The Singapore Night Safari is one of the most unique and exciting wildlife experiences in the world. It is the world’s first nocturnal zoo and a must-visit attraction in Singapore. Opened in 1994, the Night Safari is located next to the Singapore Zoo and is operated by Mandai Wildlife Group. This amazing park is home to more than 2,500 animals representing over 130 species, many of which are endangered.
What makes the Night Safari so special is that it is specifically designed to showcase animals that are active at night. Visitors can explore the park under soft lighting that mimics moonlight, giving them a chance to see how animals behave in the dark. With trams, walking trails, live shows, and cultural performances, it offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and families alike.
Singapore Night Safari is located at 80 Mandai Lake Road, in the northern part of Singapore. Here are some ways to get there:
By MRT and Bus: Take the North-South Line and alight at Khatib MRT Station (NS14). From there, you can take the Mandai Khatib Shuttle, which runs regularly to the Night Safari.
By Bus: Bus services 138 and 927 stop at the Mandai area near the zoo and Night Safari.
By Taxi or Private Car: You can book a taxi or use ride-hailing apps like Grab. There is a car park available for private vehicles.
By Mandai Express: This is a direct shuttle bus service from several central locations in the city, including Singapore Flyer and Newton MRT.
Singapore has a tropical rainforest climate, which means it is warm and humid throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). Rain can happen at any time, but the wetter months are from November to January.
Since the Night Safari operates in the evening and night hours, the weather is generally cooler and more pleasant. However, sudden showers are common, so it’s good to bring an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Mosquito repellent is also recommended when visiting outdoor attractions like this.
The Night Safari is open daily during the following hours:
Last tram rides and shows usually start around 11:00 PM. It is advisable to reach early to enjoy the full experience and avoid long queues, especially on weekends and public holidays.
Singapore Night Safari is famous for being the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park. It offers a rare chance to observe nocturnal animals in their natural-like habitats during their most active hours. Unlike traditional zoos, this safari gives visitors the opportunity to experience the mysterious world of wildlife under the stars.
The combination of tram rides, walking trails, animal encounters, and cultural performances makes the Night Safari a unique blend of education, entertainment, and adventure. It has received numerous awards and is often listed among the top attractions in Singapore.
Tickets to the Night Safari can be purchased online through the official Mandai Wildlife Reserve website or at the ticket counter. Here are the typical prices (subject to change):
Admission includes access to the tram ride and walking trails. There are also optional add-ons like dining packages or special behind-the-scenes tours. It’s recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during weekends or school holidays.
The Night Safari was officially opened on 26 May 1994 and was the first zoo in the world to focus entirely on nocturnal animals. It was developed by the Singapore Zoo team and remains part of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve.
The park is spread over 35 hectares of secondary rainforest and is carefully designed to recreate the animals’ natural habitats. Special lighting techniques are used to allow visibility for visitors without disturbing the animals’ natural behavior. The layout includes several thematic zones, such as the Himalayan Foothills, Indian Subcontinent, Equatorial Africa, and Southeast Asian rainforest.
There are many exciting things to experience at the Night Safari:
Here are some fascinating facts about the Night Safari:
To have the best experience, here are some helpful tips:
The Singapore Night Safari offers a magical wildlife adventure that is both entertaining and educational. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a family with children, or simply curious about nocturnal animals, this experience is something you’ll never forget.