Chiang Mai Night Safari(chiangmainightsafari.com; adult/child 1200/600฿) is one of only three nocturnal zoos in the world, with tours and enclosures that let you get up close and personal with some of the region's most elusive predators. Despite the name, the park is open all day and allows for both day-time and evening tours, which depart every 30 minutes. However, for the full, intended experience, it’s best to arrive later in the afternoon, as the animals get more active once the sun starts to set.
The main attraction is a tram ride through the enclosures, passing giraffes, zebras, red kangaroos, boars, gorals, raccoons and alpacas before ending with a detour to the nocturnal predator zone, where you’ll get close to tigers, jaguars, hyenas and other hunters. Other activities include cowboy shows, petting zoos, jaguar trails and a dedicated learning center that focuses on conservation and education.
The park takes a science-first approach and does a good job of both educating and entertaining, although those who disagree with zoos will likely not have their minds changed by this place, given the fact that it still houses wild animals in relatively small enclosures.
