Pastoral populations of the Peruvian highlands were historically dedicated to the breeding of South American camelids such as alpacas and llamas, they also have always lived in a state of uncertainty due to the severe climate conditions of the territories they live in, mainly located at over 3,800 meters above sea level; as well as the historical marginalization they have suffered from the state and the population in general. However, this situation has intensified in recent years due to the effects of climate change and the mining activity that directly or indirectly affects their way of life and territories. This is the case of pastoral communities located near the town of La Rinconada in the region of Puno in southern Peru, where intense gold mining activities are carried out through artisanal and small-scale mining, as well as informal mining. The objective of the proposed presentation was to identify and analyze the level of uncertainty experienced by pastoral communities in the Peruvian highlands, both due to climate change and mining activity and their ability to adapt to changes. The methodology used in the study had a qualitative approach, using direct observation techniques, semi-structured interviews, participatory workshops, and document review. The results of the study reveal that the pastoral populations of the Peruvian highlands have always been affected by climate variations inherent to the geography in which they live, nevertheless, they have managed to survive to the present day due to their high degree of adaptability. On the other hand, the greatest uncertainty they experience today is motivated by mining activity, which generates pollution and environmental conflicts that threats the future of pastoral communities.
