Traveling has a magical way of expanding our horizons, and when a passport or plane ticket isn’t within reach, a good travel documentary can be the next best thing. Over the last 10 years, filmmakers have gifted us with phenomenal stories that take us around the world, deep into the heart of cultures, and across breathtaking landscapes. From awe-inspiring adventures to cultural revelations, the following documentaries are your perfect gateway to explore the world from the comfort of your home.

1. "The Salt of the Earth" (2014)

  • Themes: Photography, nature, humanity
  • Why Watch: Directed by Wim Wenders and Juliano Ribeiro Salgado, this stunning film chronicles the life and work of legendary photographer Sebastião Salgado. Over 40 years, Salgado has traveled to the farthest corners of the Earth, capturing the raw beauty of nature, endangered communities, and the triumph of humanity.
  • What Makes It Unique: The film pairs breathtaking visuals with reflective storytelling, offering a deeply personal look at Salgado’s profound connection with the world. It’s an inspiring mediation on global landscapes and the human spirit.

2. "Free Solo" (2018)

  • Themes: Adventure, thrill-seeking, personal achievement
  • Why Watch: Winner of an Academy Award, this edge-of-your-seat documentary by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin follows Alex Honnold as he attempts to free solo climb El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. No ropes. No safety nets. Just Alex, his passion, and the sheer vertical wall of the mountain.
  • What Makes It Unique: Beyond the jaw-dropping visuals, "Free Solo" dives into Alex's mindset, relationships, and relentless pursuit of the extraordinary. It’s a heart-racing, awe-inspiring story of courage and determination.

3. "Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown" (2013–2018)

  • Themes: Culture, food, exploration
  • Why Watch: While technically a series, Anthony Bourdain’s travels are too powerful to exclude. Over 12 captivating seasons, Bourdain takes viewers through often-unseen parts of the world—from the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the hidden cafes of Istanbul. Whether he’s sharing a meal or learning a community’s story, his curiosity brings every place to life.
  • What Makes It Unique: Bourdain's approachable yet profound storytelling connects food, culture, and humanity. His personable style invites viewers into moments that are equal parts fascinating and heartwarming.

4. "The Dawn Wall" (2018)

  • Themes: Perseverance, adventure, human connection
  • Why Watch: Another unforgettable climbing documentary, "The Dawn Wall" focuses on Tommy Caldwell's climb up the 3,000-foot sheer rock face of El Capitan. Alongside his climbing partner Kevin Jorgeson, Caldwell pursues what seemed impossible.
  • What Makes It Unique: Beyond its gripping narrative, the film shines in revealing Caldwell’s personal struggles and testing the limits of human resilience. The stunning cinematography places you right on the edge, experiencing every triumph and challenge with the climbers.

5. "My Octopus Teacher" (2020)

  • Themes: Nature, connection, curiosity
  • Why Watch: This Oscar-winning documentary immerses viewers in the underwater world of South Africa, where filmmaker Craig Foster forms an unexpected bond with a wild octopus. Over the course of a year, the bond between man and creature evolves beautifully as we see life through the octopus’s stunning world.
  • What Makes It Unique: "My Octopus Teacher" is more than a nature film; it’s a poetic exploration of connection and respect for the natural world. The underwater cinematography is nothing short of mesmerizing, leaving you in absolute awe.

Honorable Mentions

While the top five are unmissable, here are a few more gems worth your time to fuel your wanderlust even further!

  • "Tales by Light" (2015–present) – A visual masterpiece featuring photographers exploring distant lands.
  • "Expedition Happiness" (2017) – A couple transforms a school bus into their tiny home and travels across North America.
  • "Mountain" (2017) – Narrated by Willem Dafoe, this documentary celebrates the timeless allure of mountains and the daring adventurers who climb them.

Take Your Inner Traveler on a Journey

Whether you’re looking to scale mountain peaks, immerse yourself in a culture, or explore the depths of the ocean, these documentaries offer it all. Each one is a reminder of the beauty, diversity, and endless possibilities the world has to offer. Grab your favorite snacks, get comfy, and be prepared to wander far and wide through these unforgettable stories!