The Best Adventure Travel Documentaries to Watch
Adventure travel documentaries have a unique ability to transport us to the most remote corners of the world, all from the comfort of our own homes. They spark our curiosity and inspire us to venture beyond our comfort zones and explore the vast world around us. Here are some of the best adventure travel documentaries that you should not miss.
“180 Degrees South: Conquerors of The Useless” is an inspiring documentary that follows Jeff Johnson as he retraces the epic 1968 journey of his heroes Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tompkins to Patagonia. Along his journey, Johnson encounters various hurdles including shipwrecks, beautiful landscapes, and cultures that change his perspective on life.
Next on this list is “Into The Wild,” a film based on Jon Krakauer’s book about Christopher McCandless who abandons everything after graduation to live in solitude in Alaska’s wilderness. This beautifully crafted film delves into themes such as materialism, societal expectations, nature’s indifference towards human survival, and ultimately finding peace within oneself.
“The Art Of Flight” is another masterpiece which showcases professional snowboarder Travis Rice taking on uncharted terrain in Wyoming, Alaska, Patagonia among other locations. It merges action sports with stunning cinematography making it an exhilarating watch for any adventure enthusiast.
“A Map For Saturday” depicts a solo journey around the world which captures what it feels like to be a long-term traveler through different countries and cultures. Brook Silva-Braga’s documentary provides viewers with an honest reflection about travel – both its highs and lows.
The award-winning documentary “Free Solo” follows Alex Honnold as he becomes the first person ever to free solo climb Yosemite’s 3,000-foot El Capitan Wall without ropes or safety gear. This thrilling film explores Honnold’s mental preparation and physical training leading up to this daring feat – making it one of the most gripping adventure documentaries of all time.
“Tracks” is a beautiful depiction of Robyn Davidson’s nine-month journey across the deserts of west Australia using only camels. This film explores themes such as solitude, self-discovery, and the raw beauty of nature in its most unforgiving form.
Finally, “The Endless Summer,” an iconic surf movie from 1966 that follows two young surfers around the world in search of the perfect wave. It combines travel, sport and culture into a timeless tale about freedom, adventure and passion.
These documentaries not only capture breathtaking landscapes but also tell compelling stories about human spirit, resilience and our relationship with nature. They remind us that there is always another perspective to see things from, another mountain to climb or another path to travel – instilling within us an insatiable thirst for adventure.