Night Safari

What is Night Safari?

Welcome to the Night Safari, the world's first nocturnal zoo and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Singapore. Nestled in 35 hectares of dense rainforest, Night Safari offers guests an unusual glimpse into the nocturnal animal kingdom, with more than 2,500 animals from 130 species. As night falls, the safari comes alive with the sights and sounds of these creatures in their specially designed and naturalistic habitats.

Opened in 1994, it's not just a place to visit animals; it's an experience designed to simulate a jungle safari. Visitors can explore the park via a tram ride that meanders through the park's different zones, each representing various geographic regions like the Himalayan Foothills, or they can take a walking trail for a more intimate encounter with the nocturnal wildlife.

History of Night Safari

The concept of a nocturnal park in Singapore was first mooted in the 1980s. The idea was to provide a unique experience showcasing nocturnal animals, which are often overlooked and less visible in traditional zoos due to their crepuscular habits. With the burgeoning interest in conservation and wildlife, the Night Safari was designed not just for entertainment but also to educate and inspire visitors about the natural world and the need to protect it.

The Night Safari officially opened its doors on 26 May 1994. Since then, it has set high standards for animal welfare, visitor experience, and conservation efforts. Its design, which uses subtle lighting to simulate moonlight, ensures animals feel in their natural element while also allowing visitors to observe them without disturbing their nocturnal routines.

Why is Night Safari Important?

Night Safari plays an essential role in the global effort to conserve biodiversity. Not only does it offer a rare opportunity to see nocturnal animals, but it also contributes to international breeding programs for endangered species. It serves as an excellent educational tool, bringing importance to the conservation of these species and their habitats, often threatened by human activities.

The popularity of the Night Safari also demonstrates how wildlife attractions can contribute to conservation while encouraging sustainable tourism. By inspiring a love for nature and wildlife, the Night Safari fosters a sense of responsibility among visitors to support conservation efforts, creating a powerful ripple effect for the environment.

Things to Do & See at Night Safari

At Night Safari, there's no shortage of adventures. Hop on the guided tram ride, which takes you across six geographical zones of the world, showcasing animals from the rugged Himalayan region to the swampy banks of the Asian riverine forest. The commentary along the journey is both informative and engaging, providing insights you wouldn’t come by easily.

For those who prefer to tread their own path, four walking trails await—the Fishing Cat Trail, the Leopard Trail, the East Lodge Trail, and the Wallaby Trail. Each offers an intimate experience with the animals, where you might even catch a glimpse of a Malayan tiger or a fishing cat in action. Not to be missed are the interactive shows like the critically acclaimed "Creatures of the Night" which brings you right into the heart of the animal kingdom.

Beyond animal sightings, the Night Safari also provides lovely dining experiences amidst the wilderness. Fancy having a meal at the Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant, or perhaps a cocktail at the Safari Bar as you listen to the symphony of frogs and crickets? It's all part of the immersive experience that makes the Night Safari an unforgettable part of any visit to Singapore.