River Wonders at Mandai Wildlife Reserve
With all the hype around Rainforest Wild Asia, maybe it’s time to revisit some old favourites. One of them? River Wonders, previously known as River Safari.
Part of Mandai Wildlife Reserve, this river-themed wildlife park has been around since 2014, offering an immersive dive into the world of freshwater ecosystems. From the Amazon to the Mekong, it brings some of the world’s most iconic rivers to life, along with the animals that call them home. And, of course, we can’t forget Singapore’s most famous giant pandas.
Here’s everything you need to know before planning your next visit:
Themed exhibits that replicate the world’s iconic rivers
You don’t need a round-the-world ticket to visit the Mississippi, Nile, Amazon, and Mekong – River Wonders has them all, minus the jet lag. The park is built around 8 of the world’s most legendary rivers, each home to diverse wildlife and unique ecosystems.
Capybara.
Image credit: @most_sane_pangolin_enjoyer_420 via Instagram
From the giant river otters of the Amazon to the elusive Goliath tigerfish of the Congo, River Wonders is teeming with over 6,000 animals from 300 species, including 40 threatened species.
The Mekong River exhibit – one of the park’s largest – lets you get up close with giant Mekong catfish, freshwater stingrays, and Burmese archerfish.
Manatees in the Amazon Flooded Forest.
Image credit: @esther.v.kelly via Instagram
Then, there’s the Amazon Flooded Forest, modelled after the riverbanks that disappear underwater during the wet season. Here, manatees, arapaimas, and other river giants feast to build up reserves before the dry season arrives.
Pro tip: Some animals here blend in like pros, so keep an eye out for the well-camouflaged creatures lurking just beneath the surface.
Get on a boat ride along the Amazon Forest
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If you want to be part of the adventure, hop on a short boat journey that brings the Amazon to you. The Amazon River Quest is a 10-minute boat ride that takes you through a tropical landscape designed to mimic the dense rainforests of South America.
As you drift along the water, keep your eyes peeled for jaguars lurking in the shade, giant anteaters shuffling through the undergrowth, and Brazilian tapirs blending into the scenery. The ride is designed to replicate the thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, making each journey a unique experience.
Image credit: River Wonders
Tickets for the Amazon River Quest are available both online and onsite at $5/rider. The last ride is at 6pm, so be sure to plan ahead. And for safety reasons, riders must be at least 1.06m tall to hop on.
Giant panda forest home to Kai Kai & Jia Jia
Image credit: @markanthonylim89 via Instagram
Another highlight of River Wonders is definitely Singapore’s most famous black-and-white residents, Kai Kai and Jia Jia. Housed in Southeast Asia’s largest panda exhibit, this 1,500msq climate-controlled biodome is designed to replicate their natural bamboo forest habitat, complete with lush greenery, water features, and climbing structures.
Image credit: @sk__044 via Instagram
The pandas even have a specially created outdoor area where they can experience Singapore’s tropical weather. Jia Jia, in particular, enjoys the fresh air, while the team has added a waterfall with shallow pools for them to cool off in.
Fans of the fluffy duo will also remember their cub, Le Le, who made history as the first giant panda born in Singapore before heading to China to support conservation efforts.
Image credit: @putri_maria_marewah via Instagram
Before you leave, swing by House of Kai Kai & Jia Jia, a bamboo-themed souvenir shop where you can grab adorable plushies, panda-themed merch, and exclusive memorabilia to commemorate your visit.
How much time is needed for River Wonders Singapore?
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To fully explore River Wonders’ diverse freshwater habitats, set aside at least 2 hours. This gives you enough time to stroll through the exhibits, spot unique wildlife, and soak in the immersive experiences.
While you’re there, you can also plan a full-day adventure at Mandai Wildlife Reserve. Consider getting the Mandai Multi-Park Ticket ($90). This bundle gives you access to Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, Night Safari, and Bird Paradise – perfect for animal lovers looking to maximise their visit.
It’s also close to Mandai Boardwalk, entry to which is absolutely free.
How much are tickets to River Wonders?
For non-residents, tickets to River Wonders cost $43/adult and $31/child.
Singaporeans, however, get 10% off with a free WildPass – a digital membership that also unlocks perks like up to 20% off admission to Mandai Wildlife Reserve’s parks. With the discount, tickets come down to $38.70/adult and $27.90/child.
Plan a visit to River Wonders with your friends or family
If you’ve been thinking about revisiting River Wonders, consider this your sign to go. With all the hype around Rainforest Wild Asia, now’s the perfect time to explore this underrated gem while the crowds are elsewhere.
Whether you’re there for Kai Kai and Jia Jia, the Amazon River Quest, or to marvel at rare river creatures, there’s plenty to see. So round up your family or friends, grab your WildPass discount, and make a day of it at Mandai Wildlife Reserve.
More ideas on becoming a tourist in your own city:
Cover image adapted from: River Wonders & @markanthonylim89 via Instagram