Singapore is known for its stunning modern skyline and vibrant city life, but did you know it’s also home to some of the most unique and immersive wildlife experiences in the world? Nestled within the lush Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and River Wonders offer three incredible ways to connect with nature, learn about wildlife conservation, and experience animals from across the globe.
In this blog post, we'll introduce you to these three world-class attractions, each offering its own distinct adventure, and why they should be at the top of your must-visit list when exploring Singapore.
Singapore Zoo: A World of Natural Wonder
The Singapore Zoo, often hailed as one of the best zoos in the world, offers a breathtaking wildlife experience set within 26 hectares of lush tropical rainforest. With over 2,800 animals from 300 species, the zoo is renowned for its open-concept design, allowing animals to roam in spacious, naturalistic enclosures without visible barriers. This gives visitors an authentic, immersive encounter with wildlife.
Key Highlights
- Fragile Forest: Step into a giant biodome that simulates a tropical rainforest, where lemurs, free-flying birds, and butterflies roam around you.
- Orangutan Exhibit: The world’s first free-ranging orangutan exhibit lets you get up close to these intelligent creatures as they swing from tree to tree.
- Elephants of Asia: Watch the majestic Asian elephants in action, including interactive feeding sessions.
- Rainforest Kidzworld: Perfect for families, this area offers hands-on experiences for kids, with a splash park, pony rides, and a petting zoo.
The zoo places a strong emphasis on conservation and education, and visitors can participate in animal feeding sessions and attend informative Keeper Talks throughout the day. If you're visiting with family or friends, the Breakfast in the Wild experience is a popular way to start the day with wildlife encounters.
River Wonders: A Journey Through the World’s Rivers
The River Wonders, previously known as River Safari, is Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park, offering a unique focus on freshwater ecosystems from around the globe. The park is home to over 6,000 animals from 240 species, including some of the world’s largest freshwater fish, reptiles, and aquatic mammals. The River Safari is divided into eight iconic rivers, each representing a different part of the world, such as the Amazon, Nile, Yangtze, and Mekong.
Key Highlights
- Giant Panda Forest: One of the River Safari’s most popular attractions, the Giant Panda Forest is home to two beloved giant pandas, Kai Kai and Jia Jia, who reside in a cool, lush habitat that mimics their natural home in the highlands of China.
- Amazon River Quest: Hop aboard a boat ride that takes you through a recreation of the Amazon rainforest, where you’ll encounter animals like jaguars, tapirs, and giant river otters.
- Flooded Forest: This impressive exhibit recreates the Amazonian floodplain, showcasing freshwater giants like the arapaima, manatees, and other fascinating aquatic species.
The River Safari offers a refreshing contrast to the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, with a focus on aquatic life and the critical importance of freshwater ecosystems. It’s a great option for families and animal lovers of all ages.
Night Safari: Discover the Nocturnal World
The Night Safari offers an entirely different experience, as the world’s first wildlife park dedicated to nocturnal animals. Here, you’ll embark on a journey through the jungle after dark, where over 900 animals from 100 species come to life.
The Night Safari covers 35 hectares of secondary forest and recreates naturalistic habitats for its residents. Animals that are typically shy during the day, such as tigers, leopards, and fishing cats, are at their most active, offering visitors a rare glimpse into their behaviors.
Key Highlights
- Safari Tram Ride: A 40-minute guided tram tour takes you through seven distinct geographical zones, including the Himalayan Foothills and Equatorial Africa.
- Walking Trails: For a more intimate experience, explore the four walking trails to encounter leopards, flying foxes, and wallabies up close.
- Creatures of the Night Show: This interactive live show showcases the abilities of nocturnal animals in a fun and engaging format.
The Night Safari is perfect for those seeking a mystical, serene atmosphere as you walk or ride through the dimly lit trails, hearing the calls of nocturnal animals all around you.
How to Plan Your Visit
With three incredible attractions located in the same area, you can easily plan a full day (or more) at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit:
1. Buy Tickets in Advance
Each attraction offers a distinct experience, so it’s worth purchasing combination tickets if you plan to visit more than one park. Combo tickets provide discounts and flexibility on your entry times.
- Discounted tickets are available for Singapore residents. For tourists, checking out websites like Klook. There are also packages for visiting Bird Paradise and other bundles / access (e.g. Singapore Zoo, Bird Paradise or Night Safari). Discounts are from 30%-50% if you get the packages and intend to spend more time at the Singapore Zoo and Bird Paradise. Of course one thing to note is that prices in the zoo are inflated, but it is worth the education and enriching trip.
- Website: https://www.mandai.com/
2. Visit the Singapore Zoo in the Morning
Start your adventure at the Singapore Zoo in the morning to enjoy cooler weather and catch the animals at their most active. The zoo opens at 8:30 AM, giving you plenty of time to explore its various exhibits and catch feeding sessions or animal shows.
3. Head to the River Safari in the Afternoon
After lunch, head to the River Safari for a relaxing boat ride and a stroll through the rivers of the world. Make sure to visit the Giant Panda Forest and the Amazon River Quest for a memorable experience.
4. End Your Day at the Night Safari
Finally, as dusk settles, the Night Safari opens its gates at 7:15 PM. Take the Safari Tram for a guided overview of the park, then explore the walking trails for a deeper look at the nocturnal creatures. Don’t forget to catch the Creatures of the Night Show for an entertaining end to your evening.
How to Get to Mandai Wildlife Reserve
Transport:
It’s easily accessible by public transport or car. From the city center, you can take the MRT to Khatib or Ang Mo Kio, followed by a bus or taxi to the zoo.
If you are planning to take a taxi, do note that there is a S$5 surcharge for all hired taxis departing the Mandai Wildlife Reserve. This surcharge will be applicable daily, from 1:00pm to 11:59pm.
For public transport, you can check out the website for more details:
- Ang Mo Kio MRT or Springleaf MRT stations / Bus 138
- Choa Chu Kang MRT station / Bus 927
- Khatib MRT station Mandai Khatib Shuttle -> the best option and easiest
- Reach Mandai Wildlife Reserve in 20 minutes! This shuttle service from Khatib MRT Station (NS14) available daily and costs S$2.50
The Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and River Safari together offer an unparalleled wildlife experience, each with its own unique focus and charm. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or exploring solo, these attractions provide an incredible opportunity to connect with nature, learn about conservation efforts, and observe some of the world’s most fascinating animals in thoughtfully designed habitats.
If you’re planning a trip to Singapore, be sure to set aside a day (or more) to explore these world-class wildlife parks. From the open-concept enclosures of the Singapore Zoo to the nocturnal wonders of the Night Safari and the river journeys of River Wonders, each experience will leave you with unforgettable memories.
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