Night Safari, Singapore
Night Safari of Singapore (GPS: 1.40218, 103.78806) is the world's first nocturnal zoo. It is located in Mandai, in the
Central Water Catchment Area, Singapore. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Singapore. The idea of starting a nocturnal park was proposed by Dr Ong Swee Law, the former executive chairman of the Singapore Zoo. The Night Safari was constructed at a cost of S$63 million and opened on 26 May 1994.
The Night Safari houses 1,040 animals of 120 species, of which 29% of threatened species. The Night Safari can be explored on foot via the walking trails or by trams. Special lighting is used to resemble moonlight. Although it is brighter than full moon, it is dim enough not to disturb the nortunal animals.
The Night Safari employs the Open Zoo concept. Rather than using cages, the animals are separated with natural barriers. Moats are made to look like streams and rivers while hot wires are designed to look like twigs to keep animals within their enclosures. There are also cultural performances including tribal dances, blowpipe demonstrations and fire eating displays. Creatures of the Night Show is a performance presented by the animals in the Night Safari.
Food and beverage outlets in the Night Safari include Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant, Bongo Burgers, and Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shop. Visitors can also experience dining on the move with the Cocktail Safari Express and Gourmet Safari Express.