river safari wild

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.

Singapore Itinerary: The Best 5 Day Trip for You to Copy It

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River Wonders

Let the river run.

At the River Wonders Singapore, meet manatees and monkeys, piranhas and pandas, as they congregate in and around the park’s waters.

Discover the unique wildlife native to some of the world’s most iconic rivers habitats, including the Mekong, Yangtze and Amazon River.

Every river has many stories to tell. Are you ready for an adventure? Meet the Capybara and more in the Once Upon a River Presentation.

While you won’t find Kung Fu Pandas on the River Wonders, you will stumble upon adorable animals from myriad species, including red pandas, squirrel monkeys and giant river otters.

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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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.

• Kale by LyraThemes.com.

Discover Asia’s First River-Themed Wildlife Park at River Wonders Singapore

Things to do in Singapore Singapore Attractions Singapore Zoos & Aquariums River Wonders Singapore

A river-themed wildlife park where you can experience the majesty of iconic rivers while making some new animal friends? We’re not making any of this up! The River Safari Singapore is a wildlife sanctuary spanning over 12 hectares, home to freshwater habitat of world rivers like the Amazon, Mississippi, Mae Klong, Nile, and more

The reserve features a setup which allows you to explore the wildlife park on foot and end the experience with a magical cruise that traverses the park's gentle waters, where you can spot a myriad of aquatic animals like the endangered giant Mekong catfish. You will also get an opportunity to meet the resident giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia at the Giant Panda Forest

River Wonders in a Nutshell

Handy information.

Giant Panda Forest Amazon River Quest Wild Amazonia

Things to know

Constructed in: 29 November 2012 Location: Mandai Wildlife Reserve No. of animals: 11,000 Total area: 30 acres

Opening Hours And Address

Daily 10 AM - 7 PM

80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826 Get there

Why Visit River Wonders?

• Unique Fauna: Housing over 6000 animals across 200 species, and 400 plant species, River Safari Singapore is an experience you just cannot miss! Out of the 200 animal species present in River Safari, 40 are threatened, making the place even more special.
• Learning Experience: Understand the ecology of rivers and their significance to our planet. Interactive exhibits at River Wonders ensure an educational experience for visitors of all ages.
• Thrilling Adventure: You can explore the park along the Mississippi, Congo, Nile, Ganges, Mekong and Yangtze rivers, where you can get a good look into the freshwater aquariums and the rich walk-through exhibits.
• Conservation Efforts Beyond being just a fun experience for families, River Safari Singapore takes active part in global conservation efforts pertaining to many species of flora and fauna.

Recommended River Wonders Tickets

River zones at river wonders singapore.

The most popular, and for good reason, attraction in River Safari Singapore is the River Zones. You’ll get to experience the following iconic rivers:

• Mississippi: This exhibit features a range of North American wildlife from the world’s fourth longest river. Packing a powerful bite are the alligator snapping turtles and their cousins, the common snapping turtles.
• Congo: The Congo River, also known as the Zaire River, is one of the largest rivers in the world and the deepest (220 m at one point!). Here you can discover colourful fish species like the Congo tetra, giant freshwater puffer etc.
• Nile: Regarded as the longest river in the world at 6800 km, the Nile’s water resources are shared by about 11 countries, particularly Egypt and Sudan. Here you'll discover the African arowana, tigerfish, and giraffe catfish.
• Ganges: Strange, mysterious, and holy at the same time, the Ganges river is revered by Hindus and home to the unusual Indian gharial, frog-faced softshell turtle, and the intriguing goonch catfish.
• Mekong: Mekong River, the closest to Singapore, is the lifeline of countries in the region like China, Burma, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. It is a powerful source of clean energy, and humongous river life like the monster giant catfish and the freshwater stingray.
• Yangtze: The Yangtze River is the longest river in Asia and third in the world. It has been deeply intertwined with the history, culture and economy of China for centuries. Exhibited here are the ancient sturgeon, giant salamander and the Chinese alligator.

Highlights Of River Wonders Singapore

1 giant panda forest.

A key attraction of River Safari Singapore, the Giant Panda Forest offers a delightful little experience. Here, you can meet lovable giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia in a climate-controlled biodome that simulates their natural habitat. The Giant Panda Forest is also home to the rare red panda, so watch out for them while here.

2 River Safari Cruise

End your day of exploration and discovery by hopping on the River Safari Cruise to enjoy and relax after a fun-filled day. Look out for scenic photo opportunities as you gently cruise along the upper Seletar reservoir. The best part? There’s no height restriction for the cruise, which means everyone in your family can come along for this adventure.

3 Amazon River Quest

Experience the marvelous and mysterious Amazonian boat adventure with Amazon River Quest. Designed to simulate a journey along the Amazon River, your keen senses will come into play here. Try and spot the well-camouflaged and elusive wildlife hidden among the lush vegetation. Highlights include the Brazilian tapir, jaguar, and the giant anteater!

4 Squirrel Monkey Forest

The Squirrel Monkey Forest will give you ample opportunities to get really close to these small, adorable animals, native to Central and South America. Unlike other animals, squirrel monkeys are generally quite curious, which means you won’t have to strain your eyes looking for them in the camouflaged natural surroundings.

5 Amazon Flooded Forest

In the world’s largest freshwater gallery, get a special view of remarkable aquatic animals in an underwater ecosystem that mimics the submerged Amazon. You’ll get to witness red-bellied piranhas, manatees, electric eel, black-finned pacu, motoro stingray, arapaimas, and giant river otters!

Best Time To Visit River Wonders

While there is no perfect time to visit River Wonders - it's an established fact that the views and vibes are best during sunset. Ideally, it’s also the perfect time to bump into a plethora of people. If you're someone who loves beating the crowd, sometime early afternoon, or late evening should be the best time to visit. Additionally, read about best time to visit Singapore before you plan!

River Wonders Singapore Opening Hours

River Wonders is open from 10 am to 7 pm, everyday

Getting To River Wonders

To come to Singapore River Wonders by public transport, take the MRT Red Line and transit to a connecting public bus such as no. 927 and no.138. If you're coming by car take the SLE towards Mandai Road and reach Mandai Lake Road.

Other Attractions Around River Wonders Singapore

Here are some top attractions which are located near River Wonders, that you should add to your itinerary.

Gardens By The Bay is an awe-inspiring 101-hectare nature park in Singapore, showcasing horticultural artistry. This green oasis boasts impressive features such as the futuristic Supertree Groves, the Cloud Forest, and the colorful Flower Dome. With its panoramic waterfront views and diverse range of plant life, it offers an unforgettable journey into the realm of flora.

The Night Safari is an immersive experience which brings the visitor closer to the life of nocturnal animals. The experience allows visitors to see animals live like they would in the wild in an artificially constructed habitat that allows these animals to live outside their cages. Whether you’re an adult or a child, this experience will leave you feeling enriched.

A permanent fixture on the Singapore skyline since 1974, the Singapore Cable Car is one of its most exciting experiences. The Mount Faber cable car line links Mainland Singapore to the buzzing Sentosa Island. While the newly added Sentosa Line is an intra-island line and covers the length of the Sentosa Island. The colorful cable cars dot the skyline and offer a fantastic panoramic view of the city.

The Singapore Zoo , locally known as the Mandai Zoo, the massive nature enclosure that is the Singapore Zoo, spreads over an area of 28 hectares. With Singapore Zoo tickets, get the unique opportunity to see over 315 animal species, 16% of which are categorised as threatened; the zoo is divided into six zones that are replicas of different habitats from across the world.

Facilities available at River Wonders Singapore

• ATM: POSB & UOB ATM machines are available at the Singapore Zoo main entrance.
• Lost & Found: If you've lost an item in River Wonders, contact River Wonders Visitor Services for assistance.
• Nursing Rooms: They can be found at Entrance Plaza, Pavilion Capital Giant Panda Forest, Boat Plaza, and Amazon Flooded Forest.
• Diaper Changing Facilities: Available at Entrance Plaza, Pavilion Capital Giant Panda Forest, Boat Plaza, and Amazon Flooded Forest.
• Mobility Access: Rent a stroller (S $15), wagon (S$18), electric scooter (S$ 20), or a wheelchair (complimentary).
• In-Park WiFi: Look for 'PARK_FREE_WIFI' to get connected for free.
• First Aid: Ask the uniformed staff. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are also available at Entrance Plaza, Pavilion Capital Giant Panda Forest, and Boat Plaza.
• Small locker (45H X 43L X 28.5W cm) is S$5 for the first 3 hours, and S$1 for every additional hour or part thereof.
• Large locker (60.5H X 43L X 35.5W cm) is S$10 for the first 3 hours, and S$2 for every additional hour or part thereof.
• Left Baggage: Large suitcases can be placed at the Rental Services counter. Services start at S$10 for the first 3 hours and S$2 for every additional hour or part thereof.
• Prayer Room: Assistance is available at the park's reception counter.
• Rain Gear: Ponchos and umbrellas are available for purchase at the gift shop.

River Wonders: Rules & Regulations

• While it might seem enticing, please stay away from all areas that are marked restricted. Venturing into prohibited areas is not allowed and can be highly dangerous.
• Be compassionate towards all the animals you come across. No feeding or teasing animals is allowed.
• Make sure that you’re seated and have your hands and feet inside the boat at all times during the amazing boat rides.
• River Wonders is a smoke-free park. If you absolutely must smoke, please proceed to the designated smoking area located outside the park.
• You are not allowed to film footage inside the park for commercial use, unless you have official consent from River Wonders.
• Your pets or plants are not allowed inside River Safari Singapore. This is done to ensure that the animals inside the park stay safe.
• No flash photography is allowed inside the park. Please switch off the flash before you take any pictures, because the bright light can disturb the animals.

River Wonders Singapore Tips

• There’s a lot to see and do at River Safari Singapore, so it would be best to plan your day in advance. You’ll need at least half a day to completely explore the park, so plan accordingly and make the most out of your visit!
• While there’s no official best time to visit River Safari, our recommendation would be during the winter or early summer. Since there’s a lot of walking around to do, avoiding the sun is in your best interest.
• If you are visiting the park during the summer, don’t forget to bring your sunglasses and lather up your skin with sunblock or sunscreen.
• If possible, try and visit the park during weekdays since it’ll be less crowded as compared to the weekends, giving you time to explore everything at your own pace.
• River Safari is primarily a wildlife reserve so make sure to apply some insect repellent before you start exploring the park.
• Bring along adequate drinking water for your trip to River Safari. There’s a bit of walking involved and you don’t want to be dehydrated. If you didn’t bring any water, there are water dispensers you can get drinking water from.

Singapore River Wonders FAQs

How much is the ticket for river wonders.

Tickets for River Safari start from as low as S$39 for adults. The tickets includes a complimentary Reservoir Cruise ride as well.

What are the Singapore River Safari timings?

River Safari is open from 10 AM to 7 PM. It is open every day of the year.

How do I reach the Singapore River Safari?

River Safari is located in 80 Mandai Lake Road. You can reach via public transport - Mandai Khadib shuttle, the Mandai bus service, Safari Gate bus(takes you directly to River Safari).You can also self drive or take a taxi.

How long will it take to complete River Safari park?

You can spend anything between a few hours to half a day depending on the amount of time you allocate to every attraction and the crowd inside the safari park.

How many types of boat rides are there in River Safari?

Amazon River Quest and Reservoir Cruise are the two types of boat rides. Children must be at least 1.06m to take the rides.

How long will boat rides in River Safari take ?

Amazon River Quest is a 10-minute boat ride with a view of animals living along the Amazon river.Reservoir Cruise is a complimentary 15-minute ride along the Upper Seletar Reservoir.

What all can you do at River Safari Singapore?

You can experience River Zones, Giant Panda Forest, River Safari Cruise, Amazon River Quest, Squirrel Monkey Forest and the Amazon Flooded Forest among many other experiences.

Are there any rules for the Singapore River Safari?

It is important to stay away from the restricted areas.River Safari is also a smoke free area. It is mandatory to follow many other rules like no feeding or teasing the animals,no filming allowed for commercial use without official consent, no flash photography etc.

Is River Safari inside Singapore Zoo?

River Safari and Singapore Zoo are adjacent to each other. The River Safari is a 5 minute walk from Singapore Zoo.

Are there services available to go around River Safari?

Yes.Strollers and wagons are available for infants and toddlers,electric scooters are available to move around for all visitors, they all come with certain rental fees.Wheelchairs are available for visitors with limited mobility(complimentary service).

What is the River Safari ticket price for children and senior citizens?

Children below 3 years have free entry to the park. Children above 3 years have an admission fee of S$20.70. Senior citizens above 60 years of age have a concession under the Senior Citizens’ Concession Rate with necessary proof of identity.

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Manisha Choudhari

If there's one thing Manisha loves more than cake, it's travelling. While studying in London, she fell in love with the city, and decided that she wanted to combine her two interests - writing and travelling. Having made London her home, she now travels through Europe during summers, spends winters under ten blankets, and writes about her adventures in between.

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The 12 Best Water Safaris Around the World, From Antarctic Cruises to Botswana River Journeys

Waterborne safaris extend far beyond africa, to the amazon, borneo, alaska and the antarctic. here are the best ways to access exotic wildlife by boat., gemma harris, gemma harris's most recent stories.

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The term safari typically evokes images of dusty African savannahs and bouncy 4×4 rides in pursuit of the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo. While this classic game-drive ritual has its place, a different breed of water-based adventures is gaining momentum.

In Africa, swapping wheels for hulls can save time. In Rwanda, for instance, traveling aboard the Kivu Queen uBuranga , the first motorized houseboat on Lake Kivu, cuts travel time for gorilla trekking jaunts in the Volcanoes National Park or searching for chimpanzees in the Nyungwe Forest National Park. Both would take many hours by car. Plus it’s just a much more pleasant way to travel.

In other parts of the world, the only way to see marine wildlife is by boat. “Cruises are great for visiting more areas and seeing a variety of landscapes,” Allie Almario, the Galapagos and Amazon safari expert at Philadelphia-based Premier Tours, told Robb Report. “ Going by boat in the Amazon, for example, allows you to navigate the tributaries easily for access into some of its most remote areas.”

We’ve curated our favorite water trips to animal-laden lands, whether it’s traveling in a houseboat or go-anywhere expedition vessel, drifting along rivers or cruising to the world’s most remote polar regions. Accommodations range from intimate five-star island hideaways to brand-new superyachts to more communal, high-end river boats. What they share: A wildlife-focused itinerary that not only provides opportunities to witness water-dwelling species but also the diversity of fish and underwater mammals and wide-ranging bird species, all from the comfort of a luxurious floating camp.

Here are 12 of our favorites.

Botswana, Sitatunga Island

The latest in Great Plains’s water-based reserve collection, this private island camp is surrounded by waterways can be accessed only by boat or helicopter. Sitatunga Island blends traditional safaris with boating, thereby elevating the freedom and peacefulness of observing the Okavango Delta’s primal residents. Gliding along in the 22-footer motorboat or mokoro—a traditional dugout canoe—covers more ground, while delving deeper into the landscape. In the new five-star resort, four opulent wooden suites (one a very large double) are equipped with poster beds, open screened sides that offer exceptional wildlife viewing, espresso machines, wine and liquor, plunge pools, and Peloton bikes. Each suite also has a professional camera for capturing hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and hundreds of exotic bird species. Add to that gourmet meals, exceptional service, and halcyon sunsets over the Okavango River, and this could be the most exclusive water safari in Botswana. Surrounding camps from other providers such as Jao, Xigera, and Vumbura, also embrace a similar ethos, combining land and water safaris. Best time: low season (October through February). Cost via Premier Tours : $13,690 per person, including all internal flights and helicopter trips to and from the island. Travel to/from Botswana not included.  

Costa Rica, Cocos Island, ‘SuRi’

Cocos Island, flung 340 miles off Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, has lush mountainous landscapes, countless waterfalls, intriguing cloud forests, and an ocean full of incredible diving. It’s so wild, in fact, that it inspired Jurassic Park. While you won’t find any T-Rexes, park rangers keep an eye on the several species that call the island home. But most of the wildlife is in the ocean, including marine mammals such as humpback whales, sea lions, and bottlenose dolphins. The shark-infested UNESCO waters are best explored aboard the 208-foot explorer SuRi , which offering a nature-themed itinerary from diving with marine biologists alongside the sharks, manta rays, and turtles to kayaking with dolphins to secluded beach hikes among vast bird species. Outfitter Cookson Adventures  also offers hands-on involvement with conservation projects, such as geotagging whale sharks. Best time: June-December. Cost without airfare: Private charter. from $350,000 per week.

Antarctica, ‘Hanse Explorer’

Uninhabited by humans but filled with wildlife, the vast white continent provides an incomparable polar experience. Bypassing a long cruise through Drake Passage, EYOS offers the option to fly in to join the 156-foot, ice-classed Hanse Explorer for traversing the continent’s most remote waters. The vessel’s six staterooms allow a group 12 to venture into the ice with expert guides. Penguin colonies, whales breaching across the yacht’s bow, and herds of seals offer some of the best polar experiences available. After excursions and, of course, the requisite polar plunge, guests can warm up in the Finnish sauna and then enjoy more sea views from the sundeck Jacuzzi. Best time: November-March. Cost without airfare: Private charter from $235,000 per week. 

Galapagos Islands, ‘Stella Maris’

Straddling the equator, the Galapagos Islands promise year-round, water-based wildlife adventures. The volcanic archipelago is home to species found nowhere else on Earth, from blue-footed boobies and giant land iguanas to Galapagos penguins and hundreds more. A visit aboard superyacht  Stella Maris will let any visitor realize how Charles Darwin came up with his theory of evolution by natural selection. The 164-footer has seven well-appointed cabins for relaxing between island visits. Cruising amid the wild things—which change dramatically from island to island—offers a slew of activities, from trekking alongside giant tortoises to tender rides through mangroves to hanging out underwater with boisterous sea lions and hammerhead sharks. The yacht’s guides understand the diversity of the islands, unveiling each creature’s history. Best time: December-May. Cost without airfare: Aqua Expeditions can arrange a full-yacht charter from $218.500 per week.

Norway, Svalbard, ‘Scintilla Maris’

Frozen for months but passable from April to August under 24-hour daylight, this archipelago is abundant with Arctic wildlife. The unusual 150-foot Scintilla Maris , recently converted from a Damen trawler vessel, is the ideal launch pad for Svalbard. Its seafaring capabilities let it weave into the ice floes of this archipelago. Wildlife highlights include seals, reindeer, arctic fox, and the main attraction, the polar bear. They can be viewed up close from the Zodiacs or from heated seating in the yacht’s dedicated observation area, 39 feet above the water. The boat’s vibration-free hybrid propulsion extends the comfort while in electric-only mode, creating a tranquil environment for wildlife encounters. These waters are also a crossroads for multiple whale species, making whale watching one of the highlights. Best time: May-August. Cost without airfare: Pelorus-arranged private charter starting at $160,000 per week. 

Australia, Great Barrier Reef, ‘Beluga’

The world’s largest coral-reef system reveals an aquatic ecosystem that is best explored by water, thanks to 9,000 species below the surface. Though the Great Barrier Reef is experiencing significant environmental challenges, much of it remains a treasure trove for snorkelers and divers. The 113-foot Beluga takes up to 10 guests throughout June and July to the only place one can swim with dwarf minke whales. The yacht has a 40-foot chase boat, aptly named Minke, with ten sets of dive gear. The crow’s nest at the top of the yacht is the perfect place for more whale watching under way. Best time: November-April. Cost without airfare: Ocean Alliance charter from $75,000 per week. 

Borneo, Sabah, ‘Kudanil’

Teeming with life, Sabah’s east coast is one of Southeast Asia’s top wildlife-watching destinations. Superyachts aren’t just for the ocean here: An animal-centric itinerary onboard the 164-foot Kudanil , cruising into the navigable Kinabatangan River, presents some of the world’s rarest species. The river bank includes wild orangutans, the almost extinct Borneo pygmy elephant, the proboscis monkey, and many reptiles and birds. Back in the ocean, as a dive and surf vessel, Kudanil can extend the trip, heading to Sipadan for world-class scuba diving. Best time: May-October. Cost without airfare: Pelorus -arranged private charter from $140,000 per week. 

Alaska Inside Passage, ‘La Datcha’

Along the scenic, remote Inside Passage, wildlife encounters in Alaska are the norm, from wild mink, brown bears fishing for salmon, and harbor seals to pods of orcas and humpback whales. The 252-foot expedition yacht La Datcha offers flexible itineraries through these waters, focusing on the wildlife but also showing the best of the fjords, dramatic island bays, and remote areas that would be otherwise inaccessible except for an explorer vessel of this caliber. Its designated expedition room is filled with specialized gear for onshore and tender excursions. La Datcha ‘s helideck and enclosed hanger also allow exceptional wildlife-viewing far above water levels. Best time: June-August. Cost without airfare: Private charter from $940,000 per week.

Botswana, Chobe River, ‘Zambezi Queen’

Winding through Africa’s wilderness is the Chobe River, this tributary of the Zambezi gives a different perspective of life on the plains. Especially if you’re aboard the Mantis Collection’s 138-foot Zambezi Queen houseboat. If it isn’t impressive enough to see Africa’s wild creatures on land, this vessel lets you wake to leopards drinking and elephants bathing from one of the 14 suites’ private balconies. Tenders bring the action closer for water-based game viewing and, if you’re so inclined, the vessel offers angling for local gamefish. A birder’s paradise, this area of Botswana is home to over 450 bird species. After a day of wildlife spotting, the vessel offers gourmet African-themed dinners. Best time: June-October. Cost without airfare: Luxury suite (per person, per night sharing) $932.

Botswana, Chobe River, ‘Chobe Princess’

Mantis also offers smaller vessels within its portfolio for a more intimate experience of the Chobe River. Moored on the Namibian side, Chobe Princess is part of a trio of similar houseboats available exclusively for families or private parties, with two offering four suites and five in the third. Cruising along the Chobe National Park, the floating safari provides ideal viewing of this game-dense area, with fishing, photographic safaris, birding, and cultural tours. The boat also has a plunge pool and beautiful views. Best time: June-October. Cost without airfare: Luxury suite (per person, per night sharing) $716.

Peru, Amazon, ‘Delfin I’

Aboard the 67-foot Delfin 1 , eight guests gain exclusive access to the world’s largest protected flooded forest—Peru’s Pacaya Samiria National Reserve—accessible only by boat during the rainy season. Navigating through the watery wilderness, the basin’s showstopper is the mystical pink river dolphin found only in these waters. From the shaded observation deck or one of the four plush private-suite terraces, the land also reveals sloths, capybaras, and pygmy marmosets. Night-time safaris via tender reveal the jungle’s nocturnal transformation with black caimans, bats, frogs, and other nocturnal creatures lining the shores. Delfin Cruises partners with local guides to benefit Amazonian communities. Best time: November-May. Cost without airfare: 5 days/4nights, Deluxe suite, $6,500. 

Rwanda, Lake Kivu, ‘Kivu Queen uBuranga’

The Kivu Queen uBuranga has recently pioneered motorized yachting on Lake Kivu’s waters. The lake is a gateway to Rwanda’s kaleidoscopic biodiversity, though it won’t have the big game like northern Botswana. Besides the overarching sense of tranquility, exploring by boat considerably reduces travel times for gorilla trekking jaunts in the Volcanoes National Park or searching for chimpanzees in the Nyungwe Forest National Park. Going by boat is also much more pleasant than having to wander on dusty, remote backroads. Onboard, one can relax in one of the 10 cabins, kick back in the lounge, or unwind in the wellness center. Best time June-September: Cost without airfare: Mantis -arranged travel: 2/3 night stays (per person/per night/sharing) from $1,500.

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Wilderness River Safaris

The perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty of wilderness by cruising on the touw river or island lake. encounter magnificent bird life and breathtaking scenery..

A great way to experience and explore the Wilderness Section of Garden Route National Park. A leisurely and magical experience for people of all ages.

Touw River Cruises

Island lake cruises, wilderness ferry, customised cruises, wilderness river safaris faq.

Life jackets, blankets, ponchos in event of rain and first aid equipment

Dress appropriately for the weather and something to keep you warm Snacks, picnic basket, cooler box, sundowners etc. Binoculars Camera Hats Sunglasses Sunblock

• Embark and disembark one person at a time and only when the boat is moored to the jetty
• Life jackets are provided and are mandatory for children under 12 years or any person who cannot swim
• No smoking on board the boat
• No rocking the boat or splashing each other
• Remain seated whilst the boat is in motion
• No littering
• Please be quiet whilst viewing birds and wildlife
• Spread and balance the load evenly when choosing seats
• Please obey any instructions from the skipper/guide
• In case of emergency remain calm and obey instructions from the skipper

Our vessel is registered and licenced with SAMSA and complies with all safety requirements. We are authorized to operate within Wilderness National Park by means of a concession agreement.

Cruises are dependant on weather conditions. We do not operate in rainy or very windy conditions.

Wild and Scenic Rivers

Water is essential to life. Free-flowing rivers are the arteries of our landscapes, vital for maintaining thriving populations of fish, wildlife and people. 

The Wild and Scenic Rivers Wild and Scenic Rivers The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 established the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, and authorizes Congress to preserve certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. The act is notable for safeguarding the special character of these rivers, while also recognizing the potential for their appropriate use and development. The act encourages river management that crosses political boundaries and promotes public participation in developing goals for river protection. Learn more about Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 established the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, protecting for future generations free-flowing waterways with extraordinary natural, cultural and recreational qualities. The system includes more than 220 rivers, and covers more than 13,400 miles of rivers and streams. Designation protects each river’s unique characteristics and water quality, while ensuring these treasured rivers are protected for people’s use and enjoyment into the future.  

“…Our own children and grandchildren will come to know and come to love the great forests and the wild rivers that we have protected and left to them...”                 — President Lyndon B. Johnson on signing the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, October 2, 1968. 

The National Wildlife Refuge System, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, contains 14 wild and scenic rivers, extending 1,066 river miles. The Service manages some of these rivers independently. It co-manages other waterways with other federal agencies, such as the Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service.    

National Wildlife Refuges with Wild and Scenic Rivers  

Many of the country's more than 560 national wildlife refuges contain wild and scenic rivers or stretches of them. Here are refuges and their corresponding wild and scenic rivers.

• Arctic National Wildlife Refuge , Alaska – Ivishak, Sheenjek, and Wind Rivers 
• Cape May National Wildlife Refuge , New Jersey - Great Egg Harbor River (cooperatively managed with National Park Service) 
• Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge , Montana – Missouri River (cooperatively managed with Bureau of Land Management) 
• Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge , Nebraska – Niobrara River (cooperatively managed with National Park Service)   
• Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge , Massachusetts - Sudbury River (cooperatively managed with National Park Service, State of Massachusetts and local governments) 
• Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge , South Dakota - Missouri River (cooperatively managed with National Park Service)   
• National Elk Refuge , Wyoming – Gros Ventre River, Snake River Headwaters (cooperatively managed with National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service)   
• Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge , Alaska – Nowitna River 
• Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge , Massachusetts - Nashua River (cooperatively managed with National Park Service) 
• Selawik National Wildlife Refuge , Alaska – Selawik River 
• Silvio O. Conte National Wildlife Refuge , New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and Connecticut – Westfield River 
• Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge , Alaska – Andreafsky River 
• Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge , Alaska – Beaver Creek, Alaska (cooperatively managed with Bureau of Land Management) 

As a visitor to wild and scenic rivers, you may thrill to the sight of wildlife thriving along river corridors, travel by boat through awe-inspiring scenery, appreciate places of cultural significance and history, or challenge yourself with a recreational adventure. You can help ensure that others have the same opportunities.  Local residents and adjacent landowners are vital partners in protecting wild and scenic rivers. They may regularly visit a river and have firsthand knowledge of its value and extraordinary characteristics. Everyone can help care for rivers! Be a river steward by: 

• Practicing “Leave No Trace” principles when visiting 
• Engaging as a stakeholder in river management planning
• Enjoying and learning more about wild and scenic rivers, either in-person or through a virtual visit.   

Learn more about the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System and designated rivers.   

Recreational Activities

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• Bungee Jumping
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• Canoe Safaris – Two Days & Two Nights
• Boma Dinner
• Tour of the Falls
• Morning & Afternoon Game Drives
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• Walking Safari / Combo Game Drive– Full Day
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RIVER WILD SAFARIS

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River wild safaris, come adventure with us.

We are an expert safari tour operator based in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe that offers a variety of safari experiences, transfers, accommodation assistance and adrenaline activities- everything you need for the most memorable trip to one of Africa’s top tourist destinations.Our friendly and professional team pride themselves on personalised and quality service for each and every guest. Let River Wild Safaris show you the magic and majesty of Victoria Falls and the African bush like you have never seen or experienced before. You are one click away from the adventure and safari of a lifetime.

Game Drives

Enter into the Zambezi National Park for a short drive along the river slowly making your way across to the Chamabonda Vlei. Here you will set up at one of the viewing platforms and obverse wildlife coming to drink at the water hole. Here you will be served a light dinner. After dinner, you drive down the vlei game viewing under the spotlight with opportunities of seeing Lion, Leopard, Hyena, Several among various other nocturnal species found within the park.

Canoe Safaris

Take a game drive (25km) into the Zambezi National Park in an open vehicle to arrive at our riverside canoe camp. (See accommodation). Prepare to explore the Zambezi River by canoe. Some of the finest game viewing opportunities available to all who venture. Run a few grade 1 and 2 rapids along the way.The day starts with a breakfast and the guide will then give a thorough briefing, which will cover; conditions of the river, rapids, canoeing instruction, safety and general information. There are also overnight options available on the canoe trips to suite your adventurous spirit

Accommodation

Accommodation on safari is in a mobile tented camp. The camp is fully backed up by a team of staff that set up camp in preparation for client’s arrival. The camp comprises of large walk in tents, equipped with camp beds, mattresses, sheets, pillows and duvets, camping water basin (which are filled with hot water each morning), solar lighting. There is also a portable toilet and hot shower in camp.

The camp and dining table are set up under the stars on the riverbank with stunning views of the river. On all overnight trips, limited beers, soft drinks and wines are provided. Clients are more than welcome to bring their own drinks of choice should they wish. During winter months (April, May, June, July and August), the evenings, nights and early mornings will be very cold. Space is limited; we suggest one carry bag per person

River Wild Safaris is a safari tour operator based in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe where we offer a variety of safari tours, transfers, exploration and adrenaline activities. We operate at the highest standards of compliance and integrity, insisting on ethical behavior which is the foundation of our culture.

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Flooding Inundates Kenya, Killing at Least 32 and Displacing Thousands

Heavy rains also pounded other nations in East Africa, including Tanzania, where at least 155 people were killed, according to the country’s prime minister.

Residents in Nairobi were stranded on Tuesday after a night of heavy rainfall. Credit... Daniel Irungu/EPA, via Shutterstock

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By Abdi Latif Dahir and Jesus Jiménez

Abdi Latif Dahir reported from Nairobi, Kenya, and Jesus Jiménez from New York.

• April 24, 2024

Days of torrential rains have pummeled parts of Kenya, leaving at least 32 dead, 15 injured and more than 40,000 people displaced, according to officials. The flooding has killed nearly 1,000 farm animals and destroyed thousands of acres of crops, with more rain expected across the country in the coming days.

The rains began in March during what is known in the country as the “long rains,” but intensified over the past week, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department .

Heavy rains have also pounded other nations across East Africa. In Tanzania, at least 155 people were killed and 236 others injured from the relentless rain that has swept several parts of the country in recent days, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa said on Thursday.

The rains affected some 200,000 people, Mr. Majaliwa added, and caused damage to farms, bridges, roads, schools and places of worship. The Tanzania Meteorological Authority warned that heavy rains and strong winds would continue to pummel several towns and cities, including the port city of Dar es Salaam.

In Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, where some of the country’s heaviest rain has fallen, more than 30,000 people have been displaced, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs . On Tuesday, 18 people there were stranded and later rescued, including seven children, the Kenya Red Cross Society said.

Edwin Sifuna, the Nairobi County senator, said on social media that the local government there was “clearly overwhelmed,” and he called on the federal government for help.

“The situation in Nairobi has escalated to extreme levels,” he wrote in a post that included a video of people stranded on rooftops surrounded by floodwaters.

Kithure Kindiki, cabinet secretary for the Interior Ministry, said in a social media post on Thursday that several government agencies were beginning a joint operation to assist the victims, conduct rescues and evacuate those who remain at risk.

The heavy rains on Wednesday forced Kenya Railways to suspend commuter train services. The Kenya Urban Roads Authority also partially closed four major roads in Nairobi and warned of heavy flooding along several major highways in the capital and in the coastal city of Mombasa.

The rains were not expected to subside over the next few days, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department, which had rain in the forecast for parts of the country, including Nairobi, through Monday. The agency also warned of a high likelihood of breakouts of diseases such as malaria and diarrhea in some areas.

The latest downpours come just months after torrential rains and floods killed dozens of people and displaced thousands more nationwide.

Here are photographs of the flooding in Kenya:

A flooded river in Mathare, a sprawling shantytown in Nairobi where many live in tin shacks.

Swimming through floodwaters to try to rescue people stranded in their homes in Mathare. Most of those displaced in Nairobi live in informal settlements, according to the United Nations.

Residents of Mathare tried to salvage goods from their homes. Many people in Nairobi live in high-density areas that lack proper roads, water or power infrastructure.

Residents in Mathare trying to clear muddy water from their homes. Missing or blocked drainage systems have been blamed for exacerbating the floods.

Clinging to buses and trucks to avoid flooded roads in Nairobi.

Homes in several neighborhoods across the capital were submerged, leading to evacuations.

The torrential rains affected almost half of Kenya’s 47 counties, according to the United Nations.

Using a boat to traverse floodwaters in the Githurai area of Nairobi.

Flooding inundated entire roadways in Machakos County, about 35 miles southeast of Nairobi.

The swollen Athi River. The river burst its banks and flooded homes in Machakos County, officials said.

Abdi Latif Dahir is the East Africa correspondent for The Times, based in Nairobi, Kenya. He covers a broad range of issues including geopolitics, business, society and arts. More about Abdi Latif Dahir

Jesus Jiménez covers breaking news, online trends and other subjects. He is based in New York City. More about Jesus Jiménez

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