A Complete Guide to Singapore’s River Wonders

Formerly known as River Safari, River Wonders in Singapore is a river-themed wildlife reserve, the first and only one in Asia. It is located in Mandai, the Northern region of Singapore and was formed with parts of Mandai Wildlife Reserve, Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and Bird Paradise. Rivers in general support all forms of life and when you look back into the past, you’ll see that every civilization sought riverside so they could flourish. Every river has fascinating stories to tell. The park replicates the habitat of rivers such as the Nile, Congo, Amazon, Mekong, Yangtze, and others.

Singapore’s River Wonders has a rich flora and fauna which is home to both aquatic & terrestrial animals belonging to approximately 200 different species. This freshwater, river-themed wildlife park is one of the most iconic rivers in the world where you can get a glimpse of the exotic animals. You can also witness varieties of flora, which makes visiting the River Wonders Singapore an experience that is one of a kind. The River Safari attracts several tourists each year making it an ideal destination for a family vacation. Embark on a boat adventure and be enchanted by witnessing animals such as the Brazilian Tapir, Jaguar, Giant Anteater and more. Be cautious in the wild as it is natural for animals to hide themselves in plain sight. With 10 different zones in the entire park, there is so much to do and see on your Singapore tour packages.

The Best River Wonders in Singapore

Mentioned below is a list of the 10 different zones:

1. Amazon Flooded Forest
2. Amazonia Encounters
3. Congo River
4. Ganges River
5. Pavilion Capital of Giant Panda Forest
6. Mary River
7. Mekong River
8. Nile River
9. River Gems
10. Yangtze River

Amazon Flooded Forest

This zone supports aquatic life such as Giant River Otters, Manatees, Arapaimas and more. During the flooding of forests and banks in over 10 metres of water, these animals take advantage of the opportunity to feast on the forest’s supplies and accumulate fat reserves which are available in plenty. That way, they can survive during the dry season when food is scarce.

Amazonia Encounters

This zone is home to plants and animals of much more species than in any other land ecosystem. It is also said that the River Wonders of Singapore has a third of the world's species living there. You can catch a glimpse of two different or more species of unique creatures from different parts of the world in the same place.

Congo River

The Congo River is said to be the world’s deepest river with depths reaching over 220 meters. The raging turbulence of the river makes multiple drops which helps in the formation of magnificent waterfalls. However, you can witness some of the most colourful fish and serene beauty beneath the troubled surface.

Ganges River

The Ganges is revered as the holiest river among the Hindus. This zone simulates the experience of being in India and offering your prayers to the river goddess known as the goddess of creation and abundance. The Ganges is a 2,500-kilometre-long river formed by the convergence of Himalayan springs supporting the lives of half a billion people and a diverse range of freshwater wildlife.

Pavilion Capital Giant Panda Forest

This 1,500-square-meter exhibit is the biggest panda exhibit constructed in Southeast Asia. With rich vegetation, boulders and water features that resemble the bears' natural environment. Moreover, the cutting-edge biodome is both temperature and humidity-controlled to not compromise the comfort of the pandas.

Mary River

The Mary Catchment Area zone is home to several species that are unique to the world and have been recognized as a hotspot for aquatic biodiversity. As the Mary River empties into the sea, the exhibit shows you how it changes from freshwater to brackish water and then saltwater. It has been identified as a hotspot for aquatic biodiversity and contains several species found nowhere else in the world. The exhibit takes you on the Mary River’s journey from freshwater to brackish water and finally saltwater when it empties into the sea.

Mekong River

The Mekong rises from the Tibetan plateau, is fed by snowmelt, and travels through six nations before entering the South China Sea. It is the world's most productive river, producing 2.5 million tonnes of fish annually. It is also the tenth-largest river, spanning more than 4,300 kilometres.

Nile River

Since the Stone Age, the Nile, which rises from the Great Lakes of East Africa and empties into the Mediterranean Sea, has given Egypt life and prosperity. This exhibit will take you back to ancient Egypt, where you can see animals that are both magnificent and barbaric.

River Gems

45 per cent of all fish species are found in freshwater habitats, despite making up less than 1% of the planet's surface. A glimpse of the incredible variety of plant and animal life that flourishes in rivers and along their banks can be found in River Gems.

Yangtze River

40 per cent of China's freshwater is found in the Yangtze, also known as Chang Jiang, or "long river," which is 6,300 kilometres long and the longest river in Asia. The Yangtze River is essential to the survival of millions of people and a variety of rare wildlife.

Best Time to Visit River Wonders Singapore

Although you can visit River Wonders throughout the year, winter is considered the best time particularly between 10 am to 11 am, just when the Park opens. During this period, you will enjoy the river safari as the weather is pleasant and perfect to indulge yourself in outdoor activities. Since the park is considered to be one of the famous places at Singapore, this makes it a little crowded particularly in the late afternoons and evenings. Make an itinerary and proper planning to make the best of your visit to this river safari.

River Wonders in Singapore is indeed full of wonderful species of flora and fauna. You can also enjoy some behind-the-scenes tours where you get to see what exactly goes into maintaining the wildlife reserve. This exceptional experience in the heart of Asia invites guests from all over the world. Keep in mind the 10 different zones mentioned above and plan your visit accordingly. Booking your Singapore family holiday packages with Veena World provides the option to customize your holidays where you have the complete freedom to plan your trip how you need it to be. Connect with our travel experts for more details.