The Best Documentaries to Watch About Cuba

Cuba is home to a rich culture as well as an unusual political system, making it fertile ground for documentary filmmakers.
Buena Vista Social Club (1999)
This amazing documentary brought aging Cuban musicians into the global spotlight and brought worldwide recognition for their talent after they had been all but forgotten. The group went on to tour around the world and resurrected a love of traditional musical styles.

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Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripCentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great priceAfrica
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.Buena Vista Social Club: Adios (2017)
Revisit the Buena Vista Social Club and take a deeper dive into their history. This documentary is directed by Lucy Walker rather than Wim Wenders, but it’s a must-see for fans of Cuban music.
Suite Habana (2003)
The brainchild of Cuban director Fernando Perez, Suite Habana follows ten ordinary citizens of Havana as they go about their daily lives. It is shot in a cinematic style, and there is little dialogue. It’s not a classic documentary in style, but it won plenty of awards.
Yank Tanks (2002)
Filmmaker David Schendel looks at the 1950s American cars that are still used in Cuba today. If you’re into classic cars it’s a must-see, and it also explains why the cars are necessary in the country. Watch as the owners tell the story of their cars, and explain to the viewer how they keep them on the road.
Bye Bye Havana (2004)
J Michael Seyfert uses this film to look at how the architecture of Havana has been left to crumble. The footage of dilapidated old buildings is incredible, and it’s worth watching for that alone. It’s a great window into a fascinating capital city.
Havana Curveball (2014)
Tapping into the Cuban love of baseball, directors Marcia Jarmel and Ken Schneider follow a 13-year-old child in the US who wants to send baseballs to Cuba in defiance of the trade embargo. The film is a coming of age story that sees Mica studying for his bar mitzvah, while exposing the strange realities of the Cuban embargo.
Cuba and the Cameraman
Filming for this documentary started back in 1972, when a young cameraman named Jon Alpert made his first trip to Cuba. For 45 years he made trips to the island to visit three different families, eventually putting together this incredible documentary that shows post-Revolution life on the island.
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