Night owls are constantly searching for things to do in the wee hours. If you’re bored of just grabbing supper or are tired of always visiting the same bars and clubs, consider hitting up an unconventional late-night spot – Night Safari Singapore.
Officially opened in 1994, Night Safari Singapore was the very first nocturnal wildlife park in the world. 90s kids probably remember how exciting this park was to visit as a child, but there are exciting things to check out for couples looking for a memorable date, family outings, and squad hangouts alike.
From four different animal trails to an iconic interactive wildlife show that has wowed audiences from the world and become a top tourist recommendation, here’s what you can expect at the Night Safari:
Other places for animal lovers to check out:
Spanning over 86 acres, Night Safari is actually the biggest wildlife park in Singapore, surpassing both Singapore Zoo and River Safari in size.
Unless you’re trying to hit your 10,000 daily steps, the free tram that goes around the park is probably the most convenient way to get around without breaking a sweat.
The free tram ride includes English audio commentary on the animals and special spaces for guests in wheelchairs.
Apart from the tram trail, the park is also divided into four walkable zones that mimic the natural habitats of specific animal categories: the Leopard Trail, Fishing Cat Trail, East Lodge Trail, and Wallaby Trail. From watching eagle owls soar along the Leopard Trail to seeing Bintang – Night Safari’s baby tapir – walk directly beside your tram, the animals here truly come alive under the moonlight.
If you’re looking to beat the crowds, there’s even a special Safari Adventure Tour ($450+) where up to six people get to enjoy a private buggy ride and personal guide for two hours.
With exclusive elephant feeding sessions and reserved seats for the famed Creatures of the Night show, this Safari tour is sure to make the night an experience to remember.
Disclaimer: Do note that no flash photography of the animals is allowed.
A trip to Night Safari wouldn’t be complete without checking out the two iconic wildlife shows at the park: the Thumbuakar performance and the Creatures of the Night show.
Disclaimer: The Thumbuakar performance has been suspended as per Covid-19 regulations.
Image credit: @g_the_gypsy
Happening right at the park entrance, the Thumbuakar performance is sure to get you fired up for the night with flame-throwing performers and the rhythmic beat of jungle drums. The first show starts at 6.45PM, just 15-minutes from the park’s opening, and happens again every subsequent hour.
Image credit: @ndsim00
There’s no better way to get acquainted with a slew of nocturnal creatures than to watch Night Safari’s highly-raved interactive animal show – Creatures of the Night. Trained animal handlers teach the audience fun facts about fascinating animals, from civets to hyenas, and even pick out a few lucky audience members to participate.
The first show starts at 7.30PM at the Amphitheatre and happens again every subsequent hour. Admission is free, but seats are on a first-come-first-serve basis so do head there early to chope the best view of the show.
If you’re feeling peckish during your visit, there are several eateries open in the park for you to satisfy any late-night cravings. Better yet, if the queues for the trams are too long, you can always have your dinner while waiting for the crowds to die down.
Open from 6.30PM-11PM on Thursdays to Sundays (closed Monday to Wednesday), Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant has both a la carte and buffet options for Asian dining, including Japanese, Indian, and Chinese cuisines. With the kampung style setting, eating here is sure to immerse you in the jungle-like atmosphere of the park and enhance your Night Safari experience overall.
Image credit: @minami_sin
For a fine-dining experience right in the Safari, the Evening in the Wild ($199+) package provides a full four-course dinner with free-flow wine, all in the comfort of private teepee tents. To top it all off, you and your other guests also get to skip the queues by having your own private tram and special V.I.P. encounters with the animals at the park, guided by keepers.
Remember to stop by at the Night Safari gift shop on your way out and browse through their collection of exclusive plushies and souvenirs.
Image credit: Renae Cheng
For an affordable way to commemorate your night, you can purchase a reusable bag for $1 which reduces your plastic waste. Proceeds from the Night Safari reusable bag will also help to fund Wildlife Reserves Singapore’s conservation efforts, so you’ll be doing a double whammy to save the earth, and our precious wildlife.
Whether you’re an animal lover, a night owl or both, Night Safari Singapore is a fun and unconventional way to spend the evening. Before you head down, remember to put on insect repellent and perhaps squeeze in a nap in the afternoon, so that you’re adequately energised to enjoy the night with the animals.
Book a trip to Night Safari Singapore.
Price: $35.70++ (adult) | $23.80++ (child)| $22++ (senior citizen)
Getting there: Take bus 138 from Ang Mo Kio MRT Station or pay $1 to take the Mandai-Khatib shuttle from Khatib MRT.
Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826
Opening hours: 6.30PM-12AM, Daily
For more things to do in Singapore, check out:
Cover image credits (L-R): The Smart Local, @g_the_gypsy
A portion of this content may contain referral links to products. Our opinions remain our own.
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