Meet giant pandas, run through a giant snake’s belly and glamp under the stars: Fun for everyone, from kids to grandparents

A successful family day out usually comes down to one thing: finding enough activities to keep every generation entertained. But that is often easier said than done, especially when little ones, parents and grandparents all have different ideas of fun.

Mandai Wildlife Reserve solves this dilemma by combining wildlife experiences with indoor play, dining and even an overnight stay. The precinct is home to seven attractions including the Singapore Zoo, River Wonders and Curiosity Cove – Singapore’s largest indoor nature-themed playscape.

Families can spend the day spotting giant pandas, watching capybaras during a live presentation or for those staying overnight, glamping under the stars.

Watch how this family’s weekend got a wild upgrade.

See giant pandas, capybaras and river giants at Mandai

Your first wildlife sighting may happen before you even step into any of the attractions.

Open to the public, the 3.3km Mandai Boardwalk winds along the edges of River Wonders and Singapore Zoo, with views across Upper Seletar Reservoir.

Visitors may spot wildlife such as the crested goshawk, oriental whip snake and Malayan water monitor lizard.

Over at River Wonders, families can explore habitats inspired by some of the world’s most famous river systems.

Look out for freshwater giants such as the prehistoric-looking Indian gharial and the enormous Mekong giant catfish. The latter is so elusive that only a few hundred are believed to exist in the wild and even then, they face an extremely high risk of extinction.

At the Pavilion Capital Giant Panda Forest, you can watch Jia Jia and Kai Kai climb over logs, tuck into bamboo or horse around.

The animal encounters continue at the Once Upon A River presentation, where Asian small-clawed otter Tucker shares the stage with beavers, pelicans and capybaras. You can also catch Moe the capybara feast on his favourite corn and apple treats.

Still cannot get enough of the capybaras? Drop by Amazonia Encounters to spot Luna and her four babies.

Then swap solid ground for the water on Amazon River Quest, which takes you and your family through lush rainforest landscapes. Along the route, animals including jaguars can be spotted.

Curiosity Cove: An indoor playground for kids in Singapore

For children under 12 who never seem to run out of energy, Curiosity Cove is an indoor nature-themed playscape.

Across four immersive zones and more than 30 multi-sensory touchpoints, there is always something new to explore. Kids might scale the 6m-tall Orangutan Sleeping Platform before running through the Giant Snake Belly and setting off to discover what awaits around the next corner.

Along the way, they can learn about wildlife through hands-on play before joining the Ranger Buddies crew for one of the daily dance sessions.

There are plenty of seats at Curiosity Cove so adults can sit and relax while the little ones run free.

One ticket, three experiences

Singaporeans can stretch their visit further with the 2-Attractions Pass, which also includes complimentary entry to Mandai Gallery.

This multimedia showcase gives you a peek into how the Mandai Wildlife Reserve does its part for wildlife conservation and sustainability. You can also learn more about the history of Singapore Zoo, which offers a natural starting point for conversations between older and younger family members.

Over at Singapore Zoo, Ah Meng’s legacy lives on through her great-grandson Ayaan, one of three orang utan babies born this year. The trio – including Lestari and Lios – can often be seen clinging to their mothers or beginning to explore their surroundings at Orangutan Island.

Then stop by the 4m-tall Ah Meng sculpture at the entrance for a family photo and a nostalgic moment for those who remember the zoo’s beloved icon.

Where to eat at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve

After all that exploring, it is probably time to refuel. Families can choose from Japanese, local and casual dining options across the precinct.

At Dining Alley in Mandai Wildlife East, take your pick from family favourites like Sushiro, Song Fa Bak Kut Teh, Watami Japanese Dining and Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine.

For families looking to satisfy different cravings, Food Republic brings together more than 20 stalls celebrating Singapore’s street food culture.

Popular choices include Boon Tat BBQ Seafood’s signature sambal stingray and freshly hand-made morsels by Yuen Kee Dumpling.

Those visiting Singapore Zoo can also stop at Owa Bistro by the entrance for a cold Brewerkz beer before continuing the day.

Over at Mandai Wildlife West, families can swap the usual restaurant setting for a meal in a cave setting at Cavern Restaurant or keep things casual at Han’s Union and Collin’s.

Mandai: An overnight stay with wildlife

For families looking to extend their visit or wanting a change of scenery for the weekend, Glamping in the Wild – Reservoir Retreat offers the chance to stretch the adventure overnight.

Formerly known as Colugo Camp, the two-day-one-night stay lets families spend the night surrounded by nature without giving up modern comforts. Children get the fun of bunk beds while adults can look forward to a comfortable night’s sleep on a separate bed.

But before you fall asleep under the stars, join the Into the Dark programme. It includes a private guided tour at Night Safari, the Creatures of the Night presentation and a ride aboard the Safari Adventure Tram.

In the morning, wake up to reservoir views before heading to Breakfast in the Wild to catch orang utans making a playful appearance and greeting you as you tuck into your morning toast.

The stay also includes admission to Singapore Zoo, making it an easy way to turn a family outing into a nature-filled staycation.

Experiences for the family at Mandai

• Give old favourites a new life: Bring a well-loved plush toy to Toy Doctor at Mandai Wildlife East for repairs instead of replacing it.

• Get matchy-matchy: Dress up in coordinated outfits with exclusive collections from Singaporean designers like Reckless Ericka and a range of animal-themed clothing at The Mandai Shop at Mandai Wildlife East.

Discover what you and your family can do on your next adventure at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve.

Local residents who sign up as WildPass holders (free digital membership) will enjoy an exclusive perk which lets you enter the Mandai Wildlife Reserve parks for free on your birthday, with every full paying adult.

In partnership with the Mandai Wildlife Reserve