Night Safari Singapore Review: Family Guide, Shows, Tram Rides, Ticket Promos & More

Sassy Mama

2 days ago

Planning a Night Safari adventure with the kids? From insider tips to taming toddlers after dark, here's our review of Night Safari Singapore, including tram rides, shows, ticket promos and more!
The Night Safari offers a real-life adventure for kids whose favourite bedtime book is the classic Dear Zoo. But unlike the world-class Singapore Zoo, this after-dark safari offers the whole family a magical glimpse into the world of nocturnal animals. Spot stealthy predators, glowing eyes in the dark, and animals you'd never catch awake during the day–all from the comfort of the open-air Night Safari tram. From ticket promos and Night Safari shows to behind-the-scenes zookeeper talks, here's our review of Night Safari Singapore, plus how to make the Night Safari with little ones magical–and meltdown-free.
If you're making a full day of it, be sure to read our family guides to Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, Bird Paradise and Rainforest Wild ASIA.
Jump to:
– Night Safari Free Tram Rides
– Wildlife Trails at Night Safari
– Night Safari Shows
– Food at Night Safari
– Night Safari Opening Hours
– Night Safari Tickets & Promos
– Family Tips for Visiting Night Safari
Read on for our Night Safari Singapore review & guide to Night Safari with kids:
Night Safari Singapore review for families with kids
The Night Safari Singapore is a refreshing twist on the usual zoo experience: no blazing sun, no sweaty midday meltdowns, just the cool night air and softly lit trails winding through lush, jungle-like habitats. It's your chance to see nocturnal animals in action, from prowling predators to curious critters you'd never spot during the day.
We find getting around the park easy, especially with a toddler in tow, with the complimentary tram ride. It cruises through themed zones inspired by far-flung regions like the Himalayan Foothills and Nepalese River Valley. Want a closer look? Hop off and explore the four walking trails–they're wide, well-marked and surprisingly stroller-friendly. If you ask us, it's a night-time outing that's wild in all the right ways. If you're wondering how long you need to explore the Night Safari, you can expect to spend about two to three hours here, including the tram ride, walking trails and Night Safari shows.
Safari Tram Adventure at Night Safari Singapore
Our kids cannot get enough of the Safari Adventure Tram ride! This 30-minute guided tour takes you through six themed zones, offering close-up views of animals like Malayan tapirs, hyenas, and Asian elephants in their moonlit habitats. With open sides, comfy seats, and stroller access, it's the perfect way to cover more ground and take a relaxing ride through the park. The Night Safari tram runs from 7pm to 11.20pm, and you can take unlimited rides!
Wildlife trails at Night Safari
When it comes to exploring the park's grounds, choose from four walking trails: Leopard Trail, Pangolin Trail, East Lodge Trail, and Wallaby Trail.
Leopard Trail: Easily the most thrilling of the four trails, the Leopard Trail takes you through dense jungle and rugged terrain–all with stroller-friendly elevated boardwalks and cleverly lit enclosures. You'll stroll by leopards on the prowl and lions lounging under the moonlight. Don't miss the walk-through bat and civet exhibits, where it's all eyes on you!
Animal sightings: Clouded leopards, Asian lions, civets, flying foxes, eagle owls
Pangolin Trail (formerly Fishing Cat Trail): For something a little more elusive, head down the fully sheltered Pangolin Trail, where typically shy creatures come out to play. Winding paths lead you through tropical foliage to see everything from critically endangered pangolins to fishing cats.
Animal sightings: Sunda pangolins, fishing cats, giant flying squirrels, Malayan porcupines, owls
East Lodge Trail: This short but memorable trail gives you a front-row view of some of the Night Safari's larger residents. Keep your eyes peeled for Malayan tigers pacing in the dark and Asian elephants enjoying a quiet moment. You'll also spot red river hogs and spotted hyenas along the way – all without straying too far off the main route.
Animal sightings: Malayan tigers, Asian elephants, red river hogs, spotted hyenas
Tasmanian Devil Trail (formerly Wallaby Trail): Step into the Aussie outback – no passport needed. This easy, breezy loop brings you up close to Tassie devils, wallabies, and sugar gliders as they come to life in the evening. It's a hit with little ones, thanks to the gentle path and laid-back vibes.
Animal sightings: Tasmanian devils, wallabies, brush-tailed possums, sugar gliders, North Island brown kiwi
Night Safari show timings: Animal presentation
We got a 20-minute crash course in nocturnal wildlife at the Creatures of the Night show. Held thrice every evening, this fun show introduces you to creatures like the binturong, fennec fox, and Indian crested porcupine, all while sharing some cool, behind-the-scenes know-how. It's an interactive experience with the keepers showing off these critters' clever tricks–a show perfect for the whole family.
Night Safari show time: 7.30pm, 8.30pm & 9.30pm at the Night Safari Amphitheatre
Night Safari show booking: Book a seat online here. Bookings open two hours before each presentation, but we recommend booking ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
LED light show at Night Safari: Twilight Performance
Did you know that there's an LED light show at Night Safari? The Twilight Performance lights up the entire park with fire twirlers, LED wizardry, and enough swagger to wake the jungle. This Night Safari show is a full-blown, crowd-thrilling spectacle that'll have you wide-eyed before you even see your first hyena. It's the perfect warm-up act for a night where the animals aren't the only ones putting on a show.
Night Safari show time: 8pm & 9pm at the Entrance Courtyard
Night Safari show booking: No bookings are required for this Night Safari show. More info here.
More things to do at Night Safari Singapore with kids
Indian Rhino feeding at Night Safari:
Kiddos can experience feeding the huge Indian Rhinos at the East Lodge Trail. The feeding session and photo bundle costs just $12, and is open for guests who are 1.2m-tall and above. You can add on the feeding session at check out.
Safari Adventure Tour:
Ditch the sweaty crowds and nab yourself the night safari's VIP experience: the Safari Adventure Tour, where you'll get your very own private buggy. Your personal guide tailors your experience to whatever makes your little ones' eyes llight up. Yes, it'll set you back a fair amount (from $560 for up to seven people) but you'll get exclusive stops where you can feed Indian rhinos and Asian elephants. Check it out here.
Keeper talks:
At the Night Safari's series of keeper talks, you'll get the lowdown on the park's most fascinating residents. Think Tasmanian devils, pangolins, and white tigers, with fun, quick-fire facts about their habits and care. They're easy to slot into your route, and great for curious kids who want a closer look without committing to a full show. View the full line-up here.
Food at Night Safari
There are six dining outlets at Night Safari Singapore, so by all means, have dinner here before starting your adventure. You'll find food stalls at the Ulu Ulu Sfari Restaurant at the entrance of Night Safari. It's got all your kid-friendly offerings including local and Asian food, Indian cuisine, grilled satay, desserts and drinks and more. There's also a Ben & Jerry's at the Entrance Plaza for a sweet treat.
Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant is open daily from 5.30pm – 11pm.
Night Safari Singapore opening hours & admission times
Night Safari Singapore is open daily from 7.15pm to 12am. Last admission is at 11.15pm. You can choose any of the following time slots: 7.15pm, 7.45pm, 8.15pm, 8.45pm, 9.15pm and 9.45pm. Night Safari closes pretty late at 12am, so take your time to explore the park.
We recommend booking ahead since entry times fill up fast, especially the 7:15pm slot.
Singapore Night Safari opening hours: 7.15pm – 12am, Daily
Night Safari Singapore tickets & promos
Standard admission tickets clock in at $58 for adults and $41 for kids aged 3 to 12, while kids under 3 enter free. Get Night Safari tickets here.
Night Safari ticket promo: Singapore residents with a valid WildPass get up to 26% off Singapore Night Safari tickets.
Parent tips for visiting the Night Safari with kids
With little ones in tow, this nocturnal wildlife park is magical, but it certainly pays to plan ahead. Here are a few tips to keep things smooth, fun, and meltdown-free.
Arrive early and fuel up: Get there before the gates open at 7.15pm. Our suggestion? Either have an early dinner or eat at the Night Safari so you're ready to go. There are lots of family-friendly options, but snaking queues build up fast.
Hop on the tram before tackling walking trails: The complimentary tram is the best way to kick off your Night Safari adventure, especially with younger kids. The 30-minute ride is smooth, scenic, and takes you past big-ticket animals like elephants, lions, and Malayan tapirs. It also gives everyone a chance to settle in and soak up the atmosphere before exploring on foot. Bonus: little ones often find the gentle motion and forest sounds soothing.
Prep like a pro: Pack the essentials for the kids: comfy shoes, snacks for a quick energy boost, water to stay hydrated, and insect repellent (those mozzies are sneaky). A portable fan can be a lifesaver in the queues, especially in the heat. Dress in lightweight clothes for the humidity, and don't forget to keep that mosquito spray handy if you're exploring the trails.
Embrace the darkness–safely: It's all about the night-time vibes, so expect dim paths and just the glow of moonlight. Keep a close eye on kids, hold their hands while walking through the trails, or hand out glow stick bracelets for fun and easy spotting. No flashlights needed (or allowed), you just need an adventurous spirit!
Night Safari, 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826, www.mandai.com
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