10 National Parks In Singapore: Best Nature Trails And Wildlife

Singapore is known for its luxury buildings, but the true beauty lies in nature. Beyond the city’s modern attractions, explore its National Parks. From the peaceful Singapore Botanic Gardens to the scenic trails of MacRitchie Reservoir, these green spaces offer peaceful escapes and showcase Singapore’s rich natural heritage.

National Parks in Singapore are not just places to relax but also help protect plants and animals and witness the wildlife of Singapore. They protect a variety of animals, including monkeys, otters, colourful birds, and reptiles. In places like Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, you can spot long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, and smooth-coated otters, along with birds like kingfishers and herons.

Don’t miss the beauty of Singapore’s National Parks! Join us as we explore these natural wonders, highlighting top parks and everything you need to know.

Best Time to Visit National Parks in Singapore

However, Singapore’s National Parks remain beautiful throughout the year, so you can visit anytime. Just be prepared for possible rain showers from May to January.

10 Must-Visit National Parks in Singapore

1. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Highlights of the reserve are the rare primary rainforest, the Eco-Link@BKE wildlife bridge, and the tranquil Singapore Quarry, a former granite quarry turned serene lake and park.

Key attractions and activities:

• Hiking: Traverse trails of varying difficulty levels.
• Birdwatching: Go for wildlife spotting in Singapore, including the rare Raffles’ Malkoha.
• Nature Photography: Capture the lush greenery of one of the top Singapore wildlife parks.
• Summit Hike: Reach Bukit Timah Hill, Singapore’s highest point, for sweeping views.
• Treetop Walk: Experience the Canopy Walk for a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest.
• Suggested Read: What To Expect From A Singapore City Tour? Best Travel Guide

2. MacRitchie Reservoir Park

Highlights are the scenic MacRitchie Reservoir, Bukit Peirce Hill with panoramic city views, the geological Jelapang Cave, and the diverse flora and fauna along the nature trail.

Key attractions and activities:

• Hiking: Explore the park’s network of trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
• Cycling: Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the scenic trails.
• Treetop Walk: Take a leisurely stroll on the Canopy Walk, a suspended walkway that offers stunning views of the surrounding forest.
• Birdwatching: Spot a variety of bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and migratory birds.

3. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Key attractions and activities:

• Birdwatching: The reserve is home to a wide variety of species for wildlife spotting in Singapore, including herons, kingfishers, and shorebirds.
• Nature Photography: Capture stunning shots of the wetland’s flora and fauna.
• Hiking: Explore the park’s network of trails and boardwalks.
• Kayaking: Enjoy a peaceful kayaking experience through the mangrove forests.
• Observatory: Visit the Sungei Buloh Wetland Observatory for panoramic views of the reserve.

4. Labrador Nature Reserve

Key attractions and activities:

• Hiking: Explore the park’s network of trails, including the Labrador Hill Trail and the Coastal Trail.
• Birdwatching: Spot a variety of bird species, including migratory birds and seabirds.
• Fishing: Try your luck at fishing along the coastline.
• Fort Siloso: Visit the historic Fort Siloso, which offers a glimpse into Singapore’s colonial past.

5. Singapore Botanic Gardens

Key attractions and activities:

• National Orchid Garden: Admire the stunning collection of orchids, including the iconic Vanda Miss Joaquim, Singapore’s national flower.
• Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden: A dedicated space for children to explore and learn about nature.
• Rainforest and Ginger Garden: Discover a variety of rainforest plants and ginger species.
• Seah Im Garden: Enjoy the serene atmosphere of this traditional Chinese garden.
• Healing Garden: Experience the therapeutic benefits of nature in this specially designed garden.
• Sculpture Trail: Explore the park’s collection of sculptures by local and international artists.
• Bandstand: Enjoy live music performances on weekends.
• Gallop Green: A spacious lawn ideal for picnics and relaxation.
• The Bonsai Collection: Admire the intricate art of bonsai in the Bonsai Garden.
• Suggested Read: Discover the Treasures of the National Museum of Singapore

6. Pasir Ris Park

Key attractions and activities:

• Hiking: Explore the park’s nature trails and enjoy the lush greenery.
• Pasir Ris Park Beach: A sheltered beach with calm waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
• Pasir Ris Park Pond: A picturesque pond surrounded by lush greenery.
• Mangrove Boardwalk: Explore the park’s mangrove forests on a boardwalk.
• Cycling Paths: Enjoy scenic cycling trails that connect to other parks in the area.

7. Changi Beach Park

Key attractions and activities:

• Beaches: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball at the park’s sandy beaches in Singapore.
• Cycling: Explore the park’s scenic cycling trails.
• Hiking: Discover the park’s nature trails and enjoy the lush greenery.
• Barbeque: Have a fun-filled barbeque with friends and family at designated areas.
• Changi Boardwalk: Stroll along the scenic boardwalk and enjoy panoramic views of the sea.
• Changi Beach Club: Relax and unwind at this waterfront club with swimming pools, restaurants, and bars.
• Coastal Trail: Explore the park’s coastal trail and discover hidden gems along the way.

8. Punggol Waterway Park

Key attractions and activities:

• Hiking: Explore the park’s nature trails and enjoy the lush greenery.
• Water Sports: Engage in water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.
• Punggol Waterway: The centrepiece of the park, offering stunning views and opportunities for water activities.
• Punggol Heritage Park: Explore the park’s historical heritage with restored buildings and exhibits.
• Punggol Point: Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding islands.

9. Chestnut Nature Park

Key attractions and activities:

• Hiking: Explore the park’s network of trails and enjoy the scenic views.
• Birdwatching: Spot a variety of bird species, including kingfishers and woodpeckers.
• Picnic: Enjoy a peaceful picnic in the park’s serene surroundings.
• Chestnut Nature Trail: A scenic trail that offers a glimpse into the park’s diverse ecosystem.
• Chestnut Hill: A small hill with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
• Suggested Read: Underwater World In Singapore: All You Need To Know

10. Fort Canning Park

Key attractions and activities:

• Singapore History Museum: Discover the fascinating history of Singapore through interactive exhibits.
• Spice Garden: Experience the aromatic scents and flavours of Singapore’s spice trade.
• The Battle Box: A historical attraction that showcases Singapore’s role during World War II.
• The Colonial House: A restored colonial building that houses the Singapore History Museum.
• Fort Canning Hill: Offers panoramic views of the city and the Singapore River.

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