Wildlife and safari show to focus on conservation

The two-day event takes place in Harrogate Convention Centre, September 29-30, combining an exhibitor hall with expert talks.

Some 30 exhibitors are confirmed, including the Zambia and Botswana tourist boards; cruise lines Silversea and Hurtigruten; and operators Mahlatini Luxury Travel, Bespoke Latin America and Wildlife Worldwide.

The Wildlife & Safari Travel Show is the first event from Converge Exhibitions, a new company founded by Debbee Dale of Debbee Dale Development; Lorraine Barnes Burton, director of the British Travel Awards; and Chris Erasmus, formerly of the Cruise Show and Adventure Travel Show.

Dale said: “For travel agents and suppliers, it’s an opportunity to get in front of a wide range of customers who know what they are coming to.

"It is not like any other show; it has a focus that gives us a stronger and more motivated audience.”

Speakers include leading wildlife photographers, producers and presenters such as Simon King, Lucy Cooke and Sue Flood.

The show will also include wildlife art created by celebrities for charity Sketch for Survival; a feature on marine conservation from Incredible Oceans; and an Elephant Gin gin lounge.

A proportion of all ticket sales will be donated to Tusk, the Africa conservation charity.

Charlie Mayhew, chief executive of Tusk, said: “With so many land and marine species under increasing threat, we hope that the Wildlife & Safari Travel Show will encourage more people to travel responsibly and support the numerous reserves and conservation programmes that underpin their protection.”

Exhibiting at the show costs from £1,180 (+VAT). Contact chris@converge exhibitions.com for more details or visit www.wildlifesafarishow.com