When I was staying at the swanky new Mandai Rainforest Resort, I couldn’t help but notice its humbler, wood-panelled neighbour across the way – a cluster of glamping-style tents with a sign that read “Opening soon.” Naturally, curiosity got the better of me. A few months later, I finally found myself unzipping my tent flap at Singapore’s newest sleepover spot in the wild.
Opened on August 8 this year, Camp Colugo is Mandai Wildlife Reserve’s latest stay-and-play experience – a permanent eco-campsite sitting in the eastern cluster near Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and River Wonders. Here, you’ll find safari-style tents, hearty buffets, guided wildlife encounters, and yes, the chance to wake up to deer grazing beneath your deck.
Why stay at Camp Colugo?
Because this isn’t just glamping – it’s glamping with purpose. The camp blends comfort with conservation, encouraging guests to be mindful of the wildlife they share the space with. With only 20 tents – each fitting up to four guests – it feels intimate yet social, like the grown-up version of your favourite school camp.
Every stay includes access to three major parks, including Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, and Night Safari, complete with a VIP experience and guided tours. Oh, and did I mention the staff are absolute gems? Warm, funny, and full of fun facts – the kind of campmates you’d want to swap stories with.
What are the tents like at Camp Colugo?
Each 20-square-metre tent comes kitted out with a queen bed, a bunk bed, a work set-up and all the creature comforts – air-conditioning, two fans (one ceiling and another standing), and free Wi-Fi. The décor leans into warm woods and nature-inspired prints, giving you just enough rustic vibes without actually having to rough it.
It’s not without its quirks, though. The tropical heat can be relentless even with the air-con and fans on full blast, and you’ll find yourself playing a daily game of “to zip or not to zip” with the windows – the former keeps things cool, but blocks that glorious view. The shared showers and toilets are clean and close by, though less so if your tent’s perched further which is not ideal for the weak-bladdered.
Minor grievances aside, waking up to the sound of birds and spotting a sambar deer, wild boar or white-bellied sea eagle from your tent deck more than makes up for it.
Where to eat and drink at Camp Colugo?
Food here is communal and hearty. All meals are included in your stay, and are served at the dining hall. With its timber beams and relaxed buzz, it’s the camp’s social heart – part mess hall, part hangout zone.
Here, you’ll enjoy everything from the refreshing welcome lemonade to buffet-style breakfast and dinner spreads that champion sustainably sourced ingredients. Dinner features local and international dishes, breakfast is an easy buffet affair, and there’s even a light supper including sandwiches and canned Milo after your Night Safari excursion.
Fancy an upgrade? Add a ‘Wine Down’ basket for $68, which includes a bottle of red, cheese platter, grapes, and sparkling water, best enjoyed in the comfort of your tent.
What are the facilities like at Camp Colugo?
The facilities are designed for both adventure and ease. Shared bathrooms come in family and wheelchair-accessible options, and the camp is surprisingly well connected with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout. There’s no pool or spa – this isn’t that kind of stay – but you’ll hardly miss them when you’re spotting wildlife from your deck or hopping between the parks just minutes away.
Each booking comes with a Roar and Rest itinerary, which packs in the best of Mandai: a Singapore Zoo visit, a VIP Night Safari experience complete with reserved seats for the Creatures of the Night show and tram ride with special commentary, and early entry to River Wonders before the crowds arrive.
Time Out tip: Check out before heading to River Wonders so you can spend the whole morning exploring and catch the 11.30am animal presentation without rushing back. If you leave check-out till 11am, you’ll need to be escorted back to the park as your wrist tag gets snipped upon departure. But don’t worry, you can still leave your bags at camp till 1pm.
What’s the area like around Camp Colugo?
Location-wise, it’s unbeatable. Camp Colugo sits right in the heart of Mandai Wildlife Reserve, just a short walk to Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, and Night Safari. You’re cocooned in greenery but still within reach of civilisation. There are other restaurants and cafés nearby if you fancy a change from buffet life.
Beyond the parks, the Mandai precinct is still evolving into Singapore’s biggest eco-tourism hub. Staying here feels like getting a sneak preview of what the area’s future will look like – immersive, nature-driven, and quietly luxurious.
Why you should book a stay at Camp Colugo
If the idea of camping usually sends you running for the nearest five-star hotel, Camp Colugo might just change your mind. It’s the sweet spot between adventure and comfort, where you can fall asleep to the hum of cicadas, wake up to deer sightings, and still enjoy air-conditioning and a buffet breakfast.
Perfect for couples, families, or anyone who wants a mini digital detox without actually suffering, it’s the kind of stay that leaves you a little more connected to nature – and maybe a bit smug that you didn’t have to pitch your own tent.
A one night at Camp Colugo starts from $550 for two persons, and campers can extend their stay by adding extra nights at the same rate. Can’t wait? Book here.
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