What it is: A zoo showcasing the world's nocturnal animals
Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore
Phone: +65-62693412
Website: nightsafari.com.sg
Sitting next to the Singapore Zoo, the Night Safari takes over the wildlife gig when the sun sets: the world's only zoo for nocturnal animals showcases about 130 night-loving species from all animal kingdoms.
Even accounting for creative lighting and confinement strategies, the Night Safari recreates as faithfully as possible each animal's native environment, which frees up the animals to behave almost as if they were still in the wild!
Exploring the Trails
Visitors can embark on several walking trails arranged around certain types of animals. (On the Forest Giants trail, we were lucky to hear two bears fighting, with snarls you could hear all the way in Changi.) The trails are artfully built so you'll feel as if you were walking through a jungle path, the sounds of nocturnal animals all around you.
The zoo also operates a tram circuit that lets visitors cruise around the park without breaking a sweat. Tram tickets cost S$8.00 for adults, S$4.00 for children below 12.
Beginning at 8pm, an hour-long "Creatures of the Night" show runs three times a night, with live demonstrations of the abilities of certain nocturnal animals. The show's piece de resistance involves a python coming uncomfortably close to the audience - any more information would ruin the surprise!
Admission
Admission will cost a grown-up about S$20.00, and children about S$10.00. You can get a better deal by buying the Zoo & Night Safari Package that charges adults S$30.00 and children S$15.00.
With access to Jurong Bird Park thrown in, that adds up to a combo price of S$40.00 (adults) and S$20.00 (kids).
The zoo's Entrance Plaza, gift shop, restaurant, and fast food outlet open for business at 6:30pm. Flash photography is strictly forbidden. Visitors are allowed to handle certain animals after the Creatures of the Night show.
Getting There and Back
Take the MRT to Choa Chu Kang Interchange. From there, board Bus 927 to the Night Safari entrance. Alternatively, you can alight at Ang Mo Kio MRT station and board Bus 138.
A special shuttle service will take visitors from Night Safari to Marina Square via Orchard Road, beginning at 9.30pm.
