Where is La Rinconada, the highest permanent settlement in America?
Peru, south-america
20 km
5,130 m
extreme
Year-round
Deep in the Peruvian Andes, not far from the Bolivian border, sits La Rinconada. This isn't your average charming mountain village; it's a mining town perched at a staggering 5,130m (16,830ft)!
The road to get there, called Acceso a La Rinconada, begins east of Ananea off Road 110 and stretches for about 8.7 km (5.40 miles). Don't expect a smooth ride – this entire stretch is unpaved. While the views of the surrounding Andes are amazing, be warned: the landscape is marred by piles of garbage.
And "Devil's Paradise" isn't just a cool nickname – it reflects the tough conditions of living around a gold mine at such a high altitude. Oxygen levels are thin, and the town lacks basic sanitation. Still, between 50,000 and 70,000 people call La Rinconada home, drawn by the promise of gold. The town experienced explosive growth between 2001 and 2009, transforming from a small mining camp into a sprawling community.
Is it the highest city in the world? That's debatable, but it's definitely up there! La Rinconada offers a raw, unforgettable glimpse into a world few get to see.
Road Details
- Country
- Peru
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 20 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,130 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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