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MacRitchie Reservoir

Photo: Shuicai, CC BY-SA 3.0, cropped

Free · Upper Thomson

MacRitchie TreeTop Walk

A free suspension bridge high above the rainforest canopy, reached by a forest hike in central Singapore.

About MacRitchie TreeTop Walk

The MacRitchie TreeTop Walk is a free suspension bridge high in the rainforest of central Singapore. It stretches about 250 metres between the two highest points in the MacRitchie area. From the bridge, you look down onto the forest canopy and out over the trees.

Reaching the bridge takes a proper hike through the forest. This guide explains the routes, what to expect and how to stay safe and comfortable.

What is the MacRitchie TreeTop Walk?

The bridge is part of the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, the large area of forest around MacRitchie Reservoir. It links two hills, Bukit Peirce and Bukit Kalang. At its highest point, the bridge is about 25 metres above the forest floor.

The walkway is narrow and moves a little as you walk. Walking on the bridge is one way only, so plan your route with that in mind. The crossing itself is short, but the views of the canopy are the reward for the hike.

What to see and do on the trail

The TreeTop Walk sits in the middle of a network of forest trails. Most visitors walk in from MacRitchie Reservoir Park or from Venus Drive, and the trail is part of the fun.

MacRitchie Nature Trail, Singapore
MacRitchie Nature Trail, Singapore. Photo: Drew Tarvin, CC BY 2.0
  • The suspension bridge: views over the forest canopy from high above the ground.
  • Boardwalks by the reservoir: flat wooden paths along the edge of the water.
  • Forest trails: shaded dirt paths with roots, slopes and steps.
  • Wildlife: long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, squirrels and many birds.

Walk quietly and you will see more. Look for birds in the treetops and lizards resting near the paths. Keep your distance from all animals, and never feed them. Feeding wildlife is against the law in Singapore.

How to get to the MacRitchie TreeTop Walk

The two most common starting points are MacRitchie Reservoir Park, off Lornie Road, and Venus Drive, off Upper Thomson Road. The route from Venus Drive is usually shorter. From either one, expect a walk of a few kilometres each way on forest trails.

Buses run along Lornie Road and Upper Thomson Road, and taxis can drop you at either starting point. A journey planner app will show the best route from your hotel. Once on the trail, follow the signs to the TreeTop Walk.

Tips for visiting the MacRitchie TreeTop Walk

The bridge has set opening hours and is closed on some days. It may also close in bad weather. Check the National Parks Board website before you set off.

  • Start early, when the forest is cooler and quieter.
  • Wear good walking shoes, as trails can be muddy and uneven.
  • Carry plenty of water, as the hike is long and humid.
  • Keep food and plastic bags out of sight, as monkeys may grab them.
  • Bring insect repellent and a light rain jacket.

The trail is not suitable for wheelchairs or prams, because of steps, roots and slopes. Walk with a friend if you can, and tell someone your plans. For more advice on the heat, see our safety and health guides and our packing lists.

Food and things to do nearby

After the hike, Upper Thomson Road has many places to eat. Springleaf Prata Place is a popular spot for roti prata, a crisp local flatbread often served with curry. See all restaurants in Upper Thomson for more choice.

If you start from Venus Drive, you can also explore Windsor Nature Park, which sits at the edge of the reserve. For more forest walks, read our hiking and nature trails guides. You can also browse our nature and parks and free things to do lists, or see 20 free things to do in Singapore.

FAQs about the MacRitchie TreeTop Walk

Is the MacRitchie TreeTop Walk free?

Yes, there is no charge to walk the trails or cross the bridge.

How long does the hike take?

Most people need two to four hours in total. The time depends on your starting point and walking pace.

Is the TreeTop Walk suitable for children?

Older children who are used to walking usually enjoy it. The hike is long and hilly, so it is hard for young children.

Are there monkeys on the trail?

Yes, long-tailed macaques live in the forest. Do not feed them, stare at them or carry food in your hands.

Highlights

  • Suspension bridge over the canopy
  • Reservoir boardwalks
  • Forest trails
  • Monkeys and monitor lizards

Insider tips

  • Check the National Parks Board website, as the bridge is closed on some days.
  • Start early, when the forest is cooler.
  • Carry plenty of water and wear good walking shoes.
  • Keep food out of sight and never feed the monkeys.
MacRitchie Reservoir Jetty

Photo: Shuicai, CC BY-SA 3.0, cropped

MacRitchie Reservoir

Photo: LN9267, CC BY-SA 4.0, cropped

In and around Upper Thomson

Restaurants near MacRitchie TreeTop Walk

All restaurants in Upper Thomson
  • Illustration for Springleaf Prata Place, prata in Upper Thomson
    Google rating 4.2 out of 5
    Indian

    Springleaf Prata Place

    Prata in Upper Thomson, rated 4.2 on Google.

    Upper Thomson

  • Illustration for Fatboy's The Burger Bar, burgers in Ang Mo Kio & Bishan
    Google rating 4.2 out of 5
    American

    Fatboy's The Burger Bar

    Burgers in Ang Mo Kio & Bishan, rated 4.2 on Google.

    Ang Mo Kio & Bishan

  • Illustration for Casuarina Curry, prata in Ang Mo Kio & Bishan
    Google rating 4.1 out of 5
    Indian

    Casuarina Curry

    Prata in Ang Mo Kio & Bishan, rated 4.1 on Google.

    Ang Mo Kio & Bishan

  • Illustration for Heng Heng Bak Kut Teh, bak kut teh in Ang Mo Kio & Bishan
    Google rating 4.1 out of 5
    Singaporean

    Heng Heng Bak Kut Teh

    Bak kut teh in Ang Mo Kio & Bishan, rated 4.1 on Google.

    Ang Mo Kio & Bishan

In and around Upper Thomson

Hotels near MacRitchie TreeTop Walk

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