river safari worth it

River Wonders (River Safari) Singapore Review & How to Go Guide

The River Wonders , or previously known as River Safari is a river-themed wildlife park in Singapore with distinct animal zones. Plus, it comes with a riverboat ride and reservoir cruise for a unique kind of adventure.

I visited the park, together with my wife and kid, just recently. And our trip was undeniably memorable and entertaining.

In my River Wonders Singapore (formerly known as River Safari Singapore) review , I will share our personal experiences during our visit as well as the animals in each zone .

In addition, I will provide you with information and tips on how to go to River Wonders (River Safari) Singapore by MRT and Bus .

So, without any delay, here’s everything you need to know about this popular destination.

• What Animals You Can See at River Safari Singapore

1. Giant Panda Forest

2. wild amazonia, 3. amazon flooded forest, 4. mekong river, 5. mary river, 6. nile river, 7. mississippi river, 8. yangtze river, 9. congo river, 10. ganges river, 11. river gems, once upon a river (show), reservoir cruise.

• Where to Eat at River Safari

Visitor Information and Ticket Prices

• Where to Go after River Safari
• How to Go to River Safari Singapore

Related Posts

What animals you can see at river wonders (river safari) singapore.

River Safari Singapore is the home to over 6,000 animals , including 40 threatened species .

There are 11 zones for you to explore and 1 amazing show for you to look forward to.

The highlight in the park are the giant pandas . On top of that, you’ll also see some Caribbean flamingos, jaguars, manatees, capybaras, pelicans, electric eels, and alligators.

During our trip, we went through all zones and also watched the show.

I will include some of the photos we took in each zone so you’ll have an idea of the animals there (make sure to check out below).

And if you want to know other must-visit places, don’t worry. Get ideas from my suggested five days itinerary for Singapore and 47 top places to go in Singapore so you can plan your dream trip.

Giant Panda Forest is definitely the most anticipated zone at River Safari Singapore. You can’t miss these fluffy creatures roaming around their habitat.

Giant pandas like Jia Jia loves to eat bamboo. In fact, they can consume at least 28 pounds every day!

Here is Kai Kai, having the time of his life hanging around the tree.

If you can’t find him eating bamboos or climbing trees, he is most likely rolling on the ground.

Red Pandas, on the other hand, are quite notable because of their colors. Instead of the usual black and white, they have brown, black, and white fur combination.

But just like giant pandas, they love eating bamboos and climbing around.

Wild Amazonia is one of the most popular River Safari attractions. It offers two unique zones for you to explore.

The first one is the Amazon River Quest, which is a captivating river cruise. The second one is the Squirrel Monkey Forest.

i. Amazon River Quest

The Amazon River Quest is one of the most memorable zones in Wild Amazonia. This river ride offers you a fantastic water escapade.

Catch these monkey species dangling on the trees. Because of their structure, they can easily hang and jump from one branch to another.

Aside from monkey species, you’ll also see some giant anteaters and collared peccaries during the boat ride features.

Other distinct animals in this section are Brazilian tapir, coatimundis, and capybaras.

Also present are the ever-vibrant and eye-catching Caribbean flamingos and scarlet ibis. These give them the reputation of being the brightest bird species.

ii. Squirrel Monkey Forest

Another nice place to tour around River Safari is the Squirrel Monkey Forest.

In this area, you’ll spot some squirrel monkeys that are known for their vibrant colors.

The Saki Monkeys, on the other hand, have the most distinct face among all other monkeys. It’s because the color of their face differs from their entire body.

If you love the adorable Capybara on your Amazon River Quest, you have another chance to see them again here.

Because of their appearance and size, these cute animals look like puppies!

Amazon Flooded Forest is another top-notch zone in River Safari.

Here, you will meet many sea animals, particularly the manatees, or the sea cows.

These large mammals weigh around 600 kgs. Despite their immense size, manatees are mainly slow, plant-eaters.

And, they just prefer swimming in shallow waters and lazing around.

You will also see arapaimas, which are known for their super scaly bodies and pointed head.

As one of the world’s biggest freshwater fishes, they can reach as much as 9 ft wide and weigh up to 200 kgs.

The Giant River Otters are heavier and bigger compared to typical otters. They follow an amphibious lifestyle, wherein they can easily adapt to both water and land.

And it’s not hard to find them as they often relax on the ground or sometimes on the river stream.

Did you know that electric eels are actually not eels but rather knifefish?

They have electric organs that create dangerous discharges to sting their prey.

Aside from these slimy creatures, you’ll also catch a glimpse of different fish species. These include blue discus fishes, altum angelfish, and red oscars.

And if you’re a die-hard fan of sea creatures, you shouldn’t miss the SEA Aquarium. This place is a massive underwater world located in Sentosa Island.

Simply refer to my article of SEA Aquarium Singapore for relevant information and tips about this place.

Mekong River is the home to the Mekong Giant Catfish. Just so you know, this massive freshwater fish is already considered an endangered species.

Studies show that there are only around 100 remaining of these rare fishes.

So, if you spot this huge creature, be sure to appreciate them before they’re gone forever.

Surprisingly, the Mekong River isn’t just for catfishes and stingrays. It also has an impressive collection of distinct-looking animals like the crab-eating macaques.

They even have painted storks, Eurasian spoonbill, and rufous night heron.

At Mary River , you get to meet and interact with some sea stars and horseshoe crabs. This is fun activity that you should try during your River Wonders/River Safari trip.

Both chocolate chip sea stars and horseshoe crab are very fascinating to look at because of their shapes.

Australian Lungfishes are highly interesting because of their exceptional breathing feature.

These slow-paced creatures who love deep waters can breathe air using only one lung!

On contrary, mudskippers are the only fish species that can walk on lands! These amphibious creatures look like a fish with some frog-like characteristics.

Get amazed by various fish species in the Nile River . In this section, you will notice the massive goliath tiger fishes.

These freshwater fishes are famous for their razor-like teeth and muscular body. Because of their physical features, they are one of the river’s ultimate predators.

As you continue with your tour, you will get a glimpse of the African arowanas. These creatures have an elongated body with huge yet almost proportionate scales.

Additionally, you will have the chance to meet some Nile perches.

These are freshwater fishes who love warm waters. They feed on different fishes, insects, mollusks, and even smaller perches.

Another must-visit section in River Safari Singapore is the Mississippi River .

This is where you’ll see alligator gars, alligator snapping turtles, and common snapping turtles.

The alligator gars are quite eye-catching because of its alligator and fish features.

These creatures are also considered one of the longest-living freshwater fishes in the world.

Yangtze River is the habitat of sturgeon fishes. These ancient creatures commonly live in rivers, coastlines, and lakes.

You can easily identify them because of their sharp-edge bodies and long snouts.

Yangtze alligators are recognized for their rock-like body structure. They often swim in the water or spend time hiding around the rocks.

At Congo River , you will come across the African dwarf crocodiles. These reptiles grow up to 5 ft. long, making them one of the smallest crocodilians in the world.

They have a small, bony structure that allows them to climb easily on lower tree branches.

Aside from crocodiles, this place also has a lot of colorful fishes from the cichlid species. These are the blue cichlid, lemon cichlid, Tanganyikan butterfly cichlid.

There are also large spot catfishes swimming around.

Continue with your tour at Ganges River . This is the place where you’ll find the big-mouth Indian golden mahseers.

The clown knifefishes also occupy a part of this zone. Both species have special physical characteristics that make them stand out.

River Gems houses a couple of fahaka pufferfishes. Just like other puffers, these creatures inflate themselves when they sense danger.

Generally, they just feed on snails and freshwater mussels

Other fishes in this particular River Safari Singapore zone are cardinal tetras and black phantom tetras.

On top of that, there are also rummy-nose tetras and rainbow sharks.

Once Upon A River showcases the talents of the animals at River Safari. This animal presentation runs for 20 minutes.

And, it highlights the skills of capybaras, pelicans, ball python, and hedgehog.

All these creatures got their own set of charms to captivate the crowd.

At the end of the show, you’ll gain valuable knowledge about these animals. Not only that but you’ll also get a chance to meet them up-close!

The hornbills are also in the spotlight because of their smartness. Plus, their laugh is very unique and contagious.

Monday to Friday: 11:30 AM and 4:30 PM

Saturday to Sunday and Public Holidays: 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM and 4:30 PM

In between animal encounters and interactive shows, you can squeeze in the 15-minute Reservoir Cruise .

Enjoy this scenic water journey with your family and friends and fall in love with nature even more.

As it sails around the Seletar reservoir, don’t forget to take photos of the beautiful landscapes around.

And conveniently, this is a wheelchair-friendly cruise that can cater up to 40 persons in one trip.

Where to Eat at River Wonders (River Safari)

Take your lunch at Mama Panda Kitchen Restaurant inside the River Safari park.

This is the only dining spot in the park, which is just beside the viewing Panda area.

This fast-food restaurant is unique because of its panda-themed food and bamboo-framed photos.

However, the restaurant is quite crowded during lunchtime.

To avoid the waiting game and skip the long queues, you can take your lunch earlier or later.

The best time to go to the restaurant is either 11:30 AM in the morning or 2:00 PM in the afternoon.

Mama Panda Kitchen’s menu largely consists of Chinese dishes. They have ramen, steamed buns, wanton, and wok rice.

In addition, they have western selection that includes seafood basket and roasted chicken. And for dessert, they serve fresh fruit cups and almond chocolate profiteroles.

Our visit to River Wonders Singapore (previously known as River Safari) was definitely a great experience.

We enjoyed touring around each zone and meeting different animals.

We recommend that you prioritize Giant Panda Forest and Amazon River Quest boat ride . It’s because these 2 attractions are the most popular at River Safari.

During our trip, we started around 3:00 PM in the afternoon and spent 3 hours inside the park.

A tip when visiting the park is to bring your own drinking bottle. There are free water dispensers near the washroom to refill your water bottles.

Make sure you also bring a mosquito repellent, hats, and sunblock.

Also, we bought our River Safari tickets online and actually saved money .

Not only that but we also entered the park conveniently. It’s because we just presented the soft copy of our tickets at the entrance of the park.

To wrap it up, this famous river-them zoo is highly recommended to anyone who wants to have a fun-filled adventure with the animals.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Last Admission at 6:00 PM)

Normal Ticket Prices: Adult: SGD $41 Child (3 to 12): SGD $24 *Included Amazon River Quest Boat Ride

Money Saving Tips: To save money and get speedy access to the park, buy your tickets online here .

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826

Official Website: https://www.wrs.com.sg/en/river-safari.html

Where to Go after River Wonders (River Safari)

Are you done with your River Safari Singapore tour?

You can explore Singapore Zoo or Night Safari right after because these two are just a 1-2 minute walk from River Safari.

1. Singapore Zoo

Explore this popular animal park together with your loved ones. This place comes with distinct animal zones as well as spectacular shows for everyone.

Just see here for a complete guide to Singapore Zoo and review and start kicking off with your plans.

2. Night Safari

Have a unique encounter with the wild animals at Night Safari. As the world’s first night zoo, this place provides you with an unforgettable animal experience.

Here are my tips for visiting Night Safari and review that are very helpful when planning.

Other than Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, Sentosa Island is also a great place to visit for nonstop adventures.

Here, you can explore some family-friendly beaches, try different outdoor activities, or simply enjoy the views.

Find out more about this destination in my super detailed guide on what to do in Sentosa .

If you’re planning to travel to Bangkok, there’s also a famous zoo that should be part of your itinerary. Get more information about this place in my detailed Safari World Bangkok article and start plotting your plans now.

How to Go to River Wonders (River Safari) Singapore

There’s no MRT station near River Safari Singapore. But there’s nothing to feel sad because you can easily reach the river-themed wildlife park by MRT then bus.

Basically, there are 3 easy ways to go there and let me show you in details below.

1. By MRT and Mandai Khatib Shuttle

To get to River Safari Singapore, you can take the Mandai Khatib Shuttle from Exit A of Khatib MRT Station .

The bus runs every 20 minutes from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Monday to Wednesday) and 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Thursday to Sunday).

This is a direct bus go to River Safari in 15 minutes and it costs SGD $1 only.

Kindly take note that the bus only accept EZ-link or NETS Flash card without accepting Cash.

2. By Bus 138

Another method to reach River Safari is to take the bus 138 from Ang Mo Kio Bus Terminal.

The service runs every 8 to 14 minutes from 6:30 AM to 11:45 PM. The one-way ticket costs SGD $1.64 (via EZ-link or NETS Flash card)/ SGD $2.50 (via Cash).

It takes around 39 minutes to reach River Safari.

To reach Ang Mo Kio bus terminal, you can take the North South Line to Ang Mo Kio MRT Station. From there, you go out the Exit C which will give you direct access to Ang Mo Kio Bus Terminal.

Take a taxi to River Safari Singapore is the easiest way but it can be expensive. If you plan to take a taxi, you can ride it from Exit A of Khatib MRT Station.

It costs about SGD $13 and you’ll reach there in 10 to 15 minutes.

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River Wonders Singapore Review: 5 Rare Creatures to Spot!

Having been to Singapore Zoo when I was a kid, I nevertheless decided to give it another visit. The zoo tickets are costly compared to most attractions in Singapore . But by taking the River Safari combo ticket, I saved up a little. Thus bringing this to the River Wonders Singapore review.

Not to mention, it was the best decision! I loved the Singapore Zoo as well as Bird Park Review . But never did I expect to find the Giant Panda here! Lying on the outskirts of Singapore, you’ll see that the River Wonders is actually built around a natural reservoir (Upper Seletar Reservoir).

Table of Contents

River Wonders Singapore Review: Is it worth it?

I found River Wonders a bit similar to S.E.A Aquarium in Sentosa, only larger. However, I thought like Singapore Zoo, the tour would take a day. But it took around 3 hours on a non-peak period. Anyway, here’s all about my River Wonders Singapore Review.

As of 2023, it costs S$42 for the River Wonders ticket individually. I’d recommend getting the multi-attraction pass where you opt for two attractions for S$88 to S$96. What I loved about the multi-attraction passes is that they’re valid for 7 days .

Keep in mind this does not include the additional S$5 per person for the Amazon River Quest boat ride inside.

I visited the SG Zoo on my first day in Singapore. Then I took a break to visit other parts of Singapore and came back to the River Wonders after 2 days. So yes, the River Wonders/Safari at Mandai Zoo is absolutely worth it!

Key Takeaway

• River Wonders/Safari Ticket cost: It’s S$42 for non-SG residents.
• Amazon River Quest boat ride cost: S$5 via the official Mandai site .

Get your tickets from Klook below . Though there isn’t much price difference, you’ll avail of better discounts on other attractions all on the same site. Moreover, being a partner of Klook, our readers get discounted rates.

How to Get to River Wonders/Safari?

Address : 80 Mandai Lake Road Singapore, 729826

Mind the River Wonders called River Safari earlier. Thus the mentioning of both names in most articles. Getting to River Wonders is via the same route to the Singapore Zoo. The Zoo, River Wonders, and Night Safari all fall in the same area.

Thanks to Singapore’s reliable transport for solo travelers , the cheapest way to get to River Wonders is with the Khatib Mandai Shuttle. This bus takes you straight from the Khatib MRT Station NS14 (the Red Line) to the Mandai Zoo. Unlike other public buses, expect the Mandai bus to look colorful something like this.

It costs S$1 for the 20-minute drive (9.9 km approx.) to the zoo from the MRT Station. Pay with your EZ-link or NETS Flashpay card for your ride. Upon alighting the bus, the signboards will guide you straight to River Wonders or SG Zoo – whichever you’re visiting.

River Wonders Singapore Review: Best Time to Visit Mandai Zoo

It takes 3-4 hours at max to walk around the River Wonders in Mandai Zoo, including the additional boat ride (Amazon River Quest). I recommend visiting on a weekday before noon . Usually, with such large theme sets at the zoo, there are no long waiting queues or crowds as such.

But it’ll be a lot emptier on the weekdays – letting you move faster. I visited on a weekday and took no more than 3 hours to get back to the River Wonders entrance.

As for the Singapore Zoo, it’s open between 8:30 am – 6 pm. Again, no particular peak period whatsoever. After all, it’s the Singapore Zoo. It’s always got, people. But start early in the morning as it takes a good 5-6 hours to get around the SG Zoo .

• Best time to visit River Wonders: Weekdays before noon (3-4 hours tour along with 10-15 minutes boat ride)
• Best time to visit Singapore Zoo: Any day is fine (5-6 hours tour)

Another post for you to read: Universal Studios Singapore Guide

Shows and Rides at River Wonders

Water Safari Singapore: The Mandai Zoo is evergreen with shows, tours, and feeding sessions. River Wonders has a few add-ons as well. If you’re looking forward to it, keep the event timings in mind and plan your Singapore itinerary beforehand.

Timings change often, so look out on Mandai’s site for updated information. I’ve provided the necessary links below.

River Wonders Singapore River: River Amazon Quest

River safari amazon river quest review : Walking over the viewing bridge to the other side of the upper Seletar reservoir, is the Amazon River Quest. It’s a 10-minute boat ride through a number of animal exhibits. It costs S$5 per head.

It’s another key feature (and a large part) of River Wonders, so don’t miss it. You’ve come this far after all!

For kids, it’s highly recommended as the boat splashes through its dedicated pathway past the wild Amazon river’s family. I suggest visiting early morning or evening to get a better look at animals in their active state. The afternoons are lazy hours where you’ll find them laying around.

Unfortunately, paying with cash wasn’t an option. Having only cash, I hadn’t a choice but to miss out.

You can book your boat seats only from the official site. Klook only offers entry tickets to River Wonders. Get your Klook tickets and get your add-on later!

Once Upon a River Show at River Wonders

River Wonders Singapore review: The animal show is held at the Boat Plaza – the Once Upon a River show . Though the page doesn’t explain much about what to expect, this show is similar to the birds show at SG Zoo.

You get a closer look at the large green iguanas, the python, friendly capybaras, and otters. As the name suggests, you get an entertaining explanation about their habitat, nature, and their story.

Reserve 25-30 minutes for the show. You can only book within two hours prior to the show on the site.

Another post for you to read on Singapore : Best Things to Do in Marina Bay Singapore on a Budget

River Wonders Singapore Guide: Don’t miss out on these experiences!

First things first, get a copy of the River Wonders map on your phone. You’ll find a map posted all over, but keep a copy to avoid missing out on anything.

Unlike Singapore Zoo, River Wonders is a single path with almost no diversions to take. It’s a one-round route till you’re back to the starting point. The route themes begin with the Congo River, River Nile, Ganges River, Mekong River, and Yangtze River.

The key feature of the place is the pandas! Somehow, I didn’t expect Giant Pandas to be at River Wonders. I guess the Singapore Zoo had enough main features to attract tourists. So they put Pandas exclusively on River Wonders. Why’d people hesitate to pay for a look at pandas?!

Another post for you to read: Ultimate SEA Aquarium Singapore Blog

After the Giant pandas, is a long bridge to the other side of the water to the Amazon river quest, snake (anacondas) exhibits, and a monkey enclosure. Towards the end of the tour is the Amazon Flooded forest.

There were large aquariums and a cool quiet passageway through the giant river otters, electric eel, piranhas, and life-sized manatees here.

River Gems – River Wonders Singapore Review

Zigzagging through the large aquariums of River Gems makes for the beginning. Some had open tops and some were super-clean for pictures. I didn’t stop much here as I’d been through SG Zoo last time and realized later I had spent way too much time observing each species.

So I quickly walked through the zig-zag path. Like the main zoo, there are varieties of fish as well as birds put together in enclosures here – thus making it more pleasing to look at.

To those curious, some aquatic life to look for is Reed Fish, Atlantic Tarpons, Elephantnose fish, Eastern Bottlenose, and Zebra Tilapia. You’ll also find the Trumpeter Hornbill here.

Though not keen on fish species, I found ducks to be most amusing as they paddled through. Have you seen ducks paddling under that water? It’s pretty fascinating!

Another post for you to read on Singapore: Singapore River Cruise Review: An Honest One

Congo River and Nile River

As the name suggests, most aquatic species here belong to rivers, not seas. And every theme’s entrance begins with posters and decorations of the specific river’s nature and species.

However, I put the Congo River and Nile river themes together. I walked past them and didn’t even realize I’d crossed it! The map highlights more the species it has rather than the accurate size of the exhibits. After all, it’s the creatures that matter!

Ganges River and Mary River

When the obvious theme of the Ganges River (and more familiar to someone who comes from India), I realized the themes. There was the Indian Gharial and Goonch Catfish here. I wasn’t lucky enough to get a close look at the Gharial.

I got to see a lot of turtles and fish swimming along though. I also found one of the staff members cleaning the aquarium inside with a diving suit!

The Mary River ends the first set of themes with slimy-appearing mudskippers, Australian lungfish, and the hard-to-resist horseshoe crabs. It ends with curious small and mid-sized range fish.

Another post for you to read on Singapore: My National Gallery Singapore Blog: Solo Tour

Mekong River

Passing the lion-tailed Macaque, the following theme is the Mekong River. Living in Indonesia for a long, I’d heard of this river a lot in my school days. But here I was to witness the giant freshwater stingray and Mekong’s infamous giant catfish.

With the species so large, the large blue aquarium filled with life itself was a sight. The giant stingray appeared wider than both my hands spread out.

I thought the Mekong Catfish was a shark species until I read the word ‘ catfish ‘. It turns out, it does belong to the shark catfish family !

Yangtze River

The last of the themes is the Yangtze River. Boasting Asia’s longest river, it makes a perfect end to the freshwater species themes. Some aquatic life found here are the False Gharial and the Chinese Giant Salamander.

As majestic as the name sounds, it’s quite an off-putting sight to see a long slimy fish with legs. But there are again, a lot of animals that I find creepy (like snakes!).

Giant Panda Forest

Highlight of River Wonders Singapore review: I hadn’t checked on pandas being at River Wonders before. Nor did I expect it when I saw posters and even a panda photo stand-in. Entering the cooled green enclosure, the first thing I came across was the Red Panda.

I’ve heard of red pandas being incredibly adorable when moving. But this one slept before us. Slept peacefully as ever in its tiny cradle!

Being unaware of Giant Pandas was probably the best thing. Having a glance at the large giant panda iconically chewing on its bamboo sticks, everything seemed unreal. I couldn’t believe it. It was a giant panda!

Another post for you to read on Singapore: SpacePod Lavender Review (A budget hostel)

Kai Kai, Jia Jia, and Le Le

Fun fact: All pandas around the world are owned by China. Singapore is the 9th country to get a 10-year loan for the Giant Pandas from China. Kai Kai and Jia were brought in on loan and Le Le is their first child together… born in Singapore! Read their story on the Mandai site .

I never realized how much effort had been put into its intense care here – it was something to experience. I got a chance to see Kai Kai and Jia Jia but missed seeing Le Le (the baby cub).

River Amazon Quest

Walking over the viewing bridge to the other side of the upper Seletar reservoir is the Amazon River Quest. It’s a 10-minute boat ride through a number of animal exhibits. It costs S$5 per head.

For kids, it’s highly recommended as the boat splashes through its dedicated pathway past the wild Amazon river’s family. Unfortunately, paying with cash wasn’t an option. Having only cash, I hadn’t a choice but to miss out.

Anacondas and Small Crocodiles

Being on the other side of River Wonders, I found myself heading back to the start. On one side was a viewing deck looking over the upper Seletar reservoir. The other side still had plenty of animals!

There was the large green anaconda camouflaged in its greenish aquarium. It felt like a game with the animal name posted before an exhibit and we had to find the creature camouflaged ourselves.

There were the Bare-faced Curassow, Cuvier Dwarf Caiman (small crocodiles), and the Golden Headed Lion Tamarins.

Squirrel Monkey Forest and Kids

Another gated enclosure was the Squirrel Monkey Forest. By the time I made it here, I was exhausted from walking around the place.

But entering the Monkey Forest, a lady with two kids followed up behind. She cheerfully led the kids and showed the same enthusiasm in finding the hidden monkeys. She’s more energetic than me , I thought.

So I joined her along with the kids and I helped spot some monkeys too! The squirrel monkey and Azara Agouti. A white-faced Saki Monkey came to sit on the railing before us and the kids couldn’t stop from jumping around.

It was quite a fun part of my River Wonders visit. I bid goodbye and left as they continued photographing pictures with the monkeys.

Amazon Flooded Forest

River Wonders Singapore review : The last bit of River Wonders was one of my favorite parts – the Amazon Flooded Forest. Like the S.E.A Aquarium in Sentosa, the aquariums were larger than us. In fact, we were walking through the aquariums (like that infamous underwater tunnel).

The theme began with two Giant River otters playing over our heads oblivious to people watching them. Following it was a darker walkthrough with a long electric eel and red-bellied piranhas.

Majestic Manatees

The largest aquarium belonged to the Manatees. Majestic manatees were awe to look at. Being mammals, they surface every 5-10 minutes to breathe!

With manatee grass of sorts floating, most manatees remained at the top to eat and breathe. The bottom part of the aquarium had other fish like the red-tailed catfish and giant arapaima.

I climbed up the curved ramp to level 2 and found freshwater stingrays. Though average-sized, these were more colorful in nature and moved in shallow waters!

Another post for you to read: Chinatown Singapore Guide: Things to do

River Wonders Singapore Review: TailPiece

In conclusion, River Wonders is absolutely worth visiting for any visitor. For children, it’s a must . Why do you think there are so many children on the guide maps?

The Giant Panda is hard to find today, and it’s available right here! It makes it all worth it, no matter the price. The Once Upon a River and Manatees tour is no doubt great. But don’t miss out on the Amazon River Quest – it makes a big part of the zoo.

So once again, plan your itinerary, keep the show timings in mind, and book your River Wonders tickets today! Here are some deals I handpicked for you offered at the Mandai Zoo:

*This post contains affiliate link(s)

Manas Patil

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What to see at Singapore’s River Safari

Singapore’s River Safari is located next to the Singapore Zoo and also administered by Wildlife Reserves Singapore. It is the first and only river themed wildlife park in all of Asia. The River Safari is situated upon 12 hectares on the Upper Selator Reservoir and is home to over 240 species of both land and aquatic animals.

While the River Safari is nowhere near as large as the Zoo next door, the park serves as a great add-on to a trip to Singapore Zoo, both due to the proximity of the attractions, and their relative distance from the rest of the city. If you’re interested in exploring Singapore’s wildlife parks in one day, head to the River Safari after spending a half day at Singapore Zoo, before finishing up at the Night Safari. The parks are literally all next door to each other.

• Want to know more about the Singapore Zoo? Click HERE .
• Not sure how best to spend your time in Singapore? Check out my three day Singapore itinerary HERE .

• Where? 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826.
• When? Open daily from 10AM – 7PM.
• How much? Single admission to the River Safari is $36.00 SGD (adults)/$24.00 SGD (children). There are discounts available if you pre-purchase a Park Hopper ticket which allows you to visit the other attractions run by Wildlife Reserves Singapore within 7 days of your visit. For more details, see HERE .
• How to get there? The River Safari is unfortunately not well connected to the city by Singapore’s efficient MRT service. I recommend getting a taxi or GRAB (about 30 minutes away from the city). Alternatively, a shuttle operates from the Khatib MRT station on the North-South Line.
• Website: https://www.wrs.com.sg/en/river-safari.html

How long to spend at the River Safari

The River Safari can be toured within around 2 hours. As mentioned above, it works best combined with a trip to the Singapore Zoo and/or Night Safari. Most of the exhibits in the River Safari are undercover, making it a good choice for the afternoon (Singapore showers and all that!).

What is there to see at the River Safari?

The River Safari is made up of a number of zones, each representing different global river ecosystems. Unlike Singapore Zoo, your progression through the River Safari is quite linear, so you shouldn’t have much trouble seeing all of the exhibits. Lets now break down the areas of the River Safari one by one so that you can get an idea of what to expect when you visit.

1. Rivers of the World

You’ll enter the River Safari through the Rivers of the World trail. In this section of the park, you’ll walk past a number of fresh water exhibits, each representing a different river and its distinct biodiversity. This serves as a great introduction to the river ecosystem, highlighting the immense amount of life found under the water’s surface around the world.

As you explore the Rivers of the World, you’ll travel to the following destinations:

• Mississippi River (USA): Bring on the alligators as you experience the fourth largest river system in the world. The Mississippi River is home to 25% of North America’s fish species. Unique species that you might find here include the common snapping turtle and the alligator gar, a prehistoric river monster that dates back to over 100 million years on earth.
• Congo River (Central Africa): Also known as the Zaire River, this body of water in Central Africa is the deepest in the world. While its surface is covered by rapids and waterfalls, under the water is a world of tranquility where you’ll find species such as the African dwarf crocodile.
• River Nile (North-East Africa): The longest river in the world, and the lifeblood of Ancient Egypt, the River Nile today empties the East African Great Lakes into the Mediterranean. In this exhibit you’ll see native species such as the Tigerfish and Giraffe Catfish.
• Ganges River (India): Flowing through India and Bangladesh, this river is sacred to those of the Hindu faith, being worshipped as the Goddess of Creation. Traversing 2,500 kilometres, the Ganges is home to the critically endangered Indian Gharial, the longest species of crocodile on earth.
• Mary River (Australia): Heading back to my home country, the Mary Catchment is a major river system in North-Eastern Australia. This river is home to the ancient Australian lungfish which have an average lifespan of a century.
• Mekong River (South-East Asia) : Aside from the Amazon (which has its own exhibit elsewhere in the park), the Mekong River is the second most populous river system in the world in terms of aquatic life. While its only the world’s tenth largest river, its the most productive. The Giant Siamese Carp and Giant Catfish are just two of the freshwater species that keep being discovered in this region.
• Yangtze River (China) : Asia’s longest river is deeply intertwined with the history of China and contains some of the most critically endangered species on the planet. Rare lifeforms such as the Yangtze Alligator and Giant Salamander can be found here.

2. Giant Panda Forest

Continuing on from the Yangtze River, the next part of the River Safari keeps the focus on China. The Giant Panda Forest is probably the most popular exhibit at the River Safari. Inside this bio-dome is the largest Panda exhibit in South East Asia, and is home to a pair of the critically endangered Giant Pandas. Named Kai Kia and Jia Jia, these two Pandas are on loan from the Chinese government (as I discovered all Giant Pandas in zoos around the world are) and are incredibly popular among guests to the Safari. The climate controlled bamboo forest in which you’ll find the two Giant Pandas lazing around is also home to the tree-dwelling Red Pandas. Spend some time admiring these beautiful animals here (and take a break from the humid air outside in the process).

Outside the Panda Exhibit, you can also get a quick bite at the Mama Panda Kitchen before continuing your journey along the river.

3. Reservoir Cruise

As you say goodbye to the Pandas, you’ll cross the river to the Boat Plaza. Here you can take a moment to relax and board a boat for a quick (15 minute) cruise out onto the Upper Seletar Reservoir. There’s no extra charge to go on this cruise and its a good way to break up your time exploring the animal exhibits at the River Safari. You might even get a view at the back of some of the exhibits at the Singapore Zoo next door before cruising out further to become immersed in the scenic environment of natural beauty.

On busy days, you may need to time your arrival here, but I was able to pretty much walk onto the boat rather than stand in line.

4. Amazon River Quest

If one boat ride wasn’t enough for you, the River Safari has a second one. This one isn’t included in your admission, but tickets are only an extra $5.00 SGD (adults) and can be purchased at Boat Plaza. This attraction is actually like a theme park ride in that you board a boat and are swept along a track, symbolising a journey along the Amazon River. There’s a few short drops but its very tame. From your boat, you’ll see the jungle come to life around you as you pass enclosures of animals native to the world’s largest river, including jaguars, tapirs, capybaras and flamingos. You’ll have to look carefully to see some of the animals as they camouflage with the surroundings as your boat moves past, but that’s all part of the adventure.

The Amazon River Quest is a lot of fun and adds a unique element of exploration to the River Safari. Don’t miss it when you visit. Its well worth the additional cost.

4. Squirrel Monkey Forest

The Squirrel Monkey Forest is a large walk-through dedicated to the most populous monkey in the Amazon rainforest. These highly curious monkeys spend most of their lives in the rainforest canopy, but as you explore this exhibit you’ll get up close and personal with them as they roam around you. If you time your visit right, you might be able to join a guided walk with a zookeeper around the enclosure to learn more about these active creatures.

5. Amazon Flooded Forest Floor

The last part of the River Safari takes you away from the tree-tops to the submerged forest floor of the Amazon. The Amazon river is flooded for six months of the year, resulting in up to ten metres of water covering the forest floor. This unique ecosystem is replicated here in the world’s largest freshwater aquarium exhibit.

While venturing through this exhibit, you’ll see species such as the red bellied piranha, electric eel, arapaima (largest freshwater fish in South America) and giant river otter. The highlight though is undoubtedly the gigantic manatees. Also known as sea cows, these herbivorous marine mammals can weigh around 600kg and feed on sea plants and mangrove leaves for six to eight hours a day. The manatee has an incredibly complex digestive system (taking about a week to digest a single meal), with the creatures intestines giving it its bloated appearance.

If you really want to splurge, you can even take the Manatee Mania tour ($118 SGD per adult) for a chance to really get up close with these incredible animals, however the main exhibit that you’ll go through when finishing up your River Safari experience provides a large area where you can sit and admire them from afar.

Shows at the River Safari

While I didn’t get the chance to see it during my visit, the River Safari also hosts the Once Upon a River Story presentation multiple times a day. This show highlights the important relationship that the animals living in river ecosystems have with their aquatic environment and provides opportunities to get an up-close look at some of these animals in the process. The show generally runs at 11.30AM and 4.30AM each day and is located near Boat Plaza.

Wrapping Up

After visiting the River Safari, its inevitable that you will compare it to the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari. If you don’t have time to do all three of these attractions, this is definitely the one to skip. With that said, I still enjoyed my visit. The River Safari provides a unique mix between a zoo and aquarium and I can’t say I’ve been to a wildlife park like this one before. As I’ve said multiple times in this post, I view the River Safari as an ‘add-on’ to the Singapore Zoo experience. I wouldn’t make the trip out to the city’s outer reaches just for the River Safari, but along with the other attractions here, its a great way to spend part of your day. Besides, pandas and manatees are awesome. Now, grab a coffee out front and head over to the Night Safari.

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River Wonders

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Singapore River Safari – tickets, price, how to reach

Singapore’s River Wonders is Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park. It was formerly known as the Singapore River Safari.

At this 12-hectares wildlife reserve, you explore the ecosystem of eight of the largest rivers in the World – Mississippi, Congo, Amazon, Nile, Ganges, Mary, Mekong, and the Yangtze River.

Besides these river trails, you also experience the Amazon River Quest and the Reservoir cruise – the two times you will get on a boat.

The River Safari features over 6,000 animals from 200 species, including the manatee, capybara, electric eel, and many more.

Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride along the river to see the exhibits and animals up close.

One of the main attractions at the River Safari is the Giant Panda Forest, where visitors can see the rare giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia in their specially designed habitat.

In addition to the various animal exhibits, the River Safari also offers educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages.

There are guided tours, animal shows, and interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the importance of freshwater habitats and the animals that live in them.

This article covers everything you must know before booking your Singapore River Wonders tickets.

Top Singapore River Safari Tickets

# Singapore River Safari tickets

Table of contents

Singapore river safari tickets, river safari opening hours, how long does river wonders take, things to do at singapore river safari, how to get to river wonders singapore, river safari map, animals in river wonders singapore, food at river safari, singapore .

Singapore River Wonder tickets get emailed to you as soon as you make the purchase.

On the day of your visit, you can show the ticket in your email and enter the River Safari. 

If you want, you can take a printout too. 

Besides admission to the Singapore River Safari, ticket also gets you access to the Amazon River Quest boat ride and the River Cruise, if you upgrade at the venue.

You can also attend the River Talk Show.

Ticket price for tourists

Adult ticket (13+ years): S$42 Child ticket (3 to 12 years): S$30 Infant ticket (up to 2 years): Free

Ticket price for local resident 

Adult ticket (13 to 59 years): S$40 Child ticket (3 to 12 years): S$29 Senior ticket (60+ years): S$20 Infant ticket (up to 2 years): Free

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Singapore’s River Wonders opens at 10 am and closes at 7 pm every day of the year.

The last entry to River Wonders is at 6 pm. 

Some of the exhibits at Singapore River Safari operate at different timings.

Touch Pool’s timings

River Safari Touch Pools open at 10 am and close at 6.30 pm on weekends and public holidays.

On weekdays, the animals at the Touch Pools are given a short break during the day.

The weekday timings of the Touch Pools are 10 am to 1 pm and 2.30 pm to 6.30 pm.

Amazon River Quest hours

River Safari’s Amazon River Quest is a 10-minute boat ride that starts at 11 am and goes on till 6 pm daily.

The last ride of the day is at 6 pm. 

Giant Panda Forest’s timings

River Safari’s Giant Pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia start welcoming visitors at 10 am daily.

The climate-controlled forest remains open till 6.15 pm. 

Squirrel Monkey Forest’s hours

The Squirrel Monkey Forest opens at 10 am and closes at 6 pm daily. 

Reservoir Cruise’s operating hours

The Reservoir Cruise starts at 10.30 am, half an hour after the River Safari opens for the day. 

The 15-minute long cruises continue all through the day, till 6 pm when the last cruise sets sail. 

At 12 hectares, the River Wonders in Singapore is a moderately sized attraction. 

Eighty-five percent of the River Safari (freshwater aquariums, walk-through exhibits, etc.) must be explored on foot and rest on the Amazon River Quest boat ride.

If you are visiting with kids, spend time at each exhibit, see the animal show, dine, etc., you will need at least three hours to explore the River Wonders.

If you are a bunch of adults in a hurry, you can learn about the fascinating flora and fauna at the Singapore River Safari in two hours. 

Since River Wonders in Singapore is a unique concept, many visitors don’t know what to expect. 

Here is a list of things you get to do, see and explore at this fantastic wildlife attraction.

Rivers of the World

At this Singapore River Safari exhibit, animals and plants of some of the world’s most significant rivers are on display.

Two to three massive glass tanks are used to create the ecosystem of each of these large rivers – Mississippi, Congo, Nile, Ganges, Mary, Mekong, Yangtze, etc. and visitors walk through them as in an aquarium. 

However, as in an aquarium, these glass tanks aren’t indoors. 

These glass tanks are outdoors to ensure sunlight is abundant – to mimic the inhabitants’ natural habitat. 

Squirrel Monkey Forest

This exhibit is a kid favorite.

You get to see cute, adorable monkeys native to Central and South America at the Squirrel Monkey Forest.

Even though it is a dense forest, you don’t have to worry about spotting them because the Squirrel Monkeys are very curious. 

They are also known to hold hands and sit on the heads of some of the visitors. 

Since the monkeys are small and weigh only about a Kilogram (2.2 Pounds), even kids don’t mind all the attention. 

• Amazon Flooded Forest

During the rainy season, the banks of the river Amazon submerge in more than 10 meters (33 feet) of water. 

During such times, animals such as Manatees, Arapaimas, etc. stuff themselves with whatever they can eat. 

This hurried eating helps them build fat reserves, which allows them to tide over the dry season.

At Singapore River Safari, this scenario is re-created at the Amazon Flooded Forest.

Don’t miss the giant river otters called Carlos and Carmen.

• Giant Panda Forest

This Forest is South East Asia’s largest Panda enclosure, where both temperature and humidity are controlled to ensure the animal’s comfort.

The two Giant Pandas who live here are called Kai Kai and Jia Jia. 

Image: Wrs.com.sg

They also have a unique outdoor area in case they want to experience Singapore’s tropical climate. 

Giant Panda Forest is also home to one Red Panda. 

Once Upon A River show

Once Upon A River is a brand-new interactive presentation where you learn about various animal species living in and around the Rivers. 

It is suitable for both kids and adults alike and has numerous exciting characters such as – 

• Luke and Chewie, the Pelicans
• Justin and Selina, the Beavers
• Peanut, Moe and Jelly, the Capybaras
• Perry, the Brahminy kite
• Sam, the Oriental Pied Hornbill

This River Safari show is a fantastic opportunity for the kids to feed and touch the Capybaras, Beaver, Iguana, Pelican, and the other animals mentioned above.

Since the shows are in high demand and the seats are limited, reach the Boat Plaza 15 minutes before the scheduled show. 

It is also known as the River Safari show. 

Where: Boat Plaza Duration: 20 minutes Entry: Included in the admission ticket  Timing: 11.30, 2.30 pm*, 4.30 pm

*The mid-day show is only on weekends and public holidays 

Amazon River Quest

Amazon River Quest is Singapore River Safari’s attempt to re-create the experience of a boat expedition on the Amazon River. 

During this ten-minute ride, your boat floats through the Amazon-like jungle, and you can spot animals such as Jaguar, Brazilian Tapir, Capybara, etc. 

These boat rides start at 11 am and go on till 6 pm. 

Amazon River Quest can’t be booked online. However, if you have bought your River Wonders tickets online , you can upgrade your experience to include the Amazon River Quest.

You can book this experience for S$5 per adult and S$3 per child (3 to 12 years) at the River Safari’s Boat Plaza.

Restrictions

– The child must be at least 1.06 meters (3.5 feet) tall  – Expectant mothers, those with motion sickness, heart conditions, etc. can’t join the Amazon River Quest – Due to safety reasons, visitors with mobility issues can’t board this boat

Reservoir Cruise

Unlike the Amazon River Quest, the Reservoir Cruise is a free activity. 

The 15-minute River Safari Cruise on the scenic Upper Seletar Reservoir happens along Singapore Zoo and the Night Safari compound.

Each cruise can take up to 40 passengers, including visitors on wheelchairs. 

And since there are no height or other restrictions, everybody in the family can enjoy the Reservoir Cruise together. 

Duration: 15 minutes Time: 10.30 am to 6 pm, daily

Touch Pools

The Touch Pools at River Wonders are part of the Mary River Zone, which narrates the journey of a river as it empties itself into coastal mangrove forests before flowing into the ocean. 

Visitors can dip their hands at these Touch Pools and feel aquatic creatures such as the sea star, horseshoe crab, and other exotic fish.

This River Safari exhibit is quite popular with kids. 

Entry: Free

Weekdays : 10 am to 1 pm, 2.30 pm to 6.30 pm Weekends : 10 am to 6.30 pm

River Games for kids

These entertaining and yet educational games at River Wonders Singapore teach the kids about animals and their environment.

These games are included with the admission ticket and can be played at the Giant Panda Courtyard.

Recycle like the Otter:  This River Game aims to teach the kids about reduce, reuse, and recycle. They get to fish out recyclable materials using a fishing rod and put them in the correct recycling bin. 

Pelican’s Throat:  Kids try to find out how elastic the Pelican’s throat can be by throwing fish into it. 

Animal Memory Test:  Children must match 30 pairs of animals in 30 seconds and prove they have the kind of memory to survive in the animal world!

Match the Capybaras in weight:  This is a weighing booth, where one can find out how many people’s weight equals that of one furry rodent.

Building a Dam:  In this Game, one saves the Beavers from predators by helping them construct a dam using twigs.

The best way to reach the River Safari in Singapore is by public transport. 

River Safari’s location 

Many tourists get confused between the Singapore Zoo, Singapore Night Safari, and Singapore River Safari. 

These are three different attractions close to each other. In fact, within a few minutes walking distance of each other. 

River Safari’s entrance is adjacent to Singapore Zoo’s entry gate. 

Address:  80, Mandai Lake Road, Singapore, 729826.  Get Directions

To River Safari by MRT

If you plan to use MRT, you are in luck because five MRT stations of North South Line are around the Singapore River Safari Park.

You can get down at any of these stations and catch a bus to reach the River Safari. 

From Khatib MRT , you can get onto the Mandai Khatib Shuttle to reach River Safari.

From Ang Mo Kio MRT , get on to Bus No. 138, and from Choa Chu Kang MRT you must board Bus No. 927.

From both Marsiling MRT and Woodlands MRT , Bus No. 926 can get you to the Singapore River Safari.

Bus to River Wonders

If the MRT doesn’t cover your travel, the next best option is to take a bus. 

If you are traveling from Bedok, Sengkang, or Tampines, we recommend the  Mandai Express Bus service .

The Mandai Express operates on all days of the week, including public holidays.

The adult ticket costs S$3 while kids between 3 to 12 years of age pay only S$1. 

Some of the other bus services you can use to get to Water Safari, Singapore are  Safari Gate Buses .

Driving to Singapore River Safari

If you are in the city center, a 30-minutes drive can get you to the Singapore River Safari.

You can either take the Central Expressway (CTE) or Pan Island Expressway (PIE).  Get Directions

Taxis also follow the same route and will cost you approximately S$22. 

The River Safari shares its parking slot with the Singapore Zoo and the Night Safari. 

There are two parking areas – one is a covered car park while the second is an open-air parking space and there are enough slots. 

The parking charges at Singapore River Safari work out cheaper if you are carrying a cash card.

First 10 minutes: Free Next 1 hour: S$3 per hour Every additional hour: S$2 per hour

We recommend you look at the River Safari Map and plan your itinerary before your visit. 

To use this map while exploring the River Safari, bookmark this page. 

Carrying the Singapore River Safari’s layout is even more necessary if you are traveling with kids.

With an exhaustive map you won’t waste your time looking for the numerous animal exhibits, and in the process get exhausted.

Besides the exhibits, this Singapore River Wonders’s map also points out visitor services such as food kiosks, Cool Zones, First Aid centers, etc.

The River Safari in Singapore is home to 6000 animals across 200 species and 400+ plant species.

More than 20% of the animal species present at the River Safari are believed to be on their way to extinction. 

These River Safari animals occupy over 11 Zones. 

• Wild Amazonia
• Yangtze River
• Ganges River
• Mississippi River
• River Wonders
• Congo River
• Mekong River

Some of the River Safari animals are more popular than others. We list them below – 

Alligator Snapping Turtle, Electric Eel, Giant Freshwater Stingray, Giant Panda, Giant River Otter, Green Anaconda, Indian Gharial, Manatee, Mekong Giant Catfish, Red Panda, Red-bellied Piranhas, Squirrel Monkeys, etc. 

Singapore River Safari has two dining options – 

Mama Panda Kitchen

Mama Panda Kitchen is in the Giant Panda Forest and is open from 10.30 am to 6.30 pm, daily. 

It offers Chinese cuisine, and some of its signature dishes are Panda Pau, Wok Rice, Noodles, etc. 

If you are traveling with kids, it’s a perfect stopover because they also offer kids meal. 

For S$18 you can order a Set Meal including the main course, desserts, and a drink. 

Starbucks is at the Entrance Plaza and offers excellent coffee and tea and premium pastries and other treats. 

It is open from 8 am to 7 pm. 

For more dining options, check out the numerous restaurants at the main entrance of Singapore Zoo, which is a few minutes away by walk. 

Sources # Visitsingapore.com # Tripadvisor.com # Wikipedia.org The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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This article was researched & written by

Utkarsh Chauhan

He loves to travel to beautiful locations but prefers mountains and hilly areas. For him, travel means meeting new people, knowing about their culture, and trying cuisines. He loves to sit peacefully on top of a hill after a long trek, adoring the priceless beauty of nature. Favourite Cities: Chamonix, Hallstatt, Whistler, Innsbruck and Gstaad.

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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River Safari Singapore

Singapore is home to many firsts in Asia, and the River Safari Singapore is one of them. The attraction features the first and only wildlife adventure park in the region to take the freshwater ecosystem as a theme.

River Safari Singapore hosts a collection of at least 5,000 animals from various species, 42 of which are currently endangered.

River Safari Singapore, Zoo Ticket Price, Opening Hours & Map

Another prominent attraction at the River Safari is the Giant Panda Forest which houses the lovely panda couple Jia-Jia and Kai-Kai. These endangered animals are loaned by China to Singapore for 10 years to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the friendly relationship between the two nations.

River Safari Singapore also offers the one-of-a-kind experience of exploring the ‘habitat’ of the Mekong River which is Southeast Asia’s longest freshwater river. This man-made river simulates the deep waters and the natural environment of Mekong.

The River Safari also has an artificial flooded forest that resembles that of the Amazon after being taken over by a heavy downpour. To give guests the complete Amazonian feel, the flooded forest is also graced by different animals which are endemic to the Amazon such as the arapaima and the manatee.

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Beast entry time to go for river safari Do you have any common package for all as shown on the wedsite deal for 12 persons

Tickets for the River Safari Singapore are currently on sale here . There is also an additional coupon you can use in the month of May when you spend a certain amount: TRAVELMAY5 (if you spend over $100), TRAVELMAY10 (if you spend over $150) and TRAVELMAY30 (if you spend over $300.

Best regards, Jess

Will an old grandma on wheelchair be able to take the boat ride?

Hi Catherine,

No, guests must be able to transfer onto the boat unaided. So it is not suitable for those in a wheelchair.

Frequently Asked Questions About River Safari Singapore

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• 6 Best Experiences At River Safari Singapore That Will Change The Way You See The World

11 Jun 2023

Have you ever been under a forest submerged in water? Here, at River Safari Singapore, you not only explore the deep down of Amazon Flooded Water but also meet its wild inhabitants. The River Safari Singapore is a wonderful river-themed zoo and aquarium. Built across 12 hectares, it sits between the two counterparts, the Singapore Zoo and the Night Safari, Singapore. First of its kind in Asia, the park boasts of its world’s largest freshwater aquarium. The park features freshwater attractions and river boat rides as its main highlights.

6 Best River Safari Singapore Experiences

These 6 breathtaking experiences at River Safari Singapore will change the way you see the world. Knowing about places and species you had never known of is a small awakening journey. So, let’s get straight to it!

1. River Trails

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The River Trails at the River Safari Singapore takes you into what they claim to be the world’s largest freshwater aquarium. The wide viewing panel gives you world’s one of the most astonishing views into the hydrosphere. You get to closely observe and explore the aquatic wildlife of a submerged Amazon. The magical sight of the bottom of submerged trees, still standing strong and the marine species swimming around them is just beyond words.

Timings: 12.15pm – 5.30pm

Must Read: 25 Free Things To Do In Singapore We Bet You Didn’t Know About

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2. Amazing Amazonia

Amazing Amazonia at River Safari Singapore is an experience for the wild hearts. Here, you have a chance to get closer to the marine species that are perceived as nasty and dangerous. All the “water-villains” including flesh eating fish called Piranhas, the shock releasing Electric Eels, and that stingy Stingrays reside in some specific zones of the Amazon Flooded Forest. And Amazing Amazonia doesn’t just give you access into these restricted areas, but also brings you a rare chance to feed these animals.

Timings: 1.30pm – 2.30pm Prices: Adult- 2500 /Child- 1500 (Age 3 -12) Group Size: Max 6 people

Suggested Read: 15 Singapore Travel Tips You Must Follow For A Value For Money Experience!

3. Manatee Mania

Manatees, also known as sea cows, are large fully aquatic mammals. These adorable creatures are herbivores and mostly feed on seagrass. Here at River Safari Singapore, the Manatee Mania is one of a kind experience in which you get to meet the manatee family. You also get to take part in training sessions and feed them during their meal time. Here, each manatee has a pet name and the calves are extremely playful which will make you fall in love with them at ones.

Timings: 9.30am – 10.30am Prices: Adult- 6200 /Child- 3800 Duration: 20 minutes of animal interaction

Suggested Read: 11 Best Markets In Singapore That Are A Mecca For All Shopaholics & Foodies

4. Once Upon A River

Once Upon A River is a show at River Safari Singapore that tells you about the relationship that animals have with the aquatic environment they call home. The show tells you the story of the river and every living being in and around it. The audience is hosted by a team of anchors who introduce them to some rare species of animals living on the water edges. You get to meet Brahminy Kite, who even sit on your wrist, Great White Pelican, Hedgehog, Ball Python, Capybara, Green Iguana, Red Panda and Giant Panda. You even get to feed some of the animals with your hands.

Timings: 11.30am – 3.30pm

Suggested Read: 54 Remarkable Places To Visit In Singapore Where A Wandering Heart Finds Peace

5. Amazon River Quest

Amazon River Quest at River Safari Singapore is all about a boat adventure into the mysterious river. This exciting ride flows you along the river, and you can spot several camouflaged wildlife in the lush green dense forest running along the river. This journey will give you a picture of amazon and its ecosystem.

Timings: Last ride at 6pm

Suggested Read: Top 5 Water Parks In Singapore That Let You Beat The Heat In The Lion City, In Style!

6. Reservoir Cruise

The Reservoir Cruise at River Safari Singapore is a quick relaxing ride after you have spent the entire day in exploring the Amazon river and its wildlife. You will come across some enchanting views as you cruise along the upper Seletar Reservoir. This ride is wheelchair friendly and can be enjoyed by people of any age group.

Timings: Last cruise departs at 6pm Group Size: Max 40 people

Timing & ticket rates

The River Safari SIngapore is open from 10am to 7pm with last entry at 6.30pm , throughout the year. Following are the ticket prices at the River Safari SIngapore:

• Adult: INR 1700
• Child: INR 1100

Note: You can book upto 15% if you book online.

Suggested Read: 10 Best National Parks In Singapore For Soaking In Ultimate Bliss Amidst Nature

Reviews and location

To know what other visitors have to say about the River Safari Singapore, click below: Reviews

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826 Location:

After knowing about these thrilling attractions at the River Safari Singapore you must be considering it as one of top priority experiences during your Singapore Trip. The park impresses the adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. So, what are you waiting for? Plan a trip to Singapore no and visit the River Safari Singapore.

Further Read: 54 Remarkable Places To Visit In Singapore Where A Wandering Heart Finds Peace

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A Guide to the Singapore Night Safari: Worth It?

Every city has certain must-see attractions, and Singapore is no exception. The first time we visited, we basically had to squeeze all the best things to see in Singapore into a day and a half.

Our friends were not impressed. “Next time, you have to go to the Singapore Zoo Night Safari!” they insisted. So peer pressure and thumbs-up TripAdvisor reviews talked us into visiting an attraction without knowing what to expect. The only thing we knew for sure was that we’d never hear the end of it if we didn’t make it to the Singapore Night Safari the next time we passed through the country.

After having visited twice, here’s our hard-learned travel guide to the Singapore Night Safari. Is it worth it? Read on to find out.

What is the Singapore Night Safari, anyway?

If you’re thinking that Singapore Night Safari is just another zoo, you’ve got another think coming. I mean, it’s not like going to the regular zoo at night. This is a separate attraction, right next to the Singapore Zoo, where they keep all the animals that do nothing but sleep while the sun’s out.

This is where you get to spy on those critters and see what they do after the gates close for the day.

If this idea intrigues you, read on. Maybe our review will help you determine if the Night Safari is worth your time and money.

Why visit the Singapore Night Safari?

There are several reasons to visit the Singapore Night Safari: its unique nocturnal setting, diverse animal species, close encounters with animals through the tram ride and paths, and spectacular shows. Visits also support conservation efforts and educate visitors about the importance of protecting these animals.

#1 nightlife attraction in Singapore

When Night Safari opened in 1994, it was the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park. The man who came up with the idea was a genius ( you can read his story here ). The Singapore Night Safari is considered a world-class attraction, and it welcomes more than 1.1 million visitors a year!

It has also become a significant conservation, rescue and research facility. Most encouraging of all, it has successfully bred a number of endangered species, including Malayan tigers, Asian elephants, fishing cats, Malayan tapirs and Asian lions.

The park’s lighting has been specially designed to be only as bright as the full moon, and since animals are used to that, they are awake and active. Visitors have to find their way around with only the “light of the moon” as a guide, but if you have ever gone camping, you will know that it is adequate.

As you might imagine, flash photography and flashlights are prohibited, not only for the well-being of the animals, but for the safety of others. Being suddenly blinded by an unexpected flash can really mess with your eyesight.

How to get to Singapore Night Safari

The Night Safari is next to the Singapore Zoo and River Safari. It’s only a 30-minute drive from Marina Bay and Orchard Road.

Shuttle bus

The best way to get to the Night Safari is by MRT and shuttle bus. Take the MRT to Khatib Station (NS14) on the North South line. Use Exit A to catch the Mandai Khatib Shuttle to the Night Safari.

The shuttle bus from Khatib MRT to Mandai costs SGD $2 and takes about 15 minutes. Click here to see the full schedule.

Public transportation

To get to the Night Safari by public transportation, take the MRT to Ang Mo Kio station (NS16). Cross the street and take bus 138 to Night Safari.

Bus routes 138 and 927 both have a stop at the Night Safari.

Book an excursion

The most hassle-free way to visit the Night Safari is to book an excursion with a tour company. They will provide skip-the line tickets and hotel pickup and return, and you also get priority boarding on the tram. Learn more here.

Taxi/GrabCar

We’ve also taken a taxi to the safari and called GrabCar to take us home. (GrabCar is the Uber of Southeast Asia.)

While it’s more expensive than taking the MRT, a taxi/GrabCar offers the convenience of traveling door-to-door, on your schedule. Note that the cost is PER CAR,   not per person, so factor that in if you’re comparing prices.

• Taxi:  Calculate your fare  here . I couldn’t find a GrabCar price calculator, but I’ve been told that taxi and GrabCar prices are comparable.

Night Safari entrance

As with most parks, the zoo entrance is lined with shops and food joints. There are a number of places to eat at the Night Safari at assorted price points.

The food court has a traditional  kampong  (village) ambiance, in keeping with the overall adventure theme you’d expect at a zoo. Most special diets can be accommodated because it has a nice variety of options, from tasty satays to noodle soups, fish and even burgers and beer.

Your food options include:

• Jungle Rotisserie (roasted quarter chicken) – you can watch the Thrumbuakar performance from your seat.
• Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant (buffet plus local a la carte options like chicken rice and laksa)
• Safari Sizzles (hot dogs & fried snacks, plus both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks)
• Zebra Cafe (soft serve frozen yogurt, snacks and drinks of all types)
• Ben & Jerry’s (ice cream treats)
• Casa Italia (32 flavors of gelato)
• Mandai Mart (fruit cups and slushies)

For us, it was Ulu Ulu on both occasions, because Dan enjoyed their delicious Indian buffet that much the first time. This is one case where doing a bit of prior research would have paid off. We arrived early so we’d have more time for dinner, only to find out that they offer an Asian buffet first.

Just so you know, their Indian buffet starts at 8:30.

Night Safari’s Zebra Cafe has some really fun chairs.It’s obvious that the interior designer was talented. We were surprised by the designer’s attention to detail –  even in the washrooms! They are designed with an open plan, with waterfalls, floor-to-ceiling windows, and lush landscaping that makes you feel like you’re washing your hands in a tropical garden. I’ve read that they won awards for them. (Umm … awards for bathrooms?)

IMPORTANT NOTE: DO NOT go to Singapore Night Safari expecting to get good photos. You won’t. Cell phone cameras are not equipped to capture good photos in limited light, especially when the subject is moving. A tripod and fast camera lens are essential for good photos, so if you have them, come prepared.

Navigating the Night Safari

Singapore Night Safari is divided into seven geographical zones. There are four pathways that lead you through them all.

Tip: Remember to wear shoes with good traction. Some areas can be wet and it is easy to trip in the darkness.

More than 59 exhibits and 1,000 animals live here. Their enclosures are grouped into geographical regions, accessible via 4 walking trails and a tram tour.

Our suggested itinerary

We’d suggest that you plan your evening around the two live shows they offer. Here’s a good itinerary:

• 6:00 – Dinner
• 7:00 – Enjoy the Thumbuakar fire show
• 7:15 – Walk through the trails
• 9:40 – Tram ride
• 10:30 – Creatures of the Night show
• 10:50 – Gift shop

Thumbuakar fire show

Pyromaniacs will really enjoy this spectacle. Fire breathing tribal warriors display their skill as they dance and perform their fiery stunts.

• Where: Entrance courtyard (weather permitting)
• Time: Daily except Wednesdays at 7pm, 8pm, 9pm (and 10pm on weekends and holidays)

Creatures of the Night

The Creatures of the Night Show is a great opportunity to take a break and be entertained at the same time. You’ll see the natural abilities of some of the most fascinating animals in the park. The show lasts 20 minutes but because it’s so popular, you should arrive 30 minutes ahead to ensure a good seat.

• Where: Amphitheatre
• Time: 7:30pm, 8:30pm, 9:30pm and 10:30pm (weather permitting)

Guided tram ride

Don’t miss the 40-minute guided tram ride with live commentary, because some of the animals can only be seen from the tram. Your knowledgeable tram guide will fill you in on the beasts and the 6 geographical zones as you drive through them all:

• Himalayan Foothills
• Indian Subcontinent
• Equatorial Africa
• Asian Riverine Forest
• Nepalese River Valley
• Burmese Hillside

What you’ll see on your walk through the Night Safari paths

As you walk through the pathways, you will notice that there are no cages; all that stand between you and the wild animals are a moat and a low fence. There they are, only a little more than arm’s reach away, awake and doing what they normally would do in the wild.

• Wallaby Trail – this Australasian-inspired trail includes an area where cute little wallabies hop back-and-forth across your path. (I almost tripped over one little guy, who wasn’t watching where he was going!) You can also enter a “cave,” complete with dripping water, to watch nocturnal cave critters.
• East Lodge Trail – you can see wild African and Asian animals up close here, thanks to glass-fronted enclosures. Highlights include the splendid Malayan tiger and the devious spotted hyena.
• Leopard Trail – the beautiful leopard has his own huge glass-fronted exhibit for your enjoyment. The trail also offers Mangrove Walk and Giant Flying Squirrel Aviary, two walk-through exhibits that allow you to experience creatures swooping around and above you.
• Fishing Cat Trail – watch the fishing cat as it tries to reel in its fish dinner in front of your eyes.

In addition, the park has a special area for smaller critters, like reptiles, and each cage is small enough that it’s easy to find them. Even there, the caretakers were careful to create a natural environment for their well-being.

Luxury experiences at the Night Safari

Singapore Night Safari offers private tours. You can book a VIP Safari Adventurer Tour , and a dedicated guide will take your group on a private tour of the park.

Plan your trip

• Hours:  Open daily from 7:15pm – 12.00mn daily (Last ticket sale at 11.15 pm).  Retail shops open from 5:00pm and restaurants open from 5.30 pm.
• Cost:  Adult: S$45 | Child: S$30. Multi-park discounts are available.
• Wheelchairs: Contact a guest relations officer to arrange a tram with wheelchair facilities. ( Here is a suggested itinerary for wheelchairs.)
• For more of the nocturnal zoo, see our Night Safari photo gallery .

Also see our Singapore River Cruise review .

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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28 thoughts on “a guide to the singapore night safari: worth it”.

The night safari was awesome. We had an absolute whale of a time. The food was delicious as well.

So glad you enjoyed it! I’m guessing your answer to my question is that yes, it’s worth the expense.

Visit River Safari in Singapore for a wildlife experience themed around the world’s freshwater rivers. You’ll wander around eight river habitats, from the Yangtze to the Mississippi, to encounter animals of all types, including the beloved giant panda. Learn about the native animals and plants that are found around the world’s legendary rivers, and take a boat ride on the ‘Amazon River,’ if you wish (own expense). Hotel pickup and drop-off are included

River Safari is on our list because it’s Asia’s only river-themed wildlife park and it has the world’s largest collections of freshwater animals. The most interesting one is the Mekong giant catfish.

Wonderful post. Thanks for such detailed information. I am travelling in October with my family. My dad is hemiplegic so he will be in wheelchair. We want to cover both Singapore Zoo and River Safari. How much do we need to walk? Are the pathways easily wheelchair friendly? Is it like really very long walk combining both. Are the outside food allowed inside as I need to carry some homemade food for my father.

We’ve not visited the Singapore Zoo yet so we can’t tell you how accessible it is or how much walking you’ll do. The Night Safari has hills and some places have stairs so you might have to detour. We’d suggest checking the map on their website and planning a route to save some steps. As to outside food, there shouldn’t be a problem bringing it in.

Ahhh so cute!!! I love animals and I’m glad this zoo seems to be a good one that provides a good habitat for the animals. 🦓 🦒 🐅 I went to the Night Safari and it was awesome. These are awesome photos and great description. 🙂 Wonderful post. Thanks for such detailed information.

You are so welcome, Maria.

Short answer is NOOOOOOOO!!!!! Read TripAdvisor ‘terrible’ reviews to get the real picture, these are absolutely accurate. It is a tragedy of monstrous proportions. One of the worst things I did in my whole life.

Wow, it’s hard to believe an attraction could have been that terrible. Which things to do in Singapore would you recommeend?

Wow, this must be a Unique adventure for you. Wandering through the trails and finding animals in their natural surrounding is a bit exciting and Scary too. But they use proper protection so nothing to worry.

What we like most about the Night Safari is how easy it is to get close to the animals and feel completely safe. I hope we conveyed that in our article.

I haven’t been to the Night Safari in years – I think the fire show is fairly new, because I don’t remember it at all. It sounds great! The Creatures of the Night Show, though, left a lasting impression on me for all the wrong reasons: despite repeated requests to refrain from using flash photography in order to protect the animals’ eyes, I saw SO many camera flashes go off during those few minutes. Seeing that kind of blatant selfishness up close was really infuriating.

I completely agree! We had the same experience when on the tram, but thankfully the guide reminded people to turn the flash off.

Absolutely disappointed. Do not waste your money. Go see the zoo in the day light. Photos are not worth the effort. Half the animals cannot be seen. We just love zoos, but not this Night Safari. Go have breakfast with the Oranatangs instead.

Thanks for the recommendation to see the zoo in the daylight, Graham. I’m sorry you didn’t enjoy the Night Safari, but Breakfast with the Orangutans sounds like a keeper.

Singapore didn’t seem terribly expensive – when compared with other major cities – like Tokyo, London, Barcelona. Hotels and transportation are the ones that are quite high-priced.

For sure accommodation is pricey in Singapore, but the hawker stands make up for it with some of the cheapest restaurant food on the planet. Maybe the reason Singapore has a reputation for being expensive is because of the contrast, as its neighbouring southeast Asian nations are so dirt cheap?

We also missed the fire-breathing Thumbuakar performance – It was drizzling and they had to cancel the show.. We ended up taking the buggy as it was drizzling and had a very tough time taking any meaningful picture..

Practically have no photos which are not blurred 🙂

Our sympathies; we discarded almost all of our photos because of how badly they turned out. I’m just glad we had a few marginally acceptable ones to include in this story. 🙂

Looks like fun, but I would be in the same boat as Dan – I love getting great photos and when it’s hard to do I get so frustrated. I’m not the best at shooting in low light as it is (need more practice). The bathrooms sound lovely, and of course the food looks amazing! 🙂

It was. I’d like to visit again but might not find the opportunity. There are so many wonderful places in Singapore that we’ve not seen yet!

Sometimes you just have to enjoy your surroundings without your camera – it’s so freeing when you do! The night experience looks really interesting… and not surprising Singapore has some really cool washrooms 🙂

I think you’re right, but sure Dan loves his photography….

First of all, I love the cool chairs – I mean, who would not want to sit on a zebra!! The food looks delicious and it looks like a fun and enjoyable experience. I can understand why it is hard to photograph there as usually a tripod is needed to exceptional night shots but give yourselves a pat on the back for the ones you captured and included in this post!

Thanks, Constance. It was a lot of fun.

Awesome night safari! The food looks scrumptious (looks like our Indian platter).

It was some of the best Indian food we’ve had so far. But then, we’ve not been to India yet…

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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Moskva River

Ryan Weaver

April 4, 2024

As with many great capitals around the world, Moscow features a large river which cuts through the city and which provides the perfect backdrop for this incredible capital. For many years this river was the mode of transportation and the source of life for the city, in recent years it has become the spot for viewing the city and for enjoying the scenery of this great destination.

It rises about 90 miles west of Moscow, and flows roughly east through the Smolensk and Moscow Oblasts, passing through central Moscow. Let’s take a deeper look into this majestic river.

The name Moskva actually means Moscow and whilst the name of the city changed in the eyes of the world, the name of the river remained the same. What many don’t know is that the city is actually named after the river, and the origin of Moskva is unknown although there are many theories.

As of 2007, there are an incredible 49 bridges which stretch across the Moskva River and its canals within Moscow city limits; the first stone bridge, Bolshoi Kamennyi Bridge, was actually erected in 1692. Within the city, the river is 120–200 metres wide, and the narrowest point of the river is right underneath the Kremlin walls .

Drinking Water

Much of the city actually drink water from the river. There are five stations on the river, in the Upper Volga reservoirs, where water is collected and then piped to the city as potable water.

There are a number of islands which can be found on the wider parts of the river. These are some of the most notable which have been separated from the mainland or which were formed from canals.

Serebryany Bor

Balchug Island

Tatarskaya Poima

Entertainment

Entertainment on the river includes cruises and some sporting events. During the winter there are many parts of the river which freeze entirely and this brings a great number of thrill seekers to the water, who attempt to walk all the way across over the ice. As risky as this sounds, the ice is usually at least a meter deep, removing much of the risk.

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