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In that portion of the eastern chain within the limits of the department of La Paz are found the highest mountains of the American continent, and one of the greatest continuous snow ranges in the world. The culminating peaks of this range, which has an average altitude of about 20,000 feet, are the Illimani, Mururata, Huaina-Potosi, Illampu or Sorata, and the Sunchuli. Of these, the Illampu, having an altitude of from 25,000 to 27,000 feet, according to the estimates and measurements of different observers, is the highest mountain of America, and, except Mount Everest, is the highest in the world. About 125 miles to the south, stands the Illimani, at an altitude of 24,500 feet, while midway between, rises Huaina-Potosi, the third great peak of this uninterrupted chain.

Deep and fertile valleys, possessing a semi-tropical climate, occasionally intersect this elevated region and mark the location of the best farming and fruit-growing districts of this part of Bolivia.

Standing boldly out upon the elevated plateau of the Department of Oruro and rising to an altitude of 23,000 feet, is the beautiful and majestic Sajama, whose snow-covered slopes and smoking crater make it the most conspicuous mountain of the western chain. From the base of this mountain, as from that of the adjacent Pachatas (twins), flow numerous streams of hot water used by the natives for cooking. Beyond, are the volcanic peaks of Pomarapa and Tacora, and farther south Chorolque, another of the chief pinnacles of the Western Cordilleras.