Planning to go on a day trip with the entire family but still don’t know where to go? We’ve got you covered! Here’s the ultimate guide to show you why Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve should be your next trip with the kids.
It’s always good to take the little ones out for a fun family outing every once in a while. It would also be great to bring them somewhere to get them reconnected with nature and the great outdoors such as Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Welcome to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park, where the wonders of nature await. This expansive sanctuary boasts an extensive mangrove forest, providing a rich and diverse habitat for various flora and fauna.
Image from Visit Singapore
A Journey Through Time: From Park to Reserve
In 1993, Sungei Buloh was established as a Nature Park. Later, in 2002, 130 hectares of the area were officially designated as a Nature Reserve and rechristened Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve to reflect its enhanced status. This recognition was further solidified when it was acknowledged as a site of international importance for migratory birds, receiving a prestigious certificate from Wetlands International in the same year. This recognition placed Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve among other esteemed sites like Australia’s Kakadu National Park, China’s Mai Po – Inner Deep Bay, and Japan’s Yatsu Tidal Flats. In 2003, the reserve achieved another milestone by becoming Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park.
Expanding Boundaries: A Home for Biodiversity
Over the years, Sungei Buloh has grown to encompass 202 hectares of mangroves, mudflats, ponds, and forests, further enriching the sanctuary for its diverse inhabitants. The recent extension of the reserve, featuring a new Visitor Centre and additional trails, has made it even more accessible to the public. Located along Kranji Way, the extension is easily reachable by public transport, inviting more nature enthusiasts to experience its wonders.
Year-Round Attractions: A Haven for Wildlife
Embark on a journey through Sungei Buloh’s numerous trails and encounter its native residents, such as mudskippers, crabs, shellfish, water snakes, birds, spiders, monitor lizards, and otters. Marvel at the beauty of resident birds like herons, kingfishers, and sunbirds.
Seasonal Extravaganza: Migratory Delights
Image from Visit Singapore
From August to April, witness the seasonal migration of shorebirds or waders, including plovers and sandpipers. These migratory visitors add a touch of diversity and excitement to the already vibrant ecosystem of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve: How To Get There
First things first, let’s look into how you can get there.
There are actually various ways you can get to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. You can either choose to take a bus, a shuttle or use your own car to travel.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve: How To Get There
Getting there by car to Sungei Buloh
Sungei Buloh is actually pretty accessible by car so you can strap the kiddos in and go on your way! It could be a fun mini road trip with three carparks off Kranji Way and then another off Neo Tiew Crescent.
Getting there by public transportation
You can take a bus from Kranji MRT station where a bus stop is served by Bus 925. You can find this stop just outside the entrance on Kranji Way.
To get to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, there is also a free shuttle bus service to get you there.
Do keep in mind that the shuttle is only operational on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays. You can check the entire bus schedule here!
More information:
- Visitor Centre: 60 Kranji Way, #01-00 Singapore 739453
- Opening hours: 7 am to 7 pm (Last entry at 6.30 pm)
- Email address: nparks_sbwr@nparks.gov.sg
- Contact number: +67941401
5 Things You Should Bring To Sungei Buloh
5 Things You Should Bring To Sungei Buloh
1. Water
As it’s going to be a day filled with walking trails and outdoor activities, it’s best to bring water bottles for yourself and the kids.
This will keep you hydrated and energised to freely enjoy your family outing all day long.
2. Sunscreen
With your kiddo’s delicate skin and even yours, sunscreen will greatly help to protect you from burning up.
This is especially because you will be spending most part of your outing under the blazing sun.
3. Umbrella
As you never know when it will start pouring, especially during the rainy season, you’ll find that keeping an umbrella inside your bag at all times will come in handy.
It can also be useful for blocking out harsh sunlight if it gets too heated during the afternoon.
4. Hat
Wearing hats or caps can also help you enjoy your day out without having to worry about the sun always blinding you. Sunglasses are also recommended for nature-trailing trips to places like Sungei Buloh.
5. Packed lunch
If you’re planning to stay long at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, then you’re probably already planning to pack a hefty lunch for the whole family.
This will certainly keep you energised for all the long walking trails you will be taking.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve: Fun Things To Do With The Kids
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve: Fun Things To Do With The Kids
Kid-friendly nature walks
As Singapore’s first-ever ASEAN Heritage Park, Sungei Buloh is complete with rich biodiversity that you can stroll through with the kids.
There are different trails you can trek through, most of which will be easy enough for the little ones to take up.
With the area’s wetlands and extensive mangrove forests, you’ll finally get that breath of fresh air you’ve been needing away from the bustling city.
The trails to look out for at the reserve are the following:
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Migratory Bird Trail
With a distance of 1.9km, the Migratory Bird Trail is actually the longest one at Sungei Buloh.
This is the perfect trail for families who came to indulge in bird-watching and also get some great views for family photos.
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Forest Trail
For those wanting just a simple stroll through towering trees, the Forest Trail extends to only 300m long.
It also contains the Mid-Canopy Walk which is a netted bridge suspended above the forest floor to make for an exciting activity.
Image source: NParks website
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Coastal Trail
As it stretches out onto the Straits of Johor, the Coastal Trail is great to stroll through with the kids across its long boardwalk and picturesque view.
The Observation Pod is also a definite spot for an Instagram-worthy shot with the entire family.
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Junior Adventure Trail
More family-friendly than the rest, the Junior Adventure Trail is worth the visit if you’re bringing the kiddos along. There’s a pond for their curious little minds to explore as well as kid-friendly obstacle courses and pulley boats.
For a more informative walk through Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, you can also register for a free guided walk available every weekend. You may find out more about guided walks here.
Image source: NParks website
Must-See Highlights
1. Boardwalk @ Visitor Centre
Stroll along the wooden stilt structures that weave through the mangroves. During high tide, catch sight of crabs and shellfish clinging to tree trunks, while at low tide, the unique roots of the mangroves become visible.
Boardwalk @ Visitor Centre | Image from Visit Singapore
2. Prawn Watch
Learn about the traditional method of prawn harvesting, influenced by the tides, and witness this activity come to life through an engaging demonstration.
Image from Visit Singapore
3. Art in Wetland
For the artistic souls, bring along your art materials and indulge in various drawing techniques amidst the serene landscapes of Sungei Buloh.
Image from Visit Singapore
Bird-watching and spotting other native inhabitants
With the wide variety of mangrove wildlife at Sungei Buloh, you’ll definitely be able to spot different species of many animal friends.
Stick around and you will be able to see the reserve’s giant mudskipper, tree-climbing crab, birds, spiders, butterflies, estuarine crocodile, monitor lizards, otters and molluscs.
You can even play a little game with the kids to spot as many of its 231 species of migratory birds.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and biodiversity. As Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park, it stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to preserving and appreciating its ecological treasures. Embark on an unforgettable journey through this sanctuary and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or an art enthusiast seeking inspiration, Sungei Buloh has something unique to offer to everyone. Visit this natural gem and experience the magic it holds.
Lead image source from NParks website.
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