
4 March 2024
Your guide to Showmax and the DStv Explora
The Showmax app is available on the Explora Ultra and Streama.
What do I need to get Showmax on my DStv Explora?
- You need to live in South Africa, Kenya or Nigeria.
- Your Explora Ultra needs to be connected to the internet.
- You need an uncapped connection of at least 2Mbps, but 4MBps is recommended.
- You need a DStv subscription as well as a Showmax subscription.
If you are a DStv subscriber without a Showmax subscription, sign up on the MyDStv website or app. Find out more about how to sign up on the Showmax website.
How do I get Showmax on my DStv Explora Ultra?
Simply press the Showmax button on your Explora Ultra remote.
How to sign in to Showmax on your Explora Ultra
There are three ways to sign into Showmax on your Explora: by using the email, link, or by scanning the QR code.
Using the email
- Click “Sign in” in the Showmax app.
- Use your email address and password for preview.showmax.com.
- Click Continue.
- Get streaming!
Using the link
- Click “Sign in” in the Showmax app. Select “Too much to type?” to activate on your phone.
- Use your smartphone, tablet, PC or laptop to go directly to showmax.com/activate in your browser.
- Enter the unique code you’ll see on your TV screen – you have 15 minutes to do this before the code expires.
- Get streaming!
Using the QR code
- Click “Sign in” in the Showmax app.
- Select “Too much to type?” to activate on your phone.
- Scan the QR code with your smartphone camera to open the website.
- Sign in to Showmax.
- Enter the unique code you’ll see on your TV screen – you have 15 minutes to do this before the code expires.
- Get streaming!
Original African stories by local talent

Empini S1-2
Empini is a high-stakes, action-packed drama set in the ruthless, corrupt world of private security. Season 2 is now streaming, with new episodes every Tuesday.

Youngins S1-2
Stream Tshedza Pictures’s first teen drama, Showmax Original Youngins. S1 and S2 are ready to binge.

The Real Housewives of Durban Seasons 1-5
Our eThekwini queens are back with a brand-new season. Stream Season 5 now, with new episodes every Friday.

Unfollowed S1-2
Unfollowed examines cancel culture in social media through real-life stories of South African celebs. Stream S1-2 now on Showmax.

The Mommy Club S1-3
The Mommy Club sees glamorous Jozi momfluencers navigating the the cutthroat world of “it” moms. Stream S3 now, with new episodes every Saturday.

Adulting S1-3
Four best friends go through the hoops of life, love and everything else. Binge-watch Adulting S1-3 now on Showmax.

The Chocolate Empire S1
The Chocolate Empire follows JB Mauzo, who was recently released from prison, as he rebuilds his life. Stream now, with new episodes every Thursday.

Breekpunt
Breekpunt is a tennis drama about a gutsy teenager fighting for the chance to compete in international tennis. Stream now, with new episodes on Mondays.
RHOLagos S3 now streaming
Wura S3 on Showmax
The best of West Africa

Nigerian Idol S10 premieres live on Showmax
Nigerian Idol S10 premiered on 20 April 2025 – and all the action will be screening live on Showmax.

The Real Housewives of Lagos S1-S3
Binge-watch The Real Housewives of Lagos S1-3 and catch the explosive reunions, streaming from 14 and 21 April on Showmax, express from Africa Magic.

Where to watch The Real Housewives franchise online
Showmax is the home of The Real Housewives, giving an inside look at the lives of these glam women from Durban, Abuja, Lagos, Joburg, Nairobi and more. Plus, go on vacation with The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip!

Kalu Ikeagwu on playing the “wild” Jideofor in Cheta M
Kalu Ikeagwu talks about playing the character of King Jideofor in the Showmax Original series Cheta M S2, now streaming. Catch new episodes on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.