One of the most interesting things about climbing Mt Kilimanjaro is the unique ecosystems. When you approach the park there is a lot of land under cultivation. In the lower elevations there is a belt of forests and as you climb up the mountain, you will notice the vegetation becoming more and more sparse.

Below is a description of the six distinct eco systems on Mt Kilimanjaro:

CULTIVATION:
This area, once resplendent with shrubbery and dense forests, is now farmland, pastures, plantations, grasslands. The cultivation area has heavy rainfall and has fertile volcanic soil. You will notice the cultivation area as you approach your gate.
 

FOREST:
Most climbers pass the forest area on the first day and part of the second day. It has very lush, dense vegetation with heavy rainfall. There are no settlements pass this point. The forest is generally from 1,800 to 2,800 meters.
 

HEATHER:
The heather zone is a transition from the forest to the moorland. Generally there is mist and fog close to the forest. There is low-growing shrub in dense masses. You will pass through this area on day 2.
 

MOORLAND:
This is an open area with peaty soil, covered with heather, bracken and moss. The climate is very cool and clear and this where you really start to feel the altitude. Frost is regular and the sun can be very intense. You will normally be in this region on day 3 and day 4.
 

ALPINE DESERT:
The alpine desert is generally anywhere above 14,000 ft and is usually toward the end of your trip. It has very intense radiation, high evaporation and big fluctuations in the temperature. At nights it can be below 32 degrees Fahrenheit and in the day it can reach above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. There is little to no water and virtually no plant life. You may reach the alpine desert on day 4 or after.
 

SUMMIT:
You will normally summit on your penultimate day. At the summit you will find cold artic conditions with half the amount of oxygen you are used to. There can be hot, intense sun during the day and extreme cold, freezing temperatures at night. There is little protection from the sun and no surface water.