Singapore: Night Safari and Tram Ride Ticket – An In-Depth Review
If you’re looking for a truly unique way to spend an evening in Singapore, the Night Safari offers a chance to see over 2,500 animals in their nighttime routines. For $43 per person, this experience includes admission, a tram ride, and access to walking trails, making it a solid choice for families, couples, or curious travelers eager to see wildlife in a different light.
What we love about this tour is how it combines the multi-sensory thrill of the tram ride with intimate encounters on the walking trails. The chance to get close to animals like leopards, wallabies, and pangolins in their natural nocturnal habitat adds a layer of authenticity hard to find in daytime zoo visits. Plus, the “Creatures of the Night” show offers a fascinating insight into animal adaptations that most visitors never get to see.
One consideration to keep in mind is that the experience is not a guarantee you’ll see every animal, as their activity depends on the night’s conditions. Also, the evening can get busy, especially if you arrive later, which might lead to longer waits for the tram or trail access. Still, for its price, the safari offers a well-rounded look at nocturnal wildlife that’s both fun and educational.
This experience suits travelers who want more than just a standard zoo visit — those who enjoy learning about animals in a lively, naturalistic setting. It’s especially ideal for families with children, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to add a memorable, different kind of evening to their Singapore itinerary.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
Authentic nocturnal experience: See animals active at night, not just sleeping in daytime enclosures.
Interactive shows: The “Creatures of the Night” performance enhances understanding of animal behaviors.
Multiple ways to explore: Tram ride for a broad overview, plus walking trails for closer encounters.
Convenient access: Located in Singapore, with easy ticket redemption—just scan your QR code.
Timing matters: Open daily from 19:15 to midnight, with earlier visits avoiding crowds.
Conservation focus: Part of a project supporting biodiversity preservation, adding educational value.
A Detailed Look at the Night Safari Experience
The Location and How to Get There
Located in Singapore’s Mandai area, the Night Safari is well set up for visitors. You’ll want to arrive during the opening hours—from 7:15 pm to midnight—to maximize your visit. The tour begins at the ticket redemption point, where you scan your QR code or show your printed voucher, making the process straightforward. Be mindful of the local transportation tips: avoid coach bays 3 and 5 at Mandai Wildlife East if you’re arriving by bus, as these are reserved for other services.
What Makes This Tour Special?
The main highlight is the safari tram, a multi-sensory ride that takes you through six different geographical regions. Think of it as an over-night safari safari, where you’ll see animals “in the wild”—from lions to rhinos—moving in the darkness illuminated by spotlights. The reviews consistently praise the tram ride for its stunning views and the chance to see animals at their most active.
We loved the way the tram ride is complemented by walkable trails. The Pangolin, Leopard, East Lodge, and Wallaby trails let you get up close in a more relaxed setting. One review mentions that “the walk trails were really interesting, and you can get within a whisker of the leopards”, which adds that personal touch missing from typical zoo visits. And for those who enjoy birdwatching, the aviaries along the Leopard Trail bring you face-to-face with vibrant birdlife.
Another favorite feature is the “Creatures of the Night” show. According to reviews, this interactive presentation is both fun and educational, highlighting the natural abilities of nocturnal animals. One traveler points out, “Animals are shown in spotlight in all their glory at night slowly moving with the tram.” It’s a chance to learn about animals like civets, owls, and bats in their natural behaviors.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Food and Dining Options
When the tour winds down, you might find the Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant a welcome stop. It offers a variety of gourmet fast food, local delicacies, and snacks in a relaxed, traditional village setting. Many reviews mention the value of the dining experience, especially after a long evening of walking and tram riding.
The Experience for Different Travelers
For families, especially those with children, the safari’s interactive shows and close animal encounters make for a memorable night out. Adults will appreciate the conservation message and the chance to see animals in a setting designed to mimic their natural habitat. Solo travelers and couples will enjoy the peaceful ambiance after dark—quiet trails and the thrill of spotting animals in the dark.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
- Arrive early if you want to avoid crowds and secure a good spot on the tram or trails. Many reviews note that arriving around 7:15 pm grants a quieter experience.
- Download the app if available, and reserve seats for the “Creatures of the Night” show or amphitheater. This helps avoid disappointment and long queues.
- Stay till the end if you can; some reviews mention that staying until midnight provides a full experience, but note that you’ll need transportation to leave afterward—Grab or taxi might be your best bet.
- Bring a camera with night settings: While flash photography is discouraged, a good camera can still capture the night-time beauty of the animals.
Potential Drawbacks
The main issue, as some travelers point out, is that the queues for the tram can be long, especially later in the evening. The wait times for the tram and walking trails might extend if the park is crowded. Also, not all animals are guaranteed to be visible—their activity depends on their natural nocturnal routines. One reviewer aptly said, “It’s not guaranteed you’ll see all animals,” but that’s part of the natural experience.
Who Will Benefit Most from This Tour?
This tour is best suited for those who crave an authentic wildlife encounter rather than a standard zoo visit. It’s ideal for families with kids who find the idea of nocturnal animals exciting, as well as for wildlife lovers eager to see animals active at night. The combination of tram and walking options provides flexibility—whether you prefer an overview or detailed exploration.
Travelers who are curious about conservation efforts will appreciate the park’s focus on biodiversity preservation. And those looking for an atmospheric night out—without the daytime crowds—will find the Night Safari a refreshing change of pace.
Final Thoughts
The Singapore Night Safari offers a unique glimpse into the lives of animals when most of us are asleep. For $43, you get access to a well-organized park, a scenic tram ride, insightful shows, and walkable trails that bring you close to fascinating creatures. Yes, it’s not a guaranteed animal sighting every time, but the authentic atmosphere, interactive elements, and conservation focus make this experience worth considering.
If you’re someone who enjoys learning about animals in natural settings and appreciates a relaxing, atmospheric evening in Singapore, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially perfect if you want to combine entertainment with education, all in a setting that feels both adventurous and meaningful.
FAQ
Is the ticket valid for one day only?
Yes, the ticket is valid for one day, and you should check the available starting times when booking to plan your visit.
How do I redeem my voucher?
You can proceed directly to Night Safari for ticket redemption, either with a printed voucher or by scanning your QR code if you have an electronic copy.
Are children under 3 years old free?
Yes, children below 3 years of age gain free entry. Children aged 3 to 12 are considered kids, and seniors are 60+.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility needs.
What should I know about transportation?
Avoid coach bays 3 and 5 at Mandai Wildlife East, as these are reserved for specific shuttle services. For evening departures, consider arranging a taxi or Grab, especially if staying until closing time around midnight.
Can I do the walking trails instead of the tram?
Yes, the park offers walking trails that allow for a closer look at certain animals, such as leopards and wallabies. Many reviewers mention that these trails are very interesting and offer a more personal encounter.
What are the opening hours?
The park is open daily from 7:15 pm until midnight. Arriving early can help you enjoy quieter surroundings and shorter queues.
Is food available during the visit?
Yes, the Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant offers a variety of food options, including local delicacies, which many visitors find a good value after exploring the park.
In summary, the Singapore Night Safari is a well-priced, thoughtfully organized experience that balances entertainment, education, and authentic wildlife encounters. It’s suited for travelers eager to see a different side of animals—at night—and for those who value conservation stories woven into their adventures.
You can check availability for your dates here: