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LIVING IT UP:
A Jungle-Bound
Safari Resort
(Just Out of Town)

So, you’re in Chiang Mai. And perhaps choosing your accommodations among the abundance of hotels, guesthouses or nature retreat centers available is a bit boggling. Ever consider bunking-up amid the presence of 130 different species of animals from all over the world? Sound somewhat intriguing?

“Our resort is for people who love nature and want to be personal with animals,” says Dr. Sarawut Srisakuna, CEO of the Chiang Mai Night Safari. “It’s a nature resort near the town.”

Located about 15 minutes from the heart of Chiang Mai city, the Night Safari is both a day and night-time zoo and natural theme park including a dynamic array of adventures.

Whether you wish to explore the Night Safari grounds for a night or an extended stay, a multitude of safari-themed accommodations - located amid 800 rai of lush-jungle, based in a majestic mountain landscape - are available.

It’s like having your own territory in the jungle. For example, the Jungle Hut campground - offering 20 wooden, A-frame style abodes, each housing about 10 people - is ideal for accommodating those on education or trekking retreats.

Whereas a room at the charming Safari Doi (meaning, ‘safari mountain’) unquestionably provides opportunity for a pleasant stay with the family.

Tucked quaintly away in the jungle, it’s also an idyllic retreat for a couple desiring to take advantage of a large, cushy bed and plenty of living space, including a partially open-aired shower and breakfast in bed.

Lodgings such as the Phrueksa Sawan (meaning, ‘garden in heaven’) and Puang Chompoo (‘bunch of flowers’) are also available, among others. Each accommodation – with the exception of the slightly more rustic campground – is fully equipped with modern amenities such as A/C and cable television.

***

While the Night Safari’s accommodations provide a unique escape into an unforgettable adventure, sleeping amid the sounds of singing jungle bugs and roaring lions can also be coupled with a cabaret-style dancing performance and a buffet-style dinner prior to an elaborate, laser-lit and music-guided fountain show.

Trolley-bus adventures through the South Zone, which encompasses about 34 species totalling over 320 animals including wildebeests, giraffes, white rhinos and zebras, are a must. And the carnivorous animal North Zone will add the chance to observe around 30 species totalling about 200 animals - including tigers, lions, Asiatic black bears and crocodiles - to your repertoire of life experiences.

How about the 1.2 kilometer-long ‘Walking Zone’ adventure around Swan Lake? This area is the home of 400 animals of about 50 species living in a natural jungle environment which includes enchanting flower gardens.

The list goes on, because the Night Safari is also offering a profoundly unique experience at the ‘Giraffe’ restaurant where – beyond downing your own meal – you can provide a snack for animals such as goats, sheep, deer, zebras and giraffes. No concerns though. The grub on your dinner plate, unlike while you’re on the trolley-bus, is out of their reach.

Additionally, there is a Children’s Zone playground and a Digital Zoo where interactive, high-tech games involving musical instruments and digital animals are available. Other attractions include the Tiger Kingdom, showcasing 10 different species of tigers; paddle boat rides, a photo corner, souvenir shops, paintball and a jungle full of other adventures.

So come. After all, you are in Thailand, and the extent to which you explore your safari adventure is really up to you...

Text : Jeffrey Warner
Images: S.P