Hollywood star Will Smith trades the red carpet for rugged landscapes in Botswana in the upcoming National Geographic docuseries, Pole to Pole. The series captures Smith exploring the vast Kalahari Desert and the winding waterways of the Okavango Delta, offering viewers an intimate look at some of Africa’s most iconic ecosystems.
Guided by San bushman Kane Motswana, Smith joins the San community on traditional hunts, gaining insight into how ancestral knowledge and resilience have sustained one of the world’s oldest cultures. The experience highlights survival skills, cultural heritage, and the connection between people and their environment in extreme landscapes.
Pole to Pole spans seven episodes, following Smith on a 100-day global journey. From Antarctica’s icy expanse to the wild rivers of the Amazon, the series showcases courage, curiosity, and the thrill of exploring the planet’s most extraordinary places. Smith’s interactions with diverse communities and ecosystems underscore the importance of understanding and protecting the natural world.
The series premieres on National Geographic (DStv 181) on 14 January 2026, offering viewers an immersive adventure that blends culture, wildlife, and environmental exploration. Pole to Pole promises to inspire audiences with its breathtaking visuals and the spirit of discovery.