Amazon
Premieres Fri, Aug. 17, at 9 p.m. ET/PT
The phrase “It’s a jungle out there” takes on a whole new meaning when Les Stroud pays a visit to one of the densest, deepest parts of the Amazon jungle. For seven days, Les “Survivorman” Stroud will test his mettle, his will and his ingenuity — everything he’s got — to survive in one of the most dangerous places on Earth.
But first he will learn a few tricks of the trade, from a tribe considered to be the most violent society in the history of the world — the Waorani. Until 40 years ago, these people lived naked in a culture of vendettas and revenge, where 60 percent of the deaths among the tribe were attributed to homicide. The other 40 percent? Dangers in the jungle. Like jaguars.
Les is brought deep into the jungle in a dug-out canoe, and dropped off with no food, no water and few survival items. He’ll have to make due with just a bit of fishing line, a can of pop, one match with some “fire dust,” a hat and, of course, his trusty multi-tool.
If that sounds tough, he’s also hauling 50 pounds of camera equipment to record every excruciating moment of his jungle odyssey. At least he’s been taught a few tricks from the Waorani tribe, who sent him on his way with a blow gun, fire stick, machete and spear.
In the jungle, the rain and humidity never cease. But at least it keeps the moths and bats away at night. When it’s not raining, Les has to constantly fight off sweat bees and watch every step he takes. Poisonous spiders, army ants and caterpillars that can kill a person with just one touch seem to be at every turn. One of the biggest challenges is starting and keeping a fire going. And, of course, the threat of a jaguar always looms.
