On a visit to Zimbabwe soon after the country’s independence, Paul Murray quickly established enduring friendships with some leading players in the Victoria Falls tourism sector. He developed a keen interest in all aspects of the country but above all, his love for Zimbabwe has been driven by the locals: ‘probably the friendliest people I’ve met anywhere in the world’. Very frequent visits to Zimbabwe followed and one last Africa ambition came to fruition 10 years ago when he and his wife bought a house in Victoria Falls which has allowed unparalleled access to the diverse riches of Zimbabwe. It was during this time that Paul completed three editions of this book. Now located back in the UK due to family circumstances, he has handed over authorship to Paul Hubbard, of whom he says ‘Far better that a Zimbo rather than a Pom now writes this book! My cherished Zim guidebook, couldn’t be in better hands’.

Born in Bulawayo, Paul Hubbard has lived in towns and in the wild all over Zimbabwe and currently works around the country as a professional tour guide. As part of his business he travels around Zimbabwe leading tours and conducting research, both of which have given him an intimate knowledge of much of the country while integrating him with much of Zimbabwe’s tourism industry – from hotels and lodges to tour operators and lodge owners. With degrees in archaeology, he combines history, nature and culture into a fascinating romp through any area. Having been involved with the previous three editions of Bradt’s Zimbabwe, he continues to bring to this new edition the same verve and passion with which he conducts tours in person.