Dora the Explorer is an American animated television series that is carried on the Nickelodeon cable television network. A pilot episode for the series aired in 1999, and Dora the Explorer became a regular series in 2000. The show was created by Chris Gifford, Valerie Walsh, and Eric Weiner. The series also airs on Noggin. The show aired on CBS until September 2006. A Spanish-dubbed version first aired as part of a Nick en español block on NBC Universal-owned Telemundo through September 2006; since April of 2008, this version of the program airs on Univision as part of the Planeta U block.

Dora is an adventurous, bilingual, Latina heroine who lives inside a computer. Determined, positive, helpful and caring, Dora is always ready for adventure. She's filled with a sense of wonder, as she explores her world with her faithful Backpack, Map and her best friend Boots.

Dora's best friend Boots is a furry, fuzzy, five and-a-half-year old monkey who speaks english. He is sweet and caring and loves to hold Dora's hand, following her while they explore. He also loves to make Dora laugh by surprising her. Whenever Boots is feeling down he manages to bounce back with his special triple flips.

Given to Dora by Mamá and Papi, Backpack is great a friend who travels with Dora wherever her exploring take her. A real go-getter with a can-do attitude. Backpack always provides anything Dora might need for her quest. Backpack can also speak in both English and Spanish just like Dora.\

Map is a funny, boucy rolled-up friend living in Backpacks side pocket. He is an incredibly useful helper because he always knows where to go and the best way to get there. 'If there's a place you need to get, I can get you there I bet' Map is always singing.

Swiper is a quick, sneaky fox who tries to swipe things that Dora needs to complete her quests. When Swiper has swiped something he then hides it and it's up to Dora, Boots and the viewer to find where it is hidden. Swiper speaks in English and can be stopped by calling out 'Swiper, no Swiping'.

Meet Dora's cousin, Diego! He's a great partner to Dora in her adventures. He helps his parents at the Animal Rescue Centre and can even make animal noises and talk to the wild animals. You can count on Diego to run, swing and jump to the rescue of any animals in trouble.