There are loads of great hiking and walking trails in Singapore. But if you’re looking for an outdoor activity that gets you moving and learning at the same time, the MSIG Biodiversity Mission 2021 ticks all the boxes, with two interactive hiking trails to explore via an app. In fact, we’d say it’s one of the best free things to do in Singapore right now! Whether you choose to go solo or with the family, here’s what you can expect from each nature trail, plus the prizes you can win.
What is the MSIG Biodiversity Mission 2021?
Protecting biodiversity is fundamental to ensuring not only sustainable societies, but our very existence too. As part of its mission to help secure this sustainable future for our planet, MSIG Insurance has teamed up with Conservation International Asia-Pacific (CIAP) and District to educate people on the rich biodiversity here in Singapore, and the importance of protecting it. The Mission is a great opportunity to keep fit and explore walking trails in Singapore you may not have been to, while also learning something new!
Following the success of the 2019 MSIG Biodiversity Trail at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, this year’s mission takes participants though two different ecosystems: the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Trail and the Siloso Trail.
What can we expect from these interactive hiking trails in Singapore?
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is one of the few natural areas in Singapore with a large mangrove forest. Additionally, it’s home to the largest reptile in the world: the estuarine crocodile! On this nature trail in Singapore, you’ll learn about everything from mangroves to migratory birds and mudskippers. You might even see otters, kingfishers and crabs!
The second interactive nature trail in Singapore to discover is Siloso Trail on Sentosa Island. Sentosa has over 40 hectares of protected nature areas; in fact, 70 percent of the island is covered by secondary rainforests. On this nature trail, you’ll get to learn about birds, beetles, squirrels, endangered tree species and more.
Both interactive hiking trails can be accessed through the free District digital fitness app. There are in-app challenges for both nature trails, with the top scorers winning prizes. The top 10 scorers for each trail between 1 July and 31 August 2021 will receive $50 worth of sports vouchers. Contents of the trails will be refreshed again for the next challenge period from 1 September to 31 October. The trail will continue to be available to the public until 31 December 2021.
How does the app work?
The District app can be downloaded on both the App Store and Google Play Store. Participants can either explore the hiking trails alone or with friends or family members. When the app asks if you’d like to explore the hiking trails as a team, follow the instructions to link up with your team; or just tap “skip” if you prefer going solo.
Then, you’ll be presented with a choice between the Sungei Buloh Wetland Trail or the Siloso Trail. Simply click on your adventure of choice!
Upon checking-in on site, you’ll have up to 60 minutes to explore the trail and score as many points as possible through the in-app challenges. These contain general knowledge questions related to native flora and fauna.
The experience is educational and active – and it gets you outside! This is why, for us, it’s one of the top free things to do in Singapore right now.
For more information on the MSIG Biodiversity Mission, check out exploredistrict.com/event/msig-biodiversity-2021.
Read on for more tips on outdoor activities in Singapore; or head to our Living in Singapore section.
