Kihihi

Kihihi is a town located in the Kanungu District of southwestern Uganda. It is recognized as the second-largest metropolitan area within the district, situated approximately 16 kilometers by road northwest of Kanungu town, where the district headquarters are found. The town's geographical coordinates are -0.74611°S, 29.70028°E. Kihihi holds strategic importance due to its close proximity to significant tourist destinations, including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a world-renowned site for mountain gorilla trekking, and the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, which is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions.A key feature of Kihihi is the Kihihi Airstrip, also known as Garuga Airstrip or Savannah Airstrip, which serves as a vital gateway for travelers. This domestic airstrip offers flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield, drastically cutting down travel time to Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park from an arduous 8-10 hours by road to a mere 1-2 hours by air, followed by a short road transfer. The town has developed infrastructure to support its role as a tourism hub, including various accommodation facilities, a Stanbic Bank branch with an ATM, and bus terminals. Additionally, Kihihi hosts a large refugee camp managed by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The surrounding terrain is characterized by its mountainous and winding nature.