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These 8 best Singapore natural landmarks are a sight for sore eyes!
Whenever I can, I get up early in the morning and head into some of the island’s best-preserved nature reserves to get a dose of lush greenery and nature in my system. Living in a small city-state can be overwhelming, so a little break outdoors helps.
Despite its small size, Singapore actually has a ton of green spaces and nature reserves that are heavily protected. This means that you’ll spot a lot of wildlife and lush forests that make it hard to believe they’re right next to the city centre.
So, if you’re a nature lover like me and are keen to explore the island’s green wonders, here are my absolute favourite natural landmarks to explore.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
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Address: 301 Neo Tiew Cres
Contact Details: +65 6794 1401
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Website
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, one of Singapore’s ASEAN Heritage Parks, is a thriving sanctuary brimming with wildlife and lush vegetation. My first visit was exhilarating!
There are several lookout points where you can catch sight of the different wildlife living here. There’s the Eagle Point, the Aerie Tower, the Mangrove Boardwalk, the Kingfisher Pod, and the Junior Wetland.
If you have the energy for it, you can traverse this reserve for a whole day.
Tips:
- If you’re planning a visit to the reserve, keep an eye on the tides and weather conditions. Certain trails can become submerged during high tide or heavy rain, making them unsafe.
A good rule of thumb: if the path is underwater, turn back and take an alternative route. You can learn more about flooding and safety here.
- When you encounter an animal along the path, don’t try to scare or shoo them away. Just stay put and wait until they pass. In case of emergencies, call the National Parks Board hotline (1 800 476 1600).
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
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Address: Hindhede Dr
Contact Details: +65 1 800 471 7300
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Website
The Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is another of Singapore’s prized ASEAN Heritage Parks, with its lush, undisturbed rainforests and vibrant biodiversity. It’s also home to the island’s highest peak, Bukit Timah Hill, and is a hotspot for hikers.
I like to come here with my family whenever we feel like getting a few steps in during our busy schedules. The path upwards on the Summit Trail isn’t very steep, but you might break a sweat if you try to keep up with other avid hikers in the area.
Tips:
- The Summit Trail’s uphill path is a mix of rocky steps that can get dangerously slippery in the rain. If the weather’s gloomy, hold off on the climb and wait for the sun to dry things out. It’s safer and way more enjoyable this way!
- The walking trails to the peak are safe even for children. But if you’re unsure which route suits your family best, check in with the friendly staff at the visitor centre, as they can offer suggestions and even a quick orientation.
Windsor Nature Park
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Address: 30 Venus Dr
Contact Details: +65 1 800 471 7300
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Website
If you’re looking for a peaceful nature escape away from the usual crowds, Windsor Nature Park is a gem worth exploring. While many flock to MacRitchie Reservoir, this 75-hectare park offers equally stunning trails with a quieter and more immersive feel.
I took the Drongo and Hanguane Trails on my last visit and was fascinated by the rare native plants I’d never noticed before. The Drongo Trail, in particular, has a sub-canopy walk that lets you experience the forest from a unique perspective, so it’s a must-try!
Tips:
- Planning a nature walk with your furry friend? While pets aren’t allowed on the park’s main trails, you can take them to Venus Walk. It’s a short but scenic boardwalk near the MacRitchie Treetop Walk Trailhead.
Just head to Venus Drive and follow the off-road path to reach it. Always keep your pets on a short leash, though!
- Visiting on a busy day? The car park fills up fast, so expect a wait or head to the nearby public car park which is just a few hundred metres away.
- If you really need to use the toilet, there are restrooms along the trails, and they have water coolers there too!
Rifle Range Nature Park
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Address: Rifle Range Rd
Contact Details: +65 1 800 471 7300
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Website
The first time I visited Rifle Range Nature Park, I was struck by how untouched it felt even though it’s so close to the city centre. This park is one of the newer natural landmarks, and I’m glad that the city rehabilitated and opened it again.
It used to be the site of the former SinSeng Quarry, but today, it’s a network of nest-like trails and lookout points with a bit of wetland at the base. It’s also the island’s first fully solar-powered nature park, designed to protect the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve nearby.
Tips:
- Cycling to the nature park? There’s a designated parking area near the entrance, but bike slots are limited to only 10 by the Senapang Entrance. To secure a spot, plan your visit on a weekday morning or afternoon when it’s less crowded.
- Accessibility is well thought out at the park. If you’re visiting with a wheelchair or stroller, there’s a 700-metre-long barrier-free route that connects the Visitor Pavilion to the quarry. Along the way, you’ll even find rest stops and shaded areas to keep you comfortable, even during a little rain shower.
MacRitchie Reservoir Park
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Address: Lornie Rd
Contact Details: +65 1 800 471 7300
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Website
MacRitchie Reservoir is where a quick walk somehow turns into a full-blown adventure. This green haven is a hit with joggers, hikers, nature buffs, and even water sports lovers because it offers lakeside strolls and even kayaking.
The real showstopper here, though, is the TreeTop Walk, a 250-metre suspension bridge that lets you strut above the lush forest!
Tips:
- There is a restricted area near the reservoir called the Ruins of Syonan Jinja and a Shinto shrine. There are no designated trails leading to the shrine, as it’s closed to the public. If you’re curious about the Shinto shrine, you can find its site mark at the junction of Adam and Sime Road.
- Straying from designated paths could land you a fine of up to $2,000, so be very careful when traversing the nature reserve. Stick to the marked trails and call the hotline if you get lost or stuck in an emergency situation.
Labrador Nature Reserve
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Address: 91 Labrador Villa Rd
Contact Details: +65 1 800 471 7300
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Website
If you’re after a mix of history, nature, and seaside views, Labrador Nature Reserve is a must-visit. The rocky sea cliffs and lush greenery make it feel worlds away from the city, yet it’s surprisingly easy to get to.
It’s part of the Southern Ridges Trail, so you can access it by walking around the Southern Ridges and the nature reserves that surround it. The famous Coastal Walk can be accessed from Telok Blangah Hill.
I recommend strolling along the Berlayer Creek Boardwalk to see one of the last mangroves in Southern Singapore or take the Marang Trail that will lead you up to Mount Faber’s peak.
Tips:
- If you want to explore the nature reserve and the coastal area without starting at Telok Blangah, you can hop on the trail from either HarbourFront MRT or Labrador Park MRT for a more direct route.
- If you’re driving to get to the nature reserve, the closest parking spot is conveniently located near the Labrador Park MRT.
- There is a vending machine available in the park if you get parched from strolling. Make sure to clean up after yourself, though!
Coney Island
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Address: Coney Walk, Coney Island Stream
Contact Details: +65 1 800 471 7300
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Website
My last visit to Coney Island was a refreshing change from Singapore’s usual nature reserves and parks. I usually get there on my bike, and it takes a bit of effort to cross Serangoon East Dam or the Coney Island Bridge just to enjoy this peaceful island.
Once you’re there, you’ll be met with rugged trails, towering casuarina trees, and breezy hidden beaches that are rarely visited by tourists. The best way to experience this quiet island is by stopping by one of the beaches and enjoying views of the sea.
Tips:
- Cycling is the best and easiest way to explore Coney Island, as there’s no direct public transport and the trails are mostly unpaved (no cars are allowed here either).
Ride across the bridge or dam to reach the island, but do so in the day, as I don’t recommend venturing off here at night or when the sun goes down.
- Pack your own snacks and drinks if you’re planning to stay a while. The island has no food stalls or vending machines. A picnic basket goes a long way, especially after exploring the island on foot or on your bike.
Kranji Marshes
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Address: 11 Neo Tiew Lane 2
Contact Details: +65 6794 1401
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Website
Waking up early to visit the Kranji Marshes is always worth it, especially when I arrive just in time to watch herons and kingfishers glide over the water as the sun rises. Spanning 57 hectares, it’s Singapore’s largest freshwater marshland.
It’s home to a very rich variety of birds, butterflies, and dragonflies, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers and photographers. There’s even an open trail that leads to an observation tower offering stunning views!
Tips:
- I highly recommend visiting the West Marsh if you have spare time. It’s a protected and restricted conservation area that is only open to the public if you sign up for a guided tour with the Kranji Marshals, the park’s official rangers.
The park is very strict with regard to these tours. Learn more about them here.
- The shelters around the marshlands have handy guides on the different bird species and where to spot them. If you’re new to birdwatching, take a moment to check them out.
