In the premiere episode we are introduced to the three families. First, there is the Fraser family (Michael - 54, Lynn - 54, Robert - 22 and Sasha - 17) from Sydney. Second, also from Sydney, is the Povey family (Tony - 49, Mel - 51, Chelsea - 15 and Samantha - 14). And the third family is the Sherry family (Glenn - 45, Vicki - 47, Ashley - 18 and James - 16) from Melbourne. All three families are under the belief that they will be travelling in luxury to a mystery luxurious location, which will be revealed to them at the airport. But, in fact they are to live with some of the oldest tribes in the world, having to live just like them, and follow out their practices. The Fraser family has to live with the Himba tribe from northern Namibia, the Povey family is with the Mentawai tribe from Indonesia, and lastly the Sherry family is with the Zulu tribe of South Africa. None of the families like what they have gotten themselves into, but how will each of them manage to cope in their new environment?
The families continue to struggle under the strain of living in their new environment. One of the families, though, is sent to breaking point and they wish to live the show. What will happen?
This week the Povey family face their first night with the Mentawai tribe. In Zululand, Vicki and Ashley have been punished by the tribe for having a dirty hut. And in Namibia, dad Michael must undergo his punishment from the Himba tribe by having all of his hair cut out.
The families have more tasks to face. The strain is starting to get to all of them. How will they all cope under pressure? The Povey women learn how to fish, but are horrified when dad Tony comes back with a pig that is to be slaughtered. While in Namibia, Sasha is punished for washing with water - a tribal taboo. And finally in Zululand the men are ordered to do the women's work.
The Australian families share some Aussie culture with the tribes. The Sherry boys introduce the Zulus to Aussie Rules, while in Indonesia the tribe are fascinated when they see photos of the Povey house and pets. In Namibia, Robert is challenged to a wrestling match against the strongest in the tribe as the tribe do not believe he is a happy person as he doesn't smile all that often.
This is the final episode of this series. It is the final day for each of the families to remain with their tribes. They will all have to face one last challenge in order for them to be named honourary members of the tribe. Who will become honourary members? Will anyone not be named as an honourary member? Will the families be happy to go back home? Will this experience have changed the families for life?