Man Visits the Highest Town on Earth: Inside the Lawless Community and Its Hidden Dangers

Imagine a town perched high in the mountains with minimal law enforcement and challenging conditions—it might sound like a dramatic story, but La Rinconada is a real and striking place.

Situated at an elevation of 5,100 meters above sea level, La Rinconada is the highest permanent human settlement in the world. While there are some regulations in place, the town is often described as having minimal law enforcement, leading to significant crime rates.

A recent YouTube documentary provided an in-depth look at life in this extreme location. The filmmaker described La Rinconada as having very limited law enforcement, reflecting the town’s challenging environment.

The town’s proximity to a gold mine heavily influences its demographics, with many residents working in the mining industry. However, a portion of this mining is informal, which can sometimes be seen as illegal.

In the documentary, a miner with some English proficiency described La Rinconada as ‘dangerous,’ yet many come there seeking employment. The filmmaker noted that the town attracts individuals facing various challenges, resulting in a community with diverse and sometimes rough personalities.

During their overnight stay, the crew received security advice due to concerns about safety, especially at night when the situation can become tense.

The filmmaker, dealing with low oxygen levels and the town’s intense atmosphere, reflected on their experience as a mix of extremes: “It’s like waking up in a stunningly beautiful place but confronting harsh realities—gunshots, screams, and broken glass.”

The filmmaker described the experience as a ‘strange paradox,’ illustrating the contrast between La Rinconada’s breathtaking scenery and the difficult aspects of its social environment.

Featured Image Credit: Youtube/ Yes Theory