The Netflix documentary Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey, released on April 21, 2025, has captivated audiences with its touching story and breathtaking visuals. Directed by Pippa Ehrlich, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind My Octopus Teacher, this film introduces Kulu, a baby Temminck’s pangolin rescued from poachers in South Africa. At NetFilming, we’re excited to explore the stunning filming locations that bring this inspiring conservation story to life. By diving into the heart of South Africa’s wilderness, the documentary not only highlights Kulu’s journey but also raises awareness about the plight of pangolins, the world’s most trafficked mammals.
What is Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey About?
Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey is a compelling Netflix documentary released on April 21, 2025, directed by Pippa Ehrlich, the acclaimed filmmaker of My Octopus Teacher. The film follows Kulu, a baby Temminck’s pangolin rescued from poachers in South Africa, and his journey to return to the wild. Conservation volunteer Gareth Thomas, who also serves as a cinematographer, nurtures Kulu at the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve’s Pangolarium, the world’s first facility dedicated to pangolin rehabilitation.
The documentary captures their emotional bond while highlighting the dire threat to pangolins, the most trafficked mammals globally due to illegal trade. With stunning visuals of South Africa’s landscapes and a focus on conservation, the film educates viewers about protecting endangered species. It’s a story of hope, resilience, and the power of human dedication to wildlife preservation, making it a must-watch for nature lovers.
Where was Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey filmed?
The primary filming locations for Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey are in South Africa, with a focus on the following specific areas:
Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, Limpopo, South Africa
The core of Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey was filmed in the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, a sprawling 48,000-hectare protected area in South Africa’s Limpopo Province. Located within the UNESCO-designated Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, this reserve is one of the country’s largest private Big 5 game reserves. Its diverse landscapes, from rocky hills to lush bushveld, provide a perfect backdrop for Kulu’s rehabilitation and release into the wild.
The Lapalala Wilderness Reserve is more than just a filming location—it’s a beacon of conservation. Home to iconic wildlife like black rhinos, roan antelope, and over 280 bird species, the reserve also hosts South Africa’s only Vulture Safe Zone, protecting these endangered birds. The Palala River, winding through the reserve, adds to its scenic beauty, making it an ideal setting for capturing Kulu’s journey. The documentary showcases the reserve’s vibrant ecosystems, with sweeping shots of savanna, wetlands, and dramatic orange-hued sunsets.
A key feature of Lapalala is the Pangolarium, the world’s first facility dedicated to rehabilitating trafficked pangolins. Managed by the African Pangolin Working Group (APWG), this center played a crucial role in Kulu’s recovery. The reserve’s off-grid, sustainable conservation efforts align with the documentary’s message, emphasizing the importance of protecting endangered species like pangolins.
Additional Filming in South Africa
Beyond the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey includes footage from other parts of South Africa. The documentary opens with scenes of the sting operation where Kulu was rescued from wildlife traffickers. While specific details about this location are not disclosed, it likely took place in an urban or semi-urban area of South Africa before Kulu was transferred to Lapalala. These moments highlight the harsh realities of the illegal wildlife trade, setting the stage for Kulu’s heartwarming recovery.
Minor Filming in the United Kingdom
Some portions of the documentary were filmed in the United Kingdom, though these scenes are secondary to the South African footage. Details about the UK locations remain limited, but they likely include interviews or supplementary content to support the main narrative. The focus, however, remains firmly on South Africa’s wild landscapes and Kulu’s journey.
Why Lapalala Wilderness Reserve Stands Out
The choice of Lapalala Wilderness Reserve as the primary filming location was no accident. Its untouched beauty and commitment to conservation made it the perfect setting for a story about hope and survival. The reserve’s vast terrain allowed filmmakers to capture Kulu foraging for ants, navigating the bush, and adapting to his natural habitat. Cinematographers Gareth Thomas (also Kulu’s caretaker), Warren Smart, and Steven Dover worked closely with Lapalala’s anti-poaching unit to ensure safe and authentic footage. Their efforts resulted in intimate, non-intrusive shots that let Kulu’s personality shine.
The documentary’s visuals are enhanced by a powerful score from Anne Nikitin, featuring African instrumentation and vocals by Zolani Mahola. These elements bring Lapalala’s landscapes to life, making viewers feel connected to Kulu’s world. For anyone interested in wildlife filmmaking, Lapalala serves as a model of how natural settings can elevate a story.
Watch it today and discover why South Africa’s wilderness is the heart of Kulu’s journey.
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