Earth Day might only officially fall on Tuesday 22 April, but over on DStv and Showmax, it’s basically Earth month – and we’re loving it! With a line-up of awe-inspiring, jaw-dropping, and occasionally giggle-inducing documentaries, it’s the perfect excuse to snuggle up on the sofa with your little eco-warriors and marvel at this big, beautiful planet of ours.
Whether your kids are future scientists, budding adventurers, or just really into penguins (who isn’t?), there’s something here for everyone. Here’s what we’ll be watching – snacks and blankets at the ready.
The Earthshot Prize: Top 15 Finalists
Streaming on Showmax | Binge anytime
Founded by none other than Prince William, The Earthshot Prize is like the Oscars for planet-saving ideas. Each mini doccie (just four to five minutes long – perfect for short attention spans!) spotlights one of last year’s inspiring finalists.
Our faves?
- Advanced Thermovoltaic Systems, which turns industrial waste heat into clean energy. (Yes, really!)
- d.light, bringing safe solar power to off-the-grid African communities – no more smoky kerosene lamps!
It’s hopeful, bite-sized, and a great way to sneak in some eco-education between episodes of Bluey.
Photo by: BBC Studios
The Americas S1
M-Net (DStv Channel 101) | New episodes Sundays at 18:00 | Catch up on DStv Stream
What do you get when Tom Hanks narrates a nature series set across the most dramatic landscapes of North and South America, with music by Hans Zimmer? Pure magic.
From adorable baby sloths to majestic whales, The Americas is an absolute feast for the eyes. It’s like a family safari without having to leave your lounge – or find the passports.
Sue Perkins Into Alaska
BBC Earth (DStv Channel 184) | Fridays at 19:00 from 11 April | Catch up on DStv Stream
Need a laugh and a lesson in survival? Join British comedy gem Sue Perkins as she tackles the rugged wilderness of Alaska. She meets homesteaders, gold diggers and maybe a few bears (eek!) in a hilarious – and surprisingly heartwarming – trek through the Last Frontier.
It’s part travel show, part comedy, all heart.
Expedition Killer Whale
BBC Earth (DStv Channel 184) | Monday, 21 April at 22:00
You may have seen these clever killer whales go viral with their ice-washing hunting tricks – now go behind the scenes with the scientists who are trying to understand how they do it.
Yes, it’s on a little late, but trust us: this is one to record and watch with older kids or teens. It’s fascinating, a little intense, and very, very cool.
Secrets of the Penguins
National Geographic Wild (DStv Channel 182) | Tuesday, 22 April at 18:00
Think you know penguins? Think again. From epic desert treks to heartwarming friendships, Secrets of the Penguins flips the flipper on everything you thought you knew about these tuxedoed waddlers.
Narrated by Blake Lively (yes, that Blake Lively), this beautifully shot doccie will have your kids wide-eyed – and possibly begging for a penguin of their own.
Extreme Weather Specials
Discovery Channel (DStv Channel 121) | Earth Day marathon from 18:20, Tuesday, 22 April
If your family loves a bit of adventure (and maybe a little drama), you’ll want to check out Discovery Channel’s Earth Day specials. From storm chasers to real-life survival stories, these are high-energy, edge-of-your-seat episodes that’ll make you appreciate your roof, your fridge and your Wi-Fi.
Bonus: There’s a guy who once walked the entire Amazon River. Casual.
Asia
BBC Earth | Binge now on DStv Stream
Sir David Attenborough. Enough said, really. But if you need more convincing: Asia is a stunning seven-part series that takes us from the tallest jungles to the deepest oceans.
Expect elephants holding up buses (yes, really), rhinos playing chase, and red pandas being so cute you might burst. This one’s a must-watch – and you’ll definitely want to press pause to answer all the “Mum, what’s that?” questions.
See what all the fuss is about
So whether you’ve got little learners, teens with eco-feels or you’re just in the mood for something feel-good and planet-positive, DStv has Earth Day (and your watchlist) sorted.
Happy streaming, and don’t forget to recycle the popcorn bag!
