River Safari, Singapore:
Description:
The River Safari is a river-themed zoo and aquarium located in Singapore. It is part of Wildlife Reserves Singapore and is designed to showcase the world’s major rivers and their ecosystems. The park spans 12 hectares and is home to a diverse range of aquatic and land animals, representing various river habitats from around the globe.
Brief History:
The River Safari opened its doors to the public on April 3, 2013. It was the fourth park under the Wildlife Reserves Singapore umbrella, joining the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and Jurong Bird Park.
Architecture and Design:
The River Safari features innovative and immersive exhibits that simulate the environments of iconic rivers such as the Amazon, Mississippi, Nile, Yangtze, and Mekong. The park incorporates naturalistic landscaping, themed exhibits, and state-of-the-art enclosures to provide visitors with an educational and entertaining experience.
Construction:
The construction of the River Safari began in 2009, and it was a significant undertaking due to the need to create diverse and realistic habitats for the animals. The park was carefully designed to ensure the well-being of the inhabitants and to provide an authentic representation of the world’s rivers.
Tourism:
The River Safari is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including the Giant Panda Forest, Amazon Flooded Forest, and Wild Amazonia. The park offers boat rides, educational shows, and interactive exhibits to engage visitors of all ages.
Things to Do:
- Panda Watching: Visit the Giant Panda Forest to see giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia, a highlight of the River Safari.
- Amazon River Quest: Take a boat ride along the Amazon River to observe animals in a naturalistic setting.
- Wild Amazonia: Explore this exhibit featuring diverse wildlife from the Amazon rainforest, including manatees and anacondas.
How to Reach:
The River Safari is located in Mandai, in the northern part of Singapore. Visitors can take public transportation or use private vehicles. The park is easily accessible from various parts of the city, and there are parking facilities available.
Location:
River Safari is situated at 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826.
Best Time to Visit:
Singapore experiences a tropical climate, so the weather is generally warm and humid throughout the year. However, it is advisable to visit the River Safari during the dry season, which is from June to September, to avoid heavy rain. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends and public holidays.
A trip to the River Safari offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the world’s rivers and witness a diverse range of aquatic and land animals in carefully recreated habitats.