Which are the highest altitude cities in Latin America? Beware of altitude sickness!

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Did you know that the 10 highest altitude cities in Latin America are the highest in the world? You can find them distributed in Peru, Chile and Bolivia, countries surrounded by natural paradises worth visiting.

Locations at more than 7,874 feet (2,400 meters) of altitude, can cause altitude sickness or soroche, as they call it there, but don’t worry. If so many people live and travel there, it’s because there’s nothing to be afraid of – you just need to be a little more careful and take care of yourself!

In short, Latin America is full of curiosities that won’t leave you indifferent. Here you have the top 10 of the highest altitude cities in Latin America, ordered from the lowest to the highest altitude.

Cusco

You still don’t know what to do in Peru ? Well, visiting some of the highest altitude cities in Latin America is a good option.

Cusco is one of the most famous Peru cities and is located around 11.154 feet (3400 meters) above sea level.But what makes it truly special are its spectacular monuments. That’s why it is called “the historical capital of the country” or “the Rome of America”.

In Cusco, altitude sickness can affect. Therefore, it is recommended to spend at least 3 days, one to adapt to the city and make a city tour, for example, and leave Machu Picchu or Vinicunca Mountain for the end, when the body is already used to it.

La Paz

Continuing with the highest altitude cities in Latin America, in Bolivia, you can visit some of them and discover many more places. If you don’t know what to see in Bolivia, La Paz is one of the favorite destinations for travelers.

La Paz is the highest capital city in the world and is located at an altitude of 11.811 feet (3600 meters). Over the years, the city has become an important political and financial center.

For La Paz being at a high altitude has not been a problem. There are many travelers who enjoy the city, but to prevent mountain sickness, we recommend staying hydrated and getting rest.

Oruro

Oruro is located at an elevation of approximately 12.139 feet (3700 meters) and is the fifth largest city in Bolivia. The city developed as an important silver mining center and is now a popular destination among travelers.

The Carnival of Oruro is highly recognized by Unesco for its religious and cultural value.

Puno

Puno is in the top 10 of the highest altitude cities in Latin America, located at 12.467 feet (3.800 meters) above sea level.

This town is located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in Latin America and the highest navigable lake in the world. In short, it is a natural wonder and a must if you visit Peru.

You shouldn’t be worry about altitude sickness when you do the Lake Titicaca tour, but try to go rested and well-fed. When you are sailing seasickness may increase a little.

Juliaca

Juliaca is elevated about 12.467 feet (3800 meters) and is one of the largest cities in southern Peru. It is characterized by its location on the Collao plateau because it is at a high altitude and the wind blows a lot. For this very reason, it is nicknamed “the City of Wind”.

Drinkingmate de coca prevents altitude sickness and it feels great! It is a tea made from coca leaves, a typical plant of the area that was used as medicine by the ancient inhabitants of the country. We can assure you that it works!

Potosí

Another of the highest towns in Latin America is located in Bolivia, at approximately 13.353 feet (4.070 m). About 170,000 people live in this Villa Imperial and since 80s it has been a Unesco World Heritage Site.

In addition, during the second half of the 16th century, this town produced more than half of the world’s silver.

If you are one of the bravest, with all the tips that we have given you throughout the post you will dare to begin the adventure and visit this town. Also, this village is located 3 hours from the Salar de Uyuni, the highest and largest salt desert in the world. A visual delight that you can’t miss.

El Alto

El Alto is also located in Bolivia, at an altitude of 13.615 feet (4.150 m) . It is one of the most populated high elevation towns in the world.

May be you are a little bit afraid at these heights, but with a previous medical consultatory and taking the appropriate measures you can perfectly enjoy the adventure.

Cerro de Pasco

Cerro de Pasco is a central Peruvian city considered one of the highest in the world. It is located at 14.370 feet (4.380 m) above sea level . It is surprising how around 50,000 people can live there.

This area of Peru was a mining center and where silver was discovered. That is why it is considered the mining capital of Peru.

Parinacota

Chile doesn’t leave us indifferent about the highest locations in Latin America. Parinacota is located at an altitude of 14.435 feet (4.400 m) and is a small town with a small church.

In the 1970s it was considered a National Monument of Chile. At this time, it is an uninhabited village.

La Rinconada: the highest town in the world

If you are afraid of heights, get ready because La Rinconada is the highest city in the world. It is 16.830 feet (5.130 m) above sea level and around 60,000 people live there.

If you are a fan of high mountain travel, this town, its lakes and mines are a good choice. You should always keep in mind the tips mentioned throughout the post to prevent altitude sickness.

Now that you know which are the highest altitude cities in Latin America, do you dare to live the experience?