True adventurers don’t just explore countries, oceans, and mountains—they also love watching movies about travel and survival. We’ve curated a list of the best films about mountains, survival, mountaineering, and epic journeys. This selection is subjective, and the order of the films is random, but each one is a must-watch for travel lovers.
We hope this list adds new titles to your “Must-Watch” notes!
Table of Contents
Classic Travel and Mountain Adventure Movies
These are must-watch travel films that every adventurer should see.
Everest (2015)
Director: Baltasar Kormákur
Genre: Adventure, Drama, Thriller
Based on real events, this gripping film tells the story of the 1996 Everest disaster. When a severe storm disrupts their plans, climbers must fight for survival on the world’s highest peak.
Into the Wild (2007)
Director: Sean Penn
Genre: Adventure, Drama
A young man sets off on a journey across America, seeking freedom and happiness away from civilization. A deep and inspiring film about self-discovery.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Director: Ben Stiller
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Drama
A whimsical and inspiring film about turning daydreams into reality. Walter embarks on a global journey to find a missing photo for his magazine, discovering adventure and courage along the way.
Wild (2014)
Director: Jean-Marc Vallée
Genre: Adventure, Drama
Based on a true story, this film follows a woman’s journey through the Appalachian wilderness as she seeks healing and self-discovery after personal loss.
Travel & Mountain Movies with Romantic Touches
For cozy evenings under a blanket, with a cup of tea and thoughts of love.
Tracks (2013)
Director: John Curran
Genre: Adventure, Drama
Based on a true story, this film follows a woman’s solo trek across the Australian outback as she searches for inner peace and purpose.
The Mountain Between Us (2017)
Director: Hany Abu-Assad
Genre: Thriller, Adventure, Romance, Drama
After a plane crash in the mountains, two strangers must work together to survive. A thrilling story of endurance, hope, and unexpected love.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
Director: Michel Gondry
Genre: Romance, Sci-Fi, Drama
A unique journey through memory and emotions, exploring whether love is worth remembering or better left forgotten.
Epic Adventure & Exploration Movies
Films about fearless explorers, thrilling discoveries, and the spirit of adventure.
The Lost City of Z (2016)
Director: James Gray
Genre: Adventure, Action, Drama
Based on real events, this film tells the story of British explorer Percy Fawcett’s mysterious expedition into the Amazon in search of the mythical Lost City of Z.
Dramatic Travel Movies: Self-Discovery & Personal Missions
Stories about family, promises, and journeys that change lives.
The Way (2010)
Director: Emilio Estevez
Genre: Drama
A heartfelt drama about a father walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain to honor his late son’s memory.
A Walk in the Woods (2015)
Director: Ken Kwapis
Genre: Adventure, Biography, Comedy
Two old friends decide to hike the challenging Appalachian Trail, embarking on a humorous and touching journey through breathtaking landscapes.
Mountaineering & Rock Climbing Movies
Tales of extreme survival and the sheer determination of climbers.
The Dawn Wall (2017)
Directors: Joshua Logan, Tommy Caldwell, Kevin J. Johnson
Genre: Documentary
A thrilling documentary about climber Tommy Caldwell’s incredible journey to scale the nearly impossible Dawn Wall of El Capitan.
North Face (2008)
Director: Philipp Stölzl
Genre: Adventure, Survival
Based on true events, this gripping story follows two German climbers attempting to conquer the treacherous north face of the Eiger in 1936.
14 Peaks: Nothing Is Impossible (2021)
Director: Torquil Jones
Genre: Documentary
A stunning documentary about Nepali climber Nirmal Purja, who conquered all 14 peaks over 8,000 meters in just six months.
The Summit (2012)
Director: Nick Ryan
Genre: Documentary
A chilling documentary about the 2008 K2 disaster, exploring the tragic events and human decisions that led to one of mountaineering’s deadliest days.
Survival & Dream-Chasing Travel Movies
Films that keep you on the edge of your seat, filled with suspense, resilience, and triumph.
Stay tuned for more travel and adventure movie recommendations!
