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.
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 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.
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.
Argentina
-27.2830°, -65.9170°
1995
100
Campo de los Alisos National Park preserves portions of the yungas cloud forest and high Andean environments. The park contains important archaeological sites including Inca ruins. Its varied elevation zones support diverse ecosystems from subtropical forest to high-altitude grasslands.