travelmom13

Has anyone done the night safari at the Singapore Zoo? I have heard mixed reviews on other sites. What types of animals do you see up close?

Thanks!

alibi13

I don't know about the Singapore Night Safari, but I would avoid the one in Chiang Mai. The prime minister's people (it is his pet project) at one point in all seriousness discussed serving the animals that were on display in the restaurant.

marmot

We love the Night Safari and find that it appeals to both kids and adults. We like to go late, around 9-10 p.m. after the opening crowds have dispersed. Take the tram to the outer edge and walk back. It’s eerie (but perfectly safe) to be wandering around rain forest trails in near darkness shockingly close to animals – both big and small. Take a look at the website for more information on the wide range of animals. We’re especially fond of the tarsiers and otters in the small scale animals and all of the big guys. Having a late dinner watching the giraffes cavort is another favorite. http://www.nightsafari.com.sg/index.html

Lindsey

Totally agree with Marmot. Go a bit later. It gets dark here at 7pm every night (no seasonality when you are this close to the equator)and that is when the crowds appear. We have found that even by 8pm it's less crowded, as the early arrivals have dispersed into the park.
There are some paths that are not accessible by tram, so be sure to wander around those a bit on foot. The type of animals you see always varies, depending on who is active at the time you are there. it's a very natural environment and the animals wander freely within their own areas....it often pays off to just sit quietly in one location and watch for a while.

Walter_Walltotti

I've been there several times and I think its great. Everyone I know who has been has loved it.

I would suggest doing the trip independantly by taxi or metro and not by tourist coach which can be a lot more expensive.

There are 2 parts to the trip - a walk around the park and then a tram ride with commentary, both are worth while.

JannaG

I love the Night Safari too. It's a very "humid experience" though...walking in the rainforest-like environment in Singapore...so be prepared with water. And maybe moisquito repellant.

ps: the Singapore day zoo is also excellent.

travelmom13

Thank you very much for your replies. My husband and I are very excited to go. Are there any other MUST see plcaes that you can recommend? We have about 1.5 days.

Walter_Walltotti

i like Jurong Bird Park. You can spend a nice day on Sentosa island. Raffles is worth a quick visit. In the evening Boat quay and Clarkes Quay area is fun

abijo

The birdpark has detoriated in recent times, so you may not really want to go all the way. Especially since you don't have much time.

Besides you'd need at least half a day to do it justice.

If you do decide to go dont miss the newest Aviary. I think it's called Birds of paradise... They have a monorail stop right in front and it's Absolutely gorgeous inside. The birds practically come and sit on you! It's lovely!

gazibidian

I also agree the Night Safari is worth going to. It was fun, I think I liked seeing the bats up close the best. This was several years ago though, not sure if they still have those bats.

gaz