Bolivia’s Daring “Climbing Cholitas” Triumph Over Glaciers and Summit Heights

### The Tenacity and Grace of Bolivia’s *Climbing Cholitas* Captured by Todd Antony

Bolivia boasts a vibrant cultural legacy and breathtaking mountain vistas, yet one photography collection seamlessly merges these elements, encapsulating not only their aesthetic allure but also their compelling narratives. In *Climbing Cholitas*, acclaimed photographer [Todd Antony](https://toddantony.com/) has portrayed a remarkable group of Indigenous Aymara women, referred to as Cholitas, ascending glaciers and rugged summits while adorned in their traditional, vibrant attire. This visually arresting series not only elevates the splendor of Bolivia’s landscapes but also highlights the remarkable strength and resolve of the Cholitas.

#### A Tribute to Cholita Heritage and Evolution

For those who are not acquainted, “Cholitas” signifies Aymara Bolivian women who take pride in their cultural heritage by donning traditional clothing—a flowing, layered skirt known as a “pollera,” complemented by a bowler hat. Historically, these women faced social and economic marginalization, grappling with racial and gender biases that relegated them to lower societal standings. However, today, the Cholitas embody a wave of empowerment and cultural pride, venturing into fields and pursuits previously deemed unattainable, ranging from law and medicine to wrestling.

Antony’s intrigue with this distinctive subculture began upon discovering an image during his research, depicting a group of Cholita women scaling Mt. Aconcagua, the tallest peak in South America. Enchanted by the striking contrast of their vivid, traditional dresses against the cold, stark mountain scenery, Antony was instantly inspired by their bravery and perseverance. This prompted him to journey to Bolivia to meet and document the *Climbing Cholitas* personally. He reflects, “While some of my projects may require extensive planning, this one immediately stood out to me.”

#### An Expedition of Elevation and Trials

Ascending some of Bolivia’s highest terrains, including the remarkable Zongo glacier, presented Antony and his crew with both physical and logistical challenges. They confronted the thin air at high elevations, erratic weather, and the strains posed by the climbs themselves. “You can prepare to a certain extent, but once you’re on the mountain, there are numerous factors to deal with—weather and altitude being two significant challenges,” Antony remarks on the demanding conditions.

Nevertheless, in spite of these obstacles, every moment of the journey provided a chance to connect with the unique experience of Bolivia’s *Climbing Cholitas*. One particularly unforgettable occasion for Antony involved sharing a meal with the group at the base of the Zongo glacier. Despite language barriers, the camaraderie forged through shared experiences transcended verbal communication. “In a sense, that collective experience forms a substantial part of the dialogue,” Antony recalls. Moreover, Antony took part in a traditional “Challa ceremony,” an offering to Pachamama (the goddess of nature, especially valued in the Andes) to ensure safe travels before their ascent. The Cholitas, displaying their playful nature, chuckled as Antony’s team struggled with taking a hearty drink of the alcohol used for the ritual.

#### Cholitas as Icons of Overcoming Discrimination

As the Cholitas navigate Bolivia’s stunning peaks, Antony interprets their ascent as a metaphorical representation of their rise above years of racial and gender oppression. “I perceive their literal climb up the mountain as a symbol of their elevation from the burdens of racial discrimination,” he states. Once relegated to the margins of Bolivian society, Cholita women are now pioneers across diverse careers, including the *Cholita Escaladoras*, the *Cholitas Luchadoras*—female wrestlers—and other fields previously occupied by men or reserved for the elite.

By capturing their ascent, Antony conveys the dual symbolism of their colorful, traditional attire set against the rugged, masculine-oriented realm of mountaineering—where the Cholitas are breaking new ground. They are reaching both physical and metaphorical heights, reclaiming their standing and challenging preconceived notions about the roles of Indigenous women.

#### Worldwide Influence and Transformation of Views

Antony’s photographic endeavor has produced significant repercussions, functioning not merely as art, but also as a means of empowerment for the *Climbing Cholitas* themselves. He maintains communication with the women and has shared the images with them as they continue to provide mountaineering services to adventurous travelers. The international exposure from this initiative has significantly aided the women in establishing their own mountain-guiding enterprise, as tourists from across the globe are increasingly drawn to them, thereby bolstering their empowerment and success.

“I aspire for people to recognize the resilience and pride of these extraordinary women and their accomplishments,” Antony expresses regarding the objective of this photographic narrative. Breaking away from the confines of traditional societal roles in Bolivia, these women are charting a course for upward advancement that