In a unique opportunity for buyer members, the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is hosting an exclusive fam trip at Edinburgh Zoo on Thursday, 20th March 2025. This day-long event promises an unforgettable experience with an in-depth look at the zoo’s conservation efforts and wildlife exhibits.
Exploring Edinburgh Zoo: A Gateway to Conservation
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s Edinburgh Zoo offers a diverse range of animals and conservation programs. Over 2,500 animals call the zoo home, from charming penguins to Scotland’s only sloths. A key mission of RZSS is to educate the public about wildlife conservation while providing a closer connection to the natural world.
The zoo’s lush 82-acre parkland serves as a haven for animals and a place for visitors to engage with wildlife. Whether you’re observing giraffes grazing or watching the playful antics of the penguins, the experience is not just about seeing animals; it’s about fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges they face in the wild.
A Day Packed with Activities
For those attending the fam trip, a full day of activities is planned. Attendees will have the chance to explore Edinburgh Zoo at their own pace from 10:00 to 14:45. The first scheduled event is a special cream tea session called “Chimp-and-Teas,” set in the Budongo Lecture Theatre with an impressive view of the chimpanzee enclosure. This private event will offer a relaxed setting for members to chat while enjoying delicious treats.
Following the tea, participants will head to the Discovery & Learning building at 15:50. Here, an interactive Animal Meet & Greet will take place, featuring fascinating creatures such as a stick insect, giant land snail, snake, and armadillo. This hands-on session will allow attendees to get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s unique residents.
Behind the Scenes: Mansion House Tour and Penguin Pebble Painting
After the educational session, at 16:30, attendees will be taken on a guided tour of the Mansion House, led by Cassie from Compass. This behind-the-scenes experience gives members a unique perspective on the zoo’s history and its ongoing conservation efforts.
The day will wrap up with a fun and creative activity: Penguin Pebble Painting. At 17:15, participants will have the chance to paint pebbles that will be used for gentoo penguin nesting. Those whose painted pebbles are selected will enter a competition to name a penguin chick, making for a memorable souvenir from the trip.
At 17:45, the fam trip will conclude with the Members Networking Evening in the Budongo Lecture Theatre. This is a great chance for attendees to unwind, share their experiences, and network with other industry professionals.
Booking Information and Event Guidelines
This exclusive event is open only to UKinbound members, and places are extremely limited. The booking process will begin soon, with invitations sent to buyer members with a unique link. Each member company is allowed only one representative, and the spots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Booking will close on Thursday, 6th March 2025, and cancellations after that date will incur a £25+VAT charge. However, a substitute attendee from the same organization is welcome.
