Chiang Mai Night Safari

Chiang Mai Night Safari is a significant zoological park located in the Mae Hia sub-district of Chiang Mai, Thailand. Established with the ambition to become Thailand's first nocturnal zoo and the world's largest, it officially opened on February 6, 2006, following an initial opening on November 18, 2005. The park operates under the Zoological Park Organization and is situated west of Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006. Its vast area spans approximately 327 acres (819 Rai), providing ample space for its diverse animal inhabitants and visitor attractions.

History and Vision

The concept for Chiang Mai Night Safari was initiated by Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who envisioned a high-quality tourist attraction modeled after the successful Singapore Night Safari. The project gained momentum with the selection of a site at the foot of Doi Suthep. Following cabinet approval and budget allocation in 2003, construction began. Initially managed by the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration and the Pinganakorn Development Agency, operational control transitioned to the Zoological Park Organization in 2019.

Zones and Attractions

Chiang Mai Night Safari is designed to offer visitors a comprehensive experience, with its operational hours extended to accommodate both day and night visits. The park features several distinct zones. For tourists, there is a Main Building with shops and activity areas, a Lake known for its musical fountain shows, the Giraffe Restaurant, and a Resort Hotel for overnight stays. Key attractions include the Jaguar Trail Zone, a 1.2-kilometer walking path showcasing various animals; Tiger World, housing different tiger species; the Predator Prowl Zone, dedicated to carnivorous animals; and the Savannah Safari Zone, featuring herbivorous species. Some areas are designed to allow relatively non-dangerous animals like deer and muntjac to roam freely, offering visitors closer encounters.

Activities and Features

Beyond animal viewing, Chiang Mai Night Safari offers a range of activities. The Digital Zoo utilizes technology for interactive attractions. Visitors can embark on night safaris via bus tours covering the Predator Prowl and Savannah Safari zones, or take a Day Safari tram ride, which often includes opportunities to feed animals. The 'Behind the Zoo' activity provides insights into the care of large animals such as elephants and rhinoceroses. A notable feature is the multimedia musical fountain show on the central lake, which can project videos and lasers onto a water screen.