Explorer Series Spotlight: Dr. Mireya Mayor—Primatologist, Explorer, and Inspiration

Dr. Mireya Mayor’s life story is a testament to the power of curiosity, resilience, and the call of the wild. Dubbed the “Female Indiana Jones” by The New York Times, her career has taken her to some of the planet’s most remote and challenging landscapes. It’s an extraordinary path defined by groundbreaking discoveries, thrilling adventures, and a fierce dedication to exploration.

Dr. Mayor is a National Science Foundation Fellow, Fulbright Scholar, and an Emmy Award-nominated wildlife correspondent for the National Geographic Channel. Before she was trekking through dense jungles and making scientific discoveries, Dr. Mayor was a professional cheerleader for the NFL’s Miami Dolphins. It’s a transformation that’s nothing short of extraordinary and speaks to her tenacity and adaptability.

Dr. Mayor’s adventures as a National Geographic explorer have been legendary. She has led and participated in dozens of expeditions, including the groundbreaking co-discovery of a new species of mouse lemur in Madagascar, now known as the world’s smallest primate. Her work has helped bring global attention to the plight of lemurs and other endangered species, inspiring conservation efforts that are crucial to their survival.

As a host and correspondent, Dr. Mayor has brought the wonders of the natural world to millions of viewers, making complex science relatable and exciting. She has headlined dozens of documentaries and shows, including her Nat Geo Wild! series Wild Nights with Mireya Mayor, the History Channel’s Expedition Africa, and the Discovery Channel’s Expedition Bigfoot. Through these projects, she’s taken audiences deep into the heart of wild places, from African savannas to dense rainforests, always emphasizing the beauty and fragility of these ecosystems.

Her influence goes beyond the screen and into classrooms, conferences, and conservation initiatives worldwide. As a mother of six, Dr. Mayor is a powerful advocate for women and girls in science, proving that it’s possible to balance family life with a career in exploration and research. She encourages young girls to follow their dreams, no matter how uncharted the path may seem, and has become a role model for aspiring scientists and adventurers everywhere.

From facing charging elephants to encountering venomous snakes, Dr. Mayor’s adventures have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in field research. Dr. Mireya Mayor’s legacy is one of courage, curiosity, and an unrelenting drive to protect the beauty and diversity of our planet. Her story reminds us that exploration isn’t just about discovering new places—it’s about understanding our world more deeply and fighting to keep its wild heart beating. Through her research, documentaries, and advocacy, she continues to light the way for future generations of explorers and conservationists

To learn more about Dr. Mireya Mayor and her adventures, visit mireyamayor.com. She takes the Des Moines Civic Center stage on Tuesday, January 21 at 6:30 PM, so get tickets today and prepare for a wild night! Looking for more adventure? We've got you covered with the Explorer Series