From an in-depth exploration of lions’ unique social behavior in Lions: Spy in the Den to the intimate story of a single lion’s life as told in The Last Lion, these documentaries offer insight into the world of big cats that can only be seen through the lens of film. Whether you’re a fan of wildlife or just curious about the epic lives of lions, you’ll find something to captivate and educate you with these 12 best documentaries about lions. So sit back, relax and enjoy taking a closer look at one of nature’s most majestic creatures.
Pride – Ruler at Risk (2016)
Have you ever wondered what happens in the African savannah after the sun goes down? Thanks to thermal imaging cameras, we are able to capture never-before-seen footage of lion prides and their females as they navigate the darkness. This documentary takes us on a journey through the lives of these majestic animals, showcasing both their daily struggles for survival and heartwarming moments while raising their young.
Mara: River of Death (2016)
The Mara River in East Africa is a captivating force of nature, where the circle of life plays out in an intense and dramatic fashion. As millions of zebras and wildebeests make their yearly migration across its waters, they must navigate through treacherous waters teeming with crocodiles lying in wait.
Battle Royale: Lions and Hyenas (2018)
Witness the fierce competition of the African Savannah as hyenas battle for dominance in this captivating documentary. Watch as these cunning creatures utilize their physical prowess to rise to the top of the food chain, earning their title as the “scavengers of the Savannah”.
Lionsrock – Return of the King (2018)
In February 2008, a visionary idea took shape in South Africa. A vast wildlife reserve spanning over 1,250 hectares was created with one goal in mind: to bring back lions and other majestic big cats to their rightful home. These felines, mostly from Europe, had been languishing in dismal conditions – abandoned by rundown zoos or discarded from circuses.
Lions: Africa’s Super Power (2020)
The vast, sprawling expanse of East Africa is a haven for the mighty lion. Known for their social nature, these majestic cats form prides that are unparalleled in the animal kingdom. Within their tightly-knit community, they work together to hunt, nurture their young and protect their land.
Born to Hunt (2017)
Witness the untamed world of baby predators. From the vast savannas to the dense jungles, these miniature hunters prowl their territories with fierce determination. While they may be small in size, their instincts run deep as they are trained by nature to become ruthless killers.
Explore The Wildlife Kingdom: Lions – Kings of Africa (2006)
Experience the thrill of living among a pride of lions in their majestic kingdom, as captured by the award-winning documentary, Lions: Kings of Africa. Follow three generations of these magnificent creatures – from playful cubs to curious adolescents and wise leaders – as they navigate through life in the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.
The Lion Man Adventures (2023)
Experience the thrilling and heartwarming journey of Craig Busch, known as The Lion Man, as he embarks on a new adventure in South Africa. In this captivating documentary series, Busch takes on the challenge of building a Big Cat Sanctuary while caring for majestic creatures like tigers, cheetahs, and lions.
The Best Free Documentaries About Lions
1. The Rare and Exotic Animals “White Lions”
The white lion is a rare and captivating species found in the Timbavati region of Africa. Chris McBride’s book The White Lions of Timbavati brought these majestic animals to public attention in the 1970s. However, because they lack protection from predators like hyenas and leopards, it has been widely believed that they cannot survive in their natural habitat. But now, for the first time since 2009, a pride of white lions have been reintroduced into nature! Learn more about this incredible species and how you can help protect them with this documentary about lions!
2. The Powerful Hunting Tactics Of Lions
The documentary also gives us a glimpse into the lives of these magnificent creatures and their struggles to survive in the wild. You’ll learn about the fascinating social dynamics of lion prides, as well as their relationships with other animals such as hyenas. You’ll get up close and personal with lions as you watch them hunt, interact with one another, and protect their young. This documentary is sure to be an eye-opening experience that will give you a unique look into the world of these incredible cats. Finally, you’ll discover why lions are affectionately referred to as “the king of the jungle” – and why they deserve our respect and admiration!
3. Lions Defending Their Territory
The Lion in Your Living Room looks into the lion’s place in human culture, both historically and today. Through interviews with experts, this documentary reveals how lions have been depicted through art, literature, films, and more. It also takes us on a journey to meet people who interact closely with lions every day, from zookeepers to conservationists. This film will give you insight not only on how we view lions but also how our actions affect them as a species.
4. A Lion Pride Struggles To Survive
This powerful documentary follows a pride of lions struggling to survive against the odds in the African bush. From a devastating drought that affects their food supply, to an unexpected threat from an invading pride of male lions, this heart-wrenching story shows just how much courage and resilience these majestic creatures must possess in order to survive. With its stunning photography and insightful narration, A Lion Pride Struggles To Survive is sure to leave you awestruck by nature’s beauty and strength.
5. The Strongest LION PRIDE in Luangwa Valley
don’t get much better than this one. This documentary follows the lives of a strong lion pride and their struggle to survive in the wilds of Luangwa Valley, Zambia. It explores the complexity of lion behavior as they hunt, fight for territory, and attempt to raise cubs in a hostile environment. The film also looks into how human activities are infringing on the lions’ habitat and threatening their survival in the wild—a topic that is particularly relevant today. From stunning cinematography to heartbreaking stories, this documentary is sure to captivate anyone who loves animals or wants to learn more about them.
6. LIONS – Kings of African Wildlife
Are you an animal lover? If so, get ready to be captivated by the king of African wildlife – lions! Lions are revered for their strength and majestic beauty. Whether you’re a fan of wildlife documentaries or want to learn more about these incredible creatures, the 7 best documentaries about lions will leave you spellbound. Get up close and personal with Africa’s beloved big cats in “Lion King of the Savannah,” which takes viewers on a journey through South Africa’s wilds. Learn about lion behavior from renowned zoologist Dr. Luke Hunter
7. The King of the wild
The King of the wild, the lion is a majestic and iconic animal that has fascinated us for centuries. Documentaries about lions provide a unique glimpse into the world of these magnificent creatures, giving us an in-depth look at their fascinating behavior and habits. Here are 7 of the best documentaries about lions that animal lovers won’t want to miss. The African Lion – This BBC documentary follows a pride of lions living in the remote Okavango Delta region of Botswana as they battle for survival against a variety of other predators. Viewers get an intimate look at the daily life and struggles of this majestic species as they hunt, form social hierarchies and raise their young in the harsh African bush.
8. Lion Documentary – Lion’s Kingdom Three Lion Prides Fighting For Food And Territory
Discover the majestic world of three lion prides fighting for food and territory in Lion’s Kingdom, a beautiful oasis on the Mwagusi River in Tanzania. This documentary takes you through different landscapes that make up this animal’s kingdom, and examines how they interact with each other to survive. It is an intriguing story about power struggles between these powerful beasts, offering insight into their behavior. Follow along as we chronicle their journey and explore the fascinating culture of these lions!
9. Notch & His Boys: Rise & Fall of the Famous Notch Coalition of Lions
The Lion is one of the six wonders of the natural world, and its strength and power has made it a symbol of royalty. But how do lions come to rule their home grounds? In this documentary we explore the story of Notch and his five cubs – Notch II, Mightylong, Ron, Caesar, and Grimace – which formed the famous Notch coalition in Kenya’s Maasai Mara. From their rise to dominance over an area spanning 1000 km² to their fall from grace, follow along with us as we tell the tale of this remarkable lion pride!
10. South African Trophy Hunter Messes With The WRONG Lion
Real-life stories of man versus animal can be some of the most intense and captivating tales. In this video, we explore the story of Boris Eugen, a South African trophy hunter who made a foolish mistake when attempting to hunt lions in 1968. We’ll examine how his hunting party was almost decimated by one pride of lions and what measures were taken for him to escape with his life. Follow us to learn more about how even experienced hunters can have their lives put at risk when messing with nature’s greatest predator – the lion!
