Guide To Mandai Boardwalk In Singapore: Opening Hours, Map, How To Get There, Parking & More

Mandai Boardwalk, a nature trail at Mandai Wildlife Reserve, makes for an easy nature adventure. Here’s what you need to know – opening hours, map, parking, and more!

If you want a fun day out with the kids that’s a little different from the usual indoor playgrounds, shopping malls or park trips, Mandai Boardwalk is a winner. This scenic trail along Upper Seletar Reservoir is perfect for families and nature lovers alike. We’ve been there ourselves, and it easily ranks among our favourite hiking trails with the little ones. The trail is relatively easy and stroller-friendly, with plenty of wildlife to spot and great photo ops along the way. Here’s your complete guide to Mandai Boardwalk, from opening hours, parking and how to get there, to a handy trail map.

Since you’re already in Mandai Wildlife Reserve, pop by the Singapore Zoo, Bird Paradise, Night Safari, or River Wonders, which are all just minutes away. For even more nature adventures, you can also explore nearby cycling routes, outdoor playgrounds, and water parks for more family fun!

Jump to:
– Mandai Boardwalk at Mandai Wildlife Reserve
– What to Expect at Mandai Boardwalk 
– How to Get to Mandai Boardwalk
– Mandai Boardwalk Map
– Mandai Boardwalk Opening Hours
– Tips before you visit Mandai Boardwalk

Guide To Mandai Boardwalk In Singapore For Families:

About Mandai Boardwalk at Mandai Wildlife Reserve

Mandai Boardwalk is a relatively new, free-to-enter nature trail right in the heart of Mandai Wildlife Reserve, just steps away from the wildlife parks. In fact, it actually skirts around River Wonders and the Singapore Zoo, so you might even hear the animals in the distance as you walk! The trail itself is an easy 3.3km, stroller-friendly, point-to-point route that’s totally doable with kids in tow. Along the way, you might spot squirrels, turtles, kingfishers, and if you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on how you feel about them), even a snake or a monitor lizard!

Even though it sits in the middle of a busy tourist hub, we love that the boardwalk feels surprisingly serene, making it the perfect escape from the city’s hustle. And with stunning views of Upper Seletar Reservoir plus plenty of photo-ops, Mandai Boardwalk makes for a solid outdoor family adventure that ticks all the boxes.

Things to do at Mandai Boardwalk: Scenic viewpoints

Mandai Boardwalk circles through Upper Seletar Reservoir, and has two entrances: Kingfisher’s Cave at the Mandai Wildlife East entrance and Tree Frog’s Hangout near the River Wonders entrance. We recommend starting your journey at the River Wonders Entrance; all you have to do is go down a short flight of stairs (or the lift!). There are four rest stops and viewing points along Mandai Boardwalk. The rest stops have plenty of seating and unbeatable views of the reservoir.

If you start from Tree Frog’s Hangout, here’s what you’ll see along the way:

Iora’s Nest

Iora’s Nest is one of the highlights of Mandai Boardwalk, marked by a towering tree that feels almost like nature’s own landmark. This spot is named after the Common Iora, which is a small, bright yellow songbird. In fact, the area is designed to mimic the bird’s cosy nest! From the lookout point, you’ll get gorgeous panoramic views of Upper Seletar Reservoir. Peer into the shallow waters below with the kiddos, where you might just spot mudskippers, monitor lizards, or even the occasional stingray gliding past!

Lizard’s Lounge

As its name suggests, this is the perfect spot to catch sight of our sun-loving reptilian friends.  If you’re lucky, you can spot a Malayan water monitor lizard stretched out or swimming in the waters here, soaking up the midday rays. You might also see smaller lizards scuttling across the boardwalk. This rest stop is right in the middle of Mandai Boardwalk, so you’re almost at the finish line (and can start counting down the snacks you have on hand!). Speaking of snacks, keep them securely stowed in your bag! The cheeky monkeys that roam Mandai Boardwalk are quick little snatchers and won’t think twice about grabbing your treats!

Eagle’s Perch

At Eagle’s Perch at Mandai Boardwalk, you’ll be able to spot the majestic Grey-headed Fish Eagle while lounging at the viewing point. This stop’s our top pick for photos, with views of the reservoir that stretch on for days. Since Eagle’s Perch sits near the Singapore Zoo, you’ll often hear the animals calling out in the background, which adds an extra little wildlife soundtrack for your walk! By now, you’ve probably noticed that shelters are few and far between along Mandai Boardwalk. Make sure to pack an umbrella for shade, or check the weather before you head out!

Damesfly Wing

Damselfly’s Wing at Mandai Boardwalk is where you’ll spot delicate damselflies and darting dragonflies in action. This rest stop is surrounded by carefully planted flora that naturally attracts these insects!

Kingfisher’s Cave

Starting from Tree Frog’s Hangout means you’ll end your Mandai Boardwalk trail at Kingfisher’s Cave, which is a beautifully designed rest stop inspired by the nesting habits of the Kingfisher. With its sunny spots and plenty of benches, this rest stop is a great place to snap a photo with the kids as you tick another nature trail off your list!

How to get to Mandai Boardwalk: Parking, shuttle buses & public transport

Getting to Mandai Boardwalk by car: If you’re driving, you may park at Carpark 2, towards the Singapore Zoo entrance. This car park is the closest to Mandai Wildlife East.

Getting to Mandai Boardwalk by public bus: Take bus 138 from Ang Mo Kio Bus Interchange and alight at Singapore Zoo (48131), bus stop, which is the nearest to Mandai Boardwalk. If you’re from the West, take bus 927 from Choa Chu Kang bus Interchange and alight at Singapore Zoo (48131) bus stop. From the bus stop, it’s a short walk to either entrance.

Getting to Mandai Boardwalk by shuttle bus: A shuttle bus runs daily from Khatib MRT Station between 8:30 am and 11:40pm. Trips cost $2.50 each and depart every 15 minutes, or every 20 minutes from 11 pm to midnight.

Mandai Boardwalk map

To make the most of your walk, we recommend checking out the Mandai Boardwalk map before you go. Planning your route helps you pace the little ones, decide which rest stops to hit first, and know where the best photo spots are. Check out the handy map here.

Mandai Boardwalk opening hours

Mandai Boardwalk is open daily from 7am – 7pm, with the last entry at 6pm. We recommend heading down earlier in the day when the weather is cooler!

Tips for families visiting Mandai Boardwalk

• Mandai Boardwalk is a point-to-point trail, which means there are no restrooms, water coolers or food stops along the way. So make sure everyone starts the walk with full tummies and empty bladders! Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energised.
• Shelter is limited along the 3.3 km trail, so pack hats, umbrellas and raincoats to be ready for sun or rain. A portable fan can help beat the tropical heat, and don’t forget mosquito repellent to keep little bites at bay. Do also check for weather updates before you visit!
• Mandai Boardwalk is very stroller-friendly, so feel free to bring one along. The little legs will thank you!

Read more: