WordofMany

Netflix

By Evelyn Reed

Published: 19 Mar 2025

Netflix Nature Documentaries: A Personal Journey

Hey there, nature lovers! I'm Evelyn, and I'm obsessed with documentaries – especially the ones that whisk me away to breathtaking corners of the planet. Lately, I've been on a serious Netflix binge, devouring all the amazing nature docs they have to offer. So, I figured I'd share my top five picks with you all. Get ready to be amazed (and maybe even a little teary-eyed… some of these are seriously emotional!).

1. Our Planet (2019): The Epic Scale of Nature

First up is the sheer magnificence that is Our Planet. Seriously, this one is stunning. David Attenborough’s narration is as soothing as a warm cup of tea, and the cinematography is mind-blowing. We're talking close-ups of adorable snow leopards and sweeping shots of massive whale migrations. It’s a visually spectacular journey through the planet's diverse ecosystems. I was especially captivated by the episode on the Amazon rainforest— the sheer biodiversity was astonishing! If you're looking for a beautifully shot and informative documentary, this is the one. The one tiny gripe? Some of the music felt a tad melodramatic at times, but that's a minor complaint in a spectacular series. Prepare to be awe-struck!

Our Planet Netflix documentary | Image: Supplied

2. Night on Earth (2020): A Nocturnal Adventure

Next on my list is Night on Earth. This docuseries completely changes your perspective on the night world. Who knew there was so much amazing stuff happening after the sun goes down? The incredible footage of nocturnal animals is seriously mesmerizing. I learned so much about how animals adapt to the darkness—it's mind-blowing! The episode on the African savanna at night is unforgettable. It's a truly unique and captivating look at a world we rarely see.

Night on Earth Netflix documentary | Image: Supplied

3. Seven Worlds, One Planet (2019): A Global Exploration

This seven-part series is an absolute must-watch. Seven Worlds, One Planet takes you on a breathtaking journey across all seven continents. The diversity is simply astonishing; each episode focuses on a different continent and showcases its unique flora and fauna. There's something utterly special about seeing how life has adapted to such drastically different environments. I especially loved the episode about South America—the incredible variety of species was amazing. Plus, the photography is simply stunning—prepare for some serious wanderlust!

Seven Worlds One Planet Netflix | Image: Supplied

4. My Octopus Teacher (2020): An Unlikely Friendship

Okay, get ready for some feels. My Octopus Teacher is not your typical nature documentary. It's a moving story about a filmmaker who forms an unlikely bond with an octopus. This film explores themes of connection, empathy, and the beauty of the natural world in a deeply personal and profound way. Be warned—it's emotional! I cried, I swear! But it’s also unbelievably beautiful and heartwarming. It's a unique and unforgettable viewing experience. The emotional depth was unexpected but really moving.

My Octopus Teacher Netflix | Image: Supplied

5. The Ivory Game (2016): A Powerful Story of Conservation

Lastly, for a documentary that will both enrage and inspire you, check out The Ivory Game. This isn't just about pretty pictures; this is a hard-hitting exposé of the illegal ivory trade. It follows undercover investigations, and it's heartbreaking and infuriating to see the scale of the poaching problem. But it also shines a light on the incredible work being done by conservationists to fight back. If you care about wildlife and conservation, this is an important watch. It’s a powerful reminder of the urgent need for conservation efforts, and it will leave you feeling both inspired and deeply disturbed—in a good way, maybe?