Formerly known as Singapore Zoological Gardens, but more widely referred to as either Singapore Zoo (or locally Mandai Zoo) this is one place you should definitely aim to touch down during any visit to Singapore.
Scrawled across 28 hectares by the Upper Seletar Reservoir, the zoo benefits from its proximity to Singapore's rainforest zone. There is an amazing variety of flora and fauna on display, and amongst the notable exhibits are Asian elephants, White Tigers, Orang Utans, and Hamadryas Baboons. You will find something to please all of the family, with a Critters Longhouse showcasing all manner of creatures, Cat Country devoted to friendly wild felines, a Reptile Garden, a Primate Kingdom and an area dedicated to animals from the Australian Outback.
The zoo is located at Mandai Lake Road, and is open 365 days per year from 8:30 in the morning until 6:00 in the evening, with the last ticket sale at 5:30. For the youngsters, Rainforest Kidzworld is open from 9:00 till 6:00, and its wet play area closing at 5:30.
Admission to this superb location is very reasonable, with special discounted rates for senior citizens. There are many guest services on offer (on a first-come, first-served basis). Hire strollers are available for toddlers and infants, and free wheelchairs await special needs visitors at the entrance. Another popular choice for families with toddlers are the zoo's wagons, which can be hired as a way of preventing your little animal lovers from getting too tired. The zoo also provides official guided tours, where five dollars will grant you unlimited access to tram rides (three dollars for kids).
The zoo's location is perfect for regular boat rides around its perimeter. This relaxed mode of transport enables you to get unforgettable views of the fabulous diversity of creatures. Traveling around you'll see rhinos and antelopes, zebras and giraffes, next to tropical crops and a beautiful orchid garden. After the trip you could drop into any of the land-based entertainment areas, such as the wild animal carousel, or the rainforest kidzworld ampitheatre. The resident elephants will keep the entire family amused at the ‘at work and play show'.
There are always special events organised for Singapore Zoo, including celebrations aimed at promoting the zoo's 40th anniversary. Billed as the ‘Zoo Hoo 2013 Wild Wow Birthday', there will definitely be one or two surprises waiting to be unleashed on unsuspecting visitors to this highly popular attraction.