The high elevation of Mount Kilimanjaro allows for different climatic zones as the peak is ascended.   There are 5 key zones:   colline, submontane, montane, subalpine, and alpine.

The alpine zone begins at 3,800 meters and extends to the summit.   This area is characterized by inhospitable conditions of low temperature and high altitude, contrasted with the stark beauty of the volcano and surrounding glaciers.