ISSN: 1391 - 0531
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Vol. 41 - No 44
TV Times

Best Night Safari in the world

By Chandani Kirinde in Singapore

One of the most exciting places that a visitor to Singapore can experience while there is a the night safari. This is indeed a memorable and unforgettable experience for young and old. The very experience of going in an open coach , down winding roads in the darkness with a few dim lights shining, makes for the perfect atmosphere.

The night safari is the world's first wildlife park built for visits at night. Nestled in 40 hectares of lush secondary forest, the Night Safari offers guests the unique experience of exploring wildlife in a tropical jungle at night.

The guests are able to view over 1,000 nocturnal animals of 100 species in vast naturalistic habitats during the hour long ride.

The birth of the Night Safari was the results of the success of the night tours conducted at the Singapore Zoo in the late 1980s. . Displaying tropical animals at night seemed ideal since 90% of them are nocturnal and, therefore, most active after dusk.

Singapore, being blessed with sunset taking place punctually at 7.30pm, dependably cool nights and little rainfall also made it the perfect place for such a safari.

The Night Safari took four years to plan and three years to construct. It was officially opened on May 26, 1994 by Singaporean Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong.

The safari park divided into eight geographical zones, which can be explored either on foot via three walking trails, or by tram and there are three walking trails namely the Fishing Cat, Forest Giants and Leopard Trail.

Visitors on the safari must not miss taking trial because it adds to all the excitement of walking through a jungle in the night.
The park features 120 species of animals of whom 29% are threatened species and there are more than 1000 animals there. Because of the unique concept of this park, it has attracted more than a million visitors by now.

After your safari is over there is an area where there are treats for your palette. The Ulu Ulu restaurant is the main restaurant offering an extensive array of local favourites and international cuisine in a charmingly ethnic setting that features mementoes of days gone by.

The rustic architecture of the place is done beautifully with wooden beams and rustic rattan fans or and you can sip coconut water or enjoy a spicy soup with the creatures of the night in close proximity.

Both buffet and a la carte options are available at the restaurant and a private dining area, called the Chief's Room, can be reserved.

Also located next to the Night Safari entrance is the stylish Bongo Burgers and here you can find delicious western delights, a chance to get up close with wildlife as well as tribal dance entertainment.

So those of you who are planning to visit Singapore , don't forget to take the night safari and enjoy the night life in a new way.
The visit to Singapore was sponsored by the Singapore Tourist Board.

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Copyright 2007 Wijeya Newspapers Ltd.Colombo. Sri Lanka.