Unbeknownst to the average traveller (and even some locals!), Singapore boasts a surprising variety of waterfalls – from iconic landmarks to hidden gems nestled within lush greenery.
Whether you’re seeking a dramatic backdrop for your next Instagram post or simply a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, these are the waterfalls that you’ve gotta check out in Singapore.
1. Jewel Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport
• Open daily from 10am to 10pm
• Trip.com Light & Music Showcase showtimes: Monday to Thursday – 8pm & 9pm; Friday to Sunday, public holiday & eve of public holiday – 8pm, 9pm & 10pm
Take in the magnificent Jewel Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, cascading through the heart of Jewel Changi Airport. At 40 metres high, this majestic waterfall is a sight to behold for its sheer size and captivating beauty.
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
• Capture the waterfall from different levels within Jewel for unique perspectives.
• Experiment with wide-angle shots to capture the entire waterfall and its surroundings.
• Include elements like the SkyTrain, Canopy Park or Shiseido Forest Valley into your shot for some extra visual interest.
• Visit during the evening Light and Music Showcase for an extra magical experience.
2. The Wonderfall at Changi Airport Terminal 2 Departure Hall
Open 24 hours daily
Another captivating waterfall awaits within Singapore Changi Airport’s revamped Terminal 2.
The digital Wonderfall’s dynamic and ever-changing display makes it the perfect background for a last set of photos before catching your flight, without worrying about getting your outfit wet.
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
• Play around with dramatic zooms or camera angles to capture every angle of the digital cascade.
• Don’t just stop at photos – take a video and listen to Rhythms of Nature, an original composition from neo-classical pianist-composer Jean-Michel Blais that plays in time with The Wonderfall’s mesmerising movements. This 4-minute long show runs every half an hour, bathing the spot with its soothing sounds.
3. Waterfall Cavern at Mandai Wildlife WEST
Venture into the Waterfall Cavern at Mandai Wildlife WEST and immerse yourself in a tropical paradise. Located in a public area, this outdoor waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery.
You can hear the distant, yet compelling, chirps and squawks of birds just a few steps away at Bird Paradise. You might even see some wild birds strutting around so be quick to capture a unique photo with wildlife in the foreground and the waterfall as a stunning backdrop.
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
• Use a zoom lens to capture close-up shots of birds near the waterfall.
• Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions.
Consider joining a guided tour at Bird Paradise, Singapore Zoo, River Wonders or Night Safari to learn more about the birds and animals that populate the wet and wild habitats.
4. Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay
Tropical heat getting to you? Step into the cool environs of Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay and be awestruck by its majestic 35-metre-tall waterfall.
This breathtaking conservatory recreates a tropical montane environment, complete with lush greenery and a cool, misty atmosphere.
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
• Capture the waterfall from different levels within Cloud Forest for varying perspectives.
• Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive view of the waterfall and surrounding greenery.
• Experiment with long exposures to create dreamy effects with the softly swirling mist all around you.
5. Serene Garden at Gardens by the Bay
Find your inner peace at the Serene Garden, a tranquil outdoor oasis that’s one of the free attractions at Gardens by the Bay.
This Japanese-inspired garden features a picturesque waterfall surrounded by meticulously pruned trees and rugged stone structures.
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
• Use the surrounding elements like the bonsai trees and lanterns to frame your shots.
• Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for soft, diffused lighting without too much overhead sun.
6. Rain Oculus at Marina Bay Sands
From Gardens by the Bay, take a walk towards Marina Bay Sands to marvel at the Rain Oculus, a modern waterfall nestled within The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.
This unique architectural feature starts outside The Shoppes where a large whirlpool forms inside a 70-foot diametre acrylic bowl and falls two stories to a pool below.
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
• Experiment with different angles to capture the waterfall’s circular design.
• Use the reflections in the water to create abstract compositions.
• The waterfall cascades regularly, so wait for the perfect moment to capture it in motion for a truly dynamic shot.
7. Ginger Garden at Singapore Botanic Gardens
For an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, take a wander through the Ginger Garden at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This tranquil oasis features a gentle waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and diverse ginger plant species.
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
• Focus on capturing close-up shots of the vibrant ginger flowers with the waterfall as a backdrop.
• Use a macro camera lens to highlight the intricate details of the flowers against the wild rush of the waterfall.
• Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for soft, diffused lighting
8. Fountain of Wealth at Suntec City
Technically, the Fountain of Wealth – as its name suggests – is a fountain, and not a waterfall. However, being the largest fountain in the world, its cascading waters deliver a waterfall-esque experience right in the heart of Suntec City.
This massive water fountain is meant to symbolise prosperity and abundance. It is said that visitors hoping to benefit from its bounty should approach the indoor fountain, make a wish, put their hand into the water, and walk around it three times while repeating the wish.
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
• Capture the fountain from different angles to highlight its circular design.
• Include people in your shots to showcase the fountain’s scale.
9. Yunnan Garden at Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
A hidden gem within NTU, the serene Yunnan Garden features a tranquil waterfall and Chinese-inspired landscape design.
This peaceful oasis offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of campus life as well as the city. If you’re looking for a nature escape into Singapore’s heartlands, Yunnan Garden is the perfect choice.
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
• Frame the waterfall with the surrounding greenery for a nature-focussed, serene composition.
• Use a polarising filter to reduce glare and enhance colours especially if you’re experiencing the midday sun.
10. The Dining Room, Sheraton Towers
If all the islandwide exploring has worked up your appetite, make a reservation at The Dining Room at Sheraton Towers to enjoy lunch or dinner with a waterfall view.
A waterfall surrounded by lush greenery sits right outside the restaurant, making you feel like you’re in an exotic resort while still being in the Orchard Road shopping district!
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
• Include the surrounding greenery and pool in your shots for a sense of place.
• Visit during the evening when the waterfall is illuminated for a magical ambience.
This article has been edited and adapted from Now Boarding by Changi Airport’s “The best waterfalls in Singapore for that IG-worthy shot“
