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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
MacRitchie Nature Trail Singapore
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Singapore's premier nature trail, offering a lush rainforest escape with the iconic TreeTop Walk and abundant wildlife.
"A refreshing escape into nature, the MacRitchie trails offer stunning canopy views and wildlife encounters."
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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Nature Trails
Various paths throughout the reserve
Explore diverse ecosystems on well-maintained trails, from boardwalks to forest paths, with chances to see wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Trail Preparedness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
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:
Tips
from all over the internet
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:
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:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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:
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:
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:
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:
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:
Expect to see monkeys, monitor lizards, various bird species, and possibly otters or even colugos. :monkey: :bird:
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:
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:
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
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. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. :familywithkids: :monkey:
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the MacRitchie Trails
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. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain.
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. The Rifle Range Trail is noted as a quieter alternative to the main MacRitchie paths, offering a more solitary experience.
The Iconic TreeTop Walk
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. 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.
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.
Wildlife Encounters at MacRitchie
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. If you're lucky, you might even spot colugos (flying lemurs) or owls during dawn or dusk. The reservoir itself is home to various fish species, including arowana, snakehead, and pacu, which can sometimes be seen from the boardwalks.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit