Under the Garden by the Bay’s Metal Trees
The OCBC Skyway in Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay was one of the most breath-taking activities during my time in the city. The 128m aerial walkway offers panoramic views of the fauna from above, walking you through the treetops of the Supertree Grove, and giving you one of the best views of the Marina Bay Sands hotel. I was lucky enough to time my visit with the sunset, showing the best of Singapore’s colours.
The sun was starting to set when I arrived at the queue for the Skywalk. After the heat of the day, it was a relief. It had been a humid day, so I had sweated through my second t-shirt of the day, having only changed an hour before after a can exploded all over me. The OCBC Skyway was my second activity at Gardens by the Bay, with the first being the Flower Dome. I had been waiting months to visit here. My visit to Singapore was incredibly tight, with only two nights in this city before I flew on to explore Bali.
It felt like the queue stretched on for ages, luckily there was a small wall I could lean against and rest, knackered from standing all day. Eventually though I made it to the front and it was my turn to go up the lift.
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Strolling along the OCBC Skyway
The OCBC Skyway is a 128 metre aerial walkway, 22 metres above the ground. It gives you fantastic views of the botanical gardens from above. As well as shots of the supertrees and Marina Bay Sands hotel. One of my favourite shots of the iconic hotel and its observation deck was taken from here, framed by the metal trees.
The Skyway is one way, so there’s no bumping into others. A few people didn’t have a head for heights so it wasn’t the most comfortable experience for them. In fact they caused a few blockages, stopping anyone from getting past.
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Why sunset is the best time to visit the OCBC Skyway
I imagine the view is fantastic regardless of the time of day that you arrive. But I was lucky enough to be here as the sun was starting the set. Being here in the last remnants of daylight was particularly special, and the OCBC sunset will remain one of my favourites. The lights on the trees were starting to switch on, with the purple heart within the branches giving off a calming light.
The OCBC Skyway takes you around the Supertree Observatory, the largest tree in the gardens and the only one you can go up. Giving you complete 360 views from an even higher viewpoint. I’d recommend doing them both, but personally I preferred the Skyway. You can pair them with the Singapore Light Show, Garden Rhapsody, and get three amazing activities in a short period of time. Perfect for the backpackers on a time crunch.
I think the OCBC Skyways panoramic views have more to offer than the Supertree. Of course, you can see more when you’re higher up. But being nestled amongst the trees and having their artificial branches frame your shot gave me some of my favourite shots.
How do I visit the Gardens by the Bay OCBC Skyway?
The easiest way to visit the Gardens by the Bay is to book a tour is online here. I have used this company on all my trips because they offer unique experiences and make exploring a new destination easy.
Garden lights in the city
All good things must come to an end, and I was soon reaching the lift to take me back down. We timed it perfectly though, right next to the lift is a perfect area for watching the Garden Rhapsody. The show was due to start in the next few minutes, perfectly ending my experience. So I ran to grab a few drinks whilst my family found a free space to lie down, and we waited to enjoy the show.
Why the OCBC Skyway Is a Must-Visit in Singapore
Regardless of your time in Singapore, I would highly recommend a visit to the Gardens by the Bay. I really enjoyed the Skyway and would encourage everyone to explore it. But even once you have finished your walk, there are so many things to do around the OCBC Skyway. The Gardens have so many activities so close together, it’s a fun way to maximise your Singapore itinerary, without too much planning around transport. Its perfect whatever your budget, and a activity that cannot be missed no matter how long your city break. I can say with full confidence, its one of the best thing to do in Singapore.
OCBC Skyway Singapore Frequently Asked Questions
The OCBC Skyway is a raised pathway that gives you stunning views of the Gardens by the Bay from above amongst their supertrees.
No, you have to pay for the experience. Tickets can be bought with cash at the entrance.
You can book tickets for the Gardens by the Bay through Get Your Guide. These tickets are for the Gardens themselves, for OCBC Tickets they can be purchased with cash at the entrance.
An OCBC Skyway Ticket costs $14 for adults and $7 for children. This is in Singapore dollars (SGD).
The Skyway is 22m above ground.
The Gardens by the Bay posts any planned closures well in advance. So you can check here for your upcoming visit.
I’d recommend either in the morning or evening when it’s quieter. I really enjoyed going as the sun was setting before the Garden Rhapsody Light Show.
If you haven’t already done so, then explore the rest of the Botanical Gardens. They are free to walk around, but for the best displays like the Flower Dome you have to pay a small entrance fee. The Supertree Observatory that the Skyway winds around is just a short walk away from the Skyway exit, So be sure to check that out!
There is a food court straight ahead when you exit the Skyway. It has a selection of different cuisines to try so even fussy eaters will be happy.
The Skyway is open 9 am to 9 pm every day.
The average duration of a walk along the OCBC Skyway Singapore is about 15 minutes. I spent longer in the queue but I believe it was worth it.
Yes, you are taken up to the Skyway by a lift. The platform is entirely flat as you walk around and is wide enough for a wheelchair.
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