How to Get to Kisoro: Your Ultimate Local Travel Guide

Planning a trip to southwestern Uganda? Learning how to get to Kisoro is a crucial part of your adventure. Nestled in the foothills of the Virunga Mountains, Kisoro is a scenic gateway to gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and the mesmerizing beauty of Lake Mutanda. This ultimate local travel guide features expert tips from Hillary, a professional local guide and wildlife photographer at Hillary Uganda Trips, who offers authentic, tailored tours across Uganda.

Whether you’re flying in from abroad or traveling overland from Kampala, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the best ways to reach Kisoro comfortably and safely. We’ll explore transportation options, local routes, travel tips, and essential contacts to make your journey stress-free.

Why Visit Kisoro, Uganda?

Kisoro is one of Uganda’s most enchanting destinations, surrounded by lush volcanoes, crater lakes, and vibrant local culture. It offers unmatched proximity to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, two of the best places for gorilla trekking in Uganda.

From scenic drives along terraced hillsides to quiet paddles across Lake Mutanda, Kisoro provides unforgettable experiences for both thrill-seekers and peace-lovers. According to Hillary, “Kisoro is not just a stopover—it’s a destination where you feel the heartbeat of Uganda’s wild soul.”

Getting to Kisoro from Kampala: Road Transport Options

Option 1: Private Safari Vehicle with Hillary Uganda Trips

The most convenient and comfortable way to reach Kisoro from Kampala is by booking a private guided safari vehicle through Hillary Uganda Trips. This door-to-door service allows you to travel at your own pace with rest stops, photo opportunities, and local insights along the way.

Traveling with Hillary means you’ll have a certified local expert, fluent in the region’s geography, wildlife, and culture. The route from Kampala to Kisoro is approximately 470 km (8–10 hours) via Mbarara, Kabale, and Kisoro Road.

Along the way, you can stop at:

The Equator Line in Kayabwe
Igongo Cultural Centre in Mbarara
Lake Bunyonyi viewpoints near Kabale

This is the ideal option for visitors planning a custom safari or adding Kisoro to a broader Uganda travel itinerary.

Explore Hillary’s custom Uganda safaris.

Option 2: Self-Drive Car Hire to Kisoro

For travelers who prefer flexibility, self-drive car hire in Uganda is another way to reach Kisoro. You can rent a 4×4 vehicle from Kampala or Entebbe and drive via Masaka, Mbarara, Kabale, and finally Kisoro.

The route is paved but features hilly, winding sections especially between Kabale and Kisoro. It’s best suited for confident drivers used to African terrain. Be sure to start early to avoid driving at night—visibility is low and roads can be slippery during the rainy season.

While self-driving offers freedom, having a local guide like Hillary enhances safety, navigation, and cultural immersion.

Option 3: Public Bus Services from Kampala to Kisoro

Budget-conscious travelers can reach Kisoro by using public buses or coaches from the downtown bus parks in Kampala. Reliable companies include Bismarkan Coaches, Post Bus Uganda, and Baby Coaches.

Departure is typically early morning or at night. Fares range from UGX 50,000–70,000 (approx. USD 15–20). Expect a 10–12-hour ride with several stops along the way.

While public buses are affordable, they often lack air conditioning and comfort. They are not ideal for those with tight schedules or a desire to explore sights en route. For more immersive travel, it’s advisable to combine public transport with local tours from Hillary in Kisoro.

Getting to Kisoro from Kigali, Rwanda

A Popular Shortcut for International Travelers

Travelers arriving via Kigali International Airport in Rwanda often choose this route to save time and experience the highlights of two countries in one trip. Kigali to Kisoro is a shorter drive of about 3–4 hours, making it a popular access point for gorilla trekking safaris in southwestern Uganda.

You’ll cross the border at Cyanika, just outside Kisoro town. Make sure to have:

A valid East African Tourist Visa (USD 100)
A yellow fever vaccination card
Travel insurance and identification documents

With Hillary’s cross-border safari packages, you can enjoy a seamless transfer from Kigali to Kisoro, complete with sightseeing stops and border assistance.

Learn more about the Gorilla Trekking Age Limit in Uganda and Rwanda.

Private Transfer Services from Kigali

Hillary Uganda Trips offers private car transfers from Kigali to Kisoro, ideal for travelers landing at odd hours or preferring comfort and flexibility. This option is especially suitable for families, groups, or solo travelers who want a stress-free experience.

The route passes through the beautiful Rwandan countryside, including Musanze town, home to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. The Cyanika border is open between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM daily.

For smooth travel arrangements, contact Hillary directly on WhatsApp at +256726436969 or via email at hillaryugandatrips@gmail.com.

Domestic Flights to Kisoro Airstrip

Flying to Kisoro from Entebbe International Airport

For those short on time or seeking convenience, scheduled domestic flights to Kisoro are available via Aerolink Uganda and Bar Aviation. These small aircrafts operate flights from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Kisoro Airstrip, located just 10 minutes from town.

Flights typically depart in the early morning and take about 1 hour 15 minutes. Prices range from USD 250–350 one way depending on the season and availability.

This option is ideal for travelers planning gorilla trekking on a tight schedule. Hillary can organize airport transfers, accommodation, and permit bookings before your arrival.

Get your Ultimate Uganda Safari Packing List.

Charter Flights for Groups and Luxury Travelers

If you’re traveling in a group or seeking luxury travel options, charter flights to Kisoro can be arranged via local aviation companies. These offer complete privacy and custom scheduling, ideal for honeymooners, filmmakers, or luxury safari clients.

Flights can also connect Kisoro with other major national parks such as Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo Valley, or Murchison Falls. Hillary can help coordinate all your air and ground logistics for a seamless multi-park safari experience.

Important Travel Tips Before Heading to Kisoro

Best Time to Travel to Kisoro

The best time to visit Kisoro is during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February, when roads are passable and trekking conditions are excellent.

However, Kisoro’s beauty is year-round, and traveling during the low season (March–May, September–November) offers discounts and fewer crowds. Hillary recommends traveling early in the dry season for the best photography and wildlife encounters.

What to Pack for Your Trip

Traveling to Kisoro means preparing for mountain weather. Pack layers including:

Warm fleece jackets and raincoats
Hiking boots with good grip
Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle
A daypack for gorilla trekking essentials

Don’t forget your travel documents, vaccination card, and enough cash for remote area expenses, as card payments can be unreliable in Kisoro.

Check out our full Uganda Travel Safety Tips.

Booking Gorilla Permits and Tours in Kisoro

Gorilla trekking in Uganda — Mgahinga gorilla trekking

Gorilla permits for Mgahinga National Park and southern Bwindi are limited and must be booked in advance through Uganda Wildlife Authority or a trusted tour operator.

Hillary helps travelers secure permits, guides, and accommodation near the park. His insider knowledge ensures you get the best trekking experience without the stress of navigating government systems on your own.

He also offers guided experiences such as:

Discover the full Batwa Cultural Experience in Uganda.

Final Thoughts: Why Travel to Kisoro with Hillary Uganda Trips

Getting to Kisoro may seem challenging, but with expert help from Hillary, it becomes a smooth and enriching journey. As a local guide and wildlife photographer, Hillary brings deep regional knowledge, safety, and storytelling to every trip.

He helps travelers:

Choose the best route based on time and budget
Arrange reliable transport, permits, and accommodations
Enjoy immersive, authentic local experiences

Whether you’re coming from Kampala, Kigali, or Entebbe, Hillary ensures that your travel to Kisoro is more than a commute—it’s the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.