TV presenter Simon Reeve talks about filming his new adventure show, from meeting lions in the Kalahari Desert to eating testicles in Patagonia
This week, TV presenter Simon Reeve takes part in our travel Q&A.
He reveals how he prepared for his latest series, Wilderness, what he learned during his travels to remote places, where he plans to explore next – and more.
How did you prepare for your new Wilderness TV series?
I was stung like a pincushion – everything from typhoid to tuberculosis – and got into shape by running around Devon wearing a 15kg vest.
What did you take with you before you entered the jungle of Congo?
Television presenter Simon Reeve (pictured above in the Congo rainforest) takes part in our travel Q&A
A lightweight tent and a pair of jungle boots with perforated soles to let out water – because I had to wade through streams. I also made sure I had anti-malarials, as well as a mosquito net and insect repellent. Last but not least, I brought tea bags and a 'bidet bottle' – a squeeze bottle that you can use instead of toilet paper.
What were the highlights of the series?
One worked with the legendary sand diggers in the Kalahari as they hunted for food to feed their families. Another was climbing the ice field of Southern Patagonia, high in the Andes.
Do you see any wildlife there?
Yes, I got to swim with whale sharks as big as a single-decker bus off the coast of New Guinea and get up close to our closest relatives in the animal world, the bonobo [pygmy chimpanzee] in Congo.
Are there any scary moments during your adventures?
I was sleeping in my tent in the Kalahari when a lion outside started sniffing and smelled a juicy snack. One of my guides chased it away.
Simon recalls climbing to the Southern Patagonia Ice Field (pictured) while filming his new series Wilderness
Most challenging day?
During the sea voyage across the Coral Triangle in Indonesia, Eric, our director, developed a fever. It all turned out fine in the end, but we were very far away from a hospital. Until then they had been happy adventures.
The most relaxing place you've visited?
Floating on the sea in the Coral Triangle on a slow boat. Lying in a hammock I had time to practice some really cheesy Indonesian pop melodies on a guitar ukulele – a cross between a guitar and a ukulele.
Pick up some local slang?
I've been wary of trying the local language ever since I nearly caused a riot in a former Soviet republic when I tried to ask for fruit at a market but accidentally asked a lady for something indecent.
Have you had many run-ins with the authorities?
The only intimidating moment was when rangers with assault rifles boarded my boat in the Coral Triangle.
Do you have any tips for dealing with police and customs?
Be respectful. Don't say, 'I'm British, get me out of here!'
Best food you've tried?
A fish curry with the Bajau Laut people in the Coral Triangle. It had plump fish and a delicate flavor. A welcome relief after our freeze-dried expedition food.
Simon talks about his travels to the Coral Triangle (photo) in Indonesia
Something that didn't go so well?
When we stayed with the gaucho cowboys in Patagonia, we were served testicles for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I don't mind eating testicles in that scenario, but it was a bit much.
Where would you like to go that is new to you?
I would love to explore more of our own spectacular islands with my 12 year old boy Jake.
What have you learned from wild places?
That even though we have done so much to damage our planet, great beauty still exists. I felt reassured that these places still exist and I passionately believe that we must protect them.
Did you miss Britain while you were in the jungle?
Family, friends and Guinness, probably in that order.
What's next for you outside of the UK?
I would like to travel more in Brazil, Indonesia and the Philippines.
- Wilderness with Simon Reeve is on Sundays at 9pm on BBC2 and on BBC iPlayer.