Chiang Mai’s famous Night Safari was opened in 2006 as a major tourist draw, though it attracted a lot of controversy as to its planning, execution and aims.
The controversy was not helped by its director’s announcement that there were plans to serve ‘exotic meats’ such as elephant and crocodile in the restaurant. Worldwide media pounced on his statement and the plan was withdrawn in haste.
Once opened, the facility continued to attract controversy, including a strike call by staff wanting replacement of its Bangkok-selected chief administrators with Chiang Mai managers, complaints by local feed suppliers following blame for the deaths of several animals, and complaints by locals about escaped animals and the environmental damage caused to a watershed area by deforestation to provide savannah conditions for the animals.
Despite its ongoing problems, the Night Safari has managed to establish itself as a popular attraction, especially with Thai visitors. Located along a ridge on Doi Suthep Mountain near the Royal Flora Ratchapruek grounds, the facility is home to more than 50 species.
Animals include white and Bengal tigers, elephants, jaguars, tapirs, lemurs, pygmy hippos, hyenas, giraffes, cheetahs and other exotica, all mixed in together without regard to their continents or regions of origin. As its name suggests, it’s best visited at night, with visitors transported around the grounds in specially constructed trams.
Other attractions include a spectacular illuminated musical fountain, a fun zone for kids, a restaurant, souvenir shop and a conference center. There are also lots of activities such as elephant rides, tiger shows and a cabaret. If you consider visiting, visit their website to see the activities on offer; they also offer various packages that include hotel pick-up.
Thai commentary trams depart every 15 minutes, with only four English commentary trams each evening at 19:45, 20:30, 21:30 and 22:10. The tram tour takes about half an hour.
Getting There
Take a tuk-tuk or songthaew from the city center, or book a package that includes hotel pick-up. With your own transport, head south along Highway 108 towards Hang Dong, and look for signs to the right for the Night Safari.
Need to Know
- What is it? A glorified zoo with many attractions and activities.
- Opening hours: 11:00-22:00 daily.
- Entrance fees: Foreign adults 800 baht, children 400B.
- Website: www.chiangmainightsafari.com
- Where: at the foot of Doi Suthep National Park, to the southwest of Chiang Mai city center.