The Virunga Gorilla Marathon takes runners through the amazing highlands of southwestern Uganda where volcanic mountains rise above Kisoro and Lake Mutanda stretches beneath the Virunga ranges.
More than a mountain race, the event brings together running, local communities, wildlife conservation and adventure in one of Africa’s most remarkable destinations.
The marathon is part of the Mountain Gorilla Festival, a three-day celebration combining sport, local culture and wildlife conservation. This is aimed at protecting the endangered mountain gorillas.
Besides being a running event, it offers local and international visitors an opportunity to experience the people, landscapes and wildlife of the Virunga region.
For runners, it is an endurance challenge. For travelers, it is a chance to discover one of Uganda’s most extraordinary destinations.
What Is the Virunga Gorilla Marathon?
The Virunga Gorilla Marathon is a mountain running event held in and around Kisoro district, situated in the southwestern Uganda. It brings together runners from Uganda, Rwanda and beyond while promoting tourism, conservation and community engagement.
The event forms part of the wider Mountain Gorilla Festival, which combines the marathon with cultural and conservation activities.
Participants can experience the local communities and landscapes while learning about the importance of protecting the area’s lush forests and wildlife. This includes mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, eastern chimpanzees and bird species such as grey crowned crane, handsome francolin and Rwenzori Turaco.
With different race distances available, the marathon welcomes both experienced runners and people looking for a unique adventure in Uganda.
Where Is the Virunga Gorilla Marathon?
The Virunga Gorilla Marathon takes place around Kisoro in southwestern Uganda, within the Ugandan section of the Virunga Mountains.
The Virunga landscape stretches across Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, making it one of East Africa’s most wonderful cross-border ecosystems.
On the Ugandan side, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park protects part of this volcanic landscape and is home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The park also contains three of Uganda’s Virunga volcanoes: Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga and Mount Sabyinyo.
With its forests, lakes, mountains and local communities, Kisoro district provides a stunning setting for a marathon and exploration.
When is the 2026 Virunga Gorilla Marathon?
The 2026 Mountain Gorilla Festival is scheduled to take place from 20th –22nd November 2026, with the Virunga Gorilla Marathon scheduled for Saturday, 21st November 2026.
The festival brings together running, cultural activities and conservation initiatives, making the marathon the main sporting highlight of a wider three-day celebration.
Travelers planning to attend should confirm the latest race arrangements, registration requirements and event details with the organizers or silverbackgorasafaris.com before making their travel plans.
Virunga Gorilla Marathon Race Distances and Routes
One of the things that makes the Virunga Gorilla Marathon attractive and compelling to a wider spectrum of visitors is that you do not have to be an experienced and elite marathon runner to participate.
The official event organizers currently list five distances for different people;
112 km Ultra Marathon:
This rigorous trek takes runners through the dense Virunga rainforests, rolling hills, and the lava fields.
42 km Marathon:
This is the full marathon for serious distance runners seeking to test their endurance and resilience through the rainforests, lava fields and rolling landscapes.
21 km Run:
This is half-marathon distance suitable for experienced runners and adventurous participants through the lush forests and panoramic views of the Virunga Mountains amidst wilderness.
10 km Run:
This is a shorter option for those of all ages and families wanting to experience the event without committing to a full marathon.
6 km Run:
This is a shorter distance option for families, young athletes and participants looking for a shorter introduction to the Virunga Gorilla Marathon experience.
More Than a Marathon: Culture, Conservation and Community
The Virunga Gorilla Marathon is more than a race. It is an event that brings together conservation, community development and culture.
Through the marathon, participants learn about the importance of protecting the endangered mountain gorillas, golden monkeys and the forests where they live.
The event also promotes tree planting and environmental conservation to help protect the Virunga landscape for future generations.
The marathon also supports local communities through initiatives focused on healthcare and community development.
Along the route, runners have the opportunity to meet the Batwa people, learn about their traditions, experience their music, dance and cultural heritage.
By bringing runners and international visitors into the communities around Kisoro, the marathon creates an opportunity for tourism to support local people, wildlife and the environment conservation.
Experience More than a Marathon
The marathon is just the beginning. Visitors can extend their stay and discover the numerous wildlife, culture, local communities and hilly landscapes that make southwestern Uganda an amazing destination.
Beyond the Marathon, runners can experience;
Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking is carried out in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwestern Uganda. Visitors trek through the forest with guides to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Golden Monkey Tracking
Golden monkey tracking takes place in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where visitors follow guided trails through the bamboo and montane forests to see these rare primates.
Eastern Chimpanzee Tracking
Chimpanzee tracking can be experienced in Kibale National Park and other suitable forests in Uganda. For visitors based around Kisoro, it can be included as part of a wider Uganda safari.
Volcano Hiking
Volcano hiking is carried out in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where visitors can climb Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga and Mount Sabyinyo. The hikes provide spectacular views across the Virunga landscape.
Lake Mutanda Canoeing and Relaxation
Canoeing and lakeside relaxation are available around Lake Mutanda, just outside Kisoro town. The lake is surrounded by volcanic mountains, creating a scenic setting for canoe trips and peaceful escapes.
Cultural Experiences with the Batwa People
Batwa cultural experiences are available in communities around Mgahinga and Bwindi. Visitors can learn about Batwa heritage, traditions, music, dance and their historical connection with the forest.
Bird Watching
Bird watching can be enjoyed in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and around Lake Mutanda. The region’s forests and highland habitats support a wide variety of bird species.
Community Tourism
Community tourism experiences are available in and around Kisoro, Mgahinga and the Lake Mutanda area. Visitors can interact with local communities and experience traditional livelihoods, crafts, food and cultural activities.
Coffee Experiences
Coffee experiences can be enjoyed in the Kisoro and southwestern Uganda highlands, where visitors can learn about local coffee farming, processing and preparation while meeting coffee-growing communities.
Bwindi Attractions
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is best known for mountain gorilla trekking. Visitors can also enjoy forest walks, bird watching, cultural experiences and community tourism around the park.
Virunga Gorilla Marathon Registration & Fees
How to register
Registration for the Virunga Gorilla Marathon can be completed through the official event registration page. Runners can choose their preferred race distance and follow the registration instructions provided by the organizers. The official marathon website currently provides a “Register to Run” option.
Registration Fees
According to Kenneth Kamukama, CEO of the Virunga Marathon Team, the current registration rates are categorically provided as;
East African Community participants: UGX 70,000
International runners: US$30
When Does Registration Close?
The organizers have not currently published a closing date. Runners are encouraged to register early to secure their preferred race distance and make adequate travel arrangements.
Who Should Run the Virunga Gorilla Marathon?
The Marathon welcomes first time participants, families, experienced runners and adventure travelers with different distances available to suit all the different interests and fitness levels.
Insider Tips for Travelers
Kisoro’s high altitude and changing mountain weather require some preparation. These practical tips will help runners stay comfortable and enjoy the marathon and their Uganda adventure.
Runners should consider carrying the following for a memorable event;
- Pack lightweight clothing and warmers
- Prepare for the high altitudes
- Expect changing mountain weather
- Bring appropriate trail shoes
- A Camera & extra batteries
- Arrive on the activity early
- Observe the instructions and guidelines from your guides
- Book your gorilla permit in advance if adding gorilla trekking
- Comfortable hiking clothing for post-race activities
- Bring insect repellent and personal medication
- Carry some energy snacks and stay hydrated
Where to Stay during Virunga Gorilla Marathon
Kisoro offers accommodation for different classes, from affordable guesthouses in town to comfortable hotels and premium lodges around Lake Mutanda and Mgahinga. Therefore, runners should book early, particularly if they plan to combine the marathon with gorilla trekking or other activities.
Budget Accommodation
- Golden Monkey Guesthouse located in Kisoro town
- Mianzi Guest House situated in Kisoro town along Bunagana Road
- Mondi Lodge located along Bunagana Road in Kisoro town.
- Wagtail Forest Lodge located in Bwindi located in Rubuguri Town
Mid-Range Accommodation
- Travelers Rest Hotel located at Cyanika Road in Kisoro.
- Dorotia’s Bwindi eco tourism Resort
- Ichumbi Hotel positioned along Mutolere Road in Kisoro District
- Tourist Hotel located in Kisoro along Kabale Road
- Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge located near Rushaga Trekking Sector
- Mutanda Lake Resort situated in Mukozi Village near Lake Mutanda
Luxury Accommodation
- Mount Gahinga Lodge located near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Kisoro
- Gorilla Heights Lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Chameleon Hill Lodge based in Lake Mutanda area in Kisoro District
How to Get to Kisoro for the Virunga Gorilla Marathon
By road:
Kisoro can be reached by road from Kampala through Kabale. The journey takes several hours, so runners traveling by road should plan to arrive at least a day before the marathon.
By Air:
Visitors can take a scheduled or charter flight to Kisoro Airport and arrange a road transfer to their accommodation.
From Kigali, Rwanda:
International Visitors arriving through Kigali in Rwanda can travel to Kisoro by road via the Cyanika border.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Virunga Gorilla Marathon held?
The marathon takes place in and around Kisoro District in southwestern Uganda, within the Virunga region.
What time does Virunga Gorilla Marathon Start?
The official itinerary recommends participants to be at the starting point at 6:00am
When is the 2026 Virunga Gorilla Marathon?
The marathon is scheduled for Saturday, 21 November 2026, as part of the three-day Mountain Gorilla Festival.
What race distances are available?
The event currently lists 112 km, 42 km, 21 km, 10 km and 6 km distances.
How much does registration cost?
The listed rates are UGX 70,000 for East African Community participants and US$30 for international runners.
Do I need to be an experienced runner?
No. Different race distances make the event suitable for experienced runners, beginners, families and adventure travelers.
Can I combine the marathon with gorilla trekking?
Absolutely. Visitors can plan gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking and other activities before or after the race.
What should I pack for the Virunga Gorilla Marathon?
Pack suitable trail-running shoes, warm clothing, hydration supplies, energy snacks, sunscreen because of the changing mountain weather.
Can beginners participate in the Virunga Gorilla Marathon?
Yes. The 6 km race is specifically positioned as an accessible option for beginners, families and participants of different fitness levels.
Is Kisoro at a high altitude?
Yes. Kisoro is a highland destination, so runners should prepare for cooler temperatures and altitude conditions.
How early should I arrive in Kisoro?
Arriving at least one day before the race is recommended to rest, prepare and familiarize yourself with the area.
Can international visitors attend the Virunga Gorilla Marathon?
Yes. The event welcomes international runners and visitors interested in combining the race with a Uganda adventure.
Plan your Virunga Gorilla Marathon Adventure.
Come for the marathon, stay for the adventure, and discover the people, wildlife and landscapes that make southwestern Uganda unforgettable.
Planning to combine the marathon with gorilla trekking or wider Uganda safari? Silverback Gorilla Safaris at info@silverbackgorillasafaris.com can help organize the logistics around your race and adventure.
