The animals and zones of the River Wonders (River Safari) Map
Are you planning a weekend to visit River Wonders (formerly River Safari Singapore), aka Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park? This Singapore zoo features attractions split into zones that are named after famous rivers. Here’s a breakdown of the River Wonders map (and the plethora of wildlife) to get you started:
After entering the park, cross off the first attraction on the River Wonders map by turning left from the Entrance Plaza. You’ll see the River Gems exhibit, which features the Mississippi, Congo, and Nile Rivers. Here, watch as the alligator snapping turtle, the striking blue cichlid, the vibrant Caribbean flamingo, and the ferocious tigerfish wade in their natural habitat.
Nearby lies the Ganges River, where the endangered Indian gharial (a species close to crocodiles and alligators) live in freshwater. Notice the mothers protecting their hatchlings as they stay close to the shore.
You can also find the Goonch catfish in this zone.
Majestic creatures swim through the next attraction on the River Wonders: the Mekong River. Dedicated to just two creatures — the giant freshwater stingray and high fin catfish — be sure to wave at the friendly-looking creature gliding across the walled exhibit.
Just behind the Mekong River is the adorable red panda, perched atop the trees of the Yangtze River. Swimming in the river is the Chinese giant salamander, an impressive invertebrate species that have existed since the time of the dinosaurs. Then, try and spot the Chinese softshell turtle bobbing near the bottom of the river.
A visit to the park wouldn’t be complete without heading to the other end of the River Wonders map: the Giant Panda Forest. The largest panda exhibit in Southeast Asia, Kai Kai and Jia Jia, and their cub, Le Le live among bamboo plants, a waterfall, and shallow pools (to simulate their natural environment).
Then, drop by the House of Kai Kai & Jia Jia to purchase some adorable mementos. Stop for a break at Mama Panda Kitchen, a Chinese-style eatery serving Panda Pau and Panda Cappuccino.
Cross the viewing deck — a wooden boardwalk crossing the park’s main river — and arrive at the Boat Plaza. Happening here daily, the Once Upon a River animal presentation offers an up-close look at the variety of fascinating creatures in the park. Be sure to snap pictures of the capybara feeding.
The River Wonders timings of this presentation are 11.30am, 2.30pm, and 4.30pm.
Oh, and if you’re planning a trip to River Wonders, here’s a guide to the shows you can catch there.
At only SGD $5 extra, hop on the Amazon River Quest. Feel as though you’re coursing along the Amazon River as you observe the unique Brazilian tapir and giant anteater camouflaging with their surroundings. A few monkey species hang from the branches as well.
Then, see if you can spot the stealthy jaguar swimming in the waters.
The final stop on your River Wonders trip? The Amazon Flooded Forest, aka the world’s largest freshwater aquarium.
Be amazed as giant river otters, manatees, and electric eels drift past you. Head up to the second floor to find other fish species swimming overhead.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time of day to visit River Wonders?
The River Wonders opening hours are from 10am to 7pm (daily, including public holidays). That said, it’s best to arrive after lunch between 1pm and 2pm. This will allow three to four hours of exploring River Wonders. Also, since the park closes at 7pm (and some park exhibits close at 6pm), this will ensure sufficient time to see everything.
Plus, if you’re planning a multi-park day trip, you can head to Night Safari after River Wonders closes.
How much are River Wonders tickets?
River Wonders tickets start at SGD 39.9 for Singapore residents. You can start planning your trip by getting tickets here.
Prices for tickets online may vary. Please click here for updated prices.
How do I get to River Wonders (or River Safari)?
If you’re taking a private car or taxi directly to the park, the journey to River Wonders will take about 30 minutes from Singapore’s city centre.
By public transport, River Wonders (or River Safari) is accessible via a connecting public bus after alighting from Khatib, Choa Chu Kang, or Ang Mo Kio MRT Stations on the North-South MRT Line. From Khatib MRT Station, you can also board The Mandai Shuttle.
There are also shuttle buses available from the heartlands on weekends and holidays.
Getting to River Wonders by Bus/MRT
| MRT Stations | Connecting Bus |
Khatib (NS14) | Mandai Shuttle |
| Choa Chu Kang (NS4) | 927 |
Ang Mo Kio (NS16) | 138 |
| Springleaf (TE4) | 138 |
Getting to River Wonders by Mandai Shuttle
You can also get to River Wonders by hopping on the Mandai Shuttle from Khatib MRT station. Buses arrive every 10 minutes during operating hours and every 20 minutes between 11am to 2pm, and the one-way fare is both SGD $1 for both adults and children.
| Stops | Time |
| Khatib MRT Station (NS14) Exit A Passenger Pick-up Point | From Khatib MRT First bus: 8am |
| Mandai Wildlife West (Inbound) Bus Stop | From Mandai Wildlife Reserve First bus: 8.20am |
| Mandai Wildlife East Coach Bay | |
| Mandai Wildlife West (Outbound) Bus Stop |
