Chiang Mai Night Safari

Chiang Mai's Night Safari is modelled on Singapore's: a wildlife park designed to be visited at dusk, when the nocturnal animals come out and the heat drops. It holds around one thousand four hundred animals across wooded grounds at the foot of Doi Suthep.

The visit comes in two parts. First a walking section around a lake, with the jaguar trail and several enclosures you pass at your own pace. Then two tram loops: the first crosses a savannah zone where giraffes, zebras and antelope come up to the vehicles, the second runs along the predator enclosures, tigers, lions and bears. A guide comments throughout.

Departure is at 1pm and the return around 10pm. Bring insect repellent, as the grounds are wooded and damp. Late evening is the best time for the savannah section, when the animals are most active.

Several slots are offered, with no fixed time. The Jaguar Trail, a walking trail to see the animals, is open from 11am to 8pm. The safari by car leaves every 30 minutes, in the afternoon from 2.30pm to 4pm and in the evening from 5.30pm to 9pm, with ticket sales closing at 4pm and then 9pm. The musical fountain show runs at 4.15pm, 7.15pm and 8.45pm.

Good to know: transport is not included.