Is a luxury stay at Colugo Camp worth the $550 price tag?

Stepping into the campsite, we are greeted by lush greenery surrounding the serene Upper Seletar Reservoir.

- Jane Ng

The air is fresh and we can hear birds calling in the distance. The space is a calm oasis that we can retreat to each time we return from one of the wildlife parks.

My family's maiden glamping experience at Mandai Wildlife Reserve's latest offering, Colugo Camp, has left my nine-year-old daughter hankering for more.

The experience checks all the boxes for an ideal staycation for an animal-loving primary-schooler as it includes visits to three parks, two of which are guided.

Meals are also included – an international buffet breakfast, Asian buffet dinner and light supper, all served at the communal dining hall. Vegetarian options are available.

STAY IN A LUXURIOUS TENT

Our check-in at 3pm is a breeze at the chic reception area, where we are each given a wristband to wear during our overnight stay.

Our guide, Irfan, leads us to our accommodation – a cosy 20 sq m air-conditioned safari-style tent that provides much-needed respite from the sweltering heat.

Most of the 20 tents at Colugo Camp offer scenic views of the shimmering reservoir.

Inside each tent, which can sleep up to four people, are the comforts of home – two fans, a portable air-conditioner, a queen-size bed and a bunk bed, as well as free Wi-Fi.

We are ushered to the dining hall for our welcome drinks, before we check out the shared shower and toilet facilities, including spacious family- and wheelchair-friendly options. Wheelchair-accessible tents are available upon request.

The sun is scorching when we first arrive, but it soon turns into a balmy evening, making the spacious wooden deck with outdoor seats perfect for pre-dinner drinks.

WILDLIFE PARKS A STONE'S THROW AWAY