It is found in Kivu in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, and southwestern Uganda.

[3][4] The dorsum has narrow stripes on lighter background (but showing little contrast to the ground colour) that converge on the head as well as posteriorly.

[3][4][5] Afrixalus orophilus occurs in montane grasslands, montane bamboo forests, and in wetland areas in reeds and papyrus, probably largely higher than 1,500 m (4,900 ft) above sea level; its specific habitat requirements are not well known.

It is probably impacted by ongoing loss of habitat caused by agriculture and human settlements.

It is present in the Bwindi National Park in Uganda and in the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, although presently the latter is not effectively managed.