If I could bring an overseas friend to one place in Singapore, it would undoubtedly be Mandai Wildlife Reserve.

Think Disney World but with a focus on animals and conservation and you have the Mandai Wildlife Reserve.

Going beyond the tradition concept of a zoo, Mandai Wildlife Reserve has 5 main parks with different foci. The newer park like Rainforest Wild Adventure really breaks the traditional design of a zoo with thrilling adventure activities like the canopy glider, trails through the forest to see the okapi up close and personal, and inactive information panels including a live view of an animal surgery centre, it is unlike any other zoo.

The activities do not end with the parks. There are eateries, indoor and outdoor playgrounds, exhibits and other various activities scattered around. This is a place where you truly need multiple days to fully explore and immerse.

I brought the family to the new Rainforest Wild Adventure recently. My boy had so much fun on the canopy glider and pointing out the okapi. I learned a lot too looking at the various information panel and marveling at the seamless and accessible design of the zoo, catering to different ages and interests.

Bringing an overseas friend to Mandai Wildlife Reserve would allow me to share not only one of Singapore’s finest attractions but also join me in a wondrous journey which I’ve enjoyed taking myself.