Travel Guide to Visiting ‘Top of the World’ at MacRitchie Reservoir Park

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– one of the city-state’s oldest reservoirs and is connected to the Upper Peirce Reservoir. It’s the perfect place for those seeking to experience the canopy of the rainforest from an elevated perspective.

We’ve curated this travel guide for both tourists and locals alike who desire to reconnect with nature and experience the “top of the world” without leaving Singapore.

How to Get There

Nestled at 181 Lornie Road, the MacRitchie Reservoir Park is accessible via car, bus, or the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT).

If you’re taking the MRT, the nearest stations are Caldecott MRT or Marymount MRT. From Caldecott MRT, take bus service 855 (heading towards Yishun Interchange) or bus service 980 (going to Sembawang Interchange). Alight at either the bus stop of "Opp MacRitchie Reservoir" or "Bef Island Country Club," both conveniently located near the park entrance.

On the other hand, those coming from Marymount MRT may ride bus service 52 (going to Jurong East) or bus service 93 (heading to Harbourfront Interchange). Alight at the bus stop at "Bef Island Country Club" to reach your destination.

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

Trails and Trekking Tips

Exploring the reservoir park is not for the faint-hearted because of its rocky and slippery trails, not to mention the wildlife that rests here; they include reptiles, monkeys, and insects. Be sure to wear proper hiking shoes and an insect-repellant patch or spray if you’re prone to allergic reactions from insect bites. Yet, most wanderers, if not all, would likely agree that walking through this scenic trail relaxes them both physically and mentally.

Treetop Walk is a suspension bridge open from Tuesday to Friday between 9 AM-5 PM and 8:30 AM-5 PM every weekend. It is closed every Monday except for public holidays.

Going to the Treetop Walk features a moderately difficult trail that spans between seven to eight kilometres (KM) round trip, with an estimated walking time of approximately two to three hours to finish. For novices, you may opt to try the three-km course with a fully padded pathway, ideal for those hiking with the kids and elderly.

Upon reaching the summit, you can indulge in a bird’s eye view of the forest canopy below. A gentle reminder to check the weather forecast, particularly the level of humidity, before or while trekking. High humidity can contribute to reduced air circulation, making it difficult to breathe due to the compact forest.

Moreover, you will also pass through a golf course with breathtaking views of shimmering waters and reflective surfaces. Climbing the Jelutong Tower is a must but expect a queue sometimes. This will take you to the MacRitchie entrance which spans approximately five km on foot.

The trail includes the Chemperai Trail at the entrance, followed by the Golf Link, Jelutong Tower, TreeTop Walk, and finally, the MacRitchie Nature Trail. As you pass through each trail, there are designated areas where you can take a bathroom break and stay hydrated via the drinking fountains available.

Bonus: Upper Peirce Trail

If you’re still game for another hiking escapade, head towards the Ranger Station to access the Upper Peirce Trail. Once you spot the Ranger Station trail sign, follow the left arrow sign to reach Venus Drive Carpark.

Along the route, you'll encounter a slip road; follow it downhill until you reach a gate. While this gate is designated as private, don’t fret! Just to its left, you’ll find another gate with a sign that reads “Public Access Trail” which is open from 7 AM-6 PM.

Upon entering this gate, you’ll know you are on the proper route when you spot the Singapore Island Country Club to your right. Keep walking until you reach the breezy waters on your left, which is the Upper Peirce Reservoir. From here, you may continue walking to reach Old Upper Thomson Road, where you can exit and find something for a quick bite.

For more information, you may visit the new NParks website (beta) here.