Singapore Zoo
North West
Singapore Zoo, opened in 1973, is a 28-hectare wildlife park located in Singapore's central catchment area. Operated by Mandai Wildlife Group, it houses around 315 animal species, including the world's largest captive orangutan colony. The zoo is famed for its 'open concept' exhibits that use hidden barriers and moats to create naturalistic environments, allowing visitors to observe animals in habitats mimicking the wild. It is part of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, alongside Night Safari, River Wonders, Bird Paradise, and Rainforest Wild. The zoo attracts approximately 2 million visitors annually and is highly ranked internationally for its conservation efforts and immersive visitor experiences. Highlights include the Treetops Trail, Tiger Trek, Gibbon Island, and Orangutan Island, offering diverse wildlife encounters. The zoo also features extensive play areas and immersive behind-the-scenes activities, making it a top family attraction in Singapore.
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Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and active animal behaviors. Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues and access special discounts. Use the Mandai app for navigation and itinerary planning. Explore sensory-friendly maps for visitors with special needs. Public transport and dedicated shuttle services provide easy access to the zoo. Allocate a full day to experience animal shows, feeding sessions, and interactive exhibits.
Interesting facts
- •Singapore Zoo houses the largest captive colony of orangutans globally.
- •It was one of the first zoos to use open concept enclosures with hidden barriers to simulate natural habitats.
- •The zoo is part of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, which includes four other wildlife parks.
- •It attracts about 2 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited zoos worldwide.
- •Rare animals like golden snub-nosed monkeys and giant pandas have been displayed on loan at the zoo.
History
The Singapore Zoo was conceptualized in 1969 when land around reservoirs was allocated for recreational use.
Construction began in 1971, and the zoo opened in 1973 with 270 animals from 72 species.
It was initially known as the Singapore Zoological Gardens and later rebranded as Singapore Zoo by 2005.
Over the years, it expanded to include rare animal displays and integrated with other parks under Wildlife Reserves Singapore in 2000.
The zoo has continually upgraded its facilities, including a Wildlife Healthcare & Research Centre opened in 2005, affirming its commitment to conservation and education.
Place Guide
Treetops Trail
A raised boardwalk exhibit where visitors can observe yellow-cheeked gibbons, lar gibbons, and false gharials in a naturalistic setting. Nearby exhibits include Asian small-clawed otters, proboscis monkeys, North Sulawesi babirusas, Sumatran bearded pigs, and pygmy hippos.
Tiger Trek
An enclosure dedicated to Malayan tigers, showcasing these majestic creatures in a habitat designed to resemble their natural environment. Previously housed white tigers were relocated to the Night Safari.
Gibbon Island
An island exhibit simulating a natural habitat with landscaping, trees, and moats, home to yellow-cheeked gibbons, great white pelicans, and red ruffed lemurs.
Orangutan Island
A specialized habitat for the zoo's large orangutan population, featuring ample trees and climbing structures to support their arboreal lifestyle.