Ep 2. Madagascar to the Seychelles

In the second episode of Indian Ocean with Simon Reeve season 1, Simon journeys from Madagascar to the Seychelles, exploring the incredible diversity of life in this part of the world and meeting the people who call it home.

Beginning in Madagascar, Simon discovers the island's unique wildlife, from the lemurs in the forests to the chameleons and frogs that inhabit the undergrowth. He also meets the locals, learning about the country's history and the challenges it faces, from political instability to deforestation.

Moving on to the Comoros Islands, Simon is struck by their beauty and the warmth of the people he meets. He explores the islands with his guide, visiting a vanilla plantation and encountering giant coconut crabs on the beach. Along the way, he discovers the effects of climate change on the islands, from rising sea levels to ocean acidification.

In Tanzania, Simon takes part in a traditional fishing expedition, joining the local fishermen as they set out in their sailboats to catch tuna and other fish. He also visits a seaweed farm, where local women cultivate and harvest seaweed for use in food and beauty products.

In the final leg of his journey, Simon visits the Seychelles, a group of islands renowned for their beauty and biodiversity. Here, he explores the world-famous coral reefs, encountering a host of marine life, from colourful fish to graceful sea turtles. He also learns about the work being done to protect the reefs and the challenges faced by those trying to preserve this fragile ecosystem.

Throughout the episode, Simon's warmth, curiosity and passion for the natural world shine through. His encounters with the people and wildlife of the Indian Ocean are both enlightening and entertaining, shedding light on this fascinating and complex region of the world.