Singapore Zoo or Night Safari: Which is better?

Planning to explore Singapore's wildlife attractions? Decide between Singapore Zoo and Night Safari with our detailed comparison. Marvel at the Zoo's naturalistic exhibits by day or experience nocturnal creatures at the Night Safari after dusk. Discover key features, ticket tips, and the highlights of each!

Singapore, the Lion City, is home to two world-renowned attractions located within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve—the Singapore Zoo and the Night Safari.

Visitors often assume they are interchangeable, leading to the question of which one is better than the other. 

Each offers a unique and distinct experience, making the choice dependent on visitors’ preferences, schedules, and interests. 

Tourists with tight schedules may not have time to visit both, especially since the Singapore Zoo operates during the day and the Night Safari begins in the evening. 

This guide highlights their key features and differences to help you choose the one that best suits your interests—or discover why both might be worth exploring.

Quick Overview

Singapore Zoo is perfect if you love observing animals in their naturalistic habitats, with plenty of interactive exhibits. 

It’s an excellent choice for families, as it offers kid-friendly activities and easy accessibility during the day.

On the other hand, if you prefer a unique, adventurous experience focusing on nocturnal wildlife, then Night Safari is your sure shot. 

Its guided tram rides, themed trails, and exotic nocturnal animals make it a one-of-a-kind attraction.

While the Zoo is more family-friendly, Night Safari appeals to those seeking something extraordinary, especially couples and wildlife enthusiasts.

FeaturesSingapore Zoo Singapore Night Safari
Hours8.30 am – 6 pm7.15 pm – 12 am
Last Entry5 pm11.15 pm
Duration of Visit3-4 hours3-4 hours
LocationMandai Wildlife ReserveMandai Wildlife Reserve
Best Time to Visit Early morning or late afternoonLate evening
Cost of TicketsS$49S$50
PurchaseBuy ticketsBuy tickets

More about Singapore Zoo

A child and an adult enjoying a close-up view of giraffes at the Singapore Zoo.Pin
A child and an adult enjoying a close-up view of giraffes at the Singapore Zoo. Image: Mandai.com

The Singapore Zoo, or the Mandai Zoo, is one of Asia’s best zoos, offering an open-concept design that lets visitors observe animals in spacious, natural habitats. 

It boasts a wide range of animals, including rare species like giant pandas, white tigers, and golden monkeys. 

The zoo offers interactive shows, feeding sessions, and various walking trails suitable for young children. 

The main highlights of the zoo include a biodome teeming with free-ranging wildlife like butterflies, sloths, and lemurs. 

You can watch sea lions perform incredible tricks at the Splash Safari Show and enjoy Rainforest KidzWorld with a water park, pony rides, and a petting zoo.

In contrast, the Night Safari lets you explore the mysteries of the animal kingdom after dark. 

Hours: 8.30 am – 6 pm
Duration of Visit: 3-4 hours
Official Website: Mandai.com

As one of the most iconic attractions, the Singapore Zoo receives more than a million visitors annually. Thus, it is essential to book your entry tickets in advance. You can also book a combo tour of Singapore Zoo & Night Safari with Hotel Transfer for a more personalized experience.

More about Singapore Night Safari

A Night Safari presenter interacts with a pangolin as the audience watches it from the background.Pin
A Night Safari presenter interacts with a pangolin as the audience watches it from the background. Image: Mandai.com

The Night Safari is the world’s first nocturnal zoo that provides a unique opportunity to observe animals in their natural nighttime environment. 

It offers a completely different experience, designed for those who want to explore wildlife after dark.

Visitors can go on a 40-minute tram ride through the park, encountering creatures like lions, tigers, and hyenas. 

Additionally, walking trails provide opportunities to get up close to animals such as leopards, civets, and fishing cats. 

However, it’s worth noting that the darkness and limited visibility may not be ideal for young children.

While the Singapore Zoo shines during the day with naturalistic enclosures and interactive exhibits, the dim lighting of the Singapore Night Safari creates a mystical ambiance, making it a must-visit for those seeking a thrilling and unforgettable experience.

Hours: 7.15 pm – 12 am
Duration of Visit: 3-4 hours
Official Website: Mandai.com

Be sure to book your Night Safari tickets in advance, especially during weekends. Opt for the Night Safari with Tram Ride and Hotel Transfer, or choose the Singapore Go City Explorer Pass to maximize your experience.

Why not visit them both?

If you want to experience the full spectrum of Singapore’s wildlife, then why not visit both these attractions?

If you are at the Singapore Zoo by 3 pm, you can enjoy its daytime animal activities and feeding sessions before it closes at 6 pm. 

After an hour’s break to re-energize yourself at one of the many restaurants just out the entrances, you can head to the Night Safari, which begins at 7.15 pm.

Since the two parks are located adjacent to each other, visiting them both in a day can guarantee different perspectives on wildlife.

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Researched & written by
Anupama Andrew is a renowned luxury travel enthusiast, celebrated for her in-depth reviews of world-class resorts, boutique hotels, cruises, and exclusive travel experiences. She travels to iconic destinations around the globe, sharing valuable insights through her detailed and elegant articles. Through her writing, she helps upscale travelers discover exceptional places to visit, blending her personal experiences with a sophisticated touch. Favorite travel movie: Midnight in Paris. Next destination: Paris

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