Our Story

In 1997, husband-and-wife team Nick and Desirée Murray founded Bushlife Safaris—a passion project rooted in their deep love for Mana Pools and its extraordinary wildlife. A decade later, Lucy Mumbashura joined the family-driven venture, helping shape Bushlife Safaris into what it is today: one of Africa’s most authentic, conservation-led safari operations in the heart of Mana Pools National Park.

With nearly 60 years of combined guiding experience, Nick and Desirée bring a level of bush knowledge and expertise few can match. Nick’s reputation extends far beyond the Zambezi Valley, he has been featured in wildlife documentaries, including BBC’s “Dynasties” with Sir David Attenborough. His intimate understanding of animal behaviour has made him one of the most respected guides and storytellers in Africa.

At Bushlife Safaris, guests are invited to experience Mana Pools the way it was meant to be through award-winning walking safaris, serene canoe trails, and close-up wildlife encounters led by one of the finest guiding teams on the continent. Here, warm hospitality meets the thrill of the wild, offering an unforgettable journey into one of Africa’s last truly untouched wilderness areas.