Watch Michael Palin: Sahara

Michael Palin: Sahara is a travel documentary series that aired on BBC One in 2002. The show starred Michael Palin, a well-known British comedian, actor, writer, and traveler. The series consists of four episodes, each of which is about 50 minutes long, and follows Palin as he travels through the world's largest desert - the Sahara.

The series begins in Gibraltar, where Palin sets off on his journey. He starts his adventure by taking a ferry to Tangier, which is a city in Morocco. From there, he travels deep into the Sahara, visiting both remote villages and vibrant cities, interacting with the locals, and experiencing the region's culture, history, and geography.

Throughout the series, Palin meets a diverse range of people, including nomadic camel herders, fishermen, musicians, and activists. He learns about their traditions, customs, and beliefs and witnesses firsthand their determination to survive in one of the harshest environments on Earth.

One of the highlights of the series is Palin's visit to the town of Tamanrasset, which is located in the far south of Algeria. There he experiences the Tuareg culture, a nomadic people who live in the Sahara. Palin learns how the Tuareg people have adapted to life in the desert and hears about their struggles with the Algerian government.

In the series, Palin also explores the many natural wonders of the Sahara, including the world's largest desert lake, the ancient city of Timbuktu, and the breathtakingly beautiful dunes of Erg Chebbi. He learns about the history of the region, including its long-standing trade routes and slave trade, and visits ancient ruins and artifacts.

The series is not just a travelogue, however. Palin also uses his journey to explore some of the social and environmental issues affecting the region. For example, he visits a Tunisian solar plant and hears about the potential for renewable energy to transform the region's economy. He also visits a refugee camp in Algeria and talks to the people who have fled the conflict in their home countries.

Overall, Michael Palin: Sahara is an engaging and insightful series that provides a unique window into one of the world's most fascinating regions. With his trademark wit and charm, Palin takes viewers on an unforgettable journey through the Sahara, showcasing its beauty, complexity, and resilience. Whether you are a fan of travel documentaries or simply interested in learning more about the Sahara, this series is definitely worth watching.