Why Kisoro is the Best Base for Gorilla Trekking: A Local Guide’s Perspective
When people think about gorilla trekking in Uganda, they often hear about Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, but very few websites talk about Kisoro, the vibrant mountain town that connects these two incredible gorilla habitats. As a local guide and wildlife photographer born near Kisoro, I have spent years trekking these mountains, meeting visitors from around the world, listening to their reactions, and witnessing how deeply this landscape touches them.
Kisoro is not just a starting point, it’s part of the experience.
Where Gorilla Trekking Meets Culture, Community & Landscape
Kisoro sits against the backdrop of the Virunga Volcanoes, a chain of dramatic green peaks shared between Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. From town, you look up and see Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga and Mount Sabinyo rising like giants.
This mountain environment shapes everything here:
- The cool climate makes trekking comfortable
- The hills and volcanic valleys create beautiful hiking trails
- The local people are warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to nature
And this is why I always recommend Kisoro over other gorilla trekking bases.
Close Access to Two Gorilla Trekking Parks
From Kisoro, you can easily trek gorillas in either:
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Home to the famous Nyakagezi gorilla family, known for their playful young ones and dominant silverbacks.
Southern Bwindi (Rushaga & Nkuringo Sectors)
Here you will find multiple gorilla families and the unique Gorilla Habituation Experience, where you spend up to 4 hours with the gorillas.
This flexibility means you can:
- Choose your preferred gorilla trekking style
- Adjust based on fitness and interest
- Add Golden Monkey Tracking or community visits easily
Kisoro gives you options, and options create the best safari experiences.
Travelers Love the Relaxed Atmosphere
Unlike crowded safari towns, Kisoro feels real.
There are:
- Local markets
- Fresh fruits and roasted maize vendors
- Children walking from school with big smiles
- Evening voices singing around the hillsides
When I guide guests, I love walking them through the town market or watching sunset over Lake Mutanda where the light reflects off the water and volcanoes like a painting. It’s a moment that stays with you.
Where You Stay Matters
Some of my recommended lodges in Kisoro include:
- Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge (peaceful + amazing lake views)
- Traveler’s Rest Hotel (classic history + cozy fire nights)
- Chameleon Hill Lodge (colorful + stunning ridge-top views)
I always help travelers choose based on their:
- Budget
- Preferred scenery
- Activity level
Your lodge should feel like home during your trek.
Supporting Local Families – Your Visit Makes a Difference
When you trek with Hillary Uganda Trips, you are not just visiting but giving back directly.
A portion of every tour helps local families by providing essential items like:
- Food supplies
- Access to clean drinking water
- Basic household needs
You are helping real families in rural communities around Kisoro and Bunyonyi live better, with dignity and hope.
This is responsible tourism, and you are part of it.
Add Local Community Experiences to Your Trek
Many travelers choose to add:
- Batwa cultural forest visit
- Village walk
- Traditional cooking and music evening
- Boat ride on Lake Mutanda
These aren’t staged experiences, they are real stories with real people.
Plan Your Kisoro Gorilla Trekking Tour
Whether you’re coming from Kigali or Entebbe, I handle all arrangements:
- Permits
- Transport
- Lodge booking
- Trek briefing
- Cultural experiences
- Photography tips
Contact Hillary (Local Guide & Photographer):
📞 WhatsApp: +256726436969
📧 Email: hillary@hillaryugandatrips.com
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