Singapore's parks are safe and well run, but a few rules surprise visitors - and the heat, storms and wildlife deserve respect. Here is what to know before you set off.
The rules that catch visitors out
| Rule | Where | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Do not feed wildlife | Everywhere | An offence under the Wildlife Act, with fines of up to S$5,000 for a first offence and up to S$10,000 for repeat offences. |
| No pets | Nature reserves, including Bukit Timah, Central Catchment (TreeTop Walk) and Sungei Buloh | Dogs are allowed on a leash in the Botanic Gardens, but not in the National Orchid Garden or indoor attractions. |
| No cycling | Botanic Gardens; Sungei Buloh | Use the bicycle parking at the entrances. On Pulau Ubin, park bikes before the Chek Jawa boardwalk. |
| No drones | Botanic Gardens; Sungei Buloh | Check the rules for any other park before flying. |
| Groups over 30 | Nature reserves | Apply to NParks for a permit about a month ahead. |
| Stay on the trails | All parks | Keep out of the vegetation and closed areas. |
Meeting wildlife
- Monkeys (long-tailed macaques): stay calm, back away slowly and do not run. Avoid eye contact, keep food and plastic bags out of sight and never feed them.
- Otters: watch from a distance - they protect their young. Do not touch, chase or corner them, talk loudly or use flash photography.
- Crocodiles: estuarine crocodiles live at Sungei Buloh. Stay on paths and boardwalks.
- Stray dogs and wild boars: keep a safe distance (NParks advises this at Coney Island).
- If you find an injured or trapped animal, call the Animal Response Centre on 1800 476 1600.
Heat, rain and lightning
- Walk early, carry water and rest in the shade - heat exhaustion is a real risk in the forest.
- If you hear thunder, leave open areas and forest trails or move to a shelter. Do not enter Sungei Buloh in bad weather.
- The NEA myENV app shows weather forecasts and lightning alerts.
Insects and plants
Wear long trousers and covered shoes in mangroves and on beaches (NParks warns of sandflies at Coney Island), use insect repellent and do not touch unfamiliar plants or animals.
FAQs
What is the fine for feeding wildlife in Singapore?
Up to S$5,000 for a first offence and up to S$10,000 for repeat offences under the Wildlife Act.
Can I take my dog to Singapore's nature reserves?
No. Pets are not allowed in nature reserves such as Bukit Timah, the Central Catchment and Sungei Buloh.
What should I do if a monkey approaches me?
Stay calm, avoid eye contact, keep food out of sight and back away slowly without running.
Related guides
Sources
- NParks AVS: Macaques in Singapore (checked 9 November 2026)
- NParks AVS: Otters in Singapore (checked 9 November 2026)
- NParks: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve (checked 9 November 2026)
- Singapore Botanic Gardens: general information (checked 9 November 2026)
- NParks: Coney Island Park (checked 9 November 2026)
- Mothership: amended Wildlife Act fines (2020) (checked 9 November 2026)
- NParks: Pulau Ubin directions (NParks hotline) (checked 9 November 2026)