While the island of Singapore is renowned for its role as an Asian Tiger, boasting a booming economy and heavily developed city center, the country also prides itself on being a “garden city,” taking careful attention to preserve the remainder of its lush wilderness. Biodiversity abounds, with local flora and fauna thriving in a number of parks and reserves scattered about the region. Read on for a collection of wildlife destinations both in and around Singapore.

01. Pulau Ubin

Address: Pulau Ubin, Singapore

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This tiny island off of Singapore’s northeast coast is a window into the country’s past. Guests can spot wild boar and monkeys while cruising on the island’s many bike paths. Nature lovers will feel most at home in the Chek Jawa wetlands in the southeast corner, where tide pools develop within rugged coral reefs, teeming with sea stars, sponges, cephalopods, and other sea life. Pulau Ubin is just ten minutes from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, where bumboats ferry passengers across for just $3.

02. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Address: Hindhede Dr, Singapore 589318

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Phone: +65 1800 471 7300

This nature reserve is home to Singapore’s highest peak, Bukit Timah Summit, reachable via paved footpaths. While hiking, curious monkeys may watch visitors from the shadows. Established in 1883, the park preserves some of the last pristine, undeveloped forests in Singapore, hosting a variety of native plant species. Accessible via the Beauty World MRT stop, it provides a great escape into nature.

03. MacRitchie Reservoir Park

Address: MacRitchie Reservoir, Singapore

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MacRitchie Reservoir, created in 1868, is the oldest reservoir in Singapore. Visitors can hike the MacRitchie Trail and spot massive monitor lizards basking along the shore. Kayaks and canoes are available for rental, perfect for exploring aquatic life like fish and turtles. The TreeTop Walk, a free-standing suspension bridge, provides spectacular views of the surrounding forests and can be accessed by alighting at Caldecott Station.

04. Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest

Address: Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest, Pekan Nanas, Johor, Malaysia

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Located just north of Singapore, Gunung Pulai Forest offers a glimpse into the pristine wilderness of the Malayan Peninsula. The walking trail leading to Pulai Waterfall makes it a popular spot for visitors. However, this forest faces threats from deforestation and littering. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect this rare habitat.

05. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Address: 301 Neo Tiew Cres, Singapore 718925

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Phone: +65 6794 1401

Located in the northwestern corner of Singapore, Sungei Buloh offers an incredible opportunity to explore a mangrove forest. The park is home to various migrating bird species and intriguing wildlife such as mudskippers and mangrove crabs. The Long boardwalk paths allow visitors to experience different environments at high and low tide. Accessible via the MRT to Kranji stop, it’s a hidden gem.

06. Labrador Nature Reserve

An important nature reserve on the southern shores of Singapore, Labrador Nature Reserve features a rugged coastline abundant with birds, crabs, coral, and fish species. Established in 2002, the restored jetty offers a functional footpath along the waterfront, while history enthusiasts can explore Fort Pasir Panjang, built during Singapore’s colonial period. Located near Labrador Park MRT station, it’s an excellent combination of nature and history.

07. Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park

Address: 1384 Ang Mo Kio Ave 1, Singapore

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This park features playgrounds, restaurants, and a dog park, while also becoming famous as the home of the critically-endangered “Bishan 10,” a family of smooth-coated otters. Their sighting marked a success in promoting biodiversity awareness among Singaporeans. Although the otters have migrated, the park symbolizes Singapore’s commitment to preserving nature and can be accessed near the Bishan MRT stop.

08. Sekupang Ponds Park

Address: 4WGH+6RP, Jl. RE Martadinata, Tj. Pinggir, Kec. Sekupang, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29425, Indonesia

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Just a 50-minute ferry ride from Singapore, Sekupang Ponds Park in Batam offers an escape into nature, despite much of the island’s wilderness being cleared. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant ecosystem filled with lily pads where fish and ducks thrive, making it an excellent day trip from Singapore. Ferries depart frequently from HarbourFront Centre.

09. Kent Ridge Park

Address: Vigilante Dr, Singapore 118176

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Kent Ridge Park is known for its unique historical significance as well as its rich biodiversity. Today, it’s popular for bird watching, with numerous resident and migratory species populating the area. The park also has a pond where turtles and fish can be spotted, adding to the engaging natural experience visitors can enjoy here.

10. Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Singapore Botanic Gardens are not exactly “wild,” but their stunning array of local plant life warrants mention. As Singapore’s first UNESCO Heritage Site, the park features the National Orchid Garden, showcasing various plant species, including Singapore’s national flower. Enthusiasts will delight in the rich biodiversity surrounding them, which is easily accessed via the Botanic Gardens MRT station.