What does altiplano mean?
An altiplano is an extensive, high-altitude plateau — literally a 'high plain' — rising well above the surrounding landscape. The word is most famously associated with the Andean altiplano, the vast elevated basin straddling Peru and Bolivia at heights of roughly 3,500 metres or more, where cities such as La Paz and Puno lie and where Lake Titicaca sits as the world's highest navigable lake. In general use, 'altiplano' can describe any comparable high plateau elsewhere in the world, though such uses are less common. Writers typically pair the noun with a definite article and a geographic qualifier, as in 'the Bolivian altiplano'. The term carries connotations of remoteness, thin air, harsh climate, and dramatic scenery, making it a staple of travel writing, geography, and accounts of Andean cultures. It is a precise, evocative alternative to the more generic words 'plateau' or 'tableland' when height is the defining feature.
nounA high, extensive plateau or elevated plain, especially the one in the Andes of western South America between the great cordilleras of Peru and Bolivia.
- A high plateau or elevated plain, especially in the Andes of South America.
"The train climbed slowly onto the altiplano, where herds of llama grazed beneath a vast blue sky."
"Villages scattered across the altiplano depend on hardy crops like quinoa and potatoes."
"From the air, the altiplano stretched away toward distant snow-capped peaks."
Plural is rare; the word is usually used in the singular for a specific plateau.
"Several distinct altiplanos punctuate the length of the Andes."
The Bolivian altiplano sits so high — over 3,500 metres — that Lake Titicaca on it is the highest navigable lake in the world.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of altiplano
Altiplano comes from Spanish, formed from 'alto' (high) plus 'llano' (plain), so its literal meaning is 'high plain'. Both elements trace back to Latin: 'altus' meaning high, and 'planus' meaning level or flat. The term entered English through Spanish geographical usage describing the high plateaus of the Andes, and cognates sharing the same Latin roots include altitude-related words such as 'altimeter' and cloud terms like 'altocumulus'.
How altiplano is actually used
Usually used with a definite article and often qualified geographically ('the Andean altiplano'). The term is most strongly associated with the high plains of Peru and Bolivia but is applied to similar high plateaus elsewhere. Register is neutral; common in geography, travel writing, and ethnographic contexts.
Easily confused with altiplano
Puna refers to the high, cold, treeless grasslands of the central Andes (a biome), whereas altiplano denotes a broad elevated plateau as a landform.