The mountain range often referred to as the "Himalayas of the West" is the Andes Mountains. Stretching along the western edge of South America, the Andes are the longest continental mountain range in the world. They are characterized by their high peaks, such as Aconcagua, which is the tallest mountain outside of Asia. The Andes play a vital role in influencing the climate, biodiversity, and cultures of the surrounding regions. They are known for their stunning landscapes and rich deposits of minerals, drawing attention for both tourism and natural resource extraction.