The migration journey of Cubans heading to Central America and Mexico continues to be filled with stories of pain, hope, and courage. This time, the spotlight is on YouTubers Mario and Aliesky, who, along with a friend, decided to leave the island and embark on the perilous path starting in Nicaragua, which has become the main escape route for thousands of their fellow countrymen. In a video on their channel, Mario Aliesky TV, they detailed the four-day trek from Havana to Tapachula, Mexico. "I never wanted to make the journey because I was scared, but there was no other choice," Mario admitted, emphasizing that they are not trying to encourage illegal migration but to share an experience that left a lasting impact on their lives.
Facing Fear in Guatemala and Finding Solace in Faith
The group flew on a Conviasa flight to Managua, from where they began a journey that included stops in Honduras and Guatemala. While in Honduras, they received a "safe-conduct" pass to travel legally, but in Guatemala, they faced the most dangerous part of their journey, with mountain roads, police checkpoints, and the constant threat of cartels. "It was the hardest moment when they separated us into different vans. I prayed and trembled with fear," Mario recalls. The third companion, the youngest in the group, stood out for her resilience: "She lifted our spirits, telling us to leave the stress behind and keep going."
The Cubans recounted traveling alongside women as old as 70, asthmatic patients, and entire families with young children. "Watching an elderly woman with bad knees or a mother with her children crossing mountains is proof that desperation drives anyone to risk it all," said the YouTuber. At the border, they crossed the notorious Suchiate River on rafts made from tractor inner tubes. "The boatman told us: when you reach the other side, run," they recounted, recalling the fear of their makeshift transport capsizing with all their belongings.
Mexico: A Destination and Refuge
Arriving in Tapachula did not mark the end of their struggles. Squeezed into cars with up to 14 people, dodging police checkpoints, and walking for miles, they finally managed to settle in the southern Mexican city. They now plan to move to Mérida, believing that Mexico can be more than just a stopover. "Mexico has surprised us. It's culture, education, traditions. We want to start anew here," they expressed, grateful to compatriots who helped them along the way, like Susana, a Cuban who also arrived via this route months earlier.
An Unprecedented Exodus
The experiences of these content creators add to those of thousands of Cubans who have taken the Central American route in recent years. Stories like that of young Yudiel Chirino, who documented his journey on TikTok as he crossed a suspension bridge on his way to the United States, or those of Yaima Alemán and Lietty Piña, who shared the risks of kidnapping, hunger, and confinement in trucks, confirm that this journey has become a massive and painful phenomenon. According to data from the National Institute of Migration (INM), more than six million migrants have settled in Mexico between 2019 and 2025, including thousands of Cubans who, due to U.S. restrictions, choose to start a new life there.
"It was tough, it was dangerous, but here we are. We have faith that everything we went through will be worth it," concluded the YouTubers, convinced that their story reflects the struggle of a generation unwilling to resign themselves to the island and determined to forge a path beyond their borders.
Understanding the Cuban Migration Phenomenon
Why do Cubans choose to migrate to Mexico?
Many Cubans see Mexico as a viable option due to the challenges and restrictions they face in migrating directly to the United States. Mexico offers opportunities for a new start, with its rich culture and potential for integration.
What risks do migrants face on the journey from Cuba to Mexico?
Migrants face numerous dangers, including rough terrain, police checkpoints, the threat of cartels, and the possibility of being detained or separated during transit. The journey is fraught with uncertainty and risk.
How has the Cuban migration trend impacted Mexico?
The influx of Cuban migrants has contributed to the growing number of immigrants in Mexico, which has seen over six million migrants settle in the country between 2019 and 2025. This trend presents both challenges and opportunities for integration and cultural exchange.