Explorer
10 things to do in Singapore for nature lovers
Local Link
Here are 10 top things to do in Singapore for nature lovers — with quick why-to-go tips and practical notes.
- Walk the canopy at MacRitchie Reservoir Park and cross the TreeTop Walk
- Why: Mature secondary forest, monitor lizards, macaques and a 250m suspension bridge with treetop views.
- Tip: Go early (cooler, fewer people). Bring water and sturdy shoes; access by bus/taxi or a 20–30 min walk from nearby MRTs.
- Hike to the summit of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve / Bukit Timah Hill
- Why: One of Singapore’s highest natural points with rich native flora and dense primary forest pockets.
- Tip: Short but steep trails — best in the morning. Limited parking; peak times get busy.
- Birdwatch at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
- Why: Premier spot for migratory birds (Nov–Mar), mangroves, mudflats and resident wildlife.
- Tip: Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom. Free entry (donations welcome); low tides reveal more shorebirds.
- Do the Southern Ridges walk (including Henderson Waves, Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park)
- Why: A 10 km ridgeline of connected parks with sculptural bridges, native plants and good skyline/coastal views.
- Tip: Sunset at Henderson Waves is spectacular. Wear comfortable shoes — some stairs and slopes.
- Explore the conservatories and Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay (Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, Supertree Grove)
- Why: World-class botanical displays, a misty mountain inside the Cloud Forest, and an evening light show at the Supertree Grove.
- Tip: Conservatories have entry fees; book ahead for busy periods. Catch the free Garden Rhapsody light show after dark.
- Stroll the UNESCO-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens and visit the National Orchid Garden
- Why: Lush lawns, heritage trees, and one of the world’s largest orchid displays in an urban oasis.
- Tip: Great for picnics and relaxed birding; the National Orchid Garden charges a small fee.
- Take a rustic island trip to Pulau Ubin and explore Chek Jawa Wetlands
- Why: Step back into old Singapore — granite quarries, mangroves, coastal boardwalks and abundant coastal biodiversity.
- Tip: Bumboat from Changi Point; rent a bike on the island. Check tide times for the best Chek Jawa experience.
- Snorkel or take a beach day to St. John's Island, Lazarus Island or the Sisters' Islands Marine Park
- Why: Clearer waters and coral/reef environments near Singapore’s southern islands — good for marine life encounters.
- Tip: Join an organized trip (permits or guided tours are recommended). Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a towel.
- Visit Kranji Marshes and the nearby Kranji countryside
- Why: New freshwater marsh habitats for local and migratory birds, plus farms and agritourism nearby.
- Tip: Guided walks and hides offer the best wildlife viewing; mornings are prime time for birds.
- Walk the shore and historical trails at Labrador Nature Reserve
- Why: Coastal cliffs, sea views, mangrove pockets and WWII relics — a quieter coastal nature option close to the city.
- Tip: Good for sunset strolls and shorebird spotting. Combine with a visit to nearby parks for a longer route.
Quick packing tips: sunscreen, insect repellent, refillable water bottle, binoculars/camera, and comfortable shoes. If you want a custom 1‑day nature itinerary or transit directions to any of these spots, tell me which ones and I’ll map it out.
Last updated: Tue Aug 19, 2025