The Mandai Wildlife Reserve, which includes the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, and Bird Paradise, offers a unique experience for nature lovers. With more than 500 land animal species lost since the Industrial Revolution, places like this reserve, run by the Mandai Wildlife Group, are beacons of hope. Operated by the Mandai Wildlife Group, the reserve is a hub of conservation and education, aiming to inspire positive actions for the environment. Their vision revolves around fostering sustainable wildlife populations and thriving human communities within healthy ecosystems.
Mandai Wildlife Reserve: In A Nutshell
Handy information
| ⏰ Suggested Duration: | 1 day |
| ☀️ Best Time to Visit: | June to December |
| 💜 Must Do: | Breakfast with Orangutan |
| 🎟️ Mandai Wildlife Reserve tickets | Starting from S$49 |
| 🚇 Closest Metro | Khatib MRT Station (NS14) |
Must-see
Bird Paradise Presentation
Singapore Zoo Shows
Night Safari Evening in the Wild
River Wonders Wildlife Experiences
Things to know
Founded: 2000
Number of parks: 4
Size: 35 hectares
Address
Address : 20 Mandai Lake Road
Singapore 729825
Get Directions
Why you must visit Mandai Wildlife Reserve?
- Tropical paradise: Singapore's year-round tropical climate nurtures the lush verdure of the Singapore Zoo within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve. Unlike conventional zoos, this animal sanctuary is a thriving tropical rainforest, providing a natural habitat to over 4,200 animals.
- Nocturnal adventures await: Explore the enigmatic world of animals after dusk at the Night Safari, world's first nocturnal wildlife park. This unique experience invites you to uncover the intriguing nocturnal behaviors of wildlife in their naturalistic night-time settings.
- Exclusive river-themed haven: At the heart of Mandai Wildlife Reserve flows the River Wonders, Asia's first and only river-themed wildlife park. Featuring the most expansive freshwater aquarium, home to 1,100 terrestrial and aquatic species across 260 varieties, the River Wonders offers an unparalleled journey through freshwater habitats.
- A sanctuary for birds: The newly opened Bird Paradise at Mandai Wildlife Reserve is a dream turned reality for bird lovers. Explore a world filled with colorful exotic birds and lush landscapes.
Recommended tickets to Mandai Wildlife Reserve
The parks at Mandai Wildlife Reserve
Singapore Zoo
The Singapore Zoo is famous for its 'open concept,' allowing guests to interact closely with animals in environments that mimic their natural homes. Spread across 11 distinct zones, the zoo is home to diverse species like crocodiles, Malayan tapirs, and white tigers. Engaging shows like Splash Safari and Animal Friends Plaza both entertain and inform visitors. The highlight for many is the unique 'Breakfast in the Wild' experience.
Opening hours: Daily 8.30 am to 6 pm
Pick-up point once you reach Mandail Wildlife Reserve: Bus Stop #48131
Night Safari
The Night Safari is the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park, home to over 900 animals from nearly 100 species, of which 41% are endangered. You can explore the park on foot along four walking trails or by taking a guided tram ride with commentary on wildlife conservation. The 30-minute tram ride takes you through various habitats, including the Himalayan foothills and Southeast Asian rainforests. The park's highlight is the popular "Creatures of the Night" show that happens at the new Night Safari Amphitheatre.
Opening hours: Daily 7.15 pm to 12 am
Pick-up point once you reach Mandail Wildlife Reserve: Bus Stop #48131
River Wonders
River Wonders, previously River Safari, is a river-themed zoo and aquarium boasting a large collection of over 11,000 animals from nearly 260 species and 400 plant species. It is known to have some of the planet's most extensive forms of freshwater creatures! You’ll find river behemoths such as the endangered Mekong giant catfish, the enormous freshwater stingray, arapaimas, the green anaconda, and Antillean manatees. The park is eco-conscious and has been awarded the Green Mark Platinum Award by the Building and Construction Authority for its dedication to environmentally friendly practices.
Opening hours: Daily 10 am to 7 pm
Pick-up point once you reach Mandail Wildlife Reserve: Bus Stop #48131
Bird Paradise
Bird Paradise is the latest addition to Mandai Wildlife Reserve, providing a sanctuary where you will find the wonders of the avian world. This vibrant ecosystem is home to 400 avian species with 3,500 birds! It features 8 large-scale walkthrough aviaries inspired by various biomes across the globe like South American wetlands or African rainforests. With programs dedicated to breeding and research, Bird Paradise plays a critical role in the preservation of rare and endangered species.
Opening hours: Daily 9 am to 6 pm
Pick-up point once you reach Mandail Wildlife Reserve: Bus Stop #48119
Best time to visit Mandai Wildlife Reserve
The ideal time to visit Mandai Wildlife Reserve is during the dry season, from June to August and December to February, when the weather is cooler and there's much less rainfall making it more comfortable to enjoy the outdoor attractions.
Weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends and holidays, so it makes for a peaceful visit. It's not feasible to see all four parks and attend the exhibits in one day—you'll need at least two days. Here's an itinerary you can follow:
1. Start at the Singapore Zoo in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
2. Relax, grab some food, or shop at Singapore Zoo Shop during the hottest part of the day.
3. Visit River Wonders in the afternoon and take the boat ride.
4. Spend some time in the air-conditioned panda exhibit to cool off. You'll meet the most adorable pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia here, say hello to them!
5. In the evening, take the Night Safari walking trail and catch the Creatures of the Night show if you can.
The following morning, head to Bird Paradise early to beat the crowds. Remember to check the reserve's website before your visit for any special events or promotions to make the most of your experience.
You can learn more about the best time to visit Singapore here.
Getting there
- Mass Rapid Transit (MRT): Hop aboard the MRT and take it to any of the convenient stations: Khatib (NS14), Choa Chu Kang (NS4), Ang Mo Kio (NS16) or Springleaf (TE4). It’s a breeze from there – simply catch a connecting bus that will bring you straight to Singapore Zoo!
- Mandai Shuttle: From Khatib MRT Station (NS14) to the Singapore Zoo Coach Bay, this shuttle service is offered every day for your convenience.
- Mandai Express: For those traveling from the heartlands, Mandai Express offers an affordable and convenient solution for getting to and from the wondrous Mandai Wildlife Reserve. The service is available only on Deepavali Weekends, School Holiday Weekends and Christmas Day.
- By Road: Taking a 30-minute drive from the city, there are two very distinct routes to get you to Singapore Zoo - Central Expressway (CTE) or Pan Island Expressway (PIE). Whichever route you choose, your journey will be filled with scenic views.
Mandai Wildlife Reserve: Insider tips
- Make sure to not wear any bright-colored clothes. It’s best to blend in with your surrounding by wearing lighter or darker shades of blue, green, brown, and yellow.
- Plan your trip and book your tickets to the Mandai Wildlife Reserve here in advance.
- Carry a pair of sunglasses and wear sunscreen or sunblock when visiting the Mandai Wildlife Reserve.
- Since you will be walking a lot at the reserve, do wear comfortable clothes and footwear.
- Respect all the animals and birds and trees at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve. Do as you have been instructed to by the staff.
- Avoid using flash photography, and always ask for permission before you click pictures.
- If taking the tram for the Night Safari, keep your hands and feet inside the tram.
- Do not feed or tease any of the animals at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve.
- Since Singapore has a tropical climate, keep an umbrella and/or raincoat handy.
Restaurants inside Mandai Wildlife Reserve
Indulge in an array of delectable dishes at Penguin Cove Restaurant, where you'll savor a tempting buffet brimming with both local and global culinary delights.
Location: Bird Paradise
At Inuka Café, delight in Singapore's beloved classics, such as kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs, and chendol. These timeless favorites are a delicious choice anytime, making it a must-visit spot for all-day dining pleasures.
Location: Singapore Zoo
Mama Panda Kitchen offers a delightful Chinese culinary adventure, showcasing signature dishes like panda pau, wok-fried rice, noodles, and more, all enjoyed with chopsticks. Plus, it's family-friendly with special Kids' Meals!
Location: River Wonder
Transport yourself to the nostalgic charm of village life at Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant. Enjoy a distinctive dining experience reminiscent of traditional kampungs (villages) from days gone by. Location: Night Safari
Hotels near Mandai Wildlife Reserve
