Kisoro is a small town in southwestern Uganda, set in the highlands near the borders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It serves as an important gateway to the Virunga Mountains and has long been shaped by its position at the crossroads of cultures, trade routes, and protected landscapes. The town itself reflects everyday life in rural Uganda, with lively markets and a strong connection to surrounding farming communities.
The landscape around Kisoro is striking and dramatic. Rolling green hills give way to volcanic peaks, including Mounts Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo, which dominate the horizon. The area is also close to both Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, making it one of the key access points for mountain gorilla trekking. Terraced farmland, crater lakes, and misty valleys create a setting that feels both remote and richly textured.
Kisoro’s atmosphere is calm and grounded, shaped by mountain air and a slower pace of life. It feels less polished than larger tourist centers, offering visitors a more direct connection to local communities and landscapes. For travelers drawn to conservation, hiking, and meaningful cultural encounters, Kisoro provides a quietly powerful base in one of East Africa’s most remarkable regions.