MacRitchie Nature Trail, Singapore - gray concrete pathway between green trees during daytime
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MacRitchie Nature Trail Singapore

4.8
·335 reviews·Singapore, Singapore

Singapore's premier nature trail, offering a lush rainforest escape with the iconic TreeTop Walk and abundant wildlife.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
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MacRitchie Nature Trail, Singapore - gray concrete pathway between green trees during daytime

MacRitchie Nature Trail Singapore

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Singapore's premier nature trail, offering a lush rainforest escape with the iconic TreeTop Walk and abundant wildlife.

4.8
(335 reviews)

"A refreshing escape into nature, the MacRitchie trails offer stunning canopy views and wildlife encounters."

Vertical photo
TIP

Go Early to Beat Heat

Start before 9 AM to avoid the intense Singapore heat and humidity. :sunrise:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential for the varied and sometimes muddy trails. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

TreeTop Walk

TreeTop Walk

Central Catchment Nature Reserve

A 250-meter-long aerial walkway offering stunning canopy views and a unique perspective of the rainforest.

MacRitchie Reservoir

MacRitchie Reservoir

Main reservoir area

A serene body of water surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for peaceful strolls and spotting aquatic life.

Nature Trails

Nature Trails

Various paths throughout the reserve

Explore diverse ecosystems on well-maintained trails, from boardwalks to forest paths, with chances to see wildlife.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Singapore's humidity can be intense. Start your MacRitchie adventure early, ideally before 9 AM, to avoid the midday sun and larger crowds. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.

Trail Preparedness is Key

Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for the varied terrain. Bring plenty of water, insect repellent, and a fully charged phone for navigation and photos. Some trails can be muddy after rain.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Lively atmosphere, still manageable
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, cooler
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

When your morning walk gives you more energy than a double shot espresso. ☕🌳 Mix in a bit of nature with your city adventure at these peaceful spots: 📍Henderson Waves 📍Thomson Nature Park 📍MacRitchi...
@visit_singapore
60.9K likes • 1.3M views

Go Early to Beat Heat

Start before 9 AM to avoid the intense Singapore heat and humidity. :sunrise: Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential for the varied and sometimes muddy trails. :athletic_shoe:

How to go Hindhede Nature Park Quarry, Singapore? Check on the video 👆 #hindhedenaturepark #singapore
@yy_escapes
25.4K likes • 666.4K views
Thank you so much for ~100k Guys🌲⛈️ . I feel lonely in the City. I feel filled in Na🌴ure. My love for the trees and the Ocean 🌊 is unconditional🥹 Save our planet earth🌲🌊🐠 . 📍Macrichie nature trail, S...
jungleboy_arun
903 likes • 17.1K views

Stay Hydrated!

Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes. Refill stations are available but limited. :droplet:

Watch for Wildlife

You might spot monkeys, monitor lizards, and various birds. Keep a safe distance! :monkey: :lizard:

和家人到麥里芝蓄水池森林徒步,当天上午阳光明媚,池水清澈,还有美丽的棉花云,走在森林的走道上也不会很晒,是很好的徒步地方。
aichooma
163 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Go Early to Beat Heat

Start before 9 AM to avoid the intense Singapore heat and humidity. :sunrise: Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential for the varied and sometimes muddy trails. :athletic_shoe:

Stay Hydrated!

Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes. Refill stations are available but limited. :droplet:

Watch for Wildlife

You might spot monkeys, monitor lizards, and various birds. Keep a safe distance! :monkey: :lizard:

Check Trail Status

Some trails can be muddy after rain. Check local advisories if unsure. :umbrella:

Consider a Guided Walk

For deeper insights into the flora and fauna, join a guided nature walk. :magnifyingglasstilted_left:

Be Loud on Trails

Alert animals to your presence to avoid startling them. :speaker: TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(335 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about MacRitchie's lush greenery and the immersive rainforest experience, especially the iconic TreeTop Walk. It's praised as a refreshing escape from the city, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and peaceful walks. However, some find the trails can be challenging and muddy, and the humidity can be intense.

"A wonderful way to escape the hustle and bustle of a big city…
Several hiking paths to choose from with varied length and difficulty levels.
The hikers have the chance to observe many native plants and animals, such as monkeys, monitor lizards, squirrels, many species of birds. I even got to see a family of wild boars!
There are toilets and water fountains available at the ranger station."

Micha L

"I totally recommended. A nice scape from the city. Nice trail."

UEM

"Always such a nice hike, with a good chance of seeing wildlife. The closest Singapore has to a jungle trek. And it’s not too bad. Gets crowded from 8am. Try and hit the trail from 6:30am."

Aidan Le-Devenish

What People Like

Beautiful rainforest scenery
TreeTop Walk views
Wildlife encounters

What People Dislike

Intense humidity
Muddy trails after rain
Crowds on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can take bus 138 from the zoo and transfer to bus 980 at Upper Thomson Road. Alternatively, a taxi is a quicker option, taking about 20 minutes. :bus: :taxi: Reddit

The most convenient way is often by taxi or ride-sharing service. Public buses also serve the area, but may require transfers. :taxi: :bus:

Yes, there are connected trails that allow you to walk from Bukit Timah Hill to MacRitchie Reservoir, and even further to Chestnut Nature Park. :walking: Reddit

Yes, there is a car park available near the main entrance off Lornie Road. It can get busy on weekends. :car:

The nearest MRT stations are Marymount (Circle Line) and Caldecott (Circle/Thomson-East Coast Line), but they still require a bus or taxi ride to reach the trailheads. :train:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to MacRitchie Nature Trail and the Central Catchment Nature Reserve is free. :ticket:

The nature reserve is generally open from 7 AM to 7 PM daily. The TreeTop Walk has specific operating hours, usually from 9 AM to 5 PM. :clock: Reddit

The TreeTop Walk is typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM, but it may be closed on certain days for maintenance or due to weather conditions. It's best to check the NParks website for the latest updates. :informationdeskperson:

Night hiking is generally discouraged and some trails are closed after dark to allow nocturnal animals to roam and for safety reasons. :moon: Reddit

Yes, guided nature walks are sometimes offered by organizations like the Nature Society (Singapore). Check their schedules for availability. :guide_dog:

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

Popular options include the 11km Reservoir Loop, the TreeTop Walk trail, and the more challenging routes connecting to Bukit Timah Hill. :hiking_boot: Reddit

Expect to see monkeys, monitor lizards, various bird species, and possibly otters or even colugos. :monkey: :bird: Reddit

The TreeTop Walk involves walking on a suspension bridge. While not overly strenuous, it requires a moderate level of fitness and is not recommended for those with severe vertigo. :stairs:

Restrooms and water fountains are available at the main visitor center and some other points, but not consistently along all trails. Carry enough water. :toilet: :droplet:

While there are some designated paths, MacRitchie is primarily a nature trail for walking and hiking. Cycling is not permitted on most of the core nature trails. :cyclist:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a restaurant called 'Koufu' near the reservoir that offers local Singaporean food. Some visitors also pack their own snacks and meals. :hamburger: Instagram

Picnic spots are available, particularly near the reservoir. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery while having a meal. :picnic_table:

The main dining option is Koufu, offering hawker-style food. For more variety, you might need to travel to nearby areas like Upper Thomson Road. :noodles:

No, food and drink options are limited to the main visitor area. It's best to come prepared with your own refreshments for longer hikes. :water_bottle:

There might be small kiosks selling drinks and snacks near the main entrance, but options are limited. Packing your own is recommended. :pretzel:

📸 📸 Photography

The TreeTop Walk offers incredible canopy shots, the reservoir boardwalk provides scenic water views, and the lush forest trails are perfect for nature photography. :camera: Instagram

Yes, but always be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking or taking photos near wildlife or on uneven terrain. :iphone:

Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography. The golden hour before sunset can be particularly magical. :sunriseovermountains:

Drone usage is generally prohibited in nature reserves and national parks in Singapore to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. :noentrysign:

Look out for the reflections on the reservoir, the intricate patterns of the forest canopy, and any wildlife encounters. :mirror_ball:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

MacRitchie Nature Trail offers a fantastic outdoor adventure for families. The Reservoir Loop is a relatively easy and scenic walk suitable for children, with plenty of open spaces for them to explore. The boardwalk sections are particularly engaging for younger ones. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as food options are limited. Instagram

While the TreeTop Walk is an exciting prospect, assess your children's comfort with heights and suspension bridges. For younger children, focusing on the shorter trails around the reservoir and looking for wildlife like monkeys and monitor lizards can be just as rewarding. Reddit Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. :familywithkids: :monkey:

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

MacRitchie Nature Trail is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as entry is free! TikTok The main costs will be transportation to and from the trail. Opting for public buses is the most economical way to get there, though it might involve transfers. Reddit Packing your own food and drinks is also a great way to save money, as dining options within the reserve are limited and can be pricier. :moneywithwings: :bus:

🏃‍♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts

For those looking for a challenging workout, MacRitchie offers extensive hiking and running trails. The 11km Reservoir Loop is a popular choice for runners, and many locals use it for their training. Instagram For a more strenuous experience, consider the longer routes that connect to Bukit Timah Hill or Chestnut Nature Park, offering a significant elevation change and distance. Reddit Early mornings are ideal for running to avoid the heat and humidity. :runner: :muscle:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the MacRitchie Trails

MacRitchie Nature Trail offers a network of diverse paths catering to various fitness levels. The most popular is the 11km Reservoir Loop, which encircles the main body of water and includes sections of boardwalk and paved paths. For a more immersive rainforest experience, the trails leading to the TreeTop Walk are highly recommended. These paths wind through denser forest, offering a greater chance of spotting wildlife. InstagramReddit

For those seeking a longer and more challenging hike, MacRitchie connects to other nature areas. You can embark on a multi-hour trek from MacRitchie Reservoir all the way to Bukit Timah Hill or Chestnut Nature Park, traversing through the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. This extended route is favored by serious hikers and offers a true sense of wilderness within the city. Reddit Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Reddit

When navigating the trails, keep an eye out for the informative signboards that detail the local flora and fauna. Some visitors suggest being mindful of the time, as trails can become dark and less safe after sunset. Reddit The Rifle Range Trail is noted as a quieter alternative to the main MacRitchie paths, offering a more solitary experience. Reddit

The Iconic TreeTop Walk

The TreeTop Walk is undoubtedly one of MacRitchie's most sought-after attractions. This 250-meter-long suspension bridge arcs above the forest canopy, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest and the reservoir. It's an incredible opportunity to experience the ecosystem from a bird's-eye perspective, offering a unique vantage point to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of the tropical jungle. TikTok

Accessing the TreeTop Walk typically involves a moderate hike, often around 4-5 kilometers depending on your starting point. The walk itself is an adventure, leading you through shaded forest paths where you might encounter various bird species and other wildlife. Instagram It's important to note that the TreeTop Walk has specific operating hours, usually from 9 AM to 5 PM, and may be closed on certain days for maintenance. Always check the official National Parks Board (NParks) website for the most current information before your visit. Reddit

While the walk is a highlight, some visitors have noted that it can get crowded, especially on weekends. For a more serene experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning. The views from the bridge are spectacular, and it's a fantastic spot for photography, capturing the lush greenery and the expansive sky above. Instagram

Wildlife Encounters at MacRitchie

MacRitchie Nature Trail is a haven for diverse wildlife, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature in its raw form. The most commonly spotted inhabitants are the long-tailed macaques, which are often seen foraging along the trails and near picnic areas. It's crucial to maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding them, as they can become aggressive if provoked. Reddit

Beyond the primates, keep an eye out for monitor lizards basking in the sun or slithering across the paths. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of avian species, including hornbills, kingfishers, and various smaller forest birds. Reddit If you're lucky, you might even spot colugos (flying lemurs) or owls during dawn or dusk. Reddit The reservoir itself is home to various fish species, including arowana, snakehead, and pacu, which can sometimes be seen from the boardwalks. Reddit

To increase your chances of wildlife sightings, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. Being quiet and observant will enhance your experience. Some hikers recommend making noise on the trails to alert animals to your presence, giving them a chance to move away. TikTok

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