Hunting and Camping in the Kalahari
In Hunting and Camping in the Kalahari, host Simon Reeve camps with the San people in the Kalahari, learning their survival skills. As night falls, he tries his hand at making fire with sticks, a skill the San men have mastered. Around the campfire, one man explains how coffee helps him stay alert to listen for predators like lions, sharing a gripping story of waking up to a pride nearby. He reflects on the courage it takes to hunt, reminding Simon that providing for family is worth the risks. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Wilderness With Simon Reeve, an epic adventure into the heart of Earth’s last great wild areas, where nature is at its most beautiful and fragile.
Lesson Express
Q: The San man shares a story about waking up near a group of lions. What does this experience reveal about his attitude toward fear and survival? How might this mindset influence his approach to hunting and protecting his family?
A: His story shows that he views fear as something to manage rather than avoid. By staying calm and focused, he ensures his survival. This mindset likely makes him more effective at hunting and providing for his family, as he prioritizes practicality and courage over panic.
Q: Why might drinking coffee late at night be a crucial survival tactic for the San people in the Kalahari?
A: Drinking coffee helps the San people stay awake at night, which is essential for hearing predators nearby. This practice shows their deep awareness of the dangers in their environment and their ability to adapt simple routines, like drinking coffee, into survival strategies.
Q: How does the San people's method of making fire with sticks and brush differ from modern methods, and what does this tell us about their relationship with nature?
A: The San people's method requires skill, patience, and a deep connection to natural resources, unlike using modern tools like lighters or matches. This demonstrates their ability to live harmoniously with their environment, relying on traditional knowledge passed down through generations.
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