Want to escape without leaving your couch? Travel documentaries are the perfect ticket. They can inspire your next adventure, introduce you to new cultures, or simply offer a stunning visual experience. Finding the right one, though, can be overwhelming with so many options available. I’ve watched a ton of travel docs over the years, some amazing, some not so much. I’ve put together a list of my top five favorites that I think you’ll really enjoy.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Motorcycle Diaries: A young Che Guevara’s transformative journey across South America.
- Into the Wild: A biographical drama about a man who ventures into the Alaskan wilderness.
- Dark Tourist: A Netflix series exploring unconventional and often dangerous tourist destinations.
- Long Way Round: Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman’s motorcycle trip around the world.
- The Kindness Diaries: A man travels the world relying solely on the kindness of strangers.
Top 5 Best Travel Documentary Films
1. Motorcycle Diaries
Motorcycle Diaries isn’t just a travelogue; it’s a coming-of-age story. The film follows Ernesto “Che” Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado on their motorcycle journey across South America. It showcases the stark realities of poverty and inequality that shaped Guevara’s revolutionary ideals.
Pros:
- ✅ Stunning visuals of South American landscapes.
- ✅ Thought-provoking exploration of social and political issues.
- ✅ Compelling character development.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be slow-paced at times.
- ❌ Focuses more on the journey than specific destinations.
- ❌ Some historical inaccuracies have been debated.
Verdict: Perfect for those who enjoy character-driven stories with a historical and political backdrop, rather than just pretty scenery.
2. Into the Wild
Based on a true story, Into the Wild follows Christopher McCandless as he abandons his privileged life to hitchhike across America and ultimately venture into the Alaskan wilderness. It’s a powerful and tragic exploration of self-discovery and the search for meaning.
Pros:
- ✅ Inspirational (though controversial) story of self-reliance.
- ✅ Beautiful cinematography capturing the American landscape.
- ✅ Excellent soundtrack by Eddie Vedder.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be emotionally heavy and depressing.
- ❌ McCandless’s actions are often criticized as reckless.
- ❌ The film romanticizes a dangerous lifestyle.
Verdict: A must-watch for those who appreciate stories about freedom, adventure, and the complexities of human nature, but be prepared for a sobering experience.
3. Dark Tourist
Dark Tourist, a Netflix original series, takes you to the world’s most unusual and often dangerous tourist destinations. Host David Farrier explores places like nuclear disaster zones, haunted houses, and conflict areas, offering a unique and unsettling perspective on travel.
Pros:
- ✅ Explores unconventional and fascinating destinations.
- ✅ Offers a thought-provoking look at human fascination with the macabre.
- ✅ Entertaining and often darkly humorous.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be disturbing or offensive to some viewers.
- ❌ Raises ethical questions about tourism and exploitation.
- ❌ The host’s approach can be seen as insensitive at times.
Verdict: Recommended for those with a strong stomach and a curiosity for the bizarre and unsettling side of travel. It’s not for the faint of heart!
4. Long Way Round
Long Way Round documents Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman’s epic motorcycle journey from London to New York, traversing Europe, Asia, and North America. It’s a classic adventure story filled with challenges, camaraderie, and stunning scenery.
Pros:
- ✅ Inspiring story of adventure and friendship.
- ✅ Breathtaking footage of diverse landscapes and cultures.
- ✅ Honest portrayal of the challenges of long-distance travel.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be repetitive at times.
- ❌ Some may find the hosts’ privileged background unrelatable.
- ❌ The technical aspects of the motorcycles can be a bit much for some viewers.
Verdict: A great choice for motorcycle enthusiasts and anyone dreaming of a long-distance adventure. It’s a feel-good series that will leave you wanting to pack your bags and hit the road.
5. The Kindness Diaries
The Kindness Diaries follows Leon Logothetis as he travels the world on a vintage motorbike, relying solely on the kindness of strangers for food, shelter, and fuel. It’s a heartwarming and inspiring exploration of human connection and the power of generosity.
Pros:
- ✅ Uplifting and positive message about human kindness.
- ✅ Beautifully shot footage of various cultures and landscapes.
- ✅ Inspires viewers to be more compassionate and giving.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be overly sentimental for some viewers.
- ❌ Some may find the premise unrealistic or contrived.
- ❌ It glosses over some of the more complex realities of poverty and inequality.
Verdict: Ideal for those seeking an optimistic and feel-good travel experience that celebrates the best of humanity. It’s a reminder that there’s still a lot of good in the world.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right travel documentary depends on your personal preferences. Here are a few things to consider:
- Your interests: Are you interested in history, culture, adventure, or something else? Choose a documentary that aligns with your passions.
- Your tolerance for risk: Some documentaries explore dangerous or disturbing topics. Be sure to choose something that you can handle.
- Your preferred style: Do you prefer character-driven stories, visually stunning landscapes, or thought-provoking commentary?
- Reviews and recommendations: Read reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or online communities to get a sense of what others think of a particular documentary.
- Availability: Check where the documentary is available for streaming or purchase. Some may be exclusive to certain platforms.
FAQs
Q: What makes a good travel documentary?
A: A good travel documentary should be engaging, informative, and visually appealing. It should offer a unique perspective on a particular place or culture and leave you feeling inspired or enlightened.
Q: Are travel documentaries always accurate?
A: Not always. Some documentaries may take creative liberties with the facts or present a biased viewpoint. It’s always a good idea to do your own research and consider multiple perspectives.
Q: Where can I find travel documentaries?
A: Travel documentaries can be found on streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, as well as on YouTube and other online platforms. You can also purchase DVDs or Blu-rays of many popular documentaries.
Q: Can travel documentaries inspire real-life travel?
A: Absolutely! Travel documentaries can be a great source of inspiration for your own adventures. They can introduce you to new destinations, cultures, and activities that you might not have considered otherwise.
Q: Are there any ethical considerations when watching or making travel documentaries?
A: Yes. It’s important to be mindful of the potential impact of tourism on local communities and the environment. Documentaries should strive to be respectful and responsible in their portrayal of different cultures and places.
Conclusion
Travel documentaries offer a fantastic way to explore the world from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, education, or simply a bit of escapism, there’s a travel documentary out there for you. Hopefully, this list helps you find your next favorite! From Che Guevara’s transformative journey to Ewan McGregor’s epic motorcycle ride, these films offer a diverse range of perspectives on travel and adventure.
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