The Night Safari is a unique wildlife park located in Singapore’s Mandai area. It is the world’s first nocturnal zoo, offering visitors a chance to see animals in their natural nighttime habitats. Many travelers visit Singapore specifically to experience this one-of-a-kind attraction.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach the Night Safari from various parts of Singapore. You will learn about train, bus, taxi, and car options, along with practical travel tips to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable.

Getting from Singapore City Centre to Night Safari – Main Options

Train

Taking the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is a popular and affordable way to reach the Night Safari, though it requires a combination of train and bus. It is suitable for budget travelers and those familiar with Singapore’s public transport system.

• Take the MRT to Ang Mo Kio station on the North-South Line (Red Line), which is the closest major station to Night Safari, about 20 km away.

• From Ang Mo Kio MRT, board bus service 138 or 927, which goes directly to the Night Safari entrance, with a travel time of around 15–20 minutes.

• Train fares range from SGD 0.80 to SGD 2.00 depending on your starting point, making it a cost-effective option for most visitors.

• Trains run frequently every 5–7 minutes during peak hours, but buses to Night Safari may be less frequent in late evenings; check schedules beforehand.

• During weekends and public holidays, the MRT and buses can be crowded, so plan to travel early to avoid rush.

Bus

Direct bus services to Night Safari are limited, but some routes connect well from nearby MRT stations. Buses are economical and offer a chance to see local neighborhoods en route.

• Bus 138 runs from Ang Mo Kio Bus Interchange to Mandai Road, stopping near the Night Safari entrance; the journey takes about 20 minutes.

• Bus 927 also serves the route from Ang Mo Kio MRT to Night Safari, providing an alternative with similar travel time and fare.

• Bus fares are generally SGD 1.50 to SGD 2.00, payable via EZ-Link card or cash (exact change required).

• Buses operate until around 10 pm, so plan your return trip accordingly to avoid last-minute rush.

• During the monsoon season, heavy rain can delay bus services, so keep an eye on weather forecasts before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Night Safari is convenient for those who prefer flexibility and comfort. The park has ample parking space, and the route is well-marked from central Singapore.

• Night Safari is located off Mandai Lake Road, accessible via the Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE) and Mandai Road; the drive from city center takes about 25–30 minutes covering roughly 20 km.

• Parking at Night Safari is free for visitors, with large lots available near the entrance for cars and taxis.

• Toll charges apply on some expressways, so keep some cash or use an electronic payment system like ERP (Electronic Road Pricing).

• Driving during peak evening hours may encounter moderate traffic, especially on weekends and public holidays; plan to leave early to avoid delays.

• Car rental services are widely available in Singapore, with options from budget to luxury vehicles; book in advance for better rates.

Taxi / Ride-Hailing

Taxis and app-based cabs like Grab, Gojek, and Ryde are the most comfortable and direct way to reach Night Safari, especially for groups or families.

• Booking a taxi from central Singapore to Night Safari takes about 25 minutes and costs between SGD 20 to SGD 30 depending on traffic and time of day.

• Ride-hailing apps offer upfront fare estimates and cashless payments, making the journey hassle-free and safe.

• Taxi availability is good throughout the day, but late-night returns may require pre-booking to avoid waiting times.

• Some taxis may charge a surcharge for trips to Mandai area, so confirm the fare with the driver or app before starting the trip.

• During major festivals or public holidays, surge pricing may increase ride costs; consider sharing rides to reduce expenses.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time visiting Night Safari, follow this simple plan to ensure a smooth trip from Singapore city center.

• Start by checking the Night Safari opening hours and ticket availability online to avoid last-minute disappointments; tickets can be booked via the official website or authorized sellers.

• Decide your preferred transport mode based on budget and convenience; for first-timers, taking MRT plus bus is economical, while taxis offer direct comfort.

• If using public transport, purchase an EZ-Link card or Singapore Tourist Pass for easy payments on MRT and buses; this saves time and avoids carrying cash.

• Plan to leave the city center at least 1.5 hours before your preferred entry time to account for travel and queue times, especially on weekends.

• Upon arrival at Night Safari, use the main entrance near Mandai Lake Road; prepaid taxis and buses drop visitors close to the gate for easy access.

• For returning, check the last bus timings or pre-book a taxi to avoid waiting late at the park, as public transport options reduce after closing hours.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a bottle of water and light snacks, but avoid bringing outside food inside Night Safari as per park rules; food stalls are available inside for refreshments.

• Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing suitable for humid Singapore evenings; insect repellent is advisable due to the park’s natural setting.

• Book tickets online in advance through official channels to skip long queues and secure preferred time slots, especially during weekends and holidays.

• Use ride-hailing apps for last-mile connectivity if you arrive late or want to avoid waiting for buses; apps also provide fare estimates and driver details for safety.

• Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like MRT stations and bus interchanges.

• During the monsoon season (November to January), carry an umbrella or raincoat as sudden showers can disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

Singapore’s tropical climate means it is warm and humid year-round, but weather and crowd conditions vary with seasons. Planning your visit to Night Safari with these factors in mind will improve your experience.

Peak visitor periods include weekends, Singapore public holidays, and school vacations, when transport and the park can be crowded. Traveling on weekdays or early evenings helps avoid long queues and traffic.

• Avoid visiting during the Great Singapore Sale or major festivals like Chinese New Year, as transport and accommodation prices rise sharply.

• Monsoon months bring heavy rain and occasional flooding, which may delay buses and outdoor shows; check weather updates before traveling.

• Early evening departures (around 5 pm) are ideal to reach Night Safari before dark and enjoy the full experience without rush.

• Fog is rare in Singapore but humidity can cause discomfort; stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas during your visit.

Arrival at Night Safari & What to Expect

When you arrive at Night Safari, you will find a well-organized entrance area with clear signage and friendly staff to assist visitors. The park is designed for easy access from the main road, with ample parking and drop-off zones.

Local transport options from the park include prepaid taxis and shuttle buses back to Ang Mo Kio MRT station. App-based cabs can be booked from designated pick-up points near the entrance. Nearby accommodations are limited, so most visitors stay in central Singapore and return after the visit.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Night Safari depends on your budget and comfort preferences. For budget travelers, combining MRT and bus offers an affordable and reliable option, while taxis and ride-hailing services provide direct and hassle-free travel for those willing to spend more.

Plan your trip by booking tickets in advance, checking transport schedules, and allowing extra time for travel during peak periods. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy the unique experience of Night Safari and make the most of your visit to Singapore’s famous nocturnal wildlife park.