At least, that’s what legend says about Mount Mururata’s relatively flat peak, as compared to her, well, peakier neighbor. Out of jealousy that Mururata was taller, Illimani “beheaded” Mururata, becoming the tallest mountain in the Cordillera Real mountain range. But don’t let that deter you from attempting to hike Mount Mururata with your tall (or short) friends, for it will be a wondrous journey to the peak, at an elevation of 5871 meters.

Drive out of La Paz and head up to the base of Mount Mururata, far from the deafening cacophony of Bolivia's "vertical city", into the undisturbed wilderness. The abundance of wild grasses thins out to a few sparse patches here and there as you approach the high camp, which is located right at a mountain riverbed. Challenge yourself on the practically vertical climbs, and familiarize yourself with your equipment as you traverse the glacier and make your way to the summit. The journey to the top is worth every hour because you can enjoy the glorious views of the surrounding mountains, and an ocean of cotton candy clouds drifting across the sky. Capture La Paz, Illimani, and the other mountains before you head back down the mountain, and it is no easy feat. But what's fun without a little adversity, right?