Our story

Africa is not simply a destination to us. It is home.

Founded in 2018 by Chris Muzhira, Tukio Travels is shaped by more than twelve years inside the safari camps and luxury lodges of Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Who we are

Journeys that go beyond seeing Africa

We are a small, founder-led team that designs tailor-made journeys across sixteen African countries and the Indian Ocean islands. When you plan with Tukio, you speak directly to the person who designs your trip.

We believe the true spirit of the continent is found not only in famous landmarks or sightings of the Big Five, but in the quieter moments too: the call of a fish eagle, the glow of a fire beneath the stars, a conversation with a local host, or the stillness of an early morning in the bush.

Meet our founder
"Luxury is more than beautiful surroundings. It is the feeling of being welcomed as family, cared for with sincerity, and understood without having to ask. I believe the most memorable experiences are created through thoughtful service, authentic hospitality, and meaningful human connection."
Chris Muzhira
Founder, Tukio Travels
Chris's journey

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step

Zimbabwe Highlands Lake | Tukio Travels
Chapter one

Roots in Zimbabwe

My story begins in rural Zimbabwe, where life taught me resilience long before I understood the meaning of the word. After losing my father, my mother moved our family back to the village, where she worked tirelessly to provide for me and my three siblings.

Life was not easy, but it shaped the person I would become. Circumstances required me to grow up quickly, accept responsibility and become a source of strength for those around me.

Botswana Mokoro Safari | Tukio Travels
2010 · Botswana

Behind the camera

After finishing school, my brother and I joined our mother in Botswana. My entry into tourism began with mobile safaris, where I worked in filming and photography.

Through the lens of a camera, I learned to observe Africa differently: the changing light over the bush, the silence before sunrise, the stories shared around a fire, and the genuine warmth of the people who call these wilderness areas home.

Tukio team relaxing on a fallen tree on safari
Victoria Falls · Zambia

Through the ranks

Working in the camps of Botswana awakened my passion for hospitality. I later moved to Victoria Falls, where I spent several years building my career, before continuing my journey in Zambia.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Mine began in entry-level positions in camps and lodges, and through passion and determination I worked my way up through the ranks.

Tukio Travels safari experience in Africa
2018

Tukio, a resting place

Tukio, meaning “resting place”, was founded in 2018 and has grown alongside my career in safari camps and luxury lodges, a journey that now spans more than twelve years. I know what happens behind the scenes, what thoughtful service looks like, and how the right combination of place, people, timing and personal attention turns a good itinerary into an unforgettable journey.

Tukio Travels is an expression of my love for Africa and my desire to share it with the world.

Tukio Travels safari experience in Africa
Today

A lifelong student of Africa

Beyond hospitality, I am a passionate explorer of stories, people, and cultures. Whether through photography, books, documentaries, or travel, I am constantly seeking new perspectives and lessons that help me grow both personally and professionally.

I remain a student of Africa. Its people, its wildlife, its cultures, and its endless capacity to teach humility and resilience continue to inspire me every day. Equally important to me is mentoring young professionals and helping others discover their own potential within the hospitality industry.

My story is proof that success is never achieved alone. It takes a village to raise a child, and I was fortunate to be surrounded by people who encouraged, challenged, and believed in me. Their support shaped who I am today and fuels my commitment to helping others rise. No matter where I come from, I choose not to let my background determine the boundaries of my future. Instead, I let it remind me how far determination, learning, and hope can take us.

Meet the team

The people behind your journey

A small team with deep roots in African hospitality, and one shared goal: journeys that feel personal from the first conversation to the last day.
Founder

Chris Muzhira

Raised in Zimbabwe, Chris has spent more than twelve years in safari camps and luxury lodges across Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia, rising from entry-level roles to camp management. Tukio is his way of sharing the Africa he knows.
Marketing

Tessa Tigere

Born and raised in Southern Africa, Tessa has always felt a strong connection to the bush. She manages Tukio’s marketing, from social media to face-to-face engagements, and loves showcasing incredible destinations and empowering local communities. An engineer by training, a career in travel is a dream come true.
Hospitality & Guest Experience

Eric Shawn Kasukuvere

Originally from Zimbabwe and now based in Vancouver, Eric has worked in luxury hospitality across Zimbabwe, the United States and Canada, including The Broadmoor and Fairmont Pacific Rim. Trained in culinary arts and hospitality management, he was a finalist for the 2025 Hospitality Rising Star Award.
Butler & Sommelier

Lloyd Jnr Muzuwa

With more than nine years of international hospitality experience, Lloyd has worked across luxury safari camps, cruise ships, yachts and hotels in Europe and the Americas. A professional butler and sommelier, he brings deep expertise in lodge operations, food and beverage and guest relations.
More than a booking

Africa should not only be seen. It should be felt.

To us, you are never simply another reservation. You are a guest placing your time, trust and travel dreams in our hands, and we treat that responsibility with great care.
The Tukio difference

Why travel with Tukio

01

Africa is home

We bring local understanding, professional experience and a genuine connection to the places and people that make each journey special.
02

We listen before we plan

Every journey begins with a conversation about your interests, travel style, pace and the experiences that matter most to you.
03

Firsthand knowledge

We know safari camps and lodges from the inside, and we never recommend a destination, lodge or activity simply because it is popular.
04

Designed around your budget

We are honest about where it is worth investing more and where an alternative offers better value, without losing sight of quality, comfort or safety.
05

With you all the way

Our care does not end once your booking is confirmed. We guide and support you before, during and after your journey.
06

Honest advice, trusted partners

Our recommendations are guided by your needs, and we work with partners who share our commitment to guest care and responsible tourism.
Travel with purpose

Journeys that leave a positive mark

The success of tourism depends on the people and communities who protect, support and bring each destination to life. We want every Tukio journey to benefit them too.
Zambia Village Visit | Tukio Travels

Community-driven travel

Where possible, we support partners that value local employment, community participation and cultural respect.
Botswana Elephant | Tukio Travels

Conservation

Tourism helps protect Africa’s wild places. We encourage travel that supports conservation and the people who protect wildlife.
Chris Muzhira with schoolgirls during a Tukio Heart visit

Tukio Heart

Having experienced hardship firsthand, Chris believes Tukio’s success should create opportunity for others too.
In the press

Chris's story, in print

“Welcome to Tukio Travels. Let us help you experience the Africa we know, respect and love.”
Chris Muzhira, Founder
Chris Muzhira Founder | Tukio Travels
Plan with us

Let's plan a journey that is personal, seamless and deeply memorable.

Speak to our team. Tell us how you like to travel and we’ll get back to you with ideas built around you.