Agroforestry offers a promising pathway for smallholder farmers to adapt to climate change by integrating tree crops that are more resilient to water stress than annual crops and provide both subsistence and commercial benefits. Mango (Mangifera indica L.), a key fruit tree in Kenyan rural livelihoods, faces uncertain future viability due to climate variability. However, limited knowledge of the diversity, distribution, and climatic adaptability of mango varieties across Kenya hampers targeted adaptation efforts. This study investigated the spatial distribution and performance of mango varieties along an elevation gradient encompassing diverse agro-ecological zones. Data were collected from 228 spatially-random farms through varietal inventories and semi-structured interviews to capture both biological and socio-economic dimensions of mango cultivation. Farmers’ perceptions regarding climate change and mango farming were also documented. Twenty-eight mango varieties were identified, exhibiting wide variation in distribution patterns related to elevation, household gender dynamics, labor access, income sources, market reliability, and commercial orientation. Farmers frequently cited changes in rainfall and temperature over the past 15 years as influencing their cultivation decisions. Qualitative models revealed that the success of different mango varieties was linked to both environmental and socio-economic factors. This study lays the groundwork for the development of climate suitability maps for mango varieties under future projections, aiming to guide targeted recommendations for variety selection. The approach contributes to climate-resilient agroforestry strategies by aligning varietal selection with evolving climatic and socio-economic realities, thereby enhancing smallholder resilience and long-term productivity.