Public Transport to Kisoro and Bwindi National Park from Kampala. Traveling from Kampala, Uganda’s capital, to Kisoro District, the gateway to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and the southern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is most commonly done by road. The standard public transportation route between these regions is served by several daily bus services, which have made gorilla tourism more accessible to both local and international travelers.

Travel Time and Road Conditions

The drive between Kampala and Kisoro town typically takes 8 to 9 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and weather. Fortunately, the road from Kampala to Kisoro is fully paved, although it remains narrow and winding in several sections. This paved route enhances safety and reduces travel time. Along the way, the journey cuts through key southwestern Ugandan towns including Masaka, Mbarara, Ntungamo, and Kabale, offering scenic views of rural life and rolling highlands.

Public Bus Ticket Costs and Departure Times

A one-way bus ticket from Kampala to Kisoro costs between USD 10 to 30, depending on the bus company, season and seat class selected. Both day and night buses operate on this route, giving travelers the flexibility to choose their preferred departure time. Night buses are convenient for travelers who want to arrive in Kisoro early the next day, while day buses are ideal for those who prefer traveling in daylight.

Booking Tip: It’s highly recommended to book your bus ticket in advance—either the day before your departure or early on the travel day itself. Seats tend to fill up quickly, especially during weekends and holiday seasons. Booking early guarantees your seat and choice of travel time.

Bus Companies Operating on the Kampala–Kisoro Route

Several reliable bus companies offer regular services between Kampala and Kisoro, and some even provide business-class seating for added comfort.

1. Modern Coast

Modern Coast is a Kenyan-based bus company with a strong presence in Uganda. Known for its modern and comfortable buses, Modern Coast serves the Kampala-Kisoro route and continues into Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, via the Bunagana border. It is a good option for travelers who prefer cleaner buses and upgraded seating options.

2. Jaguar Bus Company

Jaguar buses are another reputable choice. Their booking office in Kampala is located along Namirembe Road, close to the Mengo City Oil fuel station. It’s easy to access the Jaguar office by using a Boda Boda (motorbike taxi) from downtown Kampala.

3. Horizon Coaches

Horizon is one of the longest-standing Ugandan bus operators. Their buses run daily from Kampala to Kisoro, with scheduled stops in Mbarara and Kabale. While Horizon may not have business-class options, they are known for reliability and punctuality.

4. Bismarkan Coaches

Bismarkan is another dependable bus company with regular departures to Kisoro. Their buses are stationed in the Kisenyi Bus Park in central Kampala. This company is often recommended for budget travelers and locals.

5. Trinity Bus

Trinity buses primarily serve the Kampala–Kigali route but also pass through Kisoro and Kabale. Travelers can disembark in Kisoro and continue to Mgahinga or Bwindi from there. Trinity buses are a great option if you’re coming from Rwanda or heading back that way.

6. Post Bus

Operated by Posta Uganda, the national postal service, Post Bus is known for its relatively safe and timely service. It operates countrywide, including on the Kampala–Kisoro route, and is a good choice for travelers who value efficiency and security.

Kisoro Airstrip: A Faster Alternative

For those who prefer air travel, Kisoro Airstrip offers a more efficient means of reaching Bwindi or Mgahinga. Aerolink Uganda operates daily domestic flights between Entebbe International Airport and Kisoro. The flight takes approximately one hour, and from Kisoro Airstrip, it’s a short drive to Bwindi or Mgahinga.

Flying is ideal for tourists who want to avoid the long and winding drive or have limited time in Uganda. It’s especially convenient for those whose lodges are located near Rushaga, Nkuringo, or Mgahinga’s Ntebeko Gate.

Traveling from Kigali, Rwanda to Kisoro or Bwindi

A growing number of tourists opt to enter Uganda via Kigali, Rwanda, due to the shorter distance and smoother roads. The drive from Kigali to Kisoro via the Cyanika border takes just under five hours, compared to the 9-hour drive from Kampala.

Public Transport from Kigali

Public buses frequently operate from Kigali to Musanze (Ruhengeri), in northern Rwanda. From Musanze, travelers can take a matatu (shared taxi) to the Cyanika border. Once in Uganda, it’s possible to catch a motorbike (boda boda) or hire a car to get to Kisoro town or even directly to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

While public transport is cheaper, it’s generally slower and less reliable. For comfort and convenience, travelers are encouraged to arrange private transfers with local tour operators, especially if continuing on to Bwindi or Mgahinga for gorilla trekking.