Night Safari
North West
Night Safari in Singapore is the world's first nocturnal zoo, opened in 1994 and located in Mandai within a 35-hectare secondary rainforest. It offers a unique experience by allowing visitors to observe over 900 animals from more than 100 species in naturalistic habitats under subtle moonlight-like illumination that preserves nocturnal behaviors. The park is divided into six geographical zones accessible via four walking trails or a tram ride, showcasing animals ranging from Asiatic lions and Indian rhinoceros to pangolins and clouded leopards. Designed with natural barriers such as moats and cattle grids instead of cages, Night Safari emphasizes an open-concept environment that closely mimics the animals' native habitats. Managed by Mandai Wildlife Group, it attracts approximately 1.3 million visitors annually and is part of the larger Mandai Wildlife Reserve that includes Singapore Zoo and River Wonders. The lighting design, created by Simon Corder, enhances the nocturnal atmosphere without disturbing wildlife. Visitors can explore trails like the Pangolin, Leopard, East Lodge, and Tasmanian Devil trails, each featuring region-specific nocturnal species and immersive exhibits such as the Naracoorte Cave replica.
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Tip: Visit Night Safari after dusk, ideally on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with nocturnal animals. Purchase tickets online in advance to secure entry and consider downloading the Mandai app for navigation and itinerary planning. The park provides sensory-friendly maps and accessible routes, making it suitable for families and visitors with special needs. Look out for animal presentations and feeding sessions to enrich your visit. Public transport and shuttle services offer convenient access to the park.
Interesting facts
- •Night Safari was the world's first nocturnal zoo when it opened in 1994.
- •It houses over 900 animals representing more than 100 species, with 41% classified as threatened species.
- •The lighting system simulates moonlight but is designed to avoid disturbing the animals' natural behaviors.
- •Instead of cages, natural barriers like moats, cattle grids, and hot wires disguised as twigs are used to separate animals.
- •The park's tram ride allows visitors to see most of the larger animals across the park's six geographical zones.
History
The idea of a nocturnal zoo in Singapore was proposed in the 1980s by Ong Swee Law, former executive chairman of the Singapore Zoo.
Night Safari was constructed at a cost of S$63 million and officially opened on 26 May 1994.
It was designed as an open-air zoo that operates exclusively at night, unlike traditional nocturnal houses that reverse animal cycles.
Over the years, it has expanded to include multiple themed trails and exhibits, including the Tasmanian Devil Trail opened in 2012.
The park has become a leading wildlife attraction, reaching its 11 millionth visitor in 2007 and continuing to promote conservation of threatened species.
Place Guide
Tram Trail1994
A guided tram ride that takes visitors through the entire park, showcasing many of the larger animals such as Asiatic lions, Indian rhinoceros, hippopotamus, and Asian elephants in their naturalistic habitats.
Pangolin Trail
A walking trail featuring nocturnal animals primarily from Asia and South America, including the fishing cat, giant anteater, and Sunda pangolin. The trail offers close encounters with elusive species adapted to nighttime activity.
Leopard Trail
This trail focuses on nocturnal animals from Asian rainforests, including clouded leopards and Asiatic lions. It also features a flying fox walkthrough aviary and habitats for native animals, offering an immersive rainforest experience.
East Lodge Trail
Leads visitors to a central crossroads representing animals from all continents, featuring species such as the aardvark, bongo, and white Bengal tiger, providing a diverse wildlife experience.
Tasmanian Devil Trail2012
Opened in 2012, this trail features a wallaby walkthrough habitat and smaller enclosures for Australian nocturnal animals. It includes a replica of Naracoorte Caves National Park with indigenous paintings, highlighting conservation efforts for species like the Tasmanian devil.
