Watch Africa's Hidden Kingdoms

2015
1 Season

Africa's Hidden Kingdoms is a documentary series that explores some of the most remote and fascinating corners of the African continent. Produced by Smithsonian Earth, the show takes viewers on a journey through the African wilderness, introducing them to the rich biodiversity, ancient cultures, and awe-inspiring landscapes that make this continent one of the most incredible places on earth.

Each episode of the series focuses on a particular region or habitat in Africa, from the vast savannahs of Tanzania to the dense rainforests of the Congo. Through stunning footage captured by a team of expert wildlife filmmakers, viewers are given a glimpse into the hidden world of some of Africa's most elusive creatures, including lions, gorillas, elephants, and hippos.

Beyond the wildlife, Africa's Hidden Kingdoms also delves into the human cultures that have thrived in these remote corners of the continent for centuries. From the hunter-gatherer tribes of the Kalahari Desert to the pastoralists of Kenya's northern reaches, the show offers a window into the diverse ways of life that have evolved in response to Africa's unique landscapes and ecosystems.

One of the standout aspects of Africa's Hidden Kingdoms is its stunning cinematography. Shot in ultra-high definition, the series showcases the beauty of Africa's natural landscapes in incredible detail, from the rolling hills of the Serengeti to the mist-shrouded peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains. This, coupled with a stirring soundtrack featuring local music and evocative natural sounds, makes for a truly immersive viewing experience that transports audiences to Africa's hidden corners.

But the show isn't just about offering a visual spectacle â it's also about examining some of the deeper themes that underpin African ecology and culture. For instance, one episode focuses on the importance of water in the Kalahari Desert, exploring how both humans and animals have learned to survive in one of the harshest environments on the planet. Another episode examines the complex social structures of elephant herds, showing how these intelligent creatures form deep bonds and communicate in ways that are still not fully understood by humans.

Overall, Africa's Hidden Kingdoms is a mesmerizing exploration of one of the planet's most captivating and mysterious continents. With its stunning visuals, knowledgeable wildlife experts, and deep insights into African ecology and culture, this Smithsonian Earth series is a must-watch for anyone interested in the natural world or the people who call it home.

Africa's Hidden Kingdoms is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (6 episodes). The series first aired on November 6, 2015.

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Seasons

6. Kogelberg: Mountains of Diversity

March 11, 2016

Take a trip along the mountainous coast of South Africa's Western Cape, a botanical wonderland where rare plants are interspersed across a carpet of species-rich fynbos vegetation. On land and sea, life here is both intricate and spectacular.

5. De Hoop: Place of Hope

July 15, 2016

In the Western Cape province of South Africa, De Hoop Nature Reserve is bringing back countless endangered species from the brink of extinction. From the docile bontebok to gargantuan southern right whales, meet some of the world's most vulnerable creatures as they battle against overwhelming odds.

4. Namaqualand: The Desert Bloom

June 3, 2016

On the western coast of South Africa, a unique desert landscape experiences the contrasts of a punishing 10-month dry period, followed by a brief flurry of rain and floral bloom. Follow the speckled padloper, mole snake, and other species that call Namaqualand home, as they celebrate their reward for months of resilient survival.

3. Sandveld: Land of Contrasts

April 1, 2016

For the wildlife of South Africa's rugged coastline, life is a constant balance of extremes. While some species have the luxury of choosing between the dangers of the Atlantic or the severity of the land, all of its inhabitants learn to cope with the area's unyielding, yet beautiful, landscape.

2. Gardens in the Clouds

November 13, 2015

Journey high into the sky to a remote mountain world, swirling in silver mist. These are the Cloud Mountains of South Africa, a hidden enclave of indigenous "Afromontane" forests, packed with giant prehistoric plants and the native species that rely on them-a true window into an ancient era.

1. Drakensberg: Barrier of Spears

November 6, 2015

The Drakensberg is a gargantuan range of pointy peaks that cuts across the South African plains, more than living up to its Zulu name Ukhahlamba-or 'Barrier of Spears.' Take an exhilarating journey among its massive sandstone buttresses, grass-covered slopes, and wealth of diverse wildlife.

Description

Where to Watch Africa's Hidden Kingdoms

Africa's Hidden Kingdoms is available for streaming on the Smithsonian Earth website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Africa's Hidden Kingdoms on demand at Paramount+, Amazon Prime, Philo and FuboTV.