Cecilia Llusco climbs Bolivia's peaks, challenging sexism in tourism
- Cecilia Llusco is one of about 10 Indigenous female mountain guides in Bolivia, having started her tourism career at age eight.
- She was part of a historic all-female team that summited Huayna Potosí in December 2015, despite facing sexism and discrimination.
- Llusco's story reflects the challenges and resilience of women in Bolivia's tourism industry, as well as the environmental concerns regarding climate change.
Bolivia is home to Cecilia Llusco, one of the few Indigenous female mountain guides, who has dedicated her life to climbing and guiding others in the mountains. At 39, she has been involved in tourism since childhood, inspired by her father, a trekking guide. Llusco has led expeditions on Huayna Potosí and was part of a historic all-female summit team in December 2015. Despite her achievements, she faces significant challenges, including sexism and discrimination in a male-dominated field. The country has seen increased recognition of Indigenous rights since Evo Morales' presidency, yet women still contend with high rates of violence, including femicide. Llusco expresses concern over the impact of climate change on Bolivia's glaciers, which she has witnessed firsthand. She hopes to celebrate her long-term relationship with a wedding ceremony atop Huayna Potosí, symbolizing her connection to the mountains and her culture. Llusco's story highlights the intersection of gender, culture, and environmental issues in Bolivia, showcasing her resilience and determination to inspire future generations of climbers.