Still work is quite interesting and actually pretty easy, though for the work you are going to be doing, temperature regulation is key. Though this is true even when distilling alcohol.

You might want to pick up a copy of the Alaskan Bootlegger's Bible...I know not the area you are approaching but definitely a neat book on some very simple homemade stills.

As for building a still, basically you need an airtight pot, a length of copper tubing and some means of cooling, and a collection vessel. A gentle flame that can be well regulated is going to be essential (hahaha...pun), and a good source of clean water.

Any idea on what you are looking to distill or what kinds of quantities we are talking about?