The park's wildlife includes several iconic Andean species adapted to high-altitude environments. Notable mammals include vicuñas, guanacos, Andean foxes, and viscachas. The park is also home to three species of flamingos (Chilean, Andean, and James's) that frequent the wetlands and salt flats. Notable bird species include the Andean condor, giant coot, and various species of ground-tyrants. The park's high-altitude lagoons and wetlands serve as important breeding grounds for numerous waterfowl species. Several lizard species and amphibians have also adapted to the extreme conditions.
Despite the harsh environmental conditions, the park hosts specialized high-altitude vegetation adapted to extreme temperatures and low precipitation. The dominant plant communities include tolar (shrubland) featuring Parastrephia lepidophylla and various species of Baccharis. In wetland areas (bofedales), cushion plants such as Oxychloe andina and Distichia muscoides are common. Above 4,000 meters, the vegetation becomes increasingly sparse, with hardy species like yareta (Azorella compacta) and queñoa (Polylepis tarapacana) trees representing some of the world's highest-growing woody plants.
The park's landscape is dominated by the active Isluga volcano (5,550m), which is part of the Central Volcanic Zone of the Andes. The terrain features extensive volcanic formations, including lava flows, ash deposits, and thermal springs. The area was shaped by intense volcanic activity during the Quaternary period, resulting in dramatic geological features such as volcanic cones, high-altitude plateaus (altiplano), and deep valleys. The park's soils are primarily volcanic in origin, with areas of salt flats (salares) in the lower elevations. Recent geological activity includes minor eruptions and constant fumarolic activity at the volcano's summit.
The park was established in 1967 to protect the unique high-altitude ecosystem and cultural heritage of the region. The area has been inhabited by Aymara communities for centuries, who have maintained their traditional lifestyle and customs. Several ancient settlements and ceremonial sites within the park demonstrate the long-standing human presence in the region. The park's namesake, Volcán Isluga, has held great spiritual significance for local indigenous communities, who consider it a sacred mountain. Traditional grazing practices and quinoa cultivation continue in designated areas of the park, preserving the cultural landscape.
Key attractions include the active Isluga volcano with its perpetual fumarolic activity, high-altitude wetlands (bofedales) that support unique ecosystems, and ancient Aymara settlements with traditional architecture. The park contains several historic churches, including the 16th-century Isluga Church, which combines Spanish colonial and indigenous architectural elements. Thermal springs and geothermal features dot the landscape, while salt flats provide spectacular viewing opportunities for flamingos and other waterfowl. The park also offers impressive views of the Altiplano landscape and neighboring volcanoes, making it a photographer's paradise.
Volcan Isluga National Park experiences a typical high-altitude desert climate with extreme temperature variations between day and night. Daytime temperatures can reach 20°C (68°F), while nighttime temperatures often drop below freezing, sometimes reaching -10°C (14°F). The region receives minimal rainfall, mostly concentrated during the Altiplanic Winter (December to March), when afternoon storms are common. The air is extremely dry and thin due to the high elevation, which ranges from 3,500 to 5,550 meters above sea level. Visitors should be prepared for intense solar radiation, strong winds, and rapid weather changes typical of Andean environments.
Chile
-19.1500°, -68.8330°
1967
1747
Volcan Isluga National Park protects high-altitude Andean ecosystems around the Isluga Volcano. The park features important archaeological sites and traditional Aymara communities. Its landscape includes high-altitude wetlands, volcanic formations, and native wildlife.