Some of the highest elevation of Polyepis forests are found in this park, and in particular on the slopes of Nevada Sajama seen in the background here.
This slope has more medium-sized versions, but in some areas they grow to forests with heights of 3-4 metres or more. Despite the harsh conditions, these trees have a dense foliage and and a lush appearance.
As for all plants at this altitude growth is slow, so a 2 metre tree is very old. This makes them very vulnerable as people often use Polyepis as firewood, as well as replacing them with more fast growing species. Fortunately there are large parks like the Sajama National park, where they can grow and live according to Nature’s eternal changes and conditions.
Altitude: 4348 metres.
-18.058056,-68.943889
Last updated on 29 March 2014
