Campo de los Alisos

Campo de los Alisos National Park protects 15,162 hectares in Tucumán province, Argentina, encompassing high-altitude grasslands, yungas cloud forests, and mountain landscapes in the southern yungas ecoregion. Established in 1995, the park protects an important transition zone where Andean high-altitude environments meet subtropical yungas forests. The terrain features mountain valleys, streams, waterfalls, and diverse vegetation zones supporting significant biodiversity. The park serves as critical habitat for endangered species and protects water sources for surrounding regions. Visitors experience the transition from lush cloud forests to open high-altitude grasslands, discovering diverse ecosystems supporting unique flora and fauna in one of Argentina's important yungas protected areas.

Campo de los Alisos hosts a diverse array of wildlife adapted to its varied elevations and ecosystems. Large mammals include the endangered Andean cat (Leopardus jacobita), puma (Puma concolor), and Andean fox (Lycalopex culpaeus). The park is also home to significant bird populations, including the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus), red-tailed comet hummingbird (Sappho sparganurus), and various species of hawks and eagles. Notable amphibians and reptiles include several endemic species of toads and lizards adapted to high-altitude environments.

The park's vegetation varies significantly with altitude, creating distinct ecological zones. The lower elevations feature subtropical yungas forest with tree species like the Andean alder (Alnus acuminata) and various laurels. Mid-elevations support mountain forest and grasslands, while the higher regions contain high-altitude meadows known as 'pastizales de altura.' Notable plant species include queñoa trees (Polylepis australis), which grow at some of the highest elevations for trees in South America, and various endemic orchid species. The park also harbors important medicinal plants used traditionally by local communities.

The park's geology is characterized by the eastern slopes of the Aconquija Mountains, part of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes. The terrain features dramatic elevation changes, ranging from 800 to 5,200 meters above sea level, creating diverse geological zones. The landscape was shaped by intense tectonic activity and glacial processes, resulting in deep valleys, steep mountain slopes, and numerous water courses. The bedrock consists primarily of metamorphic and igneous rocks, with significant deposits of granite and schist.

Campo de los Alisos National Park experiences a subtropical highland climate with distinct seasonal variations. Summers (December to February) are warm and wet, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F) and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winters (June to August) are cool and dry, with temperatures between 5-15°C (41-59°F) and occasional frost at higher elevations. The park receives most of its annual rainfall during the summer months, creating lush vegetation conditions. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures and variable precipitation.

The park was established in 1996 to protect the unique ecological and archaeological heritage of the region. The area has significant historical importance as it contains remnants of Inca settlements and trails, including the ancient Inca road known as Qhapaq Ñan. Archaeological evidence suggests human occupation dating back several centuries, with the Inca Empire using this region as an important route connecting their territories. The park's name 'Campo de los Alisos' comes from the abundance of Andean alder trees (alisos) that historically dominated the landscape.

The Campo de los Alisos area has been utilized by local communities for seasonal grazing and resource harvesting for generations. Recognition of the area's biodiversity values and role in watershed protection led to national park establishment in 1995. The park protects representative yungas ecosystems, which have been heavily impacted outside protected areas through agriculture and logging. Protection ensures conservation of water sources, endangered species habitat, and yungas forest biodiversity. Management addresses ongoing challenges including illegal grazing, hunting pressures, and invasive species. The park contributes to Argentina's network of yungas protected areas, which collectively aim to preserve this threatened ecosystem across its range. Community engagement efforts seek to build local support for conservation while addressing livelihood concerns.

The park's most remarkable features include the well-preserved sections of the Inca Trail (Qhapaq Ñan), which offers visitors insights into ancient transportation networks. The imposing Mount Aconquija, reaching 5,200 meters, provides spectacular views and challenging climbing opportunities. The park contains numerous waterfalls, crystal-clear mountain streams, and glacial lakes. Archaeological sites include ancient Inca ruins and ceremonial grounds. The diversity of ecosystems within a relatively small area makes it an excellent location for ecological research and nature observation.

Access to Campo de los Alisos is via San Miguel de Tucumán, with park entrances reached through mountain roads requiring high-clearance vehicles. A ranger station provides basic information and orientation. Facilities are minimal, with primitive camping areas and trail access points. Several hiking routes traverse different vegetation zones from cloud forests to grasslands. The park offers opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and exploring yungas ecosystems. Trails vary in difficulty, with some requiring good physical condition due to elevation and terrain. Services are limited within the park; visitors should be prepared with supplies. The nearby town of Tafí del Valle provides accommodations and basic services. The park is accessible year-round, though the rainy summer season (November-March) can make access roads and trails muddy and challenging.

Campo de los Alisos protects important yungas cloud forest ecosystems threatened throughout their range. The park provides habitat for endangered species including taruca (Andean deer), with population monitoring and protection efforts. Birdlife includes numerous yungas specialists and endemic species. Forest conservation addresses threats from illegal logging and encroachment. High-altitude grassland protection manages legacy grazing impacts while preventing further degradation. Water source protection ensures clean water for downstream communities. The park serves as a biodiversity corridor connecting with other protected areas. Climate change monitoring addresses potential shifts in vegetation zones and species distributions. Invasive species control targets introduced plants and animals. Sustainable use programs engage local communities in conservation while providing alternative livelihoods. Educational outreach emphasizes yungas ecosystem values and the importance of watershed protection. Research programs study yungas ecology, threatened species status, and restoration techniques for degraded areas.