Ep 3. Great Human Odyssey

The NOVA season 44 episode 3 titled "Great Human Odyssey" takes viewers on an epic journey across the globe to explore the evolution of humans and our ability to survive and thrive in different environments. The episode is hosted by Canadian anthropologist Niobe Thompson, who traces the footsteps of our ancestors from Africa to Asia, and from Europe to the Americas across some of the most challenging terrain on Earth.

The episode begins in the Rift Valley of Ethiopia, where Thompson visits an archaeological dig to learn more about the origins of Homo sapiens and the tools and techniques that our ancestors used to hunt and gather food. From there, he travels to the Arabian Peninsula, where he explores how early humans adapted to life in the desert, relying on camels for transportation and subsisting on dates and camel milk.

Next, Thompson visits the remote jungles of Borneo, where he meets with the indigenous Penan people, who have lived in harmony with their environment for thousands of years. He learns about the Penan's deep knowledge of the forest, their use of medicinal plants, and their hunting and gathering skills.

The journey then takes viewers to the frozen tundra of Siberia, where Thompson meets with members of the Chukchi and Yakut tribes. He discovers how these Arctic people have adapted to life in some of the coldest and harshest environments on Earth, using reindeer for transportation, clothing, and food.

The episode concludes with Thompson traveling to the high-altitude Andes Mountains of Peru, where he meets with the Quechua people, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. He learns about their unique adaptation to living at such high elevations, including the use of coca leaves to alleviate altitude sickness.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning footage of some of the world's most captivating landscapes, as well as insightful commentary from experts in anthropology, archaeology, and human evolution. At its core, "Great Human Odyssey" is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human species, and an exploration of what makes us truly unique among all the creatures on Earth.