La Rinconada, located in Peru’s Puno region, is the highest inhabited city in the world at 5,000 to 5,300 meters above sea level. The city’s population of approximately 12,600 relies mostly on gold mining. Other notable high-altitude cities include Cerro de Pasco and Junin, which also face economic and health challenges due to their extreme altitudes.
Peru is home to La Rinconada, recognized as the highest inhabited city globally, resting at an altitude between 5,000 and 5,300 meters above sea level. This settlement is located in the Ananea district within the San Antonio de Putina province of the Puno region. The city is characterized by its challenging terrain and rugged landscape, which makes access quite difficult.
La Rinconada boasts a population of approximately 12,600 residents, primarily engaged in artisanal and informal gold mining activities. The economic viability of the town fluctuates with gold price changes; for instance, between 2001 and 2009, a surge in gold prices led to an increase in population, peaking at nearly 30,000. However, subsequent declines in gold prices have reduced the current population back to 12,600, as reported in the 2017 National Census.
The climate in La Rinconada is classified as alpine with conditions close to glacial. Residents endure average annual temperatures of 1.3°C and precipitation levels around 707 millimeters. Extreme cold prevails throughout the year, with frigid nights and slightly warmer daytime temperatures. The microclimate contributes to health challenges, particularly altitude sickness, while limited basic services exacerbate public health risks.
In addition to La Rinconada, Peru is home to several other high-altitude cities. Cerro de Pasco is the second-highest city, located at 4,380 meters above sea level and housing approximately 66,860 people. Nearby Junin is situated at 4,105 meters, near Lake Junin, the second-highest lake in the world, and has about 10,000 residents. Other notable high-altitude cities include Yauri, Yanaoca, Ayaviri, Lampa, Ilave, Azangaro, Juli, Yunguyo, Juliaca, and the capital of the region, Puno.
In summary, La Rinconada stands as the highest inhabited city in the world, with a unique economic reliance on gold mining, shaped by fluctuating market conditions. The extreme altitude presents numerous health challenges for its residents. While La Rinconada holds the record, several other high-altitude cities in Peru contribute to the country’s remarkable mountainous landscape.
Original Source: andina.pe
