Zimbabwe back on map with Mavros Safaris

The company is hopeful UK travellers will show renewed interest in the destination following the resignation of the country’s president Robert Mugabe in November.

Many have since rushed to highlight the nascent tourism industry but Alexander Mavros – one of the four sons of Patrick Mavros, founder of the silverware business – said Mavros Safaris would be “the world’s only specialist by a mile”.

Fifth-generation Zimbabwean Alexander oversees the operation from the company’s UK office, and an Atol has been applied for. Mavros Safaris also has an experienced on-the-ground team in Zimbabwe.

“We grew up in Zimbabwe and have an intimate knowledge of the best spots, and we anticipate the UK market will be a very important one for us,” he said.

The company already has a jewellery and homeware store in Chelsea and has built up a prestigious database of clients.

But Mavros added he was keen to work with anyone who wanted to help send clients to his beloved Zimbabwe. “Tourism fell off a cliff and as a family we now have a huge opportunity and real purpose – to send people to the country and help conserve the experiences and the national parks, which make up 13% of the country. We want anyone’s help to do that,” he said.

Among the experiences on offer are stays in private homes, riverboat safaris and cultural retreats. Luxury product includes Matetsi Victoria Falls and Singita Pamushana lodge.