When school's out, or you're scratching your head about where to go for a memorable family time, the Singapore Zoo or Bird Paradise often come to mind. Well, you'll be thrilled to know that Mandai Wildlife Reserve has recently dialled up the excitement by several notches at these wildlife parks. So, say goodbye to the same old animal sightings and hello to a whirlwind of adventure that's anything but ordinary!

Home to the recently-opened Rainforest Wild Asia, the vibrant new Bird Paradise, the beloved Singapore Zoo, the unique Night Safari, and the enchanting River Wonders, Mandai Wildlife Reserve is a haven not just for tourists but for Singapore residents looking for an escape to nature. 

With a fresh line-up of offerings, including bespoke experiences that come at premium pricing, Mandai Wildlife Reserve has transformed into a playground for all ages. It's where adventure meets education, and excitement meets conservation. Admission tickets to the different wildlife parks vary, with optional charges for unique experiences that you'll find hard to come by. If you're planning to visit as a family, do check its website for discounts and bundle deals. 

Get ready to laugh, learn, and let loose in the wild at these must-visit attractions!

1. Breakfast in the Wild

Kickstart your morning at Mandai Wildlife Reserve with an extraordinary "Breakfast in the Wild" at Ah Meng Terrace, right in the heart of the Singapore Zoo. Named after Ah Meng, the legendary orangutan who charmed visitors in the 1980s and became a symbol of Singapore's conservation efforts, this breakfast spot continues her legacy of hospitality. 

Enjoy a delectable 90-minute dining experience featuring an expansive buffet boasting everything from butter croissants and poached egg Benedict to local favourites like steamed bao and Prata. 

But that's not all! Enjoy this special morning spread alongside a unique crew—some of the zoo's most beloved animals. 

During a 45-minute Animal Appearance session between 9:15 am and 10:00am, you can get up close with the wildlife ambassadors between bites—we're talking Orangutans, African Penguins, and even a Bengal Eagle Owl—and grab that perfect shot on your phone.

Venue: Ah Meng Restaurant (Terrace)
Time: 9:00am to 10:30am
Price: Adult (13 years and above): S$47; Child (six to 12 years): S$37 (note: Singapore Zoo admission tickets are sold separately)

2. Private tours: Zookeeper for a Day (Kid’s/Junior edition)

For those with deeper pockets, a visit to the zoo can be more than just a walk in the park. Mandai's "Zookeeper for a Day" programme is a standout choice among the things to do in Singapore Zoo. Tailored for different age groups, this experience, available in two thrilling versions, lets you explore the nitty-gritty of daily zoo operations from the inside out.

The Junior Edition, ideal for teens aged 13 and above, offers a deep dive into animal training and behind-the-scenes action. Participants will even get to mingle with ring-tailed lemurs and coatimundis during the "Into the Wild" presentation and venture into RepTopia to learn about caring for reptiles and amphibians—from feeding snakes to enhancing the habitats of giant tortoises.

The Kid Edition is crafted for younger animal enthusiasts, who will find themselves getting their hands dirty in the Fragile Forest and KidzWorld. Here, they can engage in everything from food preparation to basic husbandry, learning what it takes to keep their furry and feathered friends thriving. They'll also enjoy a special encounter with the gentle giants of the zoo, the tortoises, feeding them cherry tomatoes straight from their hands!

Note that the specific itinerary and animal interactions might vary based on weather conditions and the animals' health and safety needs.
 

Venue: Singapore Zoo

Junior Edition:
Time: 9:00am to 4:00pm; Saturday
Price: Public: S$499 per person; Friends of Wildlife Members: S$399.20

Kid Edition:
Time: 9:00am to 1:45pm; Saturday
Price: Public: S$380 per person; Friends of Wildlife Members: S$304

3. Zoo Adventure Tour

Don't fancy walking the whole park? No problem! The Zoo Adventure Tour is your express pass to all the excitement—without the legwork—with a comfy seat aboard your very own private buggy. Climb aboard and let a dedicated guide whisk you away on a thrilling journey through Mandai Wildlife Reserve. This tour can also be tailored to your preferences to include visits to your favourite exhibits and up-close animal encounters that bring the wild world to life.

Your adventure kicks off with a meet-up at the Wildlife Experiences meeting point. From there, zoom off to see the majestic Tigers and playful Orangutans, explore the enchanting new KidzWorld (or opt for a mesmerising walk through the Fragile Forest), and don’t miss the chance to feed a towering giraffe in Wild Africa! Get hands-on with a gentle Giant Tortoise interaction, followed by more guided tours and feeding sessions. 

Time: 9:30am to 11:00am, 1:30pm to 3:00pm, 3:30pm to 5:00pm, daily
Price: Public: S$440 per person (Monday to Friday), S$550 per person (Saturday to Sunday and public holidays)

4. Peek into the world of bird care

Ever curious about the day-to-day wellness of the colourful residents at Bird Paradise? Unlock the secrets of avian health with the Backstage Pass to Avian Healthcare, which demystifies the precision of care behind each chirp and flutter.

The first stop is the Avian Hospital, where you can catch a vet in mid-action, from conducting health assessments in the treatment room to meticulous medication preparations. Then, step into the Avian Nutrition Centre where meals are crafted with a scientific touch, tailored to meet the varied and specific dietary requirements of diverse bird species, ensuring they get the necessary nutrients to thrive.

Continue to the Breeding Centre, where nurturing meets nature. Witness firsthand the delicate process of egg care and chick rearing, guided by knowledgeable bird nannies.

Venue: Bird Paradise
Time: 1:45pm to 3:00pm
Price: Public: S$118.40 per person (Monday to Friday), S$148 (Saturday to Sunday and public holidays)

5. KidzWorld

Unleash your little ones' curiosity in KidzWorld at Singapore Zoo, a dynamic playground where nine engaging zones promise interactive and educational fun tailored for children. Here, every corner offers a new discovery; from water play to sensory adventures, there's an enriching experience for every young explorer.

Young adventurers can join the Ranger Buddies Quest to delve deeper into the animal kingdom, enhancing their knowledge and fostering a connection with nature while tracking through Singapore Zoo and River Wonders. Don your explorer's hat and start your adventure at any Ranger Buddies Quest outpost and uncover important facts about animal care and environmental preservation.

A trip to Animal Land, also at KidzWorld, turns visitors into instant zoologists, where interactive sessions with falabellas, goats, and pigs offer lessons on animal behaviour straight from the experts.

And for animal lovers, the Animal Buddies Theatre is a must-visit. Join the fun presentations, learn about responsible pet care, and groove along with the charismatic animal stars of the show.

Venue: Singapore Zoo & River Wonders
Time: Singapore Zoo - 8:30am to 6:00pm, River Wonders - 10:00am to 7:00pm
Price: Admission to KidzWorld is included in your Singapore Zoo ticket

6. Incredible Invertebrates

If you're ready for an experience that might just give you goosebumps, don't miss the Incredible Invertebrates tour. This attraction is your chance to delve into the world of the smallest but mightiest creatures of the animal kingdom—92 species of invertebrates, to be exact. Learn about the vital roles insects play in our ecosystems and discover the surprising ways these tiny creatures support life on Earth and what actions can be taken to protect their populations.

Venture behind the scenes at the Discovery Outpost, where you'll get hands-on with some of the reserve's unique residents. Brave souls might find themselves holding a stick or leaf insect, and if you’re brave enough, help feed the scorpions!

Your invertebrate encounter concludes in the butterfly aviary, a magical space where you can interact with these ethereal insects, learning about their life cycle and importance to environmental health.

Venue: Singapore Zoo 
Time: 10:00am to 11:00am, Thursday and Sunday
Price: Public: S$118.40 per person (Thursday), S$148 per person (Sunday and public holidays)

7. Bird Discovery Tour

Step off the beaten path and into the vibrant world of Bird Paradise with the Bird Discovery Tour that's nothing short of extraordinary. 

Kick off your journey at the Rwanda Nyungwe Forest Heart of Africa exhibit. This enclave, crafted to mirror the verdant African rainforests, houses over 80 species of the continent’s most fascinating birds. Marvel at the clever antics of grey parrots and admire the striking turacos, famed for their vibrant 'mohawk' crests.

Continue your adventure at the Kuok Group Wings of Asia, where the calm of Bali’s bamboo stands and rice paddies come to life. This haven is a sanctuary for the rarest and most exquisite birds of Asia, including the majestic cranes and pheasants. Capture a moment with the black-faced spoonbill and the critically endangered Baer’s pochard—each sighting a privileged glimpse into the lives of these scarce creatures.

The excitement peaks at the Lory Loft, where you're invited to hand-feed the lories and lorikeets, experiencing their delightful chirps and fluttering wings up close. 

Venue: Bird Paradise
Time: 10:30am to 12:00pm, 3:30pm to 5:00pm
Price: Public (groups of up to eight people): S$400 (Monday to Friday), S$500 (Saturday, Sunday and public holidays)

8. Treetop thrills at Rainforest Wild ASIA

Elevate your adventure at Rainforest Wild Asia with the exhilarating AIA Vitality Bounce! This unique aerial playground, suspended three to seven metres above the forest floor, offers a liberating experience amidst the treetops. Navigate between three dynamic zones, each designed to thrill and challenge you while you float in the canopy's embrace.

Venue: Watering Hole at Rainforest Wild ASIA 
Time: 10:00am to 6:00pm
Price: Public: S$15

For an even more heart-pounding activity, make your way to the Canopy Jump. Take a leap from either a 13-metre or a towering 20-metre platform, experiencing the rush of a free fall followed by a controlled and smooth descent. As you dangle momentarily, soak in the breathtaking views of the lush rainforest around you—it’s a moment to feel truly part of the wild!

Venue: Rock Cascade at Rainforest Wild ASIA 
Time: 10:00am to 6:00pm
Price: Public: S$30

9. Apex aerial escapades

Strap in for the Wild Apex Adventures, a thrilling, high-altitude escapade that will elevate your visit to Mandai Wildlife Reserve. This action-packed journey invites you to harness up and scale the heights of the rainforest canopy. Navigate through an obstacle course set high above the ground, where you’ll tackle ladders, suspended bridges, and rock faces. Each step and climb offers a new perspective on the lush surroundings and a chance to spot the elusive langurs in their natural habitat.

As you conquer each challenge, relish the breathtaking vistas from atop the Karsts—a rewarding experience that blends adrenaline with awe. Under the guidance of expert adventure leaders, feel the thrill of mastering the rugged terrains and celebrate your triumphs high above the forest floor. 

Venue: The Karsts & The Canopy
Time: 9:00am, 10:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm and 2:00pm
Price: Public, Adult: S$192; Child: S$182, Senior: S$172

10. Cavern quests

Plunge into the shadows of the Wild Cavern Adventure, where an odyssey below the surface awaits the bold. Armed with headlamps, your subterranean journey begins with twists and turns through rocky terrains and a climb up ancient ladders. The air cools, and the echo of dripping stalactites fills the chamber as you manoeuvre along a cable line, your hands finding their way in near darkness.

The highlight is the dramatic abseil down to the Oculus—a breathtaking geological formation that feels like stepping into the heart of the earth. Here, in the dim light, capture a moment of triumph that feels both monumental and intensely personal.

Venue: The Cavern
Time: 9:30am, 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm and 2:30pm
Price: Public, Adult: S$192; Child: S$182, Senior: S$172

 

As you embark on these ten unique adventures and events at Mandai Wildlife Reserve, remember that each experience is a step into the vibrant heart of wildlife conservation. From the lush, interactive environs to the up-close encounters of the different tours, there's a world of discovery waiting at every turn.

Now, you can anticipate even more enchanting experiences, like strolling along the new boardwalk by the Upper Seletar Reservoir, escaping to nature with a stay at the Mandai Rainforest Resort, and exploring Rainforest Wild Asia, the newest addition to Singapore’s wildlife parks, which brings the rainforests of Southeast Asia and Africa right to your footsteps!

Plan your visit: 

Bird Paradise
Address: 20 Mandai Lake Road Singapore 729825
Opening hours: 9:00am to 6:00pm, daily
Admission Tickets: Adult: S$49; Child: S$34

Night Safari
Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road Singapore 729826
Opening hours: 7:15pm to 12:00am, daily
Admission Tickets: Adult: S$56; Child: S$39

River Wonders
Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road Singapore 729826
Opening hours: 10:00am to 7:00pm, daily
Admission Tickets: Adult: S$43; Child: S$31

Singapore Zoo
Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road Singapore 729826
Opening hours: 8:30am to 6:00pm, daily
Admission Tickets: Adult: S$49; Child: S$34

Rainforest Wild ASIA
Address: 20 Mandai Lake Road Singapore 729826
Opening hours: 9:00am to 6:00pm, daily
Admission Tickets: Adult: S$33; Child: S$21

 

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