National Geographic Documentary Films and Abramorama have debuted the trailer for Ghost Elephants, a feature-length documentary directed, written and narrated by Werner Herzog. The film premieres Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 9/8c on National Geographic. It begins streaming March 8 on Disney+ and Hulu.
The Ghost Elephants documentary follows National Geographic Explorer Steve Boyes as he pursues proof of a rare elephant population long believed to be a myth.
Searching for the Ghost Elephants of Lisima
Deep in the mist-covered highlands of Angola, a mystery remains. The so-called ghost elephants of Lisima may be living descendants of the largest land mammals ever recorded.
Boyes, who leads the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, sets out to find proof. To succeed, he teams up with fellow explorer Kerllen Costa and three KhoiSan master trackers: Xui, Xui Dawid and Kobus.
Importantly, the trackers rely on traditional knowledge rather than modern technology. As a result, the film highlights ancient skills that continue to shape conservation work today.
Werner Herzog’s Signature Perspective
Herzog brings his distinct narrative style to the Ghost Elephants documentary. Known for films such as Grizzly Man, he frames the journey as both scientific pursuit and philosophical reflection.
emotions seeing Henry the elephant. (Credit: Skellig Rock, Inc)
The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival, where Herzog received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement. Consequently, the documentary arrives with strong festival recognition.
Our Thoughts
The Ghost Elephants documentary blends exploration, conservation and cinematic storytelling. It highlights collaboration between scientists and Indigenous trackers while emphasizing the lasting value of traditional ecological knowledge.
Herzog’s narration adds weight to the journey, yet the film never loses sight of the people on the ground. Instead, it balances sweeping landscapes with intimate moments of tracking and survival.
