Kilimanjaro Wildlife Guide: Forest Monkeys, Birds and the Plants of Each Climate Zone

Rising to 5,895 metres, Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, and as you climb you pass through zones that resemble a journey from the equator toward the poles.

Understanding those zones helps you notice what lives where, and it adds a rich natural history layer to the physical challenge of the ascent.

This guide is part of our animals of Uganda and East Africa guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Climate Zones and Life

Forest Mammals

The montane forest is the richest zone for animals. Black-and-white colobus monkeys leap among the branches, blue monkeys forage in groups and shy forest antelope such as duikers and bushbuck slip through the undergrowth. Large animals are occasionally recorded in the forest, but sightings by climbers are uncommon. The best advice is to walk quietly in the early morning and to listen for rustling in the canopy. See primates and monkeys for comparison with other African forests.

Birds of the Mountain

Forest birds include turacos, sunbirds, barbets and bulbuls, and above the trees you may meet raptors and the white-necked raven that scavenges near camps. Birdsong is strongest at dawn in the lower forest, where mixed flocks pass through the canopy. Bring binoculars and ask your guide to name what you hear. A broader introduction is in East Africa birding guide.

Plants of the Moorland and Alpine Zones

Above the forest, the giant groundsels and giant lobelias give the mountain its unmistakable look. These plants have evolved to survive freezing nights and strong sun, storing water and insulating their growing tips. Everlasting flowers and heathers carpet the slopes, and the Shira Plateau in particular is rich in moorland scenery. Respect the vegetation by staying on marked paths.

Conservation and the Changing Mountain

Kilimanjaro National Park is a protected area, and the mountain is a vital water source for communities on its slopes. Forest loss, fire and the shrinking of the summit glaciers are well-documented concerns. Choosing responsible operators who pay porters fairly and carry out waste supports the long-term health of the mountain. See responsible and conservation travel.

Combining the Climb With Safari

Many climbers add a few days of safari in the northern circuit, where the animals of the plains complement the plants and forest creatures of the mountain. Read Kilimanjaro climbing guide for route choices, then pair it with northern circuit safari.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team