Born To Explore Season 1 Episode 11 Camels and Crocs

Born To Explore is an exciting travel documentary series showcasing the incredible beauty and diversity of our planet. In season 1 episode 11, titled "Camels and Crocs," viewers embark on a thrilling adventure through the Australian Outback.

The episode starts with the host, Richard Wiese, arriving in Alice Springs, a small town located in the heart of the Northern Territory. He meets up with his local guide, a descendant of the indigenous Arrernte people, who takes him to a camel farm situated in the middle of the desert. Richard is thrilled to learn that these camels are not just any camels, but wild dromedaries that have been domesticated and bred for racing. He shares his excitement with the farm's owner, who tells him all about the history of camels in Australia and their impact on the local ecosystem.

Soon, Richard is introduced to his ride for the day, a feisty young camel who needs a bit of coaxing before she agrees to carry him. Together, they set off into the wilderness, trekking through the vast red dirt plains and rocky outcrops that define this harsh landscape. Along the way, they encounter some of the local wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and even a few emus. Richard is struck by the sheer isolation of this area and the resilience of the creatures that call it home.

After a few hours of riding, Richard and his guide come across a crocodile-infested river. Here, they meet a local crocodile expert who is dedicated to preserving these magnificent reptiles. He tells Richard all about the different species found in the area, the dangers they pose to humans, and the challenges of protecting them from habitat loss and poachers. Richard is mesmerized by the crocs, both in the wild and in captivity, and he learns a great deal about their biology and behavior.

The next leg of Richard's journey takes him to the heart of the Crocodile Dundee country. Here, he meets Mick Pitman, an eccentric outdoorsman and expert croc-wrangler who has lived in the wilderness for over 40 years. Pitman teaches Richard how to catch a crocodile using only his bare hands, a skill that Richard finds simultaneously thrilling and terrifying. Throughout their time together, Pitman regales Richard with stories of his adventures and his encounters with some of the largest crocs in the region.

The final part of this episode takes Richard to the MacDonnell Ranges, a series of mountains that stretch for hundreds of kilometers across the outback. Here, he meets some of the last remaining nomads of Australia, members of the Aboriginal community who have preserved their traditional way of life despite the pressures of modernization. Richard spends a few days with them, learning about their customs, their beliefs, and their connection to the land. He participates in some of their rituals, including a spirit dance and a bush tucker feast, and he gains a deeper understanding of the spiritual richness of this ancient culture.

"Camels and Crocs" is a fascinating and exhilarating episode that takes viewers on a journey through one of the most fascinating regions of the world. Richard Wiese is an engaging and curious host who shares his sense of wonder with his audience, bringing them along for the ride and revealing the hidden gems of this remote and awe-inspiring landscape. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a dose of inspiration, Born To Explore will not disappoint.