Top Things to Do in Kisoro Town Before or After Your Trek. Nestled in the lush, mountainous region of southwestern Uganda, Kisoro Town serves as the perfect base for travelers venturing into Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. While most visitors come for gorilla trekking, Kisoro itself offers a surprising array of cultural, scenic, and recreational experiences worth exploring before or after your trek. From lakeside relaxation to cultural immersion and local markets, here are the top things to do in Kisoro Town to make the most of your visit.

1. Explore Lake Mutanda

One of the most beautiful lakes in Uganda, Lake Mutanda is located just a few kilometers from Kisoro town. Surrounded by terraced hills and the dramatic peaks of the Virunga Mountains, the lake offers a peaceful escape from the dusty roads and physical exertion of trekking.

Visitors can enjoy canoe rides in traditional dugout canoes, which are both scenic and serene. These rides often pass by small islands, fishing villages, and birds such as kingfishers and herons. For a more relaxed day, you can simply sit by the lakeside with a book or camera, soaking in the views and mountain reflections.

Some lodges around the lake also offer sunset boat cruises, nature walks, and birdwatching excursions—ideal for unwinding after your trek.

2. Visit the Local Markets

A stroll through Kisoro’s bustling local markets is a colorful and authentic way to experience everyday life in this mountain town. The markets are especially lively on market days (Mondays and Thursdays), when traders from surrounding villages pour into town with produce, textiles, crafts, and household goods.

Wander through stalls stacked with fresh bananas, avocados, pineapples, and beans. You’ll also find unique handcrafted items, like woven baskets, traditional fabrics, and handmade jewelry—perfect souvenirs that support local artisans. Don’t hesitate to chat with the friendly vendors; even a few words of local language will earn you a warm smile.

3. Hike to the Top of Mount Muhabura or Mount Sabinyo

For those who haven’t had enough trekking or still have energy to burn, day hikes to the volcanoes around Kisoro are both challenging and spectacular. Mount Muhabura (4,127 meters) and Sabinyo (3,669 meters) are popular options.

Sabinyo, whose jagged summit forms a natural tri-border between Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, offers hikers the chance to stand in three countries at once. The trails are steep and can be muddy, but the panoramic views from the top—stretching across three nations—are more than worth the effort.

These volcano hikes are best done with a guide and are organized through Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or local tour operators.

4. Visit the Batwa Community

Before Mgahinga and Bwindi became protected national parks, the Batwa people—a pygmy tribe and traditional forest dwellers—lived as hunter-gatherers in these forests. Today, the Batwa offer cultural experiences where visitors can learn about their history, music, herbal medicine, and spiritual beliefs.

The Batwa Trail is a particularly meaningful experience, involving a guided walk through the forest led by Batwa guides who demonstrate traditional skills such as fire-making, archery, and hunting techniques. It culminates in visiting sacred sites and caves once used for shelter and spiritual rituals.

Participating in this experience not only provides cultural enrichment but also supports Batwa communities displaced by conservation efforts.

5. Enjoy Local Cuisine

Kisoro is home to a variety of small eateries and guesthouses that serve traditional Ugandan fare, as well as international dishes. Don’t miss the chance to try local delicacies like:

• “Ekitobero” – A traditional meal with matoke (steamed green bananas), beans, and g-nut sauce.

• “Rolex” – A popular street food made of a rolled chapati filled with eggs, onions, and vegetables.

• Fresh Tilapia – Often caught from nearby lakes and served grilled or fried with local sides.

Most guesthouses and lodges serve hearty meals to keep trekkers energized. If you’re lucky, you might catch a traditional music performance over dinner or a warm campfire.

6. Visit the Kisoro Reptile Village

A lesser-known attraction, the Kisoro Reptile Village is a community conservation project dedicated to educating visitors about reptiles found in the region. It’s a great stop for families or nature enthusiasts and includes snakes, lizards, tortoises, and chameleons. Visitors learn about the role of these creatures in the local ecosystem and efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict.

This is also a great place to meet locals engaged in conservation, especially if you’re interested in eco-tourism and grassroots wildlife initiatives.

7. Take a Village Walk

To experience rural Ugandan life, consider taking a guided village walk around Kisoro’s outskirts. These walks pass through scenic farmlands, terraced hillsides, and small homesteads. Guides share insights into traditional farming practices, local customs, and the significance of various crops and trees in the community.

You may also visit local schools or community projects, which offer a deeper understanding of the challenges and successes of life in this remote part of Uganda.

How to get there

Kisoro is located in southwestern Uganda, close to the borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. There are two main ways to reach Kisoro: by road or by air.

By Road: From Kampala, Uganda’s capital, the drive to Kisoro takes about 8–10 hours (approximately 500 km). The route passes through Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale, offering scenic views of rolling hills and lush countryside. A 4WD vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season, as the final stretch includes winding mountain roads. You can also travel by bus or private car hire from Kampala or Kabale.

By Air: For a faster and more comfortable option, you can take a domestic flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro Airstrip, which is located just outside the town. Flights are available via Aerolink Uganda and take about 1 hour. From the airstrip, it’s a short drive to town or nearby lodges.

Where to stay in Kisoro

Kisoro offers a wide variety of accommodation options, making it easy for travelers to find a place that suits their budget and travel style. For those seeking comfort and stunning views, Lake Mutanda Lodge and Chahafi Resort provide serene escapes with beautiful vistas of the Virunga Mountains and nearby lakes. These lodges typically offer spacious cottages, quality dining, and excellent service—ideal for unwinding before or after a gorilla trek.

For mid-range travelers, Travelers Rest Hotel is a popular choice with historical charm and a central location in Kisoro town. This colonial-era hotel is known for its warm hospitality and was once frequented by the famed primatologist Dian Fossey. Another great option is Mutanda Eco Community Center, which combines sustainability with comfort, offering cozy cottages overlooking Lake Mutanda, perfect for nature lovers and eco-conscious tourists.

Budget travelers and backpackers can find affordable and welcoming stays at places like Mianzi Guest House in Kisoro town or Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp near the entrance to Mgahinga National Park. These accommodations offer basic but clean facilities, friendly staff, and a chance to interact with the local community, all while staying within a reasonable budget.