National Geographic documentaries have always been a source of awe and inspiration, offering glimpses into the natural world and the incredible stories of human resilience. These films take viewers on heart-stopping adventures, from scaling mountains to diving into flooded caves, all while revealing the beauty and raw power of our planet.
Six Unmissable Documentaries on Disney+
Thanks to a recent D23 blog, we now have the scoop on six must-watch National Geographic documentaries, all available on Disney+. Crafted by award-winning filmmakers Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, these films bring viewers closer to the wonders of the world. Through immersive storytelling and unmatched cinematography, they offer unforgettable experiences.
Whether scaling mountains, diving into flooded caves, or exploring untouched wilderness, these films promise adventure, inspiration, and a deeper connection to our shared humanity.
Endurance: Survival and Discovery
Endurance, the latest film by Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, tells the inspiring story of two expeditions connected by grit and determination. In a historic feat, polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton kept his crew of 27 men alive for over a year after their ship was lost to the Antarctic ice. A century later, modern explorers embark on a daring mission to find the sunken vessel. Using expedition diaries and Frank Hurley’s original footage, the film offers a fully immersive tale of survival and discovery.
Free Solo: The Ultimate Climb
Free Solo presents a breathtaking portrait of climber Alex Honnold as he pursues his dream of scaling El Capitan in Yosemite National Park—without a rope. Vasarhelyi and Chin capture every heart-stopping moment with stunning visuals and a touch of vertigo-inducing camerawork. This gripping documentary showcases Honnold’s raw determination and fearless spirit.
The Rescue: A Global Effort
The Rescue tells the riveting story of the 2018 mission to save 12 boys and their coach from a flooded cave in Northern Thailand. Through never-before-seen footage and exclusive interviews, Vasarhelyi and Chin piece together the high-stakes operation. The film highlights the heroic efforts of the Royal Thai Navy SEALs, U.S. Special Forces, and expert cave divers who risked everything to bring the boys to safety.
Photographer: Iconic Images
Photographer follows some of the world’s most extraordinary visual storytellers on exhilarating adventures. Directed by Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, each episode focuses on a famous photographer’s journey to create iconic images. Through interviews and footage, viewers gain insight into their process, artistic evolution, and how they see the world.
Stream Photographer on Disney+
Wild Life: Protecting Nature
Wild Life tells the story of conservationist Kris Tompkins and her journey to protect some of the world’s most stunning landscapes. After falling in love later in life, Kris and Doug Tompkins left their successful careers at Patagonia, The North Face, and Esprit to focus on creating National Parks in Chile and Argentina. Their effort culminated in the largest private land donation in history.
Edge of the Unknown: Pushing Limits
Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin explores the razor-thin line between triumph and tragedy for the world’s top adventure athletes. This 10-part series takes viewers inside the minds of these athletes as they recount their most pivotal moments. Big wave surfers, climbers, snowboarders, and polar explorers reflect on life-changing experiences that shaped their journey.
Stream Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin on Disney+
Discover more about the wonders of our world—and be inspired by today’s greatest adventurers—by watching National Geographic on Disney+