The Bolivian Altiplano extends close to the 60 municipalities that make up the departments of La Paz, Oruro and Potosí. It is an arid, desolate and aggressive landscape, however, it hides unique natural riches. In this mountainous area in the west of the country most of the indigenous communities are concentrated. According to a 2012 census, it represents 40% of the total population: about 2.8 million people.