Singapore is an exhilarating city full of fabulous food, futuristic architecture and every kind of modern convenience. But have you been on any Singapore nature walks? Here’s our top 5. By Julia Henry
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve: spot fauna galore on this Singapore nature walk
The ASEAN heritage listed park Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is known for its unique biodiversity and ecosystems, and is an exciting way for kids to spot Singapore’s native wildlife. You may come across crocodiles, birds, giant monitor lizards and many other species in the wetlands, so make sure you’ve got your cameras at the ready. Located in Kranji in the far north of Singapore, it’s well worth the journey – we love the coastal boardwalk trail with views of Johor Bahru in Malaysia across the Strait.
This is an easy grade walk of approximately 3.2km, which should take around 45 minutes. For the more serious hikers there are 202 hectares of mud flats, mangroves, ponds and forests to explore.
Labrador Nature Reserve: boardwalks and coastal views for days
Located on the Southern tip of Singapore, Labrador Nature Reserve is part of the Southern Ridges walk, and home to Singapore’s only coastal cliff. This easy to access park (straight from the Labrador train station) offers boardwalks with impressive coastal views. Hike in the lush forest, where you will find historical relics from a WWII British military battlement.
Popular with birdwatchers, photographers, hikers and history buffs, you’ll find something for everyone in the family here. Make sure to look out for the Dragon’s Teeth Gate: sandstone outcrops reconstructed from the originals which were located in Keppel Bay.
Tree Top Walk, MacRitchie Reservoir, Central Catchment Nature Reserve
For families unafraid of heights, the 250m, free-standing suspension bridge offers panoramic views above the forest canopy. The bridge connects the two highest points in MacRitchie, and sits up to 25m above the ground. The walk itself is a total 10.5km through shaded dark forest, which is home to rare tree species and also provides a home to many animals and birds: look out for the monkeys and long-tailed macaques which are commonly spotted here. While extremely cute, kids (or anyone) should never try to touch or feed the monkeys – but they’re lots of fun to watch, so you really won’t need to.
The Rail Corridor, Singapore Quarry: a railway nature walk
This 24km nature trail was the old railway line connecting Singapore to Malaysia, and it later reopened to create a green passage for wildlife to move between green spaces and provide recreational places. The North and South quadrants offer an abundance of trails, with the most spectacular views found along the Upper Bukit Timah Truss Bridge and Singapore Quarry.
The striking bridge design attracts plenty of keen photographers, so be prepared to spend as much time as it takes for your teens to capture the perfect shot. As for the old granite mine: it has towering cliffs, green water and offers serenity right in the heart of Singapore. Just beautiful.
Henderson Waves Bridge – Southern Ridges Walk: a bridge that waves
You’ll find The Henderson Waves Bridge on a 5km hiking trail connecting Telok Blangah Hill Park and Mount Faber Park. Opened in 2008 and at 36 meters high, it is Singapore’s highest pedestrian bridge. This spot offers stunning views of the city skyline and Southern Ridges forest, making it a popular choice for its scenic appeal. The impressive bridge, crafted from wooden planks in a curved, wave-like design, showcases its charm. Illuminated with LED lights from 7pm to 2am, it’s perfect for enjoying sunsets and breathtaking views day or night – we recommend early mornings or evenings to avoid the worst of the heat.
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