Hiking Singapore
Known for its towering skyscrapers and bustling city life, Singapore is also a haven for nature lovers.
The best hiking trails in Singapore include Pulau Ubin, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Kranji Marshes, and Bukit Batok Nature Park.
When selecting a hiking trail in Singapore, take into account factors like the trail’s location, accessibility, distance, and level of difficulty.
Singapore’s hiking trails offer a wide range of experiences, from relaxing walks to exhilarating treks, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty.
These trails challenge the novice and experienced hiker alike, winding through lush rainforests, around tranquil reservoirs, and up the slopes of ancient hills.
Quick Summary
- Best hiking trails in Singapore include Pulau Ubin, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, and Kranji Marshes.
- When choosing a hiking trail in Singapore, consider factors such as location, accessibility, distance, and difficulty level.
- The charm of Singapore hiking trails lies in their diversity, providing everything from leisurely strolls to challenging treks, all amidst a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.
Key Consideration Factors
When choosing a hiking trail in Singapore, make sure to consider these important factors:
- Location: Choose a trail that is easily accessible and fits your preferred location. Some popular nature trails, like Pulau Ubin and Bukit Timah are located on separate islands, so plan accordingly.
- Accessibility: Consider the accessibility of the trail for different fitness levels. Some Singapore hiking trails may have steep inclines or require more exertion, while others are relatively flat and suitable for all levels.
- Distance: Take into account the distance of the trail and its estimated time to complete. Plan your hike accordingly and make sure to bring enough water and snacks for longer trails.
- Difficulty Level: Some walking trails may be easier or more challenging than others, so choose one that aligns with your fitness level and experience. Hindhede Trail is a great option for beginners, while the Southern Ridges Trail offers a more challenging trek for experienced hikers.
Best Hiking Singapore
1) Bukit Batok Nature Park
| Key Services: | Gorgeous views, crystal clear waters, and a sense of calm |
| Address: | Bukit Batok East Ave 2, Bukit Batok East Ave 6, Lorong Sesuai, Singapore |
| Website: | https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/bukit-batok-nature-park |
| Operating Hours: | Open 24 hours |
For a quick and enjoyable family outing, visit Bukit Batok. This park is named after an abandoned quarry from 1988.
The two-hour route offers a little bit of everything for those who embark on the journey. The scenic pathway is adorned with diverse flora and fauna, enhancing the beauty and tranquility of the experience.
One of the most exciting parts of this trip is the delightful birdsong that enhances the experience for solo trekkers. The journey is relaxed, and the scenic views and surroundings will give your eyes their daily dose of lush greenery, something you won’t find in the city.
2) Hindhede Nature Park
| Key Services: | Variety of activities catered to everyone |
| Address: | Along Hindhede Drive |
| Website: | https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/hindhede-nature-park |
| Operating Hours: | 7am to 7pm daily |
Hindhede Nature Park offers the perfect setting for families to enjoy quality time together, catering to all age groups, from young toddlers to elders.
The park boasts stunning flora and fauna, including the banded woodpecker, clouded monitor lizard, and plantain squirrel. Situated near the Bukit Timah, it is a must-visit destination.
Nevertheless, they blend harmoniously with the scenery, making it essential to be observant and spot them. The park’s highlight is the stunning Hindhede Quarry, situated at the park’s edge. Take a leisurely walk, relishing the picturesque wildlife sightings like in Dairy Farm Nature Park, and get some exercise in the process.
3) Kranji Marshes
| Key Services: | Largest freshwater marshland in Singapore |
| Address: | 11 Neo Tiew Lane 2, Singapore 718814 |
| Website: | https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/kranji-marshes |
| Operating Hours: | 7 am to 7 pm daily. However, you can not enter or remain in the area after 7:00 pm. |
Kranji Marsh is a beloved spot for nature lovers, situated amidst Singapore’s largest freshwater agricultural area. Despite being surrounded by skyscrapers, this 57-hectare farm offers unique bird sightings that are not visible during the day. But don’t worry if birds aren’t your thing; there are more than 170 different bird species found in this area.
There are about 54 different species of butterflies. Interestingly, the Kranji Marshes not only host a variety of birds and butterflies but also some rare monitor lizard species in their core conservation zone. To visit, make sure to schedule an appointment in advance.
You can even find a 10-meter high raptor tower, ideal for capturing birds in their natural habitat and photographing wildlife.
4) Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
| Key Services: | Singapore’s first wetland nature reserve |
| Address: | 301 Neo Tiew Cres, Singapore 718925 |
| Website: | https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/sungei-buloh-wetland-reserve |
| Operating Hours: | Daily from 7.30 am – 7 pm (Mon-Sat), 7 am – 7 pm (Sun & PH) |
The Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park and 202-hectare mangrove forests are home to more than 27 unique types of mangroves, surpassing the 70 known worldwide. Additionally, visitors can spot a variety of stunning birds, monitor lizards, spiders, shellfish, and even otters in the area.
To appreciate this incredible view, simply equip yourself with a pair of binoculars and a good camera. Don’t forget to observe the serene marshes and ponds as well, as they often serve as habitats for estuarine crocodiles.
No worries! The park is fully wheelchair accessible and offers various options for hikers, including a 3 km, 5 km, and 7 km trail. Additionally, there’s a unique 500 m boardwalk that is stroller and wheelchair-friendly, perfect for those seeking a different experience.
5) Pulau Ubin
| Key Services: | Rustic ambiance |
| Address: | Pulau Ubin, Pulau Ubin, Singapore 000701 |
| Website: | https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/pulau-ubin-and-chek-jawa |
| Operating Hours: | Daily from 8.30 am – 6.30 pm |
Pulau Ubin, also known as Ubin, is an island situated off the northeast coast of Singapore. In the 1960s, it was home to numerous settlers and remains as one of the last rural settlements in Singapore today.
Often referred to as “the last kampung” (meaning village), it offers a unique opportunity to experience a slice of history and immerse in a rustic ambiance that is no longer prevalent in modern-day Singapore.
For instance, back in 2012, only 38 individuals resided here! Pulau Ubin, a nature reserve that was once inaccessible to Singapore’s founding father and his peers, offers a chance to reconnect with nature. If you find it enjoyable, you can even opt for camping. Give Jelutong Campsite or Maman Campsite a try for a rustic and delightful experience.
6) Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
| Key Services: | The only hill dipterocarp forest in Singapore |
| Address: | Hindhede Dr., Singapore 589318 |
| Website: | https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/bukit-timah-nature-reserve |
| Operating Hours: | Open everyday, 24-hours |
You may think that squats and calf raises are the best exercises for your calves and quads, but did you know that a visit to Bukit Timah can also help tone your legs? The trail at Bukit Timah reaches an elevation of 164 meters above sea level, making it a challenging terrain to navigate.
Visitors can explore a historically significant route where Japanese troops marched during World War 2, making it a perfect destination for history and nature enthusiasts. It also boasts a rich biodiversity, with a variety of animals, birds, and insects.
In this environment, the saying ‘you name it, you get it’ holds true. It’s teeming with long-tailed macaques, squirrels, Sunda pangolins, and even blue bronze back snakes, all in abundance.
7) Coney Island
| Key Services: | Houses a wide variety of habitats, including coastal forests, grasslands, mangroves, and casuarina woodlands |
| Address: | Punggol Promenade Nature Walk, Singapore 829325 |
| Website: | https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/coney-island-park |
| Operating Hours: | Daily from 7 am – 7 pm |
Coney Place offers a unique experience of being surrounded by a forest without any signs of human presence or modernization. It’s a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland, transporting you to an entirely different dimension.
Additionally, they make use of floating timbers from the nearby forest, as well as timer signboards and benches. The island is a habitat for eight bird species, including macaques, butterflies, and various rare medicinal plants that are hard to find elsewhere.
The place is a mix of various elements, such as mangrove swamps, secluded beaches, deserted houses, and even newly constructed boardwalks.
Hiking Singapore
In conclusion, Singapore is a city that seamlessly blends urban development with natural beauty. It offers numerous opportunities for residents and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the great outdoors, whether it be quiet woodland reserves or educational family-friendly trails.
From bird-watching to butterfly-spotting, the diversity and richness of Singapore’s wildlife and vegetation are truly remarkable.
So, the next time you feel the urge to reconnect with nature, remember that you don’t have to travel far – a journey into Singapore’s lush greenery can be just as rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you have any questions about hiking trails in Singapore, you can refer to the frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the best Hiking Trails in Singapore below:
What are the best hiking trails in Singapore?
The best hiking trails in Singapore include Dairy Farm Nature Park, Jurong Lake Gardens, Windsor Nature Park, Labrador Nature Reserve, Chestnut Nature Park (Singapore’s largest nature park), Thomson Nature Park, Kent Ridge Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, Coney Island Park, Fort Canning Park, Mount Faber Park, and Rifle Range Nature Park.
Is there good hiking in Singapore?
Yes, there is good hiking in Singapore. The city has numerous well-maintained hiking trails that offer a variety of experiences, from challenging terrain to picturesque views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Some good spots are the Labrador Nature Reserve, Windsor Nature Park, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Chestnut Nature Park surrounding the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, Bukit Timah Hill, and Thomson Nature Park.
What is the longest hike in Singapore?
The longest hike in Singapore is the Coast-to-Coast Trail or Jurong Lake Gardens, which spans a distance of 36 kilometers and takes approximately two to three days to complete. Alternatively, the Southern Ridges trail is a popular eight-kilometer hike that connects several nature parks and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
How hard is the hike to Bukit Timah?
The hike to Bukit Timah can be challenging for beginners or those not used to climbing steep inclines. However, there are different routes available, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty levels. It’s recommended to start with the easier routes before attempting the more strenuous paths.
Where can I take a stroll in Singapore?
You can take a stroll in various locations in Singapore, including the Botanic Gardens (UNESCO World Heritage Site), East Coast Park, Marina Bay Sands Promenade, Wallace Trail, and Sentosa Boardwalk. These areas offer scenic views and well-paved paths for a leisurely walk. Alternatively, you can explore hidden gems such as Bukit Brown Cemetery or Pulau Ubin for a unique walking experience with a touch of history.
Can I hike solo in Singapore?
Yes, you can hike solo in Singapore. Many of the trails are well-marked and frequented by both locals and tourists. However, for safety reasons, it is always recommended to inform someone about your hiking plan and estimated return time.
Are there guided tours for hiking in Singapore?
Yes, there are guided tours available for many popular hiking trails in Singapore. These guided tours can provide a wealth of information about the local flora, fauna, and history of the area.
Is hiking in Singapore safe?
Yes, hiking in Singapore is generally safe. The trails are well-maintained and there are clear signs and maps. However, like any outdoor activity, there are inherent risks, so it’s important to stay on the marked trails, carry enough water, and apply sunscreen and insect repellent.
What should I wear for hiking in Singapore?
Given Singapore’s tropical climate, it is recommended to wear lightweight, breathable clothing for hiking. It’s also advisable to wear sturdy footwear for comfort and protection. Additionally, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen can provide protection from the sun.
Are the hiking trails in Singapore wheelchair-friendly?
Some of the hiking trails in Singapore are wheelchair-friendly, such as the MacRitchie Reservoir Park and the Southern Ridges trail. These trails have paved paths that are suitable for wheelchairs. However, it is always best to check with the park authorities for the most accurate and updated information.
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