To not forget! A Cuban shares the toughest moment of his journey to the USA: "Anyone who has made it knows this place."

A Cuban shares on TikTok the dangerous crossing of the Darién to the U.S., showcasing the risks and challenges that migrants face in search of a better life. The video, which has gone viral on social media, reflects the harsh reality of this journey.


A Cuban who undertook the dangerous journey to reach the United States shared a video on TikTok that shows one of the most challenging moments of his trip.

The post, made by the user @mezquia98, has generated numerous reactions on social media, where migrants and people familiar with the route have expressed their empathy and understanding of the challenges of this dangerous journey.

The video, which has garnered thousands of views, shows a group of migrants crossing a hanging bridge in the jungle, a scene that symbolizes the extreme risk faced by those who venture into the dangerous Darién jungle.

Then, the images change, showing several people aboard a boat navigating along a river, possibly during one of the most exhausting stages of their journey to freedom.

"Everyone who has made the journey knows this place", wrote the Cuban in the video description, suggesting that the exact location shown in the images is widely recognized among migrants who have crossed the Darién jungle, one of the most dangerous routes for those seeking to reach U.S. territory.

The dangerous path through the Darién, which separates South America from Central America, has been a witness to countless stories of survival, despair, and hope.

For many Cubans, this route has become the only viable option to escape the economic and political crisis on the island and seek a better future in the United States. However, the journey is fraught with dangers such as organized crime, extreme weather conditions, and uncharted terrain.

In the comments of the video, many migrants shared their own experiences on this difficult journey. "That bridge is unforgettable; you feel like you might fall at any moment," commented one user, while another wrote, "Crossing that river was the moment I felt my life was in danger."

The migration flow of Cubans through the Darién has increased significantly in recent years, with thousands of people embarking on the journey each month. According to official data, this route remains one of the most used by migrants from the island who are seeking the American dream, despite warnings about its dangers.

The images shared by @mezquia98 serve as a reminder of the sacrifice and determination of those who leave everything behind in search of a better life. Meanwhile, social media continues to act as a platform to document these stories and highlight the harsh reality that migrants face on their journey to the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Journey of Cuban Migrants to the United States

Why is the Darién route dangerous for Cuban migrants?

The Darién Gap route is dangerous due to its hostile geographic conditions, the presence of criminal gangs, and the risk of extreme weather conditions. Migrants face challenges such as unexplored terrain and the possibility of robbery, kidnapping, or assault. Despite these dangers, many Cubans choose this route in search of better opportunities in the United States.

What motivates Cubans to undertake the journey to the United States?

The main motivation for Cubans is to escape the economic and political crisis on the island. They seek a better future in the United States, which drives them to risk perilous journeys like that of Darién. Stories of survival and the hope for a more prosperous life are factors that fuel this massive exodus.

How has the flow of Cuban migration through the Darién increased in recent years?

The flow of Cuban migrants through Darién has significantly increased in recent years, with thousands of people embarking on the journey each month. This growth is partly due to the increasing economic difficulties in Cuba and the perception that this route offers one of the few viable opportunities to reach the United States.

What role do social networks play in documenting the migratory journeys of Cubans?

Social media has become a crucial platform for documenting and highlighting the experiences of Cuban migrants. Through videos and posts, migrants share their experiences, challenges, and achievements, generating empathy and understanding within digital communities. Additionally, these platforms help connect migrants with resources and support during their journey.

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Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.

Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.