Its total area is about 130 square kilometres (50 sq mi), with a highest point of 2,087 metres (6,847 ft).
[4] The pines were planted for timber production for the Zomba Sawmill, which is located at the southern slopes of the mountain.
Where indigenous trees are left, severe deforestation due to the high demand for firewood in the region is a problem.
Additionally, several companies and institutions, such as the CCAP Church, as well as private persons have cottages on the plateau.
The Zomba Plateau is included in a proposed ecoregion, to be called the South East Africa Montane Archipelago (SEAMA).