Singapore is home to many out-of-this-world tourist spots, from the iconic Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay to the popular resort island of Sentosa and even Merlion Park. But just like any other city or country, the Lion City also has its own underrated spots waiting to be discovered. Tucked away in the central part of Singapore, you can find MacRitchie Reservoir Park.

Why Visit MacRitchie Reservoir Park

MacRitchie Reservoir Park is Singapore’s oldest reservoir, forming the southern gateway to the Central Catchment Nature Reserve and linking to Upper Peirce Reservoir. The park combines calm waterfront boardwalks, dense secondary forest, and elevated viewpoints where you can spot wildlife.

How to Get There

MacRitchie Reservoir Park’s main entrance is at 181 Lornie Road, with the park acting as a key access point into the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. You can enter either from MacRitchie Reservoir Park itself or via Venus Drive if you’re targeting the TreeTop Walk directly.

• By MRT: The nearest stations are Caldecott MRT and Marymount MRT. From Caldecott, take buses 855 or 980 and alight at “Opp MacRitchie Reservoir” or “Bef Island Country Club”; from Marymount, take buses 52 or 93 and alight at “Bef Island Country Club.”
• By bus (Direct): Multiple services run along Lornie Road and Upper Thomson Road; follow signs to “MacRitchie Reservoir Park” or “Venus Drive carpark.”
• By car/taxi: Set your navigation to “MacRitchie Reservoir Park carpark, Lornie Road” for the main entrance, or “Venus Drive carpark” for a shorter approach to TreeTop Walk.

If you’re in trekker mode, you can walk from the MRT station to MacRitchie Reservoir Park. This will take you around 20 to 30 minutes to walk from Marymount MRT and slightly longer from Caldecott MRT.

Key Things to Do

MacRitchie Reservoir Park offers a mix of easy boardwalks, half‑day hikes, and water‑based activities suitable for most fitness levels.

• Stroll the Prunus & Petai Boardwalks: These relatively flat two to three-kilometer boardwalks hug the water’s edge, with close‑up views of the reservoir and frequent wildlife encounters.
  
• Hike the full reservoir loop: A roughly 10 to 11-kilometer loop around the water body gives a true jungle experience with rolling hills and gravel paths.
  
• Walk the TreeTop Walk: This 250‑meter suspension bridge reaches about 25 to 27 meters above the forest floor and forms part of a 7 to 11 kilometer hiking loop. National Parks Board (NParks) currently runs the TreeTop Walk during daylight hours and keeps it closed on Mondays (except public holidays) for maintenance. Hours can change, so always confirm via the NParks Central Catchment advisory before visiting.
  
• Climb Jelutong Tower: A multi‑storey observation tower where you can enjoy panoramic views over the forest canopy and spot birds.
  
• Explore the Zig Zag Bridge: A photogenic bridge near the waterfront area, perfect for golden‑hour photos and a relaxed stroll.
  
• Go kayaking or canoeing: Paddle Lodge rents kayaks and canoes so you can explore the reservoir from the water.
  
• Picnic and playground time: Open lawns, shaded seating, and nearby family‑friendly trails make the park an easy nature outing with kids.

Wildlife, Safety, and Practical Tips

MacRitchie Reservoir Park is a genuine jungle environment, so it’s worth preparing properly while respecting the wildlife and the reserve.

• Wildlife etiquette: You may encounter long‑tailed macaques, clouded monitor lizards, turtles, and a range of birds and insects. Do not feed them, secure your food, and keep a respectful distance.
  
• Footwear and gear: Wear sturdy walking or trail shoes, bring plenty of water, and apply insect repellent and sunscreen. Some paths are rocky, muddy after rain, and partially exposed to the sun.
  
• Weather and timing: Aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and to increase your chances of seeing wildlife. High humidity and sudden showers are common, so check the forecast before heading out.
  
• Facilities: There are toilets, water points, and rest shelters at the main park area and at some key trail junctions, such as near the Ranger Station.

For more information, you may visit the NParks website.