5 Best Nature Parks to Visit in Singapore 2024

Chestnut Nature Park is Singapore’s largest nature park. It comprises the southern area that opened its doors in 2016 and the northern area that opened a year later. The park occupies a total area of 81 hectares along the edge of the Central Catchment Nature Reserve.

It is home to a number of globally threatened bird species. These include the Brown-chested Jungle Flycatcher and the Straw-headed Bulbul. You might also catch sight of endangered plants such as the Kayu Arang and Fan Palm.

Highlights:

AMENITIES:

• Shelters
• Pavilions
• Information map boards
• Toilets
• Mountain bike rental shop
• Drinking fountains

THINGS TO DO:

• Bird watching
• Hiking
• Mountain biking

Bukit Batok Nature Park is a peaceful haven that was previously an abandoned quarry. It is now the site of a large reflecting pool.  Developed in 1988, the park offers breathtaking views, and it is the go-to place for leisurely strolls as you take in the serene surroundings. It occupies an area of 36 hectares and is wheelchair accessible.

Highlights:

AMENITIES:

• Toilets
• Drinking fountains
• Shelter
• Lookout points
• Playground
• Park benches

THINGS TO DO:

• Bird watching
• Flora: orchids and a wide variety of shrubs and trees
• Fauna: butterflies, fish, monitor lizards, and other wildlife
• Walking nature trail
• Visit the World War 2 memorial site
• Catch views of the quarry pool from lookout points

Occupying an area of 50 hectares, Thomson Nature Park is Singapore’s newest nature park. The park is adjacent to Central Catchment Reserve and it occupies the area between old Upper Thomson and Upper Thomson road.

What is unique about the park is that it was formerly the site of a Hainan village. When the occupants of the village vacated the space in the 1980s, nature took over, and the area is now heavily forested. The fauna found here include the Sunda pangolin, the sambar deer, and the leopard cat. The rare Raffles’ banded langur can also be spotted here.

Highlights:

AMENITIES:

• Water points
• Restrooms

THINGS TO DO:

• Explore the ruins of the former Hainan village
• Hiking and nature appreciation: hike on the stream and ferns trail to observe diverse varieties of ferns and aquatic animals
• Nature photography
• Bird watching

HortPark is a gem of a park for gardening buffs. It is a horticultural center for research, education, and recreational activities that revolve around gardens. There are many colorful, themed gardens showcasing vibrant displays of blooms. Joggers frequent the space on their morning and evening runs, and there is a host of fun, exciting activities for children to participate in.

Highlights:

AMENITIES:

• The Vineyard restaurant
• Sand play area
• Playground
• Pond

THINGS TO DO:

• Eco-learning program for school children
• Gardner’s Day Out
• Themed gardens: Butterfly garden, a Balinese garden, Edible garden, Therapeutic garden, Silver garden
• Educational bee-themed trail
• Log valley for children

Jurong Lake Gardens is a brand-new public garden in the heartlands of Singapore. The grounds occupy 90 hectares in a stunningly beautiful location. Although the Chinese and Japanese gardens are yet to be opened, there is plenty to see at this family-friendly attraction.

The Lakeside Garden is beautifully landscaped and abounds in nature trails. There are intriguing spots not to be missed, such as the Jurong Lake boardwalk, a treasure trove of birdlife. Also, why not embark on a water sporting adventure on Passion Wave? Your visit is sure to be a memorable experience.

Highlights:

AMENITIES:

• Shelters
• Venues for events
• Restrooms
• BBQ pits
• Food and beverage outlets
• The Fusion Spoon restaurant

THINGS TO DO:

• Therapeutic garden
• Butterfly maze
• Bird watching
• Exercise and workouts
• Biodiversity tour
• Wedding solemnization
• Grasslands