Chiang Mai Night Safari

What are the most recommended things to do in Chiang Mai Night Safari?

Chiang Mai Night Safari offers a unique experience where visitors can enjoy:

  • Night Safari: Take a guided night safari through the park, where you can observe nocturnal animals in their natural habitat.
  • Open-air Tram Ride: Hop on a tram for an exciting ride through different zones to spot wild animals such as tigers, lions, and zebras.
  • Walking Zones: Explore walking trails where you can get up close to certain animals in the park.
  • Animal Shows: Watch entertaining shows featuring exotic animals like elephants, birds, and other wildlife.
  • Photography: Capture stunning images of the wildlife, particularly during the night safari or at the designated photography spots.

Introducing Chiang Mai Night Safari

Chiang Mai Night Safari is located at the foot of Doi Suthep Mountain in Thailand, covering an area of ​​nearly 100 acres and is the largest zoo in Thailand.

In addition to various rare animals, the park also has scenic gardens, waterfalls and lakes. The scenery is very beautiful, and you can overlook the entire Chiang Mai city from the top of the mountain.

Chiang Mai Night Zoo takes advantage of the fact that carnivores prefer to be active at night and has developed a night tour program. It is a rare and exciting experience to get on a small car that can carry up to 24 people and observe lions, tigers, bears, wolves and other animals up close.

The park is divided into areas such as Lanna Village, Swan Lake, Savanna Safari, and a hiking adventure zone. Open during the day, the park, with its gardens, waterfalls, and lakes, is a perfect spot for strolling, picnicking, and taking selfies. A hike to the top offers panoramic views of Chiang Mai. Nighttime wildlife viewing is a specialty here, so if you're not used to the sounds of various animals in the dim jungle, it's best not to visit alone.

Climate and best time to travel

Tropical monsoon climate; Chiang Mai Night Safari is located at the foot of Doi Suthep Mountain in Thailand. It is the largest zoo in Thailand and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Various exotic animals in the zoo;

It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours

Tickets

Pedestrian zone ticket: Adult ticket 100 baht/person, child ticket 50 baht/person

Full park ticket (including tour bus): Adult ticket 800 baht/person, child ticket 400 baht/person (January 1st - December 31st, Monday to Sunday)

Free ticket: Children under 100cm in height

Attraction opening hours

11:00-22:00


Most Popular FAQs for Chiang Mai Night Safari

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Opened in 2006, Chiang Mai Night Safari is a large zoological park and safari located just outside Chiang Mai city. It is Thailand's second night safari after the one in Singapore. The park is designed to allow visitors to observe animals in their natural nocturnal habitat, contributing to wildlife conservation and education.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Chiang Mai Night Safari is located about 12 kilometers south of Chiang Mai city center, near the Doi Suthep mountain range. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or private car. Public transportation options are limited, so a taxi or rental car is recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Night Safari opens daily from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the evening, around 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, when the animals are most active during the cooler night hours.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for adults is around 800-1000 THB, and for children, it is typically 400-500 THB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the park’s entrance. Online booking options are available through the official website or third-party ticketing platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

While booking tickets in advance is not required for individual visitors, it is recommended to book online for larger groups or during peak tourist seasons (November to February) to avoid long lines or sold-out nights.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It usually takes about 2-3 hours to fully explore the Chiang Mai Night Safari, including the tram ride, walking zones, animal shows, and photography spots. Plan to arrive early enough to enjoy the full experience.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include:

  • The Savanna Safari Zone: A tram ride through this area to see African animals like giraffes and zebras.
  • The Predator Prowl Zone: Spot nocturnal carnivores like tigers, lions, and leopards.
  • The Night Safari Shows: Watch animal performances such as elephant shows, bird shows, and more.
  • The Walking Trails: Experience animals like the white tiger, giraffe, and deer on foot.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in English and Thai. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours, including the open-air tram ride and walking trails, with expert guides explaining the animals' behaviors and habitats.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

For the best photography opportunities, the tram ride through the Predator Prowl Zone offers great shots of large animals in their natural environment. The walking trails, especially the ones near the waterholes, provide excellent photo opportunities as well.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the tram ride to get an overview of the different zones. Then, take a walk through the various trails to get a closer look at the animals. Don’t miss the animal shows, which are scheduled throughout the evening.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, the main attraction is the night safari itself, where visitors can observe nocturnal animals. There are also special light shows and animal performances during the evening.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The park can get busy on weekends and during holidays. For a quieter experience, it’s best to visit on weekdays, especially during the off-season (May to October). Arriving early in the evening (before 7:00 PM) can help you avoid the biggest crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The park offers several facilities, including clean toilets, food stalls, water fountains, rest areas, and a gift shop selling souvenirs and snacks. There are also cafes where you can grab a quick bite.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Chiang Mai Night Safari is accessible for most visitors, including children and the elderly, with paved pathways and trams for easy transport. However, some walking trails may be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted for ticket purchases and in the on-site shops. Credit cards and mobile payment options (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are also available in most areas, especially at the entrance and gift shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few cafes and food stalls inside the park offering quick snacks and drinks. For a wider variety of food, visit the nearby town of Hang Dong, which has local restaurants and international dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the food stalls and cafes inside the park. For halal food, you can find options in nearby restaurants in Hang Dong.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include hotels and resorts in the Hang Dong area, such as the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, and more budget-friendly options like the Lotus Hotel.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Other nearby attractions include Doi Suthep Temple, the Royal Park Rajapruek, and the Elephant Nature Park. These are all easily combined into a day trip from the Night Safari.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops inside the park where you can buy items such as stuffed animals, local handicrafts, and wildlife-themed merchandise.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best options for continuing your trip after visiting are taxis or rental cars. If you're heading to other attractions, you can book a private tour or use a local transportation service to explore more of Chiang Mai.