Singapore’s Night Safari is a captivating nocturnal adventure that brings the mysteries of the animal kingdom to life after dark. As the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe over 900 animals from around 100 species in their nighttime habitats. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family looking for an educational outing, or a traveler seeking something extraordinary, this attraction is a highlight of many comprehensive Singapore tour packages including Night Safari experiences. Opened in 1994, it has won the Best Attraction Experience award 13 times and continues to evolve, making it essential to plan ahead for a seamless visit.
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What is the Singapore Night Safari?
The Night Safari is more than just a zoo—it’s an immersive nocturnal park spanning 35 hectares within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve. Designed to mimic natural habitats, it features dimly lit paths and enclosures where animals like Malayan tigers, Asian elephants, and fishing cats roam freely or exhibit their natural behaviors under the cover of night. Unlike traditional zoos, the focus here is on nocturnal creatures, with barriers like moats and cattle grids ensuring safe, unobstructed views. It’s home to endangered species and promotes conservation through educational exhibits. The park’s innovative lighting simulates moonlight, allowing animals to behave naturally without disturbance. This setup provides an ethical and thrilling way to learn about biodiversity.
Opening Hours and Best Time to Visit
The Night Safari operates daily from 6:30 PM to 12:00 AM, with the last entry at 11:15 PM. For the optimal experience, arrive early around 7:00 PM to avoid crowds and catch the animals at their most active. Evenings from Thursday to Sunday can see over 4,000 visitors, so mid-week visits are quieter. The best overall time is during Singapore’s dry season (February to April), but as an outdoor attraction, check the weather forecast—rain can enhance the atmosphere but may limit visibility. Avoid peak holiday periods unless you book tram rides in advance. For families, evenings align well with children’s bedtime, but note that the park gets cooler at night, so bring light layers.
How to Get There
Located at 80 Mandai Lake Road, the Night Safari is about 30 minutes from central Singapore. Public transport is efficient: take the MRT to Khatib station and hop on the Mandai Khatib Shuttle (S$2 per ride). Taxis or ride-hailing services like Grab cost around S$20–30 from the city center. If driving, there’s ample parking, but expect fees. For eco-friendly options, the park encourages public buses (routes 138, 926, or 927). International visitors can use the Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited rides. Arriving by 6:30 PM helps beat the queues, and the Mandai App offers real-time transport updates.
Ticket Prices and Booking
Tickets start at S$30.34 for adults, with child (3–12 years) prices at S$20 and seniors at S$18. Local residents enjoy up to 26% off via the WildPass SG60 Deal. Combo tickets for multiple Mandai parks (like Singapore Zoo) offer up to 50% savings. The Safari Adventure Tram is included, but premium experiences like guided tours cost extra (S$50+). Book online via the official Mandai website to skip lines—advance reservations are crucial on weekends. Annual memberships for Friends of Mandai provide unlimited access and perks. As of 2025, prices remain stable, but check for seasonal promotions.
Attractions and Activities
The heart of the Night Safari lies in its four walking trails: Fishing Cat Trail, Leopard Trail, East Lodge Trail, and Wallaby Trail, each showcasing different ecosystems and animals like clouded leopards and wallabies. The 20-minute Safari Adventure Tram ride narrates the journey through seven geographical zones, from the Himalayan Foothills to the Asian Riverine Forest, with close encounters of free-roaming deer and rhinos. Interactive exhibits highlight conservation, and the Mandai App suggests personalized itineraries. For deeper immersion, opt for behind-the-scenes tours or animal feeding sessions.
Shows and Special Experiences
Don’t miss the Creatures of the Night show, a 20-minute amphitheater performance featuring otters, binturongs, and civets demonstrating natural behaviors—seats bookable via the app. Special experiences include the Twilight Walk or private buggy tours for intimate views. In 2025, new interactive zones focus on sustainability. Families can rent strollers (S$9), and accessibility features like wheelchair rentals ensure inclusivity.
Dining Options
Dining enhances the experience with options like Ubin Seafood for local dishes or the Safari Scoop ice cream stand. Quick bites include burgers at the entrance plaza. Vegetarian and halal options are available, but prices are premium (S$15–30 per meal). Picnics aren’t allowed, so plan to eat inside. For a unique twist, book a dinner tram experience pairing cuisine with wildlife views.
Tips for a Great Visit
Wear comfortable shoes for the 2–3 km trails and apply insect repellent—mosquitoes thrive at night. Stay hydrated with refill stations, and download the Mandai App for maps, show reminders, and crowd alerts. Flash photography is banned to avoid disturbing animals, and follow rules like no feeding or touching. For kids, arrive rested to handle the late hours. Weatherproof with ponchos (available for purchase), and consider combining with nearby Singapore Zoo for a full day. Unexpected challenges include long tram queues, so prioritize early.
Conclusion
The Singapore Night Safari promises an unforgettable blend of adventure and education, perfect for all ages. By planning with these insights, you’ll maximize your enjoyment and create lasting memories. It’s often a star feature in comprehensive Singapore tour packages including Night Safari, making it easy to integrate into your itinerary. Visit soon to witness the magic of the night!
