The Hyperreality of Female Mountain Climbers on Instagram

Hiperrealitas Pendaki Gunung Perempuan dalam Media Sosial Instagram

Abstract

The phenomenon of female mountaineering has increased significantly on digital platforms; however, it often produces aesthetic representations that obscure the realities of the climbing experience. This study aims to analyze the representation of hyperreality of female mountaineers on social media, focusing on the Instagram account @pendaki.cantik. This research employs a virtual ethnography method through two months of virtual observation of posts, visual content, and audience interactions, with in-depth interviews with five purposively selected followers. The findings indicate that the @pendaki.cantik account constructs an aesthetic visual simulation that creates a hyperreality of the “ideal female climber,” emphasizing beauty. The account also presents counter-hyperreality narratives through “posted vs. reality” content, which reveals fatigue and struggle, thereby challenging gender stereotypes. This study concludes that social media functions as a space for identity affirmation and gender equality and demonstrates that hyperreality can reshape perceptions of masculinity and femininity in mountaineering.