Nile Headwaters (04:38)

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The river begins with torrents of rain and snowmelt that flow from the peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains. Headwaters move papyrus islands, creating challenges for wildlife. Hippopotami carve fishing channels for the shoebill stork.

Lake Victoria (03:42)

In November, the new moon triggers a remarkable event at the largest tropical lake in the world. Lake flies emerge from the depths and gather around the lights of fishermen, making them perfect lures for fish; swarms die off in a matter of days.

White Nile (04:48)

Lake Victoria’s water leaves through an exit channel in Uganda The rapids provide a lifeline for a local woman who supports her family of 10 as a kayak guide.

Murchison Falls (06:11)

The 160-foot-wide Nile River squeezes through a 23-foot gap, creating the falls. Crocodiles dine on carrion and other creatures congregate at the only water source for miles. A Nile monitor and baboons pillage a crocodile nest.

Wildlife Hotel (05:43)

A family of warthogs lives in a hunting lodge that was once occupied by Ida Amin. They share space with baboons, bats, pangolins and more. A leopard prowls the area, but does not attack a lone piglet.

The Sudd (04:10)

The Nile feeds a swamp the size of New Mexico, in South Sudan. This area is a haven for elephants. A mother coaxes her youngster into the water to learn how to swim.

Blue Nile Headwaters (05:35)

Storms in the Ethiopian highlands fill the river’s largest tributary. Fertile waters travel 1,000 miles to join with the White Nile. Some of the world’s oldest Christian communities are found on its banks.

Blue Nile Wildlife (04:35)

The Ethiopian wolf and other animals thrives along the riverbanks. Male village weaver birds build intricate papyrus nests to attract females.

Lake Tana (03:17)

Villagers navigate the Blue Nile’s biggest reservoir in boats woven from papyrus stalks. Building skills have been passed down for hundreds of generations.

Sahara Desert (03:08)

The Blue Nile joins the White Nile at Khartoum, before crossing the world's largest hot desert. Two hundred pyramids remain as evidence of the Kush civilization's success in the arid region.

Camels (02:36)

Camels can consume 52 gallons of water in three minutes and can go months without drinking. Desert inhabitants have used them for transportation, milk, and meat for over 3,000 years. Dung beetles are attracted to their droppings.

Desert Metropolis (04:11)

Approximately 95% of Egypt’s population lives along the Nile Rivers. Cairo is the world’s biggest desert city; it may start running out of water as soon as 2025.

Credits: The Nile (00:31)

Credits: The Nile