The reservoir was originally named the Impounding Reservoir before being renamed in 1922 to honor James MacRitchie, a municipal engineer.
The Treetop Walk provides a one-way bridge system that only permits movement in a single direction to manage traffic flow.
The forest surrounding the reservoir contains some of the oldest patches of primary rainforest remaining on Singapore island.
The reservoir's dam was completed during the mid-19th century using manual labor, a significant engineering feat for the colony at the time.
The park is home to a specific species of freshwater crab, the Johnson's freshwater crab, which is native to Singapore.
The Treetop Walk is located approximately 4.5 kilometers from the main entrance, requiring a significant hike to reach.
MacRitchie Reservoir Park is Singapore’s oldest reservoir, established in 1868 to serve as the city's primary water collection point. The park features the Treetop Walk, a 250-meter freestanding suspension bridge that reaches canopy height, providing a view of the primary rainforest. Trails surrounding the water body span over 10 kilometers, winding through protected nature reserve terrain. The reservoir supports diverse wildlife including long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, and colugos. Water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are permitted in designated areas of the reservoir. A boardwalk skirts the edge of the reservoir, offering access to the water's surface from the forest floor. The site remains a core part of the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, housing significant biodiversity within an urban setting.
The mid-point of the Treetop Walk suspension bridge offers an unobstructed view across the forest canopy.
Bring at least one liter of water, as there are very few replenishment points once you enter the deep forest trails.
Keep all food items and plastic bags zipped tightly inside your backpack to avoid attracting macaques.
Wear insect repellent with DEET to protect against mosquitoes prevalent in the dense foliage.
Attempting the Treetop Walk without adequate hydration or during heavy rain, as paths become slippery and the bridge may close for safety.
The Treetop Walk is closed every Monday for maintenance, except on public holidays.
Do not feed the wildlife, as it is prohibited and encourages aggressive behavior in monkeys; stay on marked trails to protect the forest floor.
