Guide to Singapore Zoo

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
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Animal lovers will relish the opportunity to visit this immensely popular zoo. Singapore Zoo is designed around the concept of housing animals in naturalistic environments and is home to more than 300 different species. It’s also one of the most beloved animal parks in the region and attracts around two million visitors per year. Come here to encounter a wide array of fauna from across the globe, including everything from Asian elephants and sea lions to reptiles and the world’s largest population of captive orangutans. Spanning multiple themed areas, the zoo itself is an expansive animal park that takes hours upon hours to explore fully, so be sure to prepare in advance of your visit. To help you plan your time at Singapore Zoo, we’ve put together this helpful guide. It’s designed to make the most of your zoo experience and includes tips for visiting, must-see exhibits, and ways to save on admission.

Singapore Zoo Tickets

Looking for discount Singapore Zoo tickets? Snag a Go Singapore pass. You’ll spend less on admission to the Singapore Zoo and dozens of other popular area attractions. Save up to 52% on combined admission versus paying at the gate. What’s more, you can choose from two pass options:

  • All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do for one fixed price. Includes admission to the zoo as well as 30+ attractions.
  • Explorer Pass – Choose a number of attractions and visit them over a 30-day period. Includes admission to the zoo plus your choice of other attractions.

Singapore Zoo Tips for Visiting

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  • Singapore Zoo covers a great deal of terrain—we recommend hopping aboard the tram to get around easier (especially if you are traveling with kids or an individual with impaired mobility).
  • We definitely recommend consulting the Singapore Zoo map prior to your visit. It will help you plan your path through the zoo and highlight what you want to see the most.
  • Those traveling with little ones who need a bit of help getting them around might want to rent a stroller or wagon.
  • If you’re visiting the zoo with some extra bags or your luggage, you can opt to rent a locker or leave your oversized luggage at the Rental Services counter for a small fee.
  • Don’t forget the basics: sunscreen, an umbrella, comfortable walking shoes, and bug spray. See our section below for more on what to bring.
  • Flash photography is prohibited for the sake of the animals—keep this in mind when snapping photos of your favorite critters.
  • All animal shows are included with park admission! If you’d like to enjoy one of these special events, consult the show schedule.
  • For those who do intend to take in an animal show, the zoo recommends that you arrive 15 minutes prior to the show start to get the best seats.
  • Likewise, you have the option to feed certain animals during pre-designated times. Check out the feeding schedule for reference.

When is the Best Time to Go to Singapore Zoo?

You should plan to spend a full day at the zoo. It’s also advisable to go early to avoid the crowds as well as to increase the likelihood of seeing animals at their most active. The more time you allow yourself to spend at the zoo, the more feedings and keeper talks you can enjoy. These special experiences take place at scheduled intervals throughout the day; consult the operating calendar before your visit to see what you’ll catch during your trip.

What to Bring

  • Water: Singapore Zoo is massive, so you’ll definitely need to stay hydrated. It’s an especially hot climate during the warmer months so extra water is highly recommended.
  • Sunscreen: Ditto for sunscreen—you’ll be outside in hot weather quite a bit and the last thing you want is a bad sunburn.
  • Umbrella: The climate in Singapore can be temperamental, so be prepared for a sudden downpour. A rain poncho wouldn’t hurt either.
  • Camera: One of the best parts of Singapore Zoo is the many opportunities you’ll get to see unique animals up close. Capture these moments with a camera or camera phone so you can remember your experience.
  • Picnic: While the zoo offers plenty of dining options, you can save money by bringing your own picnic lunch. Please remember to eat only in designated picnic areas.
  • Insect Repellent: It also gets quite buggy in the zoo, especially with so much natural vegetation devoted to the animal enclosures. Be sure to use bug spray or another form of insect repellent.

What to Do at the Zoo

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Singapore Zoo encompasses a wide array of themed animal exhibits that are designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitat. We’ve highlighted the different zones below and which animals are found within each one. Australasia Featuring a selection of marsupials from Australia, Indonesia, and New Guinea, this exhibit host kangaroos, wallabies, pygmy hippos, cassowaries, and more. Elephants of Asia This beautiful exhibit is designed to evoke the cultural significance of elephants as well as their natural environment. The human spaces feature Burmese architecture, while the animal spaces include plenty of space for this herd of five female elephants to play. Fragile Forest Contained within a vast biodome, this exhibit mimics a tropical rainforest habitat. Your path through the exhibit will evoke a journey through the rainforest as you encounter animals from insects and frogs, to lemurs and sloths. Frozen Tundra This exhibit captures the climate of the Arctic region to make its inhabitants feel right at home. Meet raccoon dogs from Japan and a pair of wolverines - and remember to bundle up as you walk through this area. Great Rift Valley of Ethiopia Echoing the ever-changing landscape of this unique part of Ethiopia, this exhibit houses animals that are found throughout its namesake. Catch glimpses of jackals, meerkats, baboons, and the grand ibex. Primate Kingdom The fun part about this exhibit is the fact that each primate gets its own designated “island” area to live and play in. The moats surrounding each island are filled with fish, and the islands are filled with bamboo, wild grass, and palms to keep the monkeys happy. Rainforest KidzWorld Perfect for your little ones, this section of the Singapore Zoo is filled with friendly critters. Your kids can learn all about a wide variety of animals and even “make friends” with some of the gentler ones, from rabbits and ferrets to goats and ponies. There are keeper talks and animal feedings here as well, with opportunities for young visitors to interact with select species. Plus, there’s a number of entertainment opportunities for energetic kids including a Wild Animal Carousel and a spray fountain. Reptile Garden Encompassing a number of sub-areas—including RepTopia, Tortoise Shell’ter, and Sungei Buaya—the Reptile Garden is home to these fascinating scaly, slimy, and slithery creatures. RepTopia alone houses more than 60 different species in four distinct geographical zones. Treetops Trail Also evocative of a rainforest, this is one of the more immersive exhibits in the zoo. Animals in this zone live together as they would in the wild, with multiple species spread across the different layers of the forest. Be sure to visit the elevated platform to see the critters in the canopy! Wild Africa One of the most remarkably diverse continents, Africa is home to some of the most exciting and amazing species in the entire world. This exhibit recreates that biodiversity to great effect, housing all your favorites including zebras, lions, cheetahs, rhinos, painted dogs, and more.

Where to Eat at the Zoo

There are plenty of dining options within the zoo itself, including everything from fast food and ice cream to the Ah Meng Kitchen (which features sumptuous local cuisine). You can also find the Wild Deli (which includes gourmet sandwiches and pizzas) and the Chawang Bistro (selling everything from seafood pasta to hotdogs).

Save on Tickets with a Go Singapore Pass

The Go Singapore Pass® is the best choice for saving and flexibility. Get Singapore Zoo tickets, plus admission to several other top area attractions. You’ll save up to 52% on museums, tours, and activities versus paying at the gate!

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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National Museum of Singapore
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10 historical places in Singapore

Hey there, history buffs! If you haven’t been to Singapore, now is the perfect time to consider a trip to this unique and elegant city. It’s clean, bright and modern, with reminders of its past everywhere and grand architecture dating to the European settlement in the early 19th century. Since then, the Lion City has become home to many major religions, as well a hub of world events from the Chinese Revolution to occupations to several important military campaigns. Singapore is fairly compact, and much of it can be seen in a single visit. To get a good overall picture of the history of this intriguing city state, take in: The Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall Raffles Hotel Tea Chapter Chinatown Old Parliament House The Civilian War Memorial Kranji War Memorial and Military Cemetery The Battle Box Fort Siloso Museums 1. Sun Yat-Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall Sun Yat-Sen was a Chinese revolutionary who led the resistance against the Qing dynasty in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. He would go on to become the first president of the People’s Republic and became known as the Father of the Nation. Yat-Sen used this colonial-style villa as a base for many of the rebellion’s activities, and it’s now been refurbished as a museum featuring artifacts and stories from the revolution and the mastermind behind it. 2. Raffles Hotel Possibly the most famous building in Singapore – from the Colonial era at least – Raffles Hotel is a must for any visitor to this city and is on the yellow line of the Big Bus Tour. This immense neo-renaissance-style villa, which started as a quaint beach hotel set amidst tropical palms, was converted into a luxury hotel in 1887 and named after the city’s founder, Sir Stamford Raffles. Stroll the long corridors, following in the footsteps of famous guests like Sir Rudyard Kipling, Charlie Chaplin and Queen Elizabeth II, and try a cocktail in the famous Long Bar - birthplace of the Singapore Sling. 3. Chinese tea drinking at Tea Chapter Tea drinking has been an important ritual in Chinese culture for at least 2,000 years, and possibly more. What better way to experience it than in the oldest tea house in Singapore? Escape from the bustle of Chinatown and enjoy a moment of calm as you kick off your shoes (literally) and enter the tranquil space of the tea room. Relax in zen-like surroundings, sip on a cup of Tea Chapter’s signature Imperial Golden Cassia tea, and know that you’re helping to keep an ancient tradition alive. 4. Chinatown In 1843 Sir Stamford Raffles officially allocated the area west of the Singapore River as the Chinese Campong. It’s now the largest historic district in the city and is a hub for many major religions – keep an eye out for the city’s oldest Hindu temple, Sri Mariamman, the oldest Hokkien temple, Thian Hock Keng, the Masjid Jamae Mosque and the aptly named Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum. Spend a few hours wandering the district and soaking it all up (it’s on the Red Line of the Big Bus Tour), but if you need a little guidance, or want to dive a little deeper into the history of the area, try a guided bike tour or even an open world outdoor escape room. 5. Old Parliament House Explore the history of Singapore’s government and legal system at the oldest building in the city. Originally built as a residence in 1827, it became a courthouse soon afterwards and remained so until 1865, even after being purchased by the East India Company in 1841. Throughout the twentieth century it served as the Supreme Court, the Legislative Assembly House and then Parliament House, until the new parliament building was opened in 1999. It’s now an arts center, and visitors are welcome to stroll the old corridors where permanent exhibitions detail the story of the building and the lives of famous Singaporeans throughout history. 6. Civilian War Memorial The former burial chambers of victims of the Japanese occupation of Singapore in World War Two now form part of the foundations of the Civilian War Memorial, standing tall in War Memorial Park. It was opened on February 15th, 1967, 25 years after the fall of the city, and a memorial service is held here every year on that date. The monument is made up of four pillars (affectionately called ‘The Chopsticks’ by locals) representing the Chinese, Malayan, Indian and Eurasian populations of the city. Nearby is the Indian National Army Monument, which stands on the site of an earlier memorial to an unknown Indian soldier. 7. Kranji War Memorial and Military Cemetery A poignant and eerie place, the Kranji War Memorial is a stark and upright monument honoring lives lost in the two world wars. Originally a military camp, the Kranji area was used as a prison by the occupying Japanese forces, and it was the inmates who first established a small cemetery here for their deceased compatriots. The memorial is now the final resting place of more than 4,000 commonwealth and Chinese soldiers and is the site of a significant remembrance ceremony on November 11 every year. 8. The Battle Box True to its name, the Battle Box is a small underground bunker which was used as a bomb shelter during World War Two. Visitors can explore 26 rooms below Fort Canning Hill, reconstructed with wax statues, moving figures and historical artifacts. Learn how Lieutenant-General Percival and his senior officers directed the Battle of Singapore, watch battle campaigns unfold on land, sea and air and get lost in the labyrinth of rooms and corridors. Your ticket includes a 30-minute guided tour, but after that you’re free to wander and explore on your own. 9. Fort Siloso Another World War Two site, though this one has history dating back to the nineteenth century when it was one of three forts built to defend the city from potential sea invasion. Sitting at the north-west corner of the island of Sentosa, Fort Silosa was brought back into service in the twentieth century and now houses a military museum, underground tunnels and interactive video displays. Get there via a pretty coastal walk or ride the gondola from Faber Peak. 10. The Museum District Okay, so not strictly a historical site in itself, but Singapore’s museums together offer an interesting and comprehensive guide to the history of the area, pre- and post-colonialization. The National Museum of Singapore, dating to 1887, captures the history of the city through its cultures, traditions and stories. The Indian Heritage Center reaches a little further, exploring the history of India and southern Asia, while the Asian Civilizations Museum takes a religious perspective, covering Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, Christian and Jain heritage in the city. Be a history buff with Go City Singapore has a rich heritage of cultural, military and religious history. See it all and save money with a Go City Explorer or All-Inclusive Pass today!
Karleen Stevens
Two people cycling in front of a temple with a golden dome, Singapore
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Discover the top Singapore spring events 

Spring in Singapore is a delight. The months of March, April and May sit neatly within Singapore’s dry season. There’s therefore little rain, although the odd thunderstorm can still strike early on. At the same time, humidity is low and though sunny, Singapore in spring isn’t oppressively hot either. The result is a plethora of Singapore spring events to watch out for. They range from Vesak Day to the Singapore International Festival of Arts, meaning you won’t be left reeling for things to do. If you’re heading to Singapore in March, April or May, be sure to add these top events to your list of must-visit attractions! Spring cultural events in Singapore Usually taking place in early April, the Chinese festival of Qingming continues to have a powerful hold over Singapore. Normally translated into English as Tomb-sweeping Day, it’s best thought of as a day to celebrate lost loved ones. Families with Chinese ancestry across the island head to the gravesites of parents and grandparents. But far from being a somber occasion, Qingming is celebratory in nature. Tombs are cleaned and freed of vegetation, whilst gifts of food such as rice and wine are often brought as offerings. Easier to spot for passing visitors to Singapore in spring is the burning of paper money. Now often purposely bought ‘fake’ notes, burning the money allows it to ascend into the heavens for use by the ancestors. Very different in outlook is May’s Vesak Day. Commemorated by Singapore’s Buddhist communities, it’s sometimes also known as Buddha’s birthday. Marking the birth, enlightenment and death of the holy figure, adherents participate by laying flower garlands at temples and releasing birds in an act symbolizing generosity. Little India’s Temple of a Thousand Lights (Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya) helps lead the celebrations, and all are welcome. Getting out and about in Singapore in spring Equally hospitable but completely different again is Singapore’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations on or around March 17 of each year. The two day street festival takes place on Boat Quay in honor of Ireland’s patron saint. Centered around a parade which takes place on Circular Road, there’s lots of activities aimed at kids, alongside ample opportunity to grab a pint of Guinness. It would be rude not too after all! Spanning four weeks from May into June, the Singapore International Festival of Arts is one of the most popular events in Singapore. And with good reason. Matching the work of local artists with those from countries around the world, its performance schedule includes the traditional and the contemporary. The visual arts are well represented, but so is the theater, dance and music. Celebrating the rejuvenation of the Singapore River from polluted industrial water way to favorite hangout spot is the Singapore River Festival. Throughout April Boat Quay, Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay play host to a series of special events, in addition to their bar and restaurant terraces. They include workshops and movie screenings, as well as the chance to buy a specially prepared picnic hamper for those looking to linger. Explore the outdoors with Singapore spring events If you thought you had to head to Tokyo to experience sakura (cherry blossom season), think again. In recent years, Singapore has become a great alternative. Gardens by the Bay hosts a dedicated Sakura Japan Fair at the end of March. Visitors can take in more than 20 different species of flower in white and pink. There’s also a Japanese street fair, tea ceremonies and various other events linked to the land of the rising sun. But the essence of sakura can also be enjoyed at several other locations thanks to Singapore’s reputation as a garden city. Jurong Lake Park to the west of downtown is one spot, alongside the largely unknown Japanese Cemetery Park in residential Hougang. Then take advantage of the clear blue skies to enjoy the open-top ride of Big Bus Singapore. A one day ticket puts you in easy reach of many of Singapore’s top attractions, meaning there’s no excuse for missing Singapore Botanic Gardens or even a drink in the famed Raffles Long Bar. Don’t forget about Singapore’s incredible museums! The weather outside might be perfect, but you shouldn’t forget about Singapore’s museums. The country’s oldest is the National Museum of Singapore, an organization dedicated to detailing the history, art and culture of Singapore and Singaporeans. Standing pride of place on Stamford Road, it contains thousands of fascinating artefacts, from ancient carvings to seats from Singapore Airlines first A380. Although small, The Battlebox (the popular name for Fort Canning bunker) is no less fascinating than the National Museum for history lovers. It focuses on the sometimes-traumatic events of the Second World War in Singapore. Delving over nine meters beneath Fort Canning Hill, it was used as a British command post before the island surrendered to Japanese forces. Today it’s set up to depict the last days in the Battle of Singapore, having been lost and then rediscovered in 1988. Switching away from Singapore’s illustrious history, the ArtScience Museum intertwines these two disciplines in 21 galleries located within the lotus flower building at Marina Bay Sands. Its 6,000 square meters of exhibition space are given over entirely to temporary exhibitions, meaning you never quite know what to expect. The world of Harry Potter, photography of Annie Leibovitz and Egyptian mummies from the British Museum have all featured previously. How to save on Singapore attraction admission We all want our money to stretch further. And now it can. Travel with Go City in hand and you can make savings on admission to many of Singapore’s top attractions. From art galleries to puzzle hunts we’ve got you covered! So why not check out whether our All-Inclusive or our Explorer pass is right for you? Then share your adventures in Singapore with us by tagging @GoCity or using the hashtag #GoCity on your socials to feature on our Instagram or Facebook pages. Here you’ll also discover all the latest news from Go City, alongside exclusive competitions, special offer deals and even suggestions for your next vacation!
Alex Birungi
Vew of the Singapore Skyline with the sunrise in the background
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Places to watch the sunrise in Singapore

Beautiful islands, glinting statues and tranquil gardens – there are enough places to watch the sunrise in Singapore to make anyone an early bird.
Karleen Stevens

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