Wild Escapes: Top Things to Do Near Singapore Zoo

Singapore Zoo is just the beginning—discover top picks nearby for more wild fun!

Published: April 21, 2026
Children at Singapore Zoo

So, you've got Singapore Zoo on your bucket list (and who can blame you?), but guess what? Adventure in this lush pocket of Singapore goes way beyond the animal kingdom. From river safaris to treetop trails, sparkling lakes to quirky bites, the area around Singapore Zoo is packed with things to see, do, and taste. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a keen photographer, or just someone who wants to squeeze every drop of fun out of their day, stick with us! Here’s how we’d plan the ultimate day near Singapore Zoo. 

Our favorite things to do near Singapore Zoo include: 

  • River Wonders at Mandai Wildlife Reserve 
  • Night Safari at Mandai Wildlife Reserve 
  • Bird Paradise at Mandai Wildlife Reserve 
  • Rainforest Wild Asia at Mandai Wildlife Reserve 
  • Take a Stroll at Upper Seletar Reservoir Park 
  • Venture into the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve 
  • Enjoy a Scenic Boat Ride on the Lower Seletar Reservoir 
  • Indulge at The Canopy Café Mandai 
  • Go Cycling or Hiking around the Mandai Nature Trails 

River Wonders at Mandai Wildlife Reserve 

River Wonders is more than just a stroll by the water—it’s Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park! This one’s for explorers with a thirst for adventure: think giant pandas lazing by the Yangtze, Amazonian manatees gliding through deep tanks, and rare river otters stealing the show. The immersive habitats make it feel like you’ve been teleported to distant continents, minus the long-haul flight. 

Highlights? You can’t miss the Amazon Flooded Forest, an underwater spectacle with arapaima, catfish, and graceful manatees drifting around you. The ambiance is both peaceful and thrilling, with lush greenery and gentle river sounds at every corner. If you’re keen for hands-on fun, try the Amazon River Quest boat ride—spot tapirs, jaguars, and more along the way! River Wonders is a must for animal lovers and anyone curious about the planet’s most exciting waterways. 

Night Safari at Mandai Wildlife Reserve 

Why settle for day-tripping when you can head out on an after-dark wildlife adventure? The Night Safari is Singapore’s legendary nocturnal park, where the stars twinkle above and animal calls echo through the trees. Here you’ll board an open tram or wander lantern-lit paths to encounter leopards on the prowl, elephants bathing at moonlit ponds, and owls keeping a watchful eye. 

The Night Safari sets a magical, safari-camp-like vibe with crackling fire dancers and nightly shows that immerse you in the wonders of the wild. It’s unique: all the animals here are at their most active, and the shadowy jungle feels mysterious and exciting. Evenings at Night Safari bring a whole new energy to your trip—furry, feathery and fabulous. 

Bird Paradise at Mandai Wildlife Reserve 

Calling all bird nerds and color lovers—a visit to Bird Paradise is mandatory! This newly revamped aviary is one of Asia’s largest and houses a jaw-dropping 3,500 birds in sprawling, naturalistic aviaries. Step beneath cascading waterfalls, listen to the chatter of lories overhead, and marvel at hornbills and flamingos in themed habitats. 

The vibe is upbeat and breezy, with hundreds of free-flying birds fluttering just above your head. Make sure to catch the daily feeding sessions—parrots, pelicans, and even penguins get in on the action, often right at your feet! The diversity here is staggering; it’s both educational and Insta-worthy all at once. If you’re traveling with little ones, the play areas and interactive exhibits are big winners. 

Rainforest Wild Asia at Mandai Wildlife Reserve

Rainforest Wild Asia

Take a green detour into the heart of Southeast Asia at Rainforest Wild Asia. Winding trails and misty canopies set the mood, while rare wildlife like Malayan tigers, tapirs, and adorable slow lorises keep things interesting at every corner. You’ll love the treetop platforms—perfect for that “explorer” selfie—and the soundscape of croaking frogs and chattering monkeys. 

This part of the Mandai complex is all about the textures and mysteries of the jungle. It feels adventurous and a little untamed, but always welcoming for families and solo explorers alike. Go slow, listen to the leaves rustle, and keep your camera ready for unexpected wildlife cameos. There’s something tranquil and raw about this mini-jungle—your wild heart will thank you. 

Take a Stroll at Upper Seletar Reservoir Park 

Ready for a breather? Upper Seletar Reservoir Park is less than 10 minutes from Singapore Zoo and offers sweeping water views, photogenic heritage trees, and a relaxed, local atmosphere. Head to the rocket-shaped lookout tower for panoramic vistas or stretch out for a lakeside picnic with families and joggers. 

What makes this park special? The calm is contagious. You can watch monitor lizards sunbathing, spot hornbills in the trees, or simply soak up the stillness on a park bench. It’s a favorite for cyclists, walkers, and anyone craving a dose of fresh air after a day of animal spotting. 

Venture into the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve 

Craving wilder, off-the-beaten-track discoveries? Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike—just a quick drive from the Zoo. Mangroves, mudflats and boardwalk trails bring you within arm’s reach of mudskippers, migratory birds, and even the occasional estuarine crocodile (from a safe distance!). 

The park’s remote vibe makes every sighting exciting—especially during the migratory season, when flocks of sandpipers and herons fill the sky. The observatory hides are perfect for quiet animal-watching, while educational signs share fun facts along the way. It’s peaceful, wild, and full of surprises—think of it as Singapore’s secret safari. 

Enjoy a Scenic Boat Ride on Lower Seletar Reservoir

Lower Seletar Reservoir

For a splashy, scenic break, head to the Lower Seletar Reservoir, just a quick taxi away. Boardwalks, fishing spots, and tranquil waters set the scene, but for real “wow” moments, try a dragon boat or kayaking session arranged at the People’s Association Water-Venture. 

Out on the water, you’ll see egrets flying low, locals paddling as the sun sets, and panoramic views of Singapore’s northern skyline. The mood is always chill—think cool breezes and a chance for some Singapore-style serenity (plus a fun workout for those arms!). 

Indulge at The Canopy Café Mandai 

After all that exploring, you’ll need to refuel—and The Canopy Café Mandai is our top pick. Think bright, airy interiors, garden views, and a menu full of local favorites and hearty Western classics. Their laksa is creamy and fragrant, while the chicken rice is a homestyle must-try. For a cool-down, we love their iced Milo or teh tarik. 

What makes it a standout? The family-friendly vibe and easygoing crowd. There’s plenty of room to chill, grab a bite between wildlife parks, or just sit back with a pastry and people-watch. It’s popular with locals too, so you know the flavors are on point. 

Go Cycling or Hiking Around the Mandai Nature Trails 

Still got energy left? Mandai’s network of cycling and hiking trails is your ticket to off-road exploration. Rent a bike or don sneakers and wind your way through forests teeming with birds and butterflies. Don’t miss the Mandai Park Connector, which loops you past parks, reservoirs, and secret nooks perfect for a photo stop. 

We love how these trails connect urban life with pockets of peaceful wilderness. Whether you’re with the family, out for a solo spin, or just adding some variety to your trip, the Mandai trails give you space to roam, breathe and discover Singapore’s wild side. 

 

Ready to go wild? The area around Singapore Zoo is bursting with activities for every type of traveler—whether you love animals, scenic strolls, or discovering local flavors. Make a day (or two) of it by mixing unforgettable wildlife encounters with tranquil parks, delicious local bites, and splashy outdoor adventures. Your Singapore escape just got a whole lot more exciting. Get exploring—there’s so much more waiting just beyond the zoo gates! 

Enjoyed this? Check out Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Singapore Passes or Things to Do Near Universal Studios Singapore 

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Riders on the Battlestar Galactica rollercoaster at Universal Studios Singapore.
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The Best Rides in Singapore

Adrenaline junkies rejoice! If there’s one thing Singapore isn’t short of, it’s a world-class thrill ride or six, from the frankly terrifying rollercoasters at Universal Studios to the towering Singapore Flyer observation wheel that overlooks Marina Bay. So saddle up and get ready for the time of your life as we reveal the best rides in Singapore, including:Battlestar Galactica at Universal Studios SingaporeThe Sentosa SkyHelixThe Singapore FlyerThe Sentosa cable carAJ Hackett’s giant swing and bungee ropeRiptide Rocket at Adventure Cove water park Universal Studios Singapore Let’s not beat about the bush: around 90% of the best rides in Singapore are to be found at Universal Studios (USS) on Sentosa Island. There are nearly 30, so to list all of them here would take waaay too long, but here are three of our faves to give you a little taster... Battlestar Galactica Hold on to your hats: this one’s a beast. Based on the much-loved sci-fi TV series, it sees an evil Cylon robot coaster do battle with its human nemesis as the dueling rides twist, turn, intertwine and come within inches of colliding several times over. Cylon is the faster and more frightening of the two, an inverted rollercoaster that includes a corkscrew, a cobra roll and a (literally) hair-raising zero-gravity drop. The Human ride is – and we use this term advisedly – slightly more sedate; a traditional rollercoaster with no inversions but reaching higher speeds of up to 56mph. At 139 feet, these are the highest dueling rollercoasters on the planet, so it's fair to say that neither is recommended for the faint of heart. Puss In Boots’ Giant Journey Emerge from the ivy-clad turret and go in search of Mother Goose’s golden eggs with our heroes Puss and Kitty on this exciting family-friendly rollercoaster that will leave the kids screaming for more. You’ll find it inside the Shrek-themed Far Far Away Land, where King Harold’s Castle and the Enchanted Airways coaster are also popular attractions. Be aware that this kid-friendly zone is among the busiest in the park, so be prepared to queue or, better still, get there early! Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure There are hungry dinos galore on the loose at this Jurassic World-inspired facility where a drenching is all but guaranteed. Board your circular raft and ride the rapids past cute animatronic mum-and-baby stegosauruses and into the restricted zone, where hissing velociraptors and radio reports of an escaped T-rex will have you quaking in your boats. Will you escape uneaten and unsoaked? Spoiler alert: yes, you will and no, you won’t. Sentosa’s Other Hot Tickets Sentosa Cable Car The very act of getting to Universal Studios requires you first to get to Sentosa. And what better way to do so than aboard the iconic Singapore cable car, one of the island’s more gentle rides, to be sure, but also one of its most essential. Awestruck passengers soar 200 feet above sea level on an epic 15-minute journey over the bay, taking in sweeping views of lush tropical foliage and Sentosa’s fine beaches along the way. You can even book a private sunset ride with dinner and drinks! Sentosa SkyHelix In case it isn’t already apparent, the majority of Singapore’s best rides are to be found on the island playground of Sentosa, and the SkyHelix is no exception, with its sky-high vantage point on Imbiah Lookout affording stunning views across the bay to the Southern Islands. This one’s a favorite with Instagrammers seeking the ultimate sunset snap as the rotating gondola spins skywards, reaching heights of around 260 feet above sea level. Riptide Rocket Also on Sentosa, the Adventure Cove water park comes with a fish-filled reef and stacks of rides, the most thrilling of which is the Riptide Rocket, a ride every bit as electrifying as its name suggests. This one is best done in pairs, with floats designed to maximize the speed with two people on board as you whip around gravity-defying loops and over stomach-churning drops before being ejected at very high speed (and no doubt still screaming) into a giant splash pool at the bottom. AJ Hackett Sentosa Ever fancied bungee jumping above the palm-fringed golden sands of a tropical beach paradise? Well, now’s your chance! AJ Hackett’s Sentosa attraction on sunny Siloso Beach is strictly for those with a head for heights. Get your bearings on the SkyBridge, a knee-trembling 150 feet above terra firma, before braving the bungee or having a go at the main event: a giant swing for up to three people that soars over the Siloso sands at potentially lunch-losing speeds of up to 120kph. Last But Not Least... Singapore Flyer One of the tallest observation wheels in the world, the Singapore Flyer is – gasp! – not on Sentosa but in Marina Bay. Its vantage point (and height) affords 360-degree views right across Singapore and (ahem) Sentosa, and even as far as Indonesia and Malaysia on clear days. The wheel soars to a nerve-jangling 541 feet;, which is not far off half the height of the Empire State Building or Eiffel Tower so, yeah, pretty high. Book a ticket that includes a glass of champagne or Singapore Sling if you think you might require a little something to steady your nerves. Save on attractions and activities in Singapore Save on admission to Singapore attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
The Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport
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Indoor Activities in Singapore

First the good news: Singapore is warm year round, with super-hot summers and winters with balmy tropical breezes and average temperatures that rarely dip below the mid-70s. But it also rains rather a lot. Monsoon seasons here run from December to March and June to September; frequent downpours even outside of these seasons have earned Singapore a spot comfortably inside the 20 wettest countries on the planet. And, believe us, when it rains here it really Singa-pours! But don’t let a little thing like that put you off! Simply grab a sturdy umbrella and hop on the excellent MRT subway system for direct access to some of the best indoor activities in Singapore, including: The Gardens by the Bay The National Museum Jewel Changi Airport Snow City The Fragment Room Scentopia Hawker centers for adventurous foodies The coolest libraries in town Flower Power Gardens by the Bay is the kind of attraction that merits multiple visits on any Singapore vacation. See it on a dry day from Marina Bay’s SkyPark observation deck – a dizzying 56 stories up – and don’t miss the free evening light show at its Supertree Grove, a series of deliciously Instagrammable tree-like structures on the waterfront, with a fun elevated walkway. Fun, that is, assuming you’re not caught out unawares up there when the heavens open. The gardens have plenty of indoor exhibits to keep you entertained (and dry) if the weather does turn against you. Take the soaring Flower Dome, for example. This huge durian-shaped hothouse – a veritable riot of vibrant blooms and nose-tickling perfumes – is only the biggest of its kind on the entire planet. Step inside to discover the baobab forest, an olive grove that features as its highlight a 1,000-year-old tree, and carpets of colorful flowers in gardens that showcase blooms from around the world, including Australia, South America and the Mediterranean. You might not feel very dry inside the Cloud Forest, where regular misting is in use to keep plants well hydrated and a huge crashing waterfall (the tallest indoor waterfall in the world... maybe) creates its own spray. Find it by following the roaring sound through the forest of ferns, vines and sweet-smelling orchids. An airport may not be the place you’d naturally think of when planning how to spend a rainy day, but then Jewel Changi Airport is no ordinary airport. This nature-themed entertainment complex contains hundreds of shops and restaurants as well as an indoor garden, the Shiseido Forest Valley, that spans five stories. Cascading recycled rainwater through an oculus in the glass-paneled roof, The Rain Vortex makes for a spectacular centerpiece and – wait for it – also lays claim to the title of the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Heck, go see both and you can make up your own mind! Cultural Indoor Activities in Singapore You don’t have to be an art aficionado to admire the collection at Singapore’s National Gallery, housed inside the monumental City Hall and former Supreme Court in the Civic District. Browse a huge collection of over 9,000 contemporary and modern works from Singapore and southeast Asia and see highlights including Georgette Chen’s series of evocative family portraits and Singaporean Choo Keng Kwang’s woodcuts and oil paintings. The art-inspired shops and two (count em) Michelin-starred restaurants here make it a great destination for filling an entire Singapore rainy day. The National Museum is no slouch either. This neoclassical icon houses one of the largest collections of historical artifacts in Asia. Check out paintings, drawings, sculptures, objets d'art and archaeological finds from in and around Singapore, including such priceless treasures as the ancient Singapore Stone, with its mysterious indecipherable inscriptions. Whiz over to the futuristic ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands for ever-changing immersive exhibitions and a gallery filled with virtual reality artworks. For something a little more traditional but no less eye-popping, catch the curated selection of classic movies, documentaries and arthouse films on show at the museum’s cinema. Did somebody say ‘popcorn’? Indoor Activities in Singapore for Foodies and Funsters Looking for the perfect rainy day activity? How does an afternoon spent gorging on chicken smothered in spicy peanut satay sound? Pretty good, right? Sweet-and-savory-sauce-drenched chili crab –so good it’s basically Singapore’s national dish – is another absolute must-try. Oyster omelet? Count us in! And you’ll need an army to keep us away from umami nasi goreng, another south-east Asian staple that’s at its very best in Singapore’s ubiquitous hawker centers, great inexpensive markets where the heady scents of sizzling spices are nothing short of intoxicating. Try the Old Airport Road Food Centre and Ghim Moh Market for some of the best street snacks in town. Singapore is a treasure trove of quirky indoor activities, meaning you’ll rarely have a dull moment regardless of what the weather decides to do! We’re talking augmented reality experiences, rage rooms, indoor snowboarding and, um, public libraries (bear with us on that one). If you’ve ever wanted to let off steam – and we mean really let off steam – in a safe, enclosed space, here’s your chance. The Fragment Room is Singapore's original rage room, a place where, clad in overalls, helmet, goggles and gloves, you’re free to smash up bottles, plates, cups and even electronic gadgets to your heart’s content. Irritated by the rain that's forced you indoors? Here’s where you can vent like a pro and achieve instant gratification to the melodic tinkling sounds of breaking glass. The clue’s in the names at Scentopia and Trickeye, two of Singapore’s premier augmented reality experiences. Scentopia combines short tours exploring the history and science of Singapore’s perfume industry with an eye-popping augmented reality gallery packed with dinosaurs, huge colorful blooms and other weird and wonderful flora and fauna that appear to leap from the exhibits. Trickeye offers yet more mind-bending illusions and photo opps galore as you and your family dance with mermaids, slay dragons and swim with sharks. Cool off at Snow City, Singapore’s first indoor snow center, where the emphasis is resolutely on fun. Wrap up warm and hop on an inflatable tube for the unforgettable experience of ‘snowtubing’ down the 60-meter snow slope and test your bumper car-handling skills – on ice. Last but by no means least are Singapore’s excellent public libraries. Library@Orchard is particularly cool, a beautifully designed space with long wave-shaped bookshelves, sure to melt the heart of any discerning bibliophile. In Library@Waterfront, the Sentosa views may well prove too distracting to concentrate on reading your book, while Tampines Regional Library comes with its own auditorium as well as boasting an indoor running track and a children’s playground. Save on indoor activities in Singapore Save on admission to Singapore attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram and Facebook for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Tourists crossing a pedestrian bridge in the Singapore jungle
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Adventurous Activities in Singapore

There’s oodles of adventure to be had in Singapore, a huge playground where activities range from giant swings to futuristic indoor surfing to outdoor adventures amid the vast tracts of lush jungle and tropical rainforest that cover around half of the entire island. Read on for our pick of the most adventurous activities in Singapore, including: The Singapore Flyer SkyPark Observation Deck Sentosa Island Forest Adventure Chestnut Nature Park Southern Ridges hiking trail Hawker centers for adventurous foodies Adventurous Activities in Singapore for Thrill Seekers Adrenaline junkies on vacation in Singapore are in for a real treat. Heck, you only have to look at the forest of skyscrapers in the Downtown district to know that this is a city that takes its dizzying highs seriously. Head to the SkyPark on top of the soaring Marina Bay Sands hotel and you’ll soon see what we mean. At 56 floors up, this observation deck is one of Singapore’s highest and affords splendid views across the city and bay. Evenings are particularly special, with spectacular light shows taking place far below at both the Gardens by the Bay and the Marina Bay Sands’ own Event Plaza. Also in the Marina Bay area, the Singapore Flyer is one of the planet’s tallest observation wheels, soaring to a heart-pumping 541 feet. Steady your nerves by booking a ticket that includes a glass of champagne or go native with a classic Singapore Sling. Best of Sentosa Island Sticking with the vertigo-inducing theme, hop on the cable car to Sentosa island for a thrill ride with a very gentle pace. The 15-minute journey across the bay carries passengers at around 200 feet above sea level. Essentially just a mode of traveling from A to B, it doubles as an adventurous Singapore attraction in its own right. Visitors with a passion for natural highs will be in clover once on Sentosa, where the SkyHelix spins heavenwards, reaching a dizzying 260 feet above sea level, with views from its vantage point on Imbiah Lookout that take in Singapore and the Southern Islands. This rotating ride lets you take in those glorious sunset vistas with a soda or slushie as your feet dangle underneath and you spend a full 10 minutes right at the top. Best of all, phones are permitted on the ride, so you’ll be able to fill your Insta feed with dozens of envy-inducing filter-free snaps. And, if you like your thrills a little more... high octane, you could always try the giant swing at Siloso Beach. What’s so thrilling about a giant swing, I hear you cry! Well, this one soars out above the palm-lined white sands at heights of up to 100 feet so, suffice to say, it is not for the faint of heart. There’s also bungee jumping here as well as a nearby luge track that winds through rainforest, down hillsides and around hairpin bends at hair-raising speeds. Splash down on the Double FlowRider at Wavehouse Sentosa’s Surf Cove, where beginners and pro surfers alike can wipeout in the huge artificial wavemaker. Back to Nature Singapore is one of the greenest cities on the planet, with almost 50% of its urban sprawl dedicated to green space. It stands to reason then that there are multiple outdoor adventures to be had here, whether in the city’s parks or beneath the jungle canopy that covers much of the rest of the island. Forest Adventure is as good a place to get a taster as any, its treetop obstacle course and multiple ziplines making for a fun family day out. Wobble across rope bridges high in the canopy and zip your way across the waterways; there’s quite literally hours of fun to be had. Or take to the waters in a kayak. This guided tour lasts 4.5 hours and takes you along the northeast coast by Pulau Ubin, a traditional Singaporean village set among the ancient mangrove forests. Your guide will steer you out towards the island of Pulau Ketam, where native wildlife includes kingfishers and herons, and where you may even be lucky enough to spot the occasional otter frolicking playfully in the shallows. Such lush countryside of course makes for world-class hiking and cycling opportunities. Saddle up, slap on the sunscreen and hit the Northern Eastern Riverine Loop, a 26km route that takes you through the parks, beaches, waterways and wetlands of Punggol. Or walk the stunning Southern Ridges Trail. This elevated walkway takes you through the treetops south of the city, where the canopy fairly teems with red-whiskered bulbuls, banded bay cuckoos, and other colorful native birdlife. Meanwhile, Chestnut Nature Park offers the best of both worlds, with 81 hectares of segregated hiking and biking trails that take in secluded streams and lakes and provide further opportunities to spot endangered bird species like the delicate orange-bellied flowerpecker. Adventures in Food There’s much for adventurous foodies to enjoy in Singapore, with over 100 hawker centers serving cheap and delicious street food across the city. The meeting of Malaysian, Chinese and Indian cooking here, melded with that of other neighboring nations, has created a unique cuisine with something for everyone, though lovers of seafood and spice are particularly well catered for. Our advice? Bodyswerve the ubiquitous burger and pizza joints and get straight to the heart of the action in the bustling hawker centers, where the aroma of sizzling satay and pungent fish head curry alone are enough to make a grown man weep. Spicy, sticky, peanuty satay is easy to track down here (just follow your nose!). It’s a national favorite and you’ll find purveyors of this heaven-sent treat in its many forms (chicken, pork, beef, fish) in any Singapore hawker center worth its salt. Try local favorite satay bee hoon, in which the spicy hot sauce is liberally smothered over a bed of rice vermicelli, often with prawns or pork. Sweet-and-savory-sauce-drenched chili crab – effectively the national dish – is another absolute must-try. Feeling bold? Up the ante with some of the nation’s more out-there delicacies. We’re talking turtle soup, live octopus, pufferfish, fried pigs’ fallopian tubes in piquant kung pao sauce and – for the truly adventurous – century egg, a highly, shall we say... aromatic dish of egg preserved in salt, lime and clay. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it! Save on attractions and activities for teens in Singapore Save on admission to Singapore attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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