Closest Town to Space: Inside The Highest Human Settlement on Earth
At more than 16,700 feet above sea level, La Rinconada, Peru holds the record as the world’s highest permanent human settlement. Often called the “closest town to space,” it’s nestled in the Andes near a glacier, where the air is thin, the nights are freezing, and the streets are bustling with those chasing gold. But life here isn’t romantic or easy—it’s a harsh reality shaped by poverty, pollution, and perseverance.
Life at the Edge of the Atmosphere
Living at 5,100 meters above sea level means residents face dangerously low oxygen levels—about half of what’s available at sea level. Chronic altitude sickness is common, with symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and even heart issues becoming a normal part of life. The human body struggles to adapt, and even daily routines can be a challenge.
Fueled by Gold and Hope
La Rinconada’s population has boomed due to nearby informal gold mines. Miners work under a system called cachorreo, where they labor unpaid for 30 days and are allowed to keep whatever gold they find on the 31st. It’s a gamble many are willing to take in hopes of striking it rich, even if most leave empty-handed.
A Town Without Basics
Despite its size, home to up to 50,000 people, La Rinconada lacks proper infrastructure. There’s no running water, waste management, or sewage system. Electricity is unreliable, and housing is often cobbled together from scrap materials. The harsh climate and rough terrain only add to the logistical difficulties of improving living conditions.
Dangerous and Freezing
Temperatures regularly dip below freezing, even during the day. Combined with the altitude, these conditions make survival physically demanding. Miners often work in hazardous tunnels without proper safety gear, and children grow up exposed to harsh elements and limited resources.
Mercury and Mayhem
Gold extraction here often involves mercury, which contaminates rivers, soil, and even the glacier above the town. Mercury poisoning is a growing concern, affecting both the environment and the people who rely on it. The unregulated gold trade adds to the chaos, with smuggling and exploitation going largely unchecked.
Lawlessness and Isolation
With limited police presence and virtually no government oversight, crime and violence are widespread. Alcoholism and domestic abuse are common, and medical care is scarce. For women and children, especially, the town can be a dangerous place to call home.
Culture at the Top of the World
Despite the odds, La Rinconada maintains strong cultural roots. Many residents are indigenous Andeans who keep traditions alive through festivals, local rituals, and religious celebrations. Their resilience and sense of community offer a powerful contrast to the bleak conditions.
Earth’s Costliest Altitude
La Rinconada stands as a striking example of human endurance but also of the cost of unchecked exploitation. As glaciers recede and mercury continues to pollute the landscape, environmentalists warn that the town’s presence may threaten ecosystems far beyond its icy borders.
More Than a Mountain Town
La Rinconada isn’t just the world’s highest town—it’s a symbol of desperation, determination, and the extreme sacrifices people make in pursuit of a better life. While the idea of living “closest to space” may sound poetic, the reality is far more complicated. For many, it’s not a dream—it’s survival.