When in Singapore, the only jungles we frequent are the concrete jungles of our 9-to-5s, and the only grass we touch is the overpriced matcha latte we sip to feel something. But if the primal urge to reconnect with nature ever hits, we do have a huge local safari that’s bursting at the seams with things to see and do.
The Mandai Wildlife Reserve is an entire ecosystem of 5 different parks, reservoirs, resorts, shops, eateries, and more. Championing conservation and sustainability, the reserve is the perfect sweet spot between entertainment and education. Great for family outings or fun date nights to impress your girl (tried, tested, and successful)!
Singapore Zoo: Where the wild things still roam
Starting with the OG of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the one and only Singapore Zoo. If you grew up in Singapore, there’s a 99% chance you’ve been dragged there on a school excursion, a family day out, or both. They’ve been around since 1973, which basically makes them a national treasure at this point.
With their glow-up, they now boast an open-concept habitat, meaning you can get up close and personal with over 4,200 animals. Take it a step further with their "Breakfast in the Wild", where you can enjoy a breakfast spread among some friendly orangutans, penguins, sea lions, and owls. So if you want the full Tarzan experience, make sure to book ahead as seats sell out fast!
- Opening hours: Daily, 8:30am – 6:00pm (Last entry: 5:00pm).
Bird Paradise: Treetop trails and tinseltown birds
Another pioneer of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the old Jurong Bird Park has been reimagined and reopened as Bird Paradise. Not content to settle for less, it now proudly holds the title of Asia’s largest bird park, home to over 3,500 birds across 400 species.
Get squawking and walking among the ten different zones, including eight thematic walk-through aviaries that replicate habitats from around the globe. Whether you’re trekking through a dense African rainforest or an Australian outback, it's going to have your mouth hanging open (just watch out for the occasional droppings).
- Opening hours: Daily, 9:00am – 6:00pm (Last entry: 5:00pm).
Night Safari: don’t let the dark stop you
If you want to feel like you’re in an episode of National Geographic, Night Safari is really bringing the vibe. As the rest of Singapore puts their jammies on, the animals here get up and active for an all-nighter.
Explore 4 different trails under the cover of the darkness among chirping cicadas, as hyenas stare down at you as potential prey. And if that’s got you all spooked, calm your nerves with the adorable Tasmanian devils. It doesn't get any more immersive than that!
- Opening hours: Daily, 6:30pm – 12:00am (Last entry: 11:15pm).
River Wonders: Giant pandas and manatees, oh my!
If you grew up on River Monsters by Animal Planet, then River Wonders might be just up your alley. As Asia's first and only river-themed wildlife park, you get the chance to explore some of the world's most famous rivers from the Nile to the Amazon, and more.
And here is where you can find China’s finest treasures living rent-free — the giant pandas and their cousins, the red pandas. Truly, no creature on Earth is more comically relaxed than a giant panda. Every time I see one lying belly-up munching on bamboo with peak nonchalance, I relate to them on a spiritual level.
- Opening hours: Daily, 10:00am – 7:00pm (Last entry: 6:00pm).
Rainforest Wild ASIA: Choose your own adventure
And the final piece of the Mandai parks puzzle, Rainforest Wild is the latest addition to this family. Built for the adventure-hungry, this park takes “immersive” to a whole new level with a real rainforest experience where animals roam free and fenceless around you.
Spanning 13 hectares and home to 36 species, you can climb your way up The Karsts or delve into The Cavern, which was inspired by the Mulu Caves. Got a daredevil in the family? They can even try the Canopy Jump (from a 13m or 20m platform!) or bounce around high above the ground at the AIA Vitality Bounce.
- Opening hours: Daily, 9:00am – 6:00pm (Last entry: 5:00pm).
Free and fun: Mandai on a budget
When your wallet needs a breather, Mandai has you covered. Skirting the perimeter of River Wonders and Singapore Zoo, the Mandai Boardwalk boasts a gorgeous reservoir view that’ll have you sighing in wonder at the beauty of Mother Nature. I guess the saying is true, the best things in life are free! Find out all about it here.
Pro tip: If the Mandai Boardwalk’s got you hooked for more, here are more scenic areas for hiking!
Mandai Wildlife EAST and WEST are decked out "lobby" areas, made to entertain. Mandai Wildlife WEST connects Bird Paradise and Rainforest Wild ASIA, featuring expansive green areas and play zones like the Forest Stream Trail and Pangolin Adventure.
Mandai Wildlife EAST is your playground to eat and explore. It’s where you’ll find Curiosity Cove (opening 21 November 2025!), Singapore's largest indoor nature-inspired playscape designed for children aged 3 to 12.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of passes are available?
You can purchase Single Attraction Admission or Multi-Attraction Destination Passes for flexibility and savings up to 60%.
Where do I park?
There are two main carparks: Mandai Wildlife WEST (Carpark 1) for Bird Paradise and Rainforest Wild ASIA, and Mandai Wildlife EAST (Carpark 2) for Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and River Wonders.
Are there blackout dates for members?
Yes, membership admissions are not applicable on blackout dates, especially on major public holidays like New Year's Day and Chinese New Year. So if you do choose to visit on one of these dates, be ready to pay the full price! For a full list of blackout dates, see here.
(Feature photo from: Mandai Wildlife Reserve)
