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Where the Wild Things Are! The Best Zoos in Singapore
If it swims, crawls, or roars, I’m probably the first one sticking my face (safely!) in for a closer look. From curious creatures to majestic beasts, the Lion City’s zoos have become my go-to playgrounds for wild encounters.
Through the years, these parks have grown from simple displays to full-blown immersive ecosystems with conservation at the core. Let me guide you to the best zoos in Singapore for the ultimate wildlife adventure with a side of learning.
Singapore Zoo
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Website
Location: 80 Mandai Lake Rd
Contact: +65 6269 3411
Hours: Daily, 8.30 AM–6 PM
Price: $$
Special feature: Open concept layout
Singapore Zoo is my happy place. I’ve had butterflies land on me and orangutans swing right overhead. It’s the kind of spot where even insects feel at home.
Since 1973, this open-concept zoo has wowed with lush habitats like Fragile Forest and Primate Kingdom. With over 2,500 animals and strong conservation work, it’s a full experience rather than just a leisurely visit.
Pro-tip: There are complementary wheelchair rentals at the entrance for PWDs and mobility-challenged visitors.
Night Safari
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Website
Location: 80 Mandai Lake Rd
Contact: +65 6269 3411
Hours: Nightly, 7.15 PM–midnight
Price: $$
Special feature: Nocturnal wildlife experience
There’s nothing quite like locking eyes with a leopard under moonlight. It’s both thrilling and oddly magical, which is why the Night Safari has become my idea of a great evening stroll.
Since opening in 1994, it’s been the world’s first and best nocturnal zoo, complete with tram rides through wild zones and paths like the Leopard and Fishing Cat Trails. The place truly comes alive when the rest of the world goes to sleep.
Pro-tip: You can get involved with Night Safari’s after-dark conservation programs by volunteering as a keeper, docent, or ambassador!
River Wonders (formerly River Safari)
Website
Location: 80 Mandai Lake Rd
Contact: +65 6269 3411
Hours: Daily, 10 AM–7 PM
Price: $$
Special feature: Giant panda forest
I like all creatures that slither, swim, or splash; that’s why River Wonders is my go-to fix for fishy friends, curious capybaras, and the occasional panda side-eye.
As Asia’s first-ever river-themed wildlife park, it flows with over 5,000 animals across vibrant freshwater habitats. It’s a wild ride, from the lush Amazon Flooded Forest to Kai Kai and Jia Jia’s (giant panda siblings) bamboo-filled digs.
Pro-tip: Grab a (cute) bite to eat at Mama Panda Kitchen with its bamboo-themed decor and panda-shaped bao!
Bird Paradise (Formerly Jurong Bird Park)
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Website
Location: 20 Mandai Lake Rd
Contact: +65 6269 3411
Hours: Daily, 9 AM–6 PM
Price: $$
Special feature: Walk-through aviaries
Bird Paradise is my dream hangout, where even the tiniest feathered flapper feels like spotting a winged celebrity. I love going there to be surrounded by squawks, birdsongs, and the flapping of wings.
Formerly Jurong Bird Park, this massive haven is now home to over 5,000 birds and features lush zones like the Waterfall Aviary and Lory Loft. My favourite activities there are feeding rainbow lorikeets and gawking at the giant waterfall that’s taller than my HDB building!
Pro-tip: Move slowly, stay quiet, and wear neutral colours because birds feel safer that way (plus, you’ll get a more photogenic close encounter).
Rainforest Wild ASIA
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Website
Location: Mandai Wildlife WEST, 20 Mandai Lake Rd
Contact: +65 6269 3411
Hours: Daily, 9 AM–6 PM
Price: $$
Special feature: Flexible animal habitats
Rainforest Wild ASIA felt like I’d stepped into a living, breathing jungle. I saw a sun bear one moment, and the next, I was staring with my mouth open at a hairy babirusa (Indonesian wild pig)!
The coolest part is that the animals rotate through shared spaces, so every visit surprises you. Plus, the cardio you’ll get while touring the rainforest can’t be beat, thanks to all the root bridge climbing, cave ducking, and craning your neck to spot langurs.
Pro-tip: Stay on marked paths during the guided tour, as many of the critters are masters of camouflage and can be underfoot if you aren’t careful.
GIMMO Mobile Petting Zoo
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Location: Travels island-wide
Contact: 011-3702-6356
Hours: By appointment
Price: $$
Special feature: Interactive animal encounters
My niece attended one of her little friend’s birthday parties and was over the moon about the fluffy bunnies and curious goats she encountered there. GIMMO Mobile Petting Zoo was in attendance with all manner of cute creatures, which made the event extra-special.
Unlike other zoos where the animals are contained, this one makes the whole experience safe and heartwarming, thanks to the gentle and experienced staff. Now my niece wants to get them for her birthday for some fun hands-on interaction with the animals.
Pro-tip: Expect the bunnies, goats, and chickens to be generally calm, but it still pays to be extra-gentle when handling them.
KidzWorld
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Website
Location: 80 Mandai Lake Rd
Contact: +65 6269 3411
Hours: Daily, 8.30 AM–6 PM
Price: $$
Special feature: Air-conditioned petting zoo
KidzWorld is where I met the chillest rabbits and friendliest dogs, in air-conditioned comfort, no less! It’s the only petting zoo in SG where both animals and humans get to stay cool.
Beyond that, I splashed through water mazes, climbed giant play trees, and caught a cute animal show with my niece. It’s hands-on, heartwarming fun for animal lovers.
Pro-tip: While designed with children in mind, adults can join in the fun and accompany their little ones throughout the experience.
