Going to River Safari next to Singapore Zoo is great fun, however it is important to stay away from the temptation to fall prey to “panda fever”. These are my top 10 tips to help you enjoy your visit to River Safari in Singapore.

1. Check out at the River Safari animals when they are active.

Start earlier in the morning to ensure that the animals are active. You can also go to one of the regular River Trails presentations which take places in different spots throughout the park. Animals get snacks during these events, so you’ll definitely observe them.

2. A couple of hours will suffice.

Although it’s possible to extend your trip, 60 and 90 minutes ought to suffice to allow you and your loved ones to enjoy this fun activity. It’s more convenient to book your tickets in advance so that you are prepared at the time you arrive.

3. What do you need to bring for River Safari

A few areas of the attraction are air-conditioned however most of it is outdoors. Bring water and sunglasses and a hat because it can be extremely hot.

4. Do not let your kids race ahead of you.

When you visit River Safari, make sure that your family is together. It’s tempting for children to race ahead and skip some of the exhibits.

5. Take advantage of the less well-known exhibits at River Safari

The attractions that are that are at the start of River Safari such as the huge fish tanks don’t get much attention in the reviews, but they’re extremely well-curated and fascinating. Spend some time to enjoy these, as well as the more popular attractions.

6. Do not fall prey to “panda fever”

It’s tempting to rush around River Safari to reach those famous pandas but you should take your time as…

7. The pandas could be asleep

Being early in the morning can boost your chances of seeing these cute animals awake , but you’re going to be extremely fortunate to be able to do so. Although they’re adorable to gaze at , even in asleep but the pandas may not be the main attraction you’d like to see.

8. Enjoy the Amazon River Safari ride early. River Safari early

We took our Amazon River Quest ride at midday, which according to my top tip above it was probably one of the most difficult times to go on this adventure. The majority all the wildlife were lying beneath trees in an effort to avoid the scorching midday sun, making it difficult to see them. The only exception was the roost of flamingos towards the end of our trip which was the most memorable part for the Amazon River Quest ride and difficult to miss due to their stunning pink hue.

9. River Safari squirrel monkeys

We were pleasantly surprised when our family discovered that our favorite River Safari attraction wasn’t the pandas, but the squirrel monkeys who are free to roam around their large trees-lined enclosure. It’s possible to watch their behaviour up close while you stroll through the exhibit.

10. River Safari dugongs

It was also fun to watch manatees (or dugongs) in their massive tank. It is a great place for children (and their families) to unwind and get away from the heat, as the viewing area is filled with seating in the viewing areas.

We also enjoyed breakfast with the orangutans in the next room to Singapore Zoo. If you want to experience a river safari as well as go to Singapore Zoo for the orangutan breakfast, it’s recommended to plan both of these activities in the same day.