River Safari - Singapore
The River Safari is a river-themed zoo and aquarium located in Singapore. It is built over 12 hectares and nestled between its two counterparts, the Singapore Zoo and the Night Safari, Singapore. It is the first of its kind in Asia and features freshwater exhibits and a river boat ride as its main highlights.
River Safari is Asia's first and only river-themed wildlife park inspired by the world's most iconic rivers. Witness some of the biggest, most endangered animals from these rivers, in lofty tanks and luscious walk-through exhibits! A must-see are giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia in Southeast Asia's largest giant panda exhibit. Plus the world's largest freshwater aquarium themed after the Flooded Amazon Forest!
Nestled between the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, the River Safari is both a river-themed zoo and aquarium. Singapore's newest wildlife park has over 6,000 animals, including 40 threatened species, with zones that replicate the habitats of rivers across the world, from the Mississippi to the Yangtze.
The River Safari Singapore is the largest and the first zoo and aquarium built on a river theme. Built over a sprawling 12 hectares in between the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari Singapore, the park hails of its exotic biodiversity and wildlife found in the banks of the Amazon, Mississippi, Nile, Yangtze and so on.
The River Safari is one of the must visit places in Singapore and it also has the largest freshwater aquarium in the world. The rainforest setting of the park allures tourists to embark on different cruises and other riverine sports that bring them close to the varied marine creatures inhabiting the watercourses.
The River Safari is home to 6,000 animals of more than 300 different species. About 40 among them belong to the endangered species that include the Giant Salamander (largest amphibian in the world) and the Giant Mekong Catfish.
One of the chief wildlife attractions of the River Safari park is a pair of Giant Panda which is one of the national treasures of China. The pair was brought to Singapore from China in 2012 to commemorate the twentieth year of Sino-Singapore diplomatic relations.
Besides a diverse range of wild animals, the reserve is also home to more than 150 categories of flora that gives a comfort zone to the animals who inhabit there. The freshwater aquarium of the River Safari park is home to a number of ferocious marine predators viz.
Piranha, Sharks and many more and watching them in their natural habitat and at times getting close to them will certainly challenge your guts. Rest assured, you will be thrilled and amused at the same time by their aggressive gestures in the aquarium.
There are different exciting water rides and cruises in the watercourses of the park for visitors through different zones. The two most popular are the Amazon River Quest and the Wild Amazonia which lets you meet the endangered animals from close proximity and gather fair knowhow about them.
Last but not least, you have a great chance to complement your trip to the River Park with a delectable platter at any of the themed restaurants inside the park.
There are only 1600 pandas left in the world, with 26 zoos in different countries that have giant pandas. Every country has to sign a contract with China who gives the panda on lease basis for a few years. The giant pandas are on the red list of IUCN. Two of the pandas are living in this zoo - a pair of female and male pandas, Kai Kai and Jia Jia, in a climate-controlled bio dome which keeps changing into the four seasons according to their suitable environment. There are special plants in the zoo that help in feeding the pandas. A pair of red pandas is also living here in a friendly environment. The world’s largest freshwater aquarium with over 18 animal species, The Amazon Flooded Forest, have animals like majestic arapaima, manatees and many more South American fishes. The viewing glass panel is 22m long and 4m in height which contains 710000 cu ft of water.
‘Amazon River Quest’ is a mysterious 10 minute boat adventure of 10 minutes. You can see the Giant anteater and Jaguar there along ‘The Amazon River’, which houses the most amazing rainforest habitats in the world. They are hidden among the plants, you have to find them out.
‘Squirrel Monkey Forest’ will give you a chance to see their namesake primates. They are from South and Central America and have unique personalities. Discover the giant catfish and freshwater stingray along the Mekong River. After that, one can even explore the River Safari, hopping on to the River Safari Cruise and relax. The visitors can even click some good scenic photos with their loved ones. Each boat has a capacity of 40 people, with no restriction on age. Learn about the rivers and explore the livelihood of native animals and plants that are living there and live this wildlife experience!
Interesting facts about River Safari
Discover the Amazon Flooded forest, which is the world’s biggest freshwater aquarium.
You can find 5000 animals across 300 species.
Explore Asia's first river-themed wildlife park.
Get the chance to explore the world’s historical and iconic rivers in the River Zone.
Meet with the adorable little squirrel monkeys.
Panda Paradise
Before visiting resident giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia at the Giant Panda Forest, stop by to look at the River Safari Singapore’s adorable red panda.
Its rust-coloured fur and fox-like face are just as winsome as the celebrity panda couple, making this exhibit very popular.
Giant Panda Forest
One of the main highlights of Singapore River Safari is the male and female pair of Giant Pandas, Kai Kai and Jia Jia, housed at the Giant Panda Forest. Giant Pandas are considered China's national treasures and are a heavily endangered species, with about 1,600 currently present in the wild. In order to facilitate the survival and lifestyle of these adorable creatures, authorities have constructed a high-tech biodome, complete with climate-control, boulders, water features and vegetation that mimics the natural habitat of these pandas from their native land of China. 8000 square metres of land is maintained as a plantation of special bamboo for feeding the giant pandas. One can also find the rare red panda and golden pheasants within this enclosure.
Up close and personal
Panda mania aside, there are many more animals at Asia's first and only river-themed wildlife park. Embark on an up-close adventure with pelicans, beavers and capybaras on the safari’s Once Upon A River show.
Wander into Wild Amazonia and set sail on the Amazon River Quest, an easy 10-minute boat ride that lets you meet some of the amazing wildlife from the world’s largest tropical rainforest, such as the jaguar and maned wolf.
Step into the Squirrel Monkey Forest and say ‘hi’ to this tropical aviary’s free-ranging residents. Look out for their bounding leaps from the trees above you.
Then watch in awe as massive manatees swim serenely around their equally gargantuan aquarium at the Amazon Flooded Forest, a truly beautiful sight.
list of things you should do in your River Safari trip:
- You can explore the secrets of the Amazon River through the boat ride sports River Safari and Amazon River Quest.
- Get closer to the Chinese Salamanders, Mekong Catfish, and Chinese River Otters.
- Meet the giant pandas at the Giant Panda Forest.
- As you enter the Squirrel Monkey Forest, you will come across the adorable squirrel monkeys of Central and South America. They will amuse you with their playful gestures and noises.
- Enjoy an unforgettable cruise along the Seletar reservoir in the River Safari. You can enjoy the river cruise with family and click photos of the beautiful flora along the way.
- The most iconic and popular attraction in the River Safari is the River Zones which offers you a thrilling experience of the famous rivers of the world. You can spot the snapping turtles.
- Mississippi, Congo Tetra and giant freshwater puffer in the Congo, African Arowana and giraffe catfish in the Nile, goonch catfish and Indian gharial in the Ganga, freshwater stingray in the Mekong and the ancient sturgeon and the Chinese alligator in the Yangtze.
Experiences at River Safari
An unforgettable journey down the river trails awaits you! The River Safari gives you a chance to experience the incredible wildlife of the Amazon. For a tranquil respite, you can cruise along the Upper Seletar Reservoir and click a few nature snaps. Here's a varied range of things to experience at River Safari. Don't forget to check out on them:
1. Wildlife Tours-
If you are a real animal lover, this has to be on your bucket list. It gives you a great opportunity to build a close connection with the wildlife, experience the intriguing behaviour of animals, how animals are looked after and also you can feed some among them with your hands.
Manatee Mania Tour and Marvellous Manatees are the best wildlife tours in which you can meet and greet the adorable manatees.
2. Once Upon a River-
A leisurely cruise along a river gives you the opportunity to know the untold story of a river. You can explore the water’s edge and meet some of the fascinating creatures and even interact with them. You can even take snaps with the doting pelicans and feed the beavers at the new animal presentation at the water’s edge.
3. Camps-
It will keep your kid engaged for hours while you are touring around the other attractions of the park. The camps encourage kids to develop self-learning skills and engage them in team bonding activities.
River Safari houses an exciting family camp “Sleep with the Manatees” in which you can spend quality night time with your family in the Amazon Flooded Forest amidst the manatees.
4. Animal Encounters-
Come close with the animals such as pelicans, green iguana, beavers and the giant panda in this expedition and get to know the unknown facts of their traits. You can also meet the famous giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia on your Animal Encounter voyage and help the caretakers prepare breakfast for the bears at the backyard area of the Giant Panda Forest.
5. River Trails-
River Trails is an educational voyage in which you get to know everything about the marine creatures from a lively presenter. You can also get a chance to hear interesting trivia and come in close acquaintance with the wildlife creature. The most highlighted guided tours are Wild Amazonia, Rivers of the World and Amazon Flooded Forest.
6. Amazon River Quest-
It's an enthralling experience to see the animals hailing from the untamed Amazon and hear their mysterious noises on a boat ride which is artificially designed to render you the thrill of a real Amazon river expedition on a boat.
You will have to make use of your senses to spot camouflaged wildlife amidst the lush vegetation to perceive the uniqueness of Amazonian flora and fauna. Some of the must-see wild animals are the Jaguar, Brazilian Tapir and Giant Anteater who are ready to welcome you with their mysterious behaviours and interactive gestures.
Attractions in River Safari Singapore
Take some time to indulge in the array of other attractions awaiting you in the River Safari. Some of the most hunted ones are given below:
1. Wildlife reserves Singapore-
Get close to the scaly buddies and watch them in varied moods in their natural terrain. Watching snakes and dragons will certainly make your day.
2. Once upon a river-
It is an exhilarating river show at the River Safari Singapore which showcases the story of a river and the living creatures that make a river their habitat in a vivid way. A team of anchors introduce the marine creatures viz. Great White Pelican, Hedgehog, Brahminy Kite, Red Panda and Giant Panda with the guests.
3. Wild Discoverer Tour-
A wonderful wildlife excursion for animal lovers which gives you a chance to get close to the baboons and white rhinos and feed them with your own hands. A guide will accompany you and show how the animals are looked after daily and also share secrets about them.
4. Panda rise and shine-
The morning session of this expedition gives you an opportunity to know the routine of the pandas and how the experts take care of them. If you want to get involved in the caregiving methodology, you can assist the caretakers in preparing Bamboo Breakfast or development of toys for the pandas.
Zones at River Safari Singapore
1. Congo River
The Congo River is one of the largest rivers in the world and home to thousands of colorful species of fish. Here you can find giant freshwater puffer, the Congo tetra, the African dwarf crocodile and so much more.
Your visit in the Congo River zone will give you the incredible opportunity to witness these unique water animals first hand and take you right to the Congo River in Africa
2. Ganges River
Explore the unique wildlife that inhabits India’s longest river. The Ganges originates in the Himalayas and it is worshiped by the Hindus. The Ganges River Zone is inspired by the Indian Temples and worship areas that are found on the banks of the River Ganges. In these waters you will find the Indian fish gharial, the goonch catfish, the frog-faced soft shell turtle and lots more
3. Amazon Flooded Forest
The Amazon Flooded Forests mimics the environment of the Amazon forests and is inhabited by the fascinating creatures that thrive in this ecosystem. Here you will find the red-tailed catfish, electric eel, arapaima, etc.
The most interesting inhabitants of this zone are the giant river otters Chico and Carla that can be viewed from the viewing tunnel during your river safari
4. Giant Panda Forest
Visit Kai Kai and Jia Jia in their natural habitat at the Giant Panda Forest. This area has been developed to mimic the natural environment in which these large friendly animals thrive. It is complete with waterfalls, climbing structures, natural plants that grow in these areas and the temperature is controlled to suit the requirements of the giant pandas.
The giant pandas are friendly, playful creatures and you can enjoy their antics from the viewing area. You can also watch them being fed and groomed.
5. Mekong River
The Mekong River zone is one of the largest exhibits in the River Safari Singapore. The Mekong River rises from the Tibetan Plateau and passes through six countries before joining in the South China Sea.
The main inhabitants of this meandering river are the Mekong giant catfish. The river is home to over 800 different species of freshwater animals and quite a number of these species can be seen in the Mekong River zone of the River Safari in Singapore.
6. Nile River
The longest river in the world is home to some equally unique water animals such as the African arowana, giraffe catfish, lapradei bichir and the tigerfish. The unique design of this zone will transport you to ancient Egypt and let you experience the fascinating world of the wealth and civilization that the River Nile has brought to this country right from the Stone Age
7. River Gems
The River Gems is one of the most colorful exhibits in the River Safari Singapore. The tank is filled with a wide variety of freshwater plants and animals that are unique and fascinating.
Here you will find pearl gourami, pearl danio, fahaku pufferfish black phantom tetra, red-tailed hemiodus tetra, harlequin rasbora, rainbow shark and so much more. The vibrant colors of the inhabitants are a sheer delight.
8. Wild Amazonia
The Amazon Basin is one of the most unique places on earth with creatures that are as fascinating as they are dangerous. The Wild Amazonia is a combination of the Amazon Flooded Forest, the Amazon River Quest and the Squirrel Monkey Forest making it the largest freshwater exhibit in the world.
As you travel in your boat you can feast your eyes on some of the most fascinating creatures of this region such as the rotund manatees, arapaimas, electric eels, giant river otters and more.
9. Yangtze River
The Yangtze River Basin supports an incredible variety of animals and plants along its course. The Yangtze River zone of the River Safari Singapore has exhibits that mimics the natural environment of the Yangtze River and houses the giant panda, the red panda, sturgeon, Chinese softshell turtles, the Chinese giant salamander and several others.
Places to Dine & Shop at River Safari
When it comes to dining, you will be spoilt for choices at the River Safari park in Singapore. Whether vegetarian or non-vegetarian, you can look forward to unique dining experiences at one of the most sought after themed parks in the world. Rest assured, the food and other cooking ingredients are bought from sustainable sources and hence quality is restored.
1. Ben and Jerry's
2. Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant
3. Jungle Rotisserie
4. Safari Sizzles
5. Mama Panda Kitchen
6. Starbucks
If you want to get some unique collectables and souvenirs back home, there are places in the River Safari park that are ready with their gift items to allure you.
1. Night Safari Gift shop
2. River Safari Shop
3. House of Jia Jia and Kai Kai
Places to Visit near River Safari
1. RainForest Kid's World-
A great place for children's amusement which houses domestic animals such as dogs and parrots. Children can watch the amusing gestures of these birds and animals from close quarters and feel entertained.
It is one of the most haunted tourist attractions of Singapore and the world's first nocturnal zoo. It is an amazing place of hangout for those who want to see the wild animals roaming in their natural habitat in the moonlight. The Night Safari opens at 7:30 pm and remains till midnight.
It is built in a rainforest zone housing over more than 2,800 animals from 300 different species of mammals, reptiles, and birds. It is also the first-ever zoo with a free-ranging orangutan habitat. You can enjoy photo sessions with your favourite animals, presentations on animals and many more.
4. Laser Battle-
It is a great fun-filled game for visitors of all ages in which bright green laser rays are shot. The Laser Battle game is designed by using the Laser Tag Gaming Technology.
Hotels near Night Safari to stay
Situated at the heart of the city’s premier shopping district, with the world-class shopping of Orchard Road at your doorstep and the grandeurs of a 5-star hotel within, The St. Regis Singapore is the ideal residence for the discerning luxury traveller. Immerse in exquisite experiences highlighted by 299 luxuriously-appointed rooms and suites, signature restaurants and bars as well as the award-winning Remède Spa. From its location at the most coveted address, set at the crossroads of the embassy district and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Singapore Botanic Gardens, to the legendary St. Regis Butler Service and one of the largest private art collections in the city, this is world-class hospitality at its finest. The St. Regis Singapore has been certified as an SG Clean establishment. With an SG Clean certification, the hotel is committed to upholding good sanitation and hygiene practices backed by the National Environment Agency, Enterprise Singapore and Singapore Tourism Board.
2. InterContinental Singapore
Located on the fringe of Marina Bay precinct, InterContinental® Singapore is a luxury landmark deeply rooted in the heritage of the arts and cultural districts of Bugis and Bras Basah. Positioned in close proximity to established historical enclaves including Arab Street, Kampong Glam and Little India, InterContinental Singapore is also conveniently located next to Bugis Junction shopping complex, Singapore's first glass-covered air-conditioned shopping street.
3. The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore
Located downtown in the charming civic and cultural district, the iconic Capitol Building and Stamford House are unveiled as The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore. Blending beautifully conserved architecture with modern touches, this exclusive retreat promises luxury at its finest. The discovery continues with unparalleled shopping and dining experiences within footsteps, and the direct access to the legendary Capitol Theatre, for hosting celebratory galas and extraordinary gatherings.
4. Ramada by Wyndham Singapore at Zhongshan Park
Awarded Best Mid-Range Hotel for 5th time at the 30th Annual TTG Travel Awards 2019, the Ramada by Wyndham Singapore at Zhongshan Park offers 382 well-appointed guest rooms in a contemporary design, catering to both business and leisure travellers. Each room features amenities such as a 40-inch flat screen TV with cable channel access, complimentary in-room WIFI access and an in-room safe. With 540 square metres of meeting and banquet space, Ramada Singapore offers a perfect setting for corporate meetings, wedding banquets and private parties. The hotel ballroom and function room are equipped with the flexibility to accommodate events requiring various set-ups. Alongside facilities such as a 30-metre swimming pool, 24-hour fitness centre as well as a business centre; the hotel’s restaurant, New Ubin Zhongshan Park, serves up hearty tze char and brings guests a Truly Singaporean experience.
5. ibis Singapore Novena
ibis Singapore Novena is located on the intersection of Irrawaddy and Balestier Road and 8 mins walk to Novena MRT Station. Ideal for business, medical and leisure travelers, the hotel offers complimentary WIFI, international power sockets, parking, a handy phone with unlimited mobile internet and local & international calls for selected countries. Oopen Pasta and Grill serves an international buffet breakfast and chef's delectable selection, hotel is a stone's throw from heritage sites and authentic local food trails. Hotel also provides a complimentary shuttle to Novena MRT Station.
Other Essential Information About River Safari
Want to make the most of your time and money at the River Safari Park Singapore? There is a season and daily passes with discounts and other add-ons that you can avail just for a few bucks.
1. Friends of River Safari-
Becoming a member of the River Safari will provide you with the opportunity to enjoy unlimited admission to the park for one year along with mind-boggling privileges at the River Safari park in Singapore. You can enjoy great discounts on F&B, tours, retail, and many more things.
2. Friends of Wildlife-
Want to be a member of the wildlife circle? Become a member of the Friends of Wildlife and enjoy unlimited fun at the River Safari, Night Safari, Singapore Zoo, and Jurong Bird Park. You can also enjoy a complimentary tram ride and other special attractions. Your excitement will be heightened by exclusive discounts on F&B, tours and retail and more add-ons.
Singapore River Safari Timings
Reservoir Cruise: 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM, Last entry 6:00 PM
Amazon River Quest: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Last ride 6:00 PM
Squirrel Monkey Forest: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Giant Panda Forest: 10:00 AM - 6:15 PM
Touch Pool: Monday - Friday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM - 6:30 PM, Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays: 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Visitor Services Counter: 9:30 AM - 6:30 PM
Highlights
Get some glimpse of giant panda pair Kai Kai and Jia Jia at the giant panda forest.
Explore ‘The Amazon’ with the ‘Amazon River Quest’ and ‘River Safari’.
Learn about the Giant Pandas and more animals at the River Safari, where a behind the scene program is conducted.
Get the chance to come close to animals like never before.
See the giant Mekong catfish which is also known as the Thailand Giant catfish.
Tips for Visiting River Safari
The River Safari Singapore lasts for 2-3 hours only. So, for having the best wildlife experience you must check out Night Safari and Singapore Zoo.
Boat rides are subject to availability of seats which are arranged on a first-come-first-served basis. The weather condition is also taken to be a consideration for the availability of seats.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the River Safari park.
To participate in the Amazon River Quest, the minimum permissible height of a guest has to be 1.06 metre.
The tickets for entering River Safari Singapore are only permissible for use by tourists. Singaporean citizens or permanent residents of Singapore are not entitled to the use of tickets.
The validity of tickets is for 60 days from the date of purchase. During this time you can enjoy the complete flexibility of visiting the River Safari.
0 Comentarios