Singapore may be a small country but this city-state is a nature-lover’s dream. It seems impossible, but the Lion City has impressively managed to preserve a lot of its natural beauty despite its cosmopolitan and urban vibes.
For a family who craves nature adventures, Singapore is definitely a place you should consider. With over 300 parks and 4 nature reserves, you’ll never run out of things to do. Here are just a few of our suggestions for you to try:
Visiting Gardens at Jewel Changi
From the moment your family lands in Singapore, you will be greeted by Changi Airport attractions like the massive Rain Vortex waterfall and Shiseido Forest Valley. You’ll surely feel in awe of the beauty of nature as you take a leisurely stroll through the verdant gardens adorned with cascading waterfalls and lush foliage.
Meanwhile, Canopy Park is heaven for children who want to burn some energy. The park provides nets for bouncing around, as well as mazes for the kids who love to explore. After exploring the gardens, indulge in a spot of shopping or dine amidst the greenery for a truly magical experience.
Intertidal Walk Along Changi Beach
Spark your child’s curiosity and imagination by bringing them along Changi Beach to learn about marine life. When the tide recedes, you can uncover a fascinating world teeming with marine life. From crabs scuttling along the shoreline to colourful sea anemones nestled in tide pools, there’s much to discover in this stretch of beach. As an educational experience, this activity offers insights into coastal ecosystems and the importance of conservation. That said, you need to time your visit to ensure you will have a low-tide beach to walk on. Yes, Singapore has beaches.
Forest Bathing at the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku, is the practice of immersing yourself in nature to promote mental and physical well-being. It involves leisurely walks through forests, allowing you and your family to engage their senses and connect with the natural environment.
There are many places in Singapore in which to do your forest bathing as a family, but one of the best places to go is the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This activity can be done with or without a guide. The most crucial thing is to realise the purpose of the activity, which is being mindful and present.
To forest bathe, you simply need to slowly walk through the trees and observe your surroundings. You can also sit down and do breathing exercises to relax and destress.
Kayaking from Pasir Ris to Ubin
For families who want a more sporty nature activity, you can try kayaking from Pasir Ris to Pulau Ubin. It’s an estimated 8-kilometre one-way journey across the water, giving you a great workout experience. On the way, you can also eat at a floating restaurant in the middle of the sea.
Your family will paddle through the calm waters of the channel. Along the way, you will visit lush mangrove forests and tidal rivers; you can also encounter wild animals like kingfishers, eagles, and otters. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced paddler, it’s an exhilarating experience that the whole family can enjoy.
Learning at the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden
Touted as the first garden dedicated to children, the Jacob Ballas Garden aims to teach children about nature and how it works. It’s a nurturing environment for your kids, fostering a love of nature and emphasising the importance of ecology in our lives.
With interactive exhibits, sensory gardens, and hands-on activities, Jacob Ballas Garden is a paradise for young nature enthusiasts. Let them explore, discover, and learn about the wonders of the natural world in a fun and engaging environment.
Zookeeping for a Day at the Singapore Zoo
What’s better and more exciting than going to the zoo? Going to the zoo as the new zookeeper! Let your child get up close and personal with fascinating animals by signing them up to be a zookeeper at the Singapore Zoo for a day.
Go behind the scenes and join dedicated keepers as they care for the animals, prepare enrichment activities, and participate in feeding sessions. Aside from this, kids can also gain insight into the zoo’s conservation programme and have questions about animals answered by expert zookeepers.
Also, don’t forget the Night Safari option too, it can especially help if the kids have jet-lag.
Wetland Exploration at the Sungei Buloh
Explore Singapore’s Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and witness nature’s wild side. Note that you can explore this reserve on your own as a family or with a tour guide.
Wander along boardwalks that wind through mangrove forests and tidal ponds. From this vantage point, you and your family may be lucky enough to get glimpses of herons, egrets, and mudskippers. Be aware though that wild animals such as otters, cobras, and crocodiles also call this place home, so take precautions and always be vigilant when exploring.
With its diverse array of nature-filled adventures, Singapore offers families the perfect opportunity to connect with the great outdoors. From tranquil gardens to exhilarating kayaking trips, there’s no shortage of experiences to enjoy together. So gather the family and take them for a nature-centric trip to the Lion City for your next vacation and enjoy the Sensations of Singapore.
