Often hailed as a “City in a Garden”, Singapore is a vibrant blend of modern living and lush greenery. This tropical city-state beautifully balances urban development with nature preservation, two concepts that have converged to create some of the world’s most breathtaking gardens. 

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an avid gardener, or simply someone looking to relax amidst serene landscapes, a trip to Singapore is your ticket to some of the most unique and memorable gardens in the world.

A Brief Ecological History of Singapore

Situated in the heart of South East Asia, Singapore has long been a hub of activity for this region of the world. Its name derives from the Malay word ‘Singapura (pronounced [siŋapura]), which in itself is a version of the Sanskrit word for ‘lion city’. 

Consisting of 63 individual islands, Singapore has a tropical rainforest climate where humidity in the air naturally keeps the temperatures between the 20s and 30s. However, by the mid-point of the 20th century, large-scale deforestation represented a serious threat to the region’s ecological habitats and greenery.

In response, prime minister Lee Kuan Yew implemented a vision to turn Singapore into a “tropical garden city”– a move that came in the immediate aftermath of their annexation from the nation of Malaysia in the early 1960s. 

In the decades that followed, the city has seen initiatives for the preservation of green spaces, as well as infrastructure specifically designed to encourage the creation and cultivation of gardens within the urban landscape.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

No garden tours of Singapore would be complete without a trip to these iconic Botanical Gardens.

The Singapore Botanic Gardens (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is one of the most cherished green spaces in the city. First established in 1859, these gardens are home to a vast array of tropical flora and fauna, all while acting as an important hub for conservation and research. One of its main highlights is the National Orchid Garden, which showcases over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids of orchids. During a visit, you’ll be able to explore a variety of landscapes, from lush rainforests to bright flower beds and manicured lawns.

The tropical rainforest within the gardens is one of the last remaining pockets of original jungle on the island, providing a rare glimpse into Singapore’s natural heritage. The gardens are also home to numerous wildlife species, such as oriental pied hornbills and crimson sunbirds. 

With sprawling lawns perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, The Botanic Gardens is a truly peaceful escape from the city. 

Gardens by the Bay

Arguably the most iconic of Singapore’s gardens, Gardens by the Bay is a testament to the city-state’s long-standing ambition to become a “City in a Garden.” A $1 billion project, this 250-acre garden was opened in 2011 and has quickly become one of the world’s most visited green spaces. It features an impressive collection of both outdoor and indoor gardens, each designed to showcase the diverse plant life of different ecosystems.

One of the standout features of Gardens by the Bay is the Supertree Grove–you might have seen this on social media before! These vertical gardens (standing up to 50 metres tall), are covered in a wide range of tropical plants that create a striking contrast against the backdrop of Singapore’s skyline. Here, you can also walk along the OCBC Skyway, a suspended walkway that connects two of the Supertrees and offers fantastic panoramic views of the garden and the city. 

The Flower Dome and Cloud Forest are two of the garden’s most popular attractions. The Flower Dome is the largest glass greenhouse in the world and features plants from Mediterranean and semi-arid climates. In contrast, the Cloud Forest is a cool, mist-filled conservatory that showcases tropical mountain flora.

Spice Garden

Located at Fort Canning Park, the Spice Garden was once part of the Singapore Botanic Gardens’ experimental garden, and was initially founded by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1822. The garden was designed to introduce spice cultivation to the region, and it showcases a variety of plants that were once integral to the spice trade.

The Spice Garden allows visitors to experience Singapore’s rich history. This includes its tropical flora, nutmeg, pepper, and cloves, which all still grow in abundance. A stroll through the garden really gives you an insight into how these spices played a role in shaping the city’s economic development. 

Not only does the Spice Garden offer something from a historical standpoint, but it is also a sensory experience. The scents of various herbs and spices fill the air, transporting you back in time to when Singapore was a bustling centre of trade in centuries of the past.

Chinese and Japanese Gardens

Located within the Jurong Lake Gardens, the Chinese and Japanese Gardens are two of Singapore’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. The gardens, which are designed in traditional Chinese and Japanese styles, have become a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

The Chinese Garden features traditional pagodas, bridges, and sculptures, all meticulously placed to embody the principles of feng shui and harmony. One of the garden’s highlights is the towering pagoda that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

The Japanese Garden, on the other hand, features a more minimalist design, with carefully placed rocks, water features, and bonsai trees that evoke a sense of relaxation and balance. The garden also features a beautiful koi pond that adds to the already peaceful atmosphere.

These gardens are perfect for anyone that appreciates traditional garden design or simply wants to experience the calming effects of nature.

Raffles Hotel Gardens

While the Raffles Hotel is most famous for its colonial-style architecture and rich history, the hotel’s surrounding gardens are also worth a visit. With perfectly manicured lawns, fragrant tropical flowers, and towering trees, these gardens are a fantastic place to relax or go for a nice leisurely stroll.

The hotel gardens feature a mix of tropical plants and flowers, exemplifying the lush greenery that has come to characterise Singapore. The well-maintained grounds offer a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for visitors to enjoy Singapore’s natural beauty in a historic context. After a walk through the gardens, you can also indulge in a traditional Afternoon Tea at the hotel, a Singaporean institution that has been part of the hotel’s charm since it first opened in 1887.

A trip to the Raffles Hotel Gardens is another great opportunity to experience Singapore’s one-of-a-kind mix of history, culture, and nature.

A Few Quick Tips

Weather: Singapore has a tropical climate, meaning it’s warm and quite humid (an average of 80%) all year round. Expect temperatures between 25–31°C with occasional rainfall. The wettest months are November to January, so be prepared for sudden showers.

What to Wear: Lightweight, breathable clothing is your best bet. Cotton or linen are good materials for staying cool in the humidity. Wearing comfortable walking shoes is another must as you’ll likely be exploring on foot. A hat and sunglasses are also important for protecting yourself from the sun.

What to Bring Along: A refillable water bottle is very important for staying hydrated in the heat. Sunscreen and insect repellent will also come in handy, especially if you plan to spend time in outdoor gardens. An umbrella or a light rain jacket is useful for unexpected showers.

Join Our Garden Tours of Singapore and Discover the Tropical Splendour of Southeast Asia

Ready to immerse yourself in the lush beauty of Singapore? Our garden tours of Singapore include all of the following destinations:

• Singapore Botanic Gardens
• National Orchid Garden
• Singapore River boat ride
• Gardens by the Bay (Cloud Forest, Flower Dome & Supertrees)
• Garden Cruiser
• OCBC Skyway
• Garden Rhapsody Light Show
• Spice Garden
• Chinatown tour
• Chinese and Japanese Gardens.

Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking gardens of Singapore. Book your spot and embark on an unforgettable adventure. For the full itinerary, please follow this link