If you love hiking in Singapore, you can not miss the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. Explore the paths that wind through lush mangrove forests, serene ponds, and along the coastal lines of the Straits of Johor. It’s an ideal setting for nature enthusiasts and photographers, offering glimpses of diverse wildlife and vibrant flora.
The trails cater to varying fitness levels, with options like the Coastal Trail leading to scenic viewpoints at Eagle Point and Kingfisher Pod.
Whether you’re seeking bird-watching spots or a tranquil walk amidst nature, Sungei Buloh promises an enriching experience.
The Beauty of Sungei Buloh
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a haven of biodiversity nestled in the northwest corner of Singapore. Its mangrove forests, mudflats, and freshwater ponds create a vital habitat for many wildlife species.
Visitors can admire the picturesque landscapes while spotting migratory birds, otters, and estuarine crocodiles along the waterways. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Singapore.
How to Get to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
To reach Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve via public transport, take the MRT to Kranji Station (NS7).
Exit the station and head to the nearby bus terminal. Board SMRT Bus 925 or 975 to reach the reserve. Alternatively, taxis provide direct access to the entrance.
Starting Your Itinerary – Visitor Center
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve welcomes visitors to its new visitor center and gallery.
Located at the main entrance, the airy foyer features exhibits highlighting the reserve’s biodiversity and conservation efforts. It’s an informative start to exploring the wetlands.
Fantail Pod
The Fantail Pod at Sungei Buloh offers panoramic views of the Straits of Johor, showcasing the diverse marine and bird life in brackish waters.
It’s a tranquil spot for observing wildlife and enjoying spontaneous displays of nature.
Eagle Point
Eagle Point provides a sweeping view of Johor Bahru across the straits. It’s a favorite for morning walks and bird photography, offering sightings of various raptors and storks.
The coastal trail leading here is lined with lush greenery, enhancing the serene atmosphere of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.
Kingfisher Pod
Located along the Coastal Trail, the Kingfisher Pod offers unobstructed views of Sungei Buloh’s diverse nature and the expansive sea beyond.
It’s a serene spot for observing coastal wildlife and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Center
Stop by the Sungei Buloh Wetland Center to learn more about the reserve’s ecosystem and charismatic inhabitants, such as otters.
The center provides educational insights into wetland conservation efforts and offers a closer look at the local wildlife.
Bird Observation Hides
Explore several observation hides designed for bird enthusiasts along the Migratory Bird Trail.
Marvel at the beauty of resident and migratory birds, as well as other wetland creatures, while appreciating the serene surroundings of Sungei Buloh.
Aerie Tower
Ascend to the Aerie Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve from an elevated height of 18 meters.
This is an ideal vantage point from which to appreciate the vast expanse of the wetlands and observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
Walking Along the Mangroves
Take a stroll through the mangrove forests of Sungei Buloh and observe the huge and impressive roots above the water.
The boardwalks offer a mud-free experience while allowing you to appreciate mangrove ecosystems’ beauty and ecological importance.
Animals You Might Encounter in Sungei Buloh
Bats
If you watch carefully, you might encounter bats. We spotted a group of bats hanging from the roof during our hike.
Crocodiles
Look out for estuarine crocodiles basking along the banks or floating in the water, a testament to Sungei Buloh’s rich biodiversity.
Spiders
While walking, I encountered a spider I had already seen in several nature parks in Singapore. The gold weaver spider is known for its large orbit-shaped webs.
Its size can reach 30-50 mm, and its bite, although painful, is rarely lethal to humans.
I’m usually scared of spiders, but don’t you think this one has some beautiful colors?
Monitor Lizards
You may encounter monitor lizards leisurely roaming the wetlands. Sometimes, they will block your path. Just be patient and wait until they slowly cross the road.
Birds
Depending on the season, you can observe a diverse array of resident and migratory birds. I was lucky to spot the beautiful White-breasted Waterhen. It was not so easy to take a picture of it!
Otters
There’s a good chance of spotting playful otters in Sungei Buloh, adding a touch of charm to your wetland adventure.
I took the picture above while walking along the Singapore River. I hope to be able to spot them in Sungei Buloh next time!
Iguanas
We also encountered a beautiful Iguana crossing the boardwalk to reach the water.
Tips to enjoy this hike
It is preferable to start early to avoid the sun and heat.
Bring enough water to stay hydrated during the walk; Singapore is always very hot.
You can fill your water bottle at visitor centers; there are bathrooms there, too.
Bring a cap or hat to protect yourself from the sun, as areas along the route lack shade.
Parts of the route might be closed after 11 am due to high tide; alternative routes exist.
I hope you can plan your visit to Sungei Buloh with the help of this guide and itinerary, which I have gladly shared.
It is one of my favorite places to hike in Singapore when looking for nature and tranquility.
This article shows you Hiking in Singapore Exploring Nature in Sungei Buloh Reserve
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