Pulau Ubin. Last Village in Singapore

Exploring Singapore often means marveling at its gleaming skyscrapers, bustling streets, and high-tech vibe. But this tour offers a refreshing change — a chance to see the country’s quieter, more traditional side on Pulau Ubin, the last surviving village with a rustic charm few visitors get to experience.

What we love about this tour is how it balances nature, culture, and genuine local encounters. You’ll appreciate the intimate size of the group (just seven people max), the knowledgeable guide who shares stories beyond the brochure, and the opportunity to step into a different Singapore — one where water still comes from wells and stoves burn wood.

A potential consideration is the physical aspect of the tour. It involves walking and cycling around uneven terrains and exploring natural sites, so it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of fitness. But if you’re looking for an authentic, less commercialized experience, this tour will more than deliver. Perfect for curious travelers eager for a glimpse of traditional life and natural beauty, away from the city’s glare.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personal interaction and tailored attention
• Includes round-trip bumboat tickets, making transport seamless
• Explore diverse ecosystems like wetlands, mangroves, and orchards
• Visit a traditional Kampong house and meet locals
• Bicycle rental not included, so plan if you want to cycle
• Ideal for travelers with moderate physical fitness who enjoy outdoor activities

An In-Depth Look at the Pulau Ubin Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the most compelling aspects of this experience is its combination of natural exploration and culture. You begin your morning at Changi Point Ferry Terminal, where a short boat ride whisks you away from Singapore’s urban buzz to Pulau Ubin — a reminder that not all of Singapore is about sleek cityscapes. The round-trip bumboat tickets are included, which, in itself, is a charming way to start your day.

The small group size (maximum 7 people) ensures you can ask questions easily and get a more personalized experience. The tour is led by a passionate English-speaking guide — we’ve seen reviews praising guides like Keith for being knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insights. This personal touch makes learning about the island’s ecosystems, history, and daily life more engaging and authentic.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pulau Ubin Nature and Kampong Walk — Wetlands and Wildlife

Your first stop takes you to Chek Jawa Wetlands, a highlight for lovers of ecosystems. Here, you’ll see a diverse range of habitats, from mangroves to coral rubble beaches. The admission is free, and the guide explains the importance of these wetlands for local wildlife and water conservation. Reviewers, like Shaimaa, appreciated the chance to spot wildlife such as Brahminy kites flying overhead, even on a damp morning.

Fruit Orchard Visit — Tasting and Learning

Next, you’ll visit a traditional orchard to meet locals and learn about the fruits they grow. From jackfruit to other tropical varieties, this stop offers a taste of rural life. Shaimaa also noted how the guide shared stories about local farming practices, giving visitors insight into the island’s agricultural side. This stop lasts around 40 minutes, giving ample opportunity to ask questions and enjoy the fresh produce.

Kampong House Experience — Living Like the Locals

A visit to a kampong house offers a window into traditional Singaporean village life. The guide explains household activities, architecture, and the simplicity of daily routines. It’s a chance to see how residents lived before urbanization transformed the island. Reviewers loved this genuine look into the past, describing it as a memorable, down-to-earth experience.

Village Center and Local Life — Casual Observation

Finally, a stroll through the village center provides a glimpse of everyday activities — children playing, locals chatting, and small shops selling local snacks. According to reviews, this part of the tour helps visitors appreciate the sense of community that still persists on Pulau Ubin, despite the small number of inhabitants.

The Logistics and Practicalities

The tour’s price of $91.43 per person includes boat fares and the guide, making it good value considering the personalized attention and the richness of experience. Bicycle rental isn’t included, so if you’re keen to cycle around, you’ll need to rent bikes separately — which is easy to do on the island.

Timing-wise, the tour starts at 8:30 am from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, giving you a full morning of exploration. The 4-hour duration allows for a relaxed pace, with plenty of time for photos, questions, and enjoying the scenery.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers have consistently praised the guides’ expertise and friendliness. Shaimaa highlighted how Keith, their guide, was professional, helpful, and quick to point out wildlife and interesting plants, making the trip both fun and educational. Davin appreciated the pre-tour communication, which helped them navigate to the meeting point easily, and enjoyed spotting birds like the oriental pied hornbill during the boat ride.

Many reviewers also found the experience a refreshing escape from Singapore’s urban hustle. They enjoyed the authentic food, like seafood fried rice and chili crab at local eateries, which adds to the island’s charm.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to other Singapore tours, this experience is particularly affordable given the inclusions — boat tickets, a guided walk, and intimate group size. It’s especially appealing for those who want to go beyond the typical attractions and see a side of Singapore that’s rarely featured in travel guides.

The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the knowledgeable guide helps bring the island’s history and ecology to life. Plus, the opportunity to explore wetlands, orchards, and traditional homes makes this a well-rounded cultural and natural experience packed into just four hours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and curious travelers who enjoy outdoor activities without strenuous effort. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a meaningful, less commercialized experience in Singapore. Families, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who appreciate authentic encounters will find this trip particularly rewarding.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a more genuine connection with Singapore — away from the skyscrapers and shopping malls — this Pulau Ubin tour will reward you with its blend of nature, history, and local flavor. The passionate guides, engaging stops, and natural beauty make it a standout for those wanting a small-group, immersive experience.

While the physical activity might not be suited to everyone, the relaxed pace and fascinating sights make it a worthwhile add-on for those with moderate fitness levels. Overall, it’s an authentic way to appreciate Singapore’s diverse landscape and age-old traditions. Truly a breath of fresh air in a city famous for its modernity.

FAQs

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, the tour starts at Changi Point Ferry Terminal, and you should make your way there on your own. The ferry tickets to Pulau Ubin are included in the tour price.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sun protection, and maybe a light rain jacket, as the tour involves outdoor exploration. Bicycle rental is not included, so plan accordingly if you want to cycle around.

How long does the boat ride take?
The boat ride is short and scenic, with round-trip tickets included, making it a fun part of the journey rather than a long transit.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level who enjoy outdoor activities. Small children might find some parts tiring or challenging, especially the walking and uneven terrain.

Can I rent a bicycle on Pulau Ubin?
Yes, bicycle rentals are available on the island, but they are not included in this tour. If you want to cycle, plan to rent separately.

What is the best time of day to do this tour?
Starting at 8:30 am allows you to enjoy the cooler part of the day and make the most of your morning exploring Pulau Ubin’s natural beauty.

Whether you’re craving a slice of Singapore’s past or a peaceful escape into nature, this tour offers a meaningful, intimate look at Pulau Ubin’s simple life and lush landscapes. It’s a chance to connect with the island’s stories, wildlife, and local residents — a truly authentic addition to your Singapore adventure.