Night Safari essentially adds a new dimension to the idea of a safari. A safari is undertaken to witness wild animals in their natural surroundings. It becomes more interesting because unlike a zoo where they are kept caged, in a wildlife reserve they are relatively free. They have a lot more space and factors which hint at their caged existence are more or less well camouflaged. Safaris are interesting because they are conducted in areas which are very well spread out and give an almost real feeling of being in the wild. Now if the element of actually witnessing animals at that time of the day is added, the experience becomes even more enriched. This excitement is provided by a night safari.
The Night Safari Singapore was the world’s first of its kind. Discussions about this project had begun way back in the 1980’s when night visits conducted by the Singapore Zoo had gained both momentum and popularity. The Night Safari Singapore officially opened its doors to the public on May 26, 1994. Mr. Goh Chok Tong,, head of the safari whose efforts triggered the realisation of this incredible dream. The Night Safari is conducted in a secondary forest which is close to the Singapore Zoo and the Upper Seleter Reservoir. The forest is spread over an area of 40 hectares and has in store apart from flora and fauna, over 1000 animals 29% of whom are considered endangered. The Night Safari Singapore is divided into eight geographical zones. The whole forest can be traversed on foot or by tram. The total length of the rood loops is 3.8 kilometers of which 2.8 kilometers is the walkway.
The safari uses ways to ensure the wellbeing of both the guests and the forest dwellers. The animals are highlighted by using a light that is a little higher in intensity than the full moon. However, this light is not strong enough to disturb the animals or raise an alarm amongst them. The animals are not caged! Instead they are separated from the visitors by natural barriers. Also cattle grids have been put in place to prevent cattle from crossing over. Wires have been installed which look like twigs so that the animals do not cross their boundaries.
The safari offers services like eating joints which include Ben and Jerry’s, Ulu Ulu Restaurant and Bongo Burgers. Guests can also enjoy the double fun of delectable food and a safari ride on the Cocktail Safari Express and the Gourmet Safari Express. Entertainment is also provided in the form of performances which include Tribal Dance, Fire Eating Act and Blowpipe Demonstration. However, the highlight of the night safari Singapore is the performance entitled ‘Creatures of the Night’. This act is actually performed by the animals of the zoo.
The mere fact that the Night Safari receives more than a million visitors every year is proof enough to hint at its resounding success. It takes the safari experience to another level.
Peter Joseph enjoys to write about travel, aviation and adventures. To know more about Wildlife Reserves Singapore, Singapore zoo, Night Safari Singapore and Singapore zoo night safari visit www.wrs.com.sg
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