[2] Protection of the Kitulo Plateau's unique flora was first proposed by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), in response to the growing international trade in orchid tubers and increased hunting and logging activities in the surrounding forests.

TANAPA has stated that the park could be expanded in the future to include the neighbouring Mount Rungwe forest.

Thickets of bamboo (Yushania alpina) can be found between the upper montane forests and the high altitude grasslands.

In 2005, field scientists from the WCS discovered a new species of primate on and around Mount Rungwe and in the Livingstone Forest area of the park.

[13] The former Ndumbi Valley Forest Reserve (27.71 km²) was established in 1956, and was incorporated into the national park when it was created in 2005.