4 Nature Outings in Singapore Worth Documenting on Instagram

Rediscover Singapore with these four nature outings.

With Christmas coming and the December school holidays upon us, it's a strange time for everyone with limited air travel and fewer vacation possibilities. So take this chance to go local and explore Singapore's rich and beautiful biodiversity, while you still can!

There's no time like now, especially with our mangroves disappearing from our island over time. Did you know that since 1953, we've lost almost 90% of Singapore's mangroves to urban development? Thankfully, the One Million Trees project is going to try and restore them - and for a good reason! 

Mangroves are so critical in our fight against climate change. Plus, they're great for upping our Instagram game and offering fun experiences to create memories (and content for our Instagram Stories!) - all the more appreciated with the current travel limitations. 

Here are four activities you can try out to rediscover Singapore for the Gram:

1. Mangrove kayaking at Chek Jawa

Located on the island of Pulau Ubin, Chek Jawa was about to be reclaimed, but plans were put on hold after Singaporeans appealed to conserve this gem - the perfect place for you to use your Singaporediscovers vouchers to explore! 

Thankfully, Chek Jawa is still around to offer the unique experience of mangrove kayaking. The waters here are calm enough to suit beginners. Simply glide through one of Singapore's richest ecosystems with a paid guide who can also share interesting facts on its history and environment. 

Chek Jawa Wetlands (Image credit: NParks)

Chek Jawa Wetlands
Image credits: NParks

It's a great chance to get up close and personal with wildlife — from our beloved otters to manta rays and even pink dolphins if you're lucky — and wetland ecosystems such as seagrass lagoons and coastal forests. An enjoyable and educational experience, perfect for documenting on Instagram!

2. Getting Muddy at Sungei Buloh

Recognised as a site of international importance for migratory birds, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is Singapore's first ASEAN Heritage Park. 

Head here for a one-of-a-kind family outing at the mudflats - it includes a boardwalk just above ground level if you want to avoid dirtying your shoes while the kids muck around in the mud. It's a great vantage point to create some Instagram Stories of adorable critters such as mud crabs, mudskippers and horseshoe crabs. 

It's also a good opportunity for the kids to explore wildlife in an experiential way, as they interact with the natural environment and even engage in sensory play. This is especially beneficial for younger children in developing their language skills, cognitive growth and more! 

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve (Image by NParks)

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserves
Image credits: NParks

3. Birdwatching at Hampstead

Nestled in the heart of Seletar Aerospace Park, Hamstead Wetlands Park is truly rustic and photogenic area. With cafes and an aviation-themed playground nearby, it's ideal for a fun day out with family and friends. 

Hamstead itself is a green sanctuary, featuring a gorgeous lake of water lilies with a building-free view. This idyllic place is the perfect place for wildlife to flourish. That's why you'll get to see a wide variety of birds - from the white-throated kingfisher to the blue-tailed bee-eater - AKA amazing photo subjects for your Instagram. 

Bird at Hamstead Park (Credit: NParks)

Hampstead Wetlands Park
Image credits: NParks

4. All-Day Date at Rower's Bay

True to its name, Rower's Bay Park is a popular spot with dragon boaters and kayakers. Surrounded by wetlands filled with plant species and wildlife such as grey herons and copper-cheeked frogs, this is one of Singapore's better-kept secrets. 

Ditch typical date nights for an all-day adventure with your partner! Start the day by soaking up the stunning sunrise view at the park itself. Then gear up for an afternoon, cycling along the Park Connector Network. 

Linking from Yishun to Punggol, this 60km route is not for everyone - so make sure you and your partner are up for this! It's super cyclist-friendly, with toilets, vending machines selling bike repair equipment and even a DIY bike repair station along the way. 

After you've cleared the trail, rewards yourselves and end the evening at Punggol Barat Island. This venue is a hotspot for wedding photoshoots, making it the ideal backdrop for the Gram. Enjoy a picnic there, or simply relax and watch the sunset together. 

Rower's Bay Park (Image by NParks)

Rower's Bay Park
Image credits: NParks

Mangrove forests may not be your usual go-to attraction but they are truly breathtaking in their own ways, and we don't just mean for Instagram! Storing more carbon dioxide than other forest types, mangroves are helpful in offsetting Singapore's carbon emissions, in addition to providing a home for lots of biodiversity and defending our coasts against tides and storms. 

Losing our mangroves will have disastrous effects on our Earth. That's why MSIG has partnered with Conservation International Asia-Pacific to support scientific research and conservation of marine coastal and environment. You can find out more about MSIG's conservation efforts here

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