James Varden
James is Zimbabwean born and raised. From a very young age he showed a keen interest in the outdoors, preferring to play with skeletons and birds nests rather than toys. This love of nature was developed at school and upon leaving he started his safari career in Hwange National Park with Touch the Wild Safaris. James joined Natureways in 1991 under the tutelage of Garth Thompson. He attained his canoe license in 1992 and his full professional guide status in early 1993. James has just completed his tenth season in Mana Pools and countless guests have benefitted from his knowledge and passion for the bush.
Ian joined Natureways in 2002 and has been a driving force behind the setting up of the Harare and Kariba offices as well as keeping his eye on the day-to-day running of the company from Harare. Originally from an accounting background, Ian has swapped his calculator for a paddle and wouldn’t have it any other way. With 5 seasons’ safari experience under his belt, Ian combines his business knowledge and passion for the bush for the benefit of both Natureways and our guests.
Robin Brown is a 2nd generation Zimbabwean who grew up and schooled in Harare. Since the age of 18 Robin has been involved in the tourism industry. He began as a River Guide, working for Shearwater Canoeing Safaris, qualifying as a Professional Guide in 1996. His guiding skills were extended to White Water Rafting on the Zambezi River beneath the Victoria Falls and River Guiding on the Upper reaches of the Zambezi, working with Shearwater as a senior guide for 8 years. In 1998 Robin and his wife Joanne purchased Canoeing Safaris from Shearwater. For 4 years Robin and Jo spent their time running this business before moving to Victoria Falls upon the amalgamation of Canoeing Safaris with Natureways Safaris.