Singapore is often hailed as ‘The Garden City’ for good reason. Amid the towering skyscrapers, HDB blocks and shopping malls lie an abundance of lush greenery, making nature reserves and parks popular spots for outdoor activities among Singaporeans.
If you’re game for a day of wandering around marshlands with monitor lizards, crocodiles, and mudskippers galore, visit Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve for a fun countryside getaway.
Note: As crocodiles have been spotted around the area, do heed the warning signs and do not approach, provoke, or feed them.
The majority of the park is not sheltered, so it’s best to check the weather before heading down. And while the place is open all year round, the best time to go bird-watching is during September to March when migratory birds arrive at the park.
To avoid sun burns and insect bites, wear a light-coloured long sleeve top and pants. Top off your outfit with some sunnies and a cap to keep your scalp protected from the sun. Those joining the intertidal walks will need to wear covered shoes too.
You can picnic at the grassy areas or at the observation pods. However, do note that dogs are not allowed at the park. This is because they can be seen as predatory animals and might scare the wildlife.
Image credit: National Parks Board
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life, this nature reserve is situated in Kranji and spans a whopping 202 hectares. With an area this large, it’s no wonder that there are 4 different beginner-friendly walking trails for you to choose from.
Image credit: @bellydancetheworld via Instagram
Measuring a distance of 1.9km, the Migratory Bird Trail is the longest in the reserve. As its name suggests, it’s a goldmine for avid birdwatchers. Head down from September to March and you’ll be able to spot migratory birds like the Marsh Sandpiper and the Little Egret at the Buloh Tidal Ponds.
The Aerie Tower along the Migratory Bird Trail.
Image credit: @nrhtdytz via Instagram
The trail also leads directly to the Aerie tower which offers panoramic views of Johor Bahru. Apart from the view from the tower, you can also look up at the ceiling for a nice surprise of bats hanging out there.
The Forest Trail requires less stamina at only 300m long, so you can have an easy stroll amid the tall trees.
Image credit: @ivanxwang via Instagram
It leads directly to the Mid-Canopy Walk, where thrill-seekers can cross a netted bridge that’s suspended above the forest floor. This bridge makes for that perfect “adventurous” Instagram shot, but just be sure not to drop your phones.
The Junior Adventure Trail, while not actually a walking path, is the perfect area to explore if you have kiddos in tow. With obstacle courses and pulley boats, little ones can pretend to be mudskippers and crabs navigating their way through the mangrove-inspired playground.
Image credit: @sundayswithsons via Instagram
For curious eyes and hands, there’s even a stone path that crosses a pond. Children and adults alike can hop across the stones and inspect the waters for fish lurking beneath the surface.
Image credit: @bigsmall_b via Instagram
Right next to the visitor centre, there are even cute sculptures of mudskippers to take fun photos with, and commemorate your day at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.
Note: Children under the age of 13 will need to be accompanied by an adult.
A scroll through the #sungeibuloh hashtag on Instagram would show hundreds, if not thousands, of photos from the Coastal Trail – and for good reason.
The Eagle Point Boardwalk on the Coastal Trail.
Image credit: @aly.pl via Instagram
With Eagle Point Boardwalk stretching out onto the Straits of Johor, you can get an impressive view of JB. If you’re lucky, you can even spot White-bellied Sea Eagles soaring above you.
The trail itself is 1.3km long, making it the 2nd longest trail at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. Visitors commonly use this trail to hike, birdwatch, and of course, take their Insta-worthy shots with the modern pavilion.
The Kingfisher Pod along the Coastal Trail.
Image credit: @yukahonda_sg via Instagram
Along the trail, you can also head up to the Kingfisher Pod – the highest point on the Coastal Trail – for some elevated views of the mangroves surrounding it.
Whether you love to bird-watch or are searching for new ways to achieve those #fitspo goals, Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve will give you a breath of fresh air – literally.
Image credit: @majacel1207 via Instagram
While you’re here, keep an eye out for the different wildlife you can spot all year round, including snakes, crabs, and otters. Don’t just keep your eyes on the ground and water though, remember to look up at the sky to see resident birds like herons and sunbirds flying overhead.
Not to worry if you’re clueless about nature because there are free guided walks available during weekends. Registration for Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve tours is required and is limited to 20 people on a first-come, first-served basis.
Take Bus 925 from Kranji MRT Station and alight at Kranji Reservoir Pk B bus stop. Those planning to drive over can park at the free car and motorcycle lots at the Visitor Centre and Wetland Centre. There are also bicycle racks here if you intend to cycle over.
For more things to do in Singapore, check out:
Image credit: @ivanxwang, @bellydancetheworld, @majacel1207 via Instagram
Article originally published on 14th February 2021 by Megan Kwek. Last updated by Joycelyn Yeow on 13th May 2024.
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