San Guillermo National Park, National park and biosphere reserve in Iglesia Department, Argentina
San Guillermo National Park is a protected area in the high Andes spanning 166,000 hectares with desert, grassland, and wetland habitats. The terrain ranges from 2,100 to 6,380 meters in elevation, creating distinct ecological zones across the mountainous landscape.
The area started as a provincial reserve in 1972 before becoming a national park in 1998. This change brought stronger protection measures for the wildlife living there.
Archaeological sites scattered throughout the park, such as Cerro las Tórtolas and Cerro las Flechas, reveal how indigenous peoples lived in these highlands long ago. Visitors walking through the landscape can still encounter traces of these ancient settlements.
Access to many sections of the park is restricted due to safety concerns related to high elevations and severe weather. Visitors should prepare for rough mountain conditions and follow park management guidance.
Scientists track pumas using GPS systems to study how these predators interact with vicuñas and guanacos in the mountain environment. This research reveals predator-prey relationships at extreme altitudes.
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