Mount Everest pops into our minds when we think or hear of the "highest place" on earth. But, there is a town that sits higher than any other place where people live year-round. This place is La Rinconada, Peru. Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes, La Rinconada sits at an astonishing elevation of 5,100 meters above sea level. It claims the title of the highest human settlement on our planet.
La Rinconada is a living, breathing community where people have made their homes against all odds. The town's rapid growth was fueled by the lure of gold in the early 2000s, drawing thousands to its challenging yet potentially rewarding environment. Today, it hosts around 17,000 residents who navigate life in extreme conditions.
(Photo : Hildegard Willer on Wikimedia Commons)
So, what can you actually see when you visit La Rinconada? Travelers Today is here for you to guide you around this highest settlement on earth.
The Journey to La Rinconada
Reaching La Rinconada is an adventure in itself. The town sits at an impressive 5,100 meters above sea level in the Peruvian Andes. To get there, you will likely start your journey from the city of Puno, which is about 200 kilometers away. The trip takes around six hours on a bus that winds through narrow mountain roads. These roads are often closed during parts of the year due to weather conditions. The journey is tough, but the destination promises an experience unlike any other.
The People of La Rinconada
Upon arriving, you will notice that La Rinconada is home to a resilient community. Despite the harsh living conditions, around 17,000 people call this place home. The town has grown quickly, driven by the lure of gold in the nearby mines. Here, the economy relies heavily on the gold mining industry. Workers do not earn a fixed salary but instead are allowed to keep all the gold they find on one designated day each month. This unique system shapes the daily life and culture of the town's inhabitants.
Living Conditions
Life in La Rinconada is far from easy. The town lacks basic infrastructure such as running water, sewage systems, and waste disposal. Residents often burn garbage or bury it outside of town. The extreme altitude and outdoor conditions make building such infrastructure a significant challenge. Yet, the community persists, adapting to these tough conditions with remarkable resilience.
Environmental Impact
The mining operations in La Rinconada have a noticeable impact on the environment. The process of extracting gold involves the use of mercury, leading to contamination of the surrounding land. Mercury poisoning is a serious concern here, affecting the health of the local population. Despite these challenges, La Rinconada remains a bustling community, a testament to the human spirit's ability to adapt and survive.
Attractions Around La Rinconada
While the town itself may not boast traditional tourist attractions, its surrounding area offers breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors can explore nearby glaciers that watch over the town, climb high mountains for panoramic views, or visit lakes that dot the landscape. Each of these activities presents an opportunity to witness the raw beauty of the Peruvian Andes, visiting La Rinconada a unique adventure.
The Future of La Rinconada
The future of La Rinconada is uncertain. As gold becomes harder to find and the environmental impacts become more pronounced, it's unclear how the town will adapt. However, the spirit of its people and the stunning natural beauty surrounding them ensure that La Rinconada will remain a fascinating place for years to come. For those willing to journey, La Rinconada offers a glimpse into a way of life that defies the odds.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
