The 12 Best Unexpected Forests in Singapore: Nature in the City
The Lion City is widely cosmopolitan, so it’s not hard to feel overwhelmed by all its hustle and bustle. So when I need a break from the urban jungle, the forests of Singapore never disappoint. They’re my go-to escape into nature’s embrace.
In this guide, let’s wander through some green spaces that never fail to surprise me with wildlife sightings and trails that spark a sense of adventure.
Rainforest Trail
– Media from markspie
Location: Singapore Botanic Gardens
Hours: 24/7
Accessibility: Suitable for moderate hikers
Trail features: Generally well-marked paved or dirt paths, some uneven terrain and steep sections
Whether you’re exploring with friends or going solo, Rain Forest Trail is the perfect spot to reconnect with nature. Its shaded paths wind through dense greenery and the sound of wildlife can soothe weary souls.
Some sections are steep, but the scenic views at higher points make the climb worth it. Plus, the trail’s well-marked paths keep you on track. Helpful signs along the way will guide your adventure too.
Pro-tip: Strollers and wheelchairs might find it tricky on uneven parts.
Mangrove Forest
– Media from shiewee
Location: Admiralty Park
Hours: 24/7
Accessibility: Suitable for families and easy walks
Trail features: Flat boardwalks and gravel paths
For me, a stroll through the Mangrove Forest is pure peace, perfect for bird watching or simply unwinding. Even with easy trails, there’s a thrill in spotting tidal pool creatures or a rare migratory bird.
Raised boardwalks wind through twisting roots and there’s an occasional rustle of mudskippers or herons. The flat, accessible paths make it easy for families to explore, offering stunning views of calm waters and thriving wildlife up close.
Pro-tip: Wear covered shoes and bring insect repellent to stay comfortable and protected from muddy paths and mosquitoes.
Learning Forest
– Media from collin_hp_tan
Location: 1 Cluny Road
Hours: Daily, 5 AM–midnight
Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair-friendly, ideal for visitors of all ages
Trail features: Wide boardwalks and paved paths
I love how accessible Learning Forest is. It’s perfect for a lazy afternoon stroll or a nature walk with friends as there’s always something refreshing to discover.
It’s a great spot for families, with paths that are stroller-friendly and lined with signs sharing fun facts about Singapore’s native plants. Check out the bamboo collection or admire the tree reflections in the wetlands for a refreshing experience.
Pro-tip: Entry to the Learning Forest is free, making it a perfect spot for a budget-friendly nature escape.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
– Media from faizanhar
Location: Hindhede Drive
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Accessibility: Suitable for moderate to experienced hikers
Trail features: Steep, uneven trails with steps
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is a must if you’re up for a workout. The trails are steep, but the lush greenery and occasional monkey sightings make the climb worth it.
Though the paths can get challenging, they’re well-maintained and marked, perfect for seasoned hikers but a bit tough for strollers and wheelchairs. Reaching the summit felt like a mini victory to me, especially with panoramic views from Singapore’s highest point!
Pro-tip: Take a break at the visitor centre to explore guides and learn about the reserve’s biodiversity.
Central Catchment Nature Reserve
– Media from victorl0
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Accessibility: Main paths suit all ages, but steeper, uneven trails limit stroller and wheelchair access
Trail features: A mix of accessible boardwalks and challenging dirt trails
I find most trails at Central Catchment Nature Reserve family-friendly, but some can be challenging with uneven terrain, so plan accordingly.
Whether you’re spotting wildlife or just soaking in the quiet, the reserve’s well-marked paths and scenic rest stops make it easy to explore at your own pace.
MacRitchie’s TreeTop Walk is my favourite, offering sweeping canopy views that make the hike feel rewarding. It’s my go-to when I want to get lost (in a good way). With trails weaving through dense forests and reservoirs, there’s always something new to discover.
Pro-tip: Pets are welcome on a leash at MacRitchie Reservoir, but some areas like the TreeTop Walk restrict pets to protect wildlife.
Pulau Ubin
– Media from stevenneo25481
Location: Off the northeastern coast of Singapore
Hours: 24/7
Accessibility: A 10-minute bumboat ride from Changi, but many areas aren’t wheelchair or stroller-friendly
Trail features: Uneven terrain with dirt paths and gravel trails suitable for cycling and walking
Hands down, Pulau Ubin, with its dirt paths, rustic villages, and scenic trails, is the perfect getaway from city life. I love cycling around the island, especially through Chek Jawa Wetlands, where I can spot wildlife and catch stunning coastal views.
Whether you’re hiking, biking, or just exploring, Ubin offers a refreshing escape with nature at every turn.
Getting there is easy with a quick bumboat ride, but the island’s rugged terrain isn’t the most stroller- or wheelchair-friendly.
Pro-tip: Pulau Ubin is open 24/7, but bumboat services operate from 6 AM to 7 PM only.
Labrador Nature Reserve
– Media from weiwentingcn
Location: 91 Labrador Villa Road
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Accessibility: Paved paths and boardwalks make most areas stroller- and mobility-friendly
Trail features: Coastal boardwalk with scenic sea views, lush forest paths teeming with wildlife, rocky shores
Labrador Nature Reserve is a gem with scenic coastal boardwalks and forest trails that offer both sea views and wildlife sightings. I love exploring the historical relics hidden along the paths. It’s like a mini treasure hunt through Singapore’s past!
The paved trails make it easy for families with strollers, though some areas with steps might be tricky for wheelchairs. Whether you’re relaxing by the shore or uncovering WWII bunkers, there’s always something unique to discover here.
Pro-tip: Keep an eye out for monitor lizards and exotic birds along the trails. Wildlife sightings are common here!
Thomson Nature Park
– Media from henry_chiew
Location: Upper Thomson Road
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Accessibility: Less accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, best suited for hikers comfortable with moderate trails
Trail features: Well-marked trails but include uneven terrain and steps
Thomson Nature Park is one of my favourite spots for a quiet escape – its trails wind through forested areas and the remnants of an old Hainanese village, giving the place a unique charm.
Whether you’re here for wildlife or to explore the village ruins, the park offers a refreshing blend of nature and history. The chance to spot rare creatures like the Raffles’ banded langur makes every visit feel like a mini adventure.
Pro-tip: While exploring Thomson Nature Park, be cautious of wild boars, which roam the area.
Dairy Farm Nature Park
– Media from jd_chasingwild
Location: 100 Dairy Farm Road
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Accessibility: Ideal for moderate hikers and nature lovers, some uneven terrain is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs
Trail features: A mix of paved and dirt trails, making some areas accessible to families
Dairy Farm Nature Park is another favourite of mine for its blend of nature and history. The Wallace Trail takes you through lush forests while teaching you about Singapore’s biodiversity.
The Singapore Quarry at the end of the trail is a hidden gem, where you can sit back and enjoy the peaceful view of the quarry pond teeming with fish and birds.
The park offers both paved and dirt trails, so it’s great for families, though parts with uneven terrain might challenge strollers and wheelchairs.
Pro-tip: The visitor centre is a nice stop for maps and learning more about the local flora and fauna.
Sungei Buloh Wetlands
– Media from junn_licious
Location: 301 Neo Tiew Crescent
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Accessibility: Most areas accessible for families and easy walks, but some uneven surfaces are not PWD-friendly
Trail features: Flat boardwalks and gravel paths, some rough trails
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve’s boardwalks lead you through mangroves and mudflats, where you can spot everything from mudskippers to migratory birds.
It’s the perfect place to slow down, soak in the views, and enjoy bird watching with binoculars in hand.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a crocodile sunbathing near the water!
Pro tip: Picnics aren’t allowed inside Sungei Buloh to protect the wildlife, so plan your snacks before or after the visit.
Southern Ridges
– Media from oakeylo
Location: Telok Blangah Hill Park
Hours: 24/7
Accessibility: Accessible for most visitors including families with strollers, some staired sections are not PWD-friendly
Trail features: A mix of paved paths, steep slopes, and elevated walkway
The Southern Ridges is my go-to for a scenic hike with a view. The elevated walkways and bridges, like Henderson Waves, offer breathtaking panoramas of the city and lush greenery.
It’s a refreshing mix of urban and nature, with trails connecting parks like Mount Faber, Telok Blangah, and HortPark. Whether you’re up for a long walk or just want to enjoy the views, it’s a great spot to catch the sunset and unwind.
Pro-tip: Visit the Southern Ridges in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and catch stunning sunrise or sunset views.
MacRitchie Reservoir
– Media from philgilg
Location: Lornie Road
Hours: 24/7
Accessibility: Suitable for most visitors, the park’s main areas and boardwalks are more accessible
Trail features: Well-maintained trails, some uneven paths and stairs
MacRitchie Reservoir is a great spot for a nature escape. The trails are long but rewarding, especially the TreeTop Walk, which gives you a bird’s-eye view of the lush forest canopy.
It’s also a great place to spot wildlife, from curious monkeys to colourful birds along the way!
Those in for a scenic jog or a leisurely paddle at the kayak rental would love it here, as MacRitchie offers something for everyone.
Pro-tip: MacRitchie Reservoir is pet-friendly, but pets must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety of wildlife and other visitors. Keep an eye out for monkeys, as they can get curious around pets.