewpoint, a scenic hill overlooking the lake with panoramic views of the Virunga volcanoes reflected in the water. Along the way, you’ll pass patches of forest, small churches, and traditional homesteads. Many lodges offer guided nature walks around the lake or even canoe-walking combinations, where you paddle between islands and walk parts of the shoreline.

3. Cultural Village Walks

Kisoro is also a great place to combine nature and culture. Guided village walks in the surrounding hills allow visitors to engage with local life and traditions while enjoying spectacular landscapes. These walks typically begin in town or at your lodge and head into the nearby highlands, where you can meet local farmers, visit small schools, and see how crops like sorghum, beans, and Irish potatoes are grown.

Many walks are led by community guides who explain local customs, family life, and agricultural techniques. You may also learn about traditional herbal medicine, basket weaving, or even take part in cooking a local meal. Cultural walks not only support local tourism but also offer a deeper, more meaningful experience of the area beyond its wildlife attractions.

4. Birdwatching and Wetland Walks

For bird enthusiasts, Kisoro is located in a biodiversity hotspot. Guided walks through wetland areas and forest edges near the town or around the lakes can yield sightings of turacos, sunbirds, weavers, herons, and more. The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon, and many local guides are skilled in identifying species by sound and sight.

Wetland trails near Lake Chahafi or the northern shores of Lake Mutanda provide peaceful walking routes with plenty of avian activity and great opportunities for nature photography.

Combining Nature walks in Mgahinga with Gorillas

Combining nature walks in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park with gorilla trekking offers an enriching and immersive experience in Uganda’s smallest but incredibly diverse national park. Nestled in the Virunga Mountains, Mgahinga is not only home to the endangered mountain gorillas but also boasts breathtaking volcanic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural heritage.

Begin your adventure with a guided gorilla trek, an unforgettable journey through dense bamboo forests in search of the Nyakagezi gorilla family. Spending an hour in the presence of these gentle giants is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience that supports conservation and community development.

After the gorilla trek, continue exploring the park on scenic nature walks. The popular Gorge Trail takes you through lush vegetation along the deep Sabinyo Gorge, offering chances to spot rare birds like the Rwenzori Turaco and wildlife such as golden monkeys. For the adventurous, the Volcano Hike to Mount Gahinga or Mount Sabinyo provides panoramic views across Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC.

Nature walks are guided by local experts who share insights into the park’s unique ecology, volcanic geology, and the traditions of the indigenous Batwa people. These walks complement the thrill of gorilla tracking with peaceful encounters in pristine nature, making the experience holistic and deeply memorable.

Combining gorillas and nature walks in Mgahinga is perfect for travelers seeking adventure, tranquility, and a deeper connection with Uganda’s natural and cultural treasures.

How much does it cost to do Gorilla Trekking an Golden Monkey Tracking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking in Uganda are unforgettable wildlife experiences that come at a premium due to conservation efforts and limited permits. As of 2025, gorilla trekking permits cost $800 per person for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. These permits allow you to spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Golden monkey tracking, which is exclusive to Mgahinga, is more affordable, with permits costing $60 for foreign non-residents, $50 for foreign residents, and UGX 40,000 for East Africans. There is also an option for golden monkey habituation, offering a longer experience (up to 4 hours) at $100 per person.

These prices cover park entry, guide fees, and conservation support, but do not include accommodation, transport, or meals. It is highly recommended to book permits well in advance through a registered tour operator like Kenlink Tours, especially during peak seasons (June–August, December–February).

The overall cost for a combined gorilla trekking with golden monkey tracking ranges from USD 2000 TO USD 3500 depending on the accommodation used.  Contact our consultant for assistance in planning. 

Book with Us at Kenlink Tours

Ready to experience the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Kisoro on foot? Whether you’re interested in forest hikes, lakeside walks, birdwatching, or cultural village tours, Kenlink Tours is here to make your journey unforgettable. Our experienced local guides will lead you through the best nature trails, sharing insights about the landscape, wildlife, and communities along the way.

At Kenlink Tours, we offer customized walking experiences and multi-day packages tailored to your interests, schedule, and budget. We handle all the logistics—so you can focus on enjoying the adventure. Contact us today to book your Kisoro nature walk and discover Uganda’s hidden gems with trusted local experts.

👉 Email us: info@kenlinktours.com | 📞 Call or WhatsApp: +256 789 210067