The Mandai Boardwalk is a new, free public boardwalk at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve where you can take in breathtaking views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir and the Central Catchment Nature Reserve beside the water.
The meandering 3.3km Mandai Boardwalk skirts the perimeter of River Wonders and Singapore Zoo. It offers visitors a peaceful space to observe local wildlife along the edge of the waters of the reservoir, and to even catch glimpses of some of the animals being cared for inside the Singapore Zoo.
Mandai Boardwalk at Mandai Wildlife Reserve
The Mandai boardwalk is free to enter daily from 7 am to 7 pm during day light hours (last entry at 6 pm).
Located outside of the ticketed wildlife parks, the Mandai Boardwalk has been designed with wheelchair-friendly walkways which also accommodate visitors of all abilities and ages.
The public boardwalk celebrates the fascinating connection between the forest and water ecosystems through five thematic stations and a lookout point along the route.
These thematic stations are inspired by the wildlife that inhabit both environments.
Amongst these are the Tree Frog’s Hangout, which is named after the native four-lined tree frog.
The Damselfly’s Wing rest station features elliptical designs inspired by damselflies and dragonflies. It has a play area inspired by the damselflies’ perching action.
Lizard’s Lounge celebrates the impressive Malayan water monitor.
Eagle’s Perch offers sweeping views of the reservoir.
The Iora’s Nest is designed to resemble the nest of the Common Iora, showcasing their ingenious use of spider webs to weave together materials for nest construction.
Walk by the Water’s Edge
In designing the Mandai Boardwalk, the structure was elevated from the banks of the reservoir where native animals move below.
Enhancing the water-edge vegetation was another key focus to attract biodiversity such as birds, butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies. Steps were taken to build around the mature trees on site, and low impact construction techniques were harnessed to reduce heavy equipment.
A Window in the Wild
Mike Barclay, Group CEO of Mandai Wildlife Group, said: “Our vision for the Mandai Wildlife Reserve has been to create an accessible and inclusive destination that offers a window into the wild, allowing everyone to appreciate nature at their own pace. In addition to our ticketed parks, we are committed to providing freely accessible green spaces with play areas and activities for visitors to enjoy. Mandai Boardwalk users can look forward to unique views across the beautiful Upper Seletar Reservoir, while spotting exciting native species like the straw-headed bulbul and flocks of long-tailed parakeets. The Boardwalk also offers tantalising glimpses of some of the animals being cared for inside the Singapore Zoo, like the Rothschild’s giraffes.”
How to Access the Mandai Boardwalk
Visitors can access the Mandai Boardwalk via two separate locations with thematic entrances.
One of the entry points to the Mandai Boardwalk is near the entrance of River Wonders, and the other from Mandai Wildlife East – a public space that serves as the brand-new gateway to Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders and other upcoming features.
The Kingfisher entrance, close to River Wonders, is inspired by the stork-billed kingfisher, a species that may be spotted along the boardwalk.
At the Mandai Wildlife East entrance, visitors will be greeted by a larger-than-life Pangolin Mother & Child sculpture.
Expect to take 70 to 85 minutes for a leisurely walk along the 3.3 km boardwalk.
Mandai Boardwalk Opening Hours
The Mandai Boardwalk will be accessible from 7 am to 7 pm during day light hours. Last entry is at 6 pm.
It will be closed closed between dusk and dawn in consideration of nocturnal animals and visitor safety.
Do take note that pets are not allowed on the Mandai Boardwalk.
More to Come at Mandai Wildlife Reserve
Other upcoming features at Mandai Wildlife Reserve include the highly anticipated Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree that will be opening in April 2025 and nature-themed indoor attractions like Curiosity Cove, Exploria, and more.
Similar to Mandai Wildlife West, Mandai Wildlife East will also offer playgrounds and more dining options for all to enjoy.
Learn more about the Mandai Boardwalk.
