Chek Jawa, Singapore Overview

Tanjung Chek Jawa, usually known as Chek Jawa, is an extensive wetland measuring 100 hectares, located to the South East of the Pulau Ubin island near the main island of Singapore. It is a vibrant mix of 6 diverse habitats, making it one of the richest ecosystems across the world. The visitors are amazed to find sandy and rock-filled beaches in close conjunction to a coral & seagrass lagoon as well as mangrove and coastal forests. Chek Jawa is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Singapore, especially for nature lovers, bird watchers and international tourists.

The major attraction of Chek Jawa Wetland is the boardwalk leading across to the mangrove area and allowing visitors a close encounter with the marine and plant life of the region. The boardwalk has been made using environmental friendly concrete, simulated to resemble timber. The other point of interest at CHek Jawa is the 21-meter tall Jejawi tower offering bird's eye view of the area's unique wildlife. Regular guided tours are organised at Chek Jawa on specific periods of the month. This site has been declared as “Ubin–Khatib Important Bird Area (IBA)” by “BirdLife International” as it is home to a huge number of bird species with some of them belonging to endangered species.

Chek Jawa Guided Tour

The mud flats, also known as intertidal flats of wetlands, can be visited when the tide is low with the water exceeding 0.5 meters or even further. This is when the visitors are able to watch numerous marine life swimming by. The area remains inundated during high tides making it impossible to go on tours. The visitors are accompanied by a nature guide during the 1-hour long tour that brings them face to face with the natural wonders of Chek Jawa. It is, however, necessary to book the tour well in advance in order to avoid disappointment when the demand for the tour is high.

Cost- The hour-long tour cost SGD 60 for a group of 15 people. The money is refunded if the tour gets cancelled due to weather conditions.

Chek Jawa Boardwalk Singapore — Chek Jawa Boardwalk (Source)

Wildlife at Chek Jawa Wetlands

The Check Jawa wetlands are rich in flora and fauna. Some of the most remarkable wildlife creatures found here are Mud Lobster (who make a volcano-shaped mound for their houses), Fiddler Crabs (named after their fiddle-shaped claws), Mud-fisher (who use their fins for skipping and movement), and the Paradise Sea Snake is also found here. Other popular birds that often wanders on the Chek Jawa Wetlands are the Kingfisher and Grey Heron.

How to Reach Chek Jawa

MRT: The closest MRT Station is the Changi Airport MRT Station. Alight at Exit B and hire a cab or a van to the Check Java Trial.

Bus: Buses 9, 19 and 89 stop 30 minutes away from the Chek Java Wetlands. From here, hire a cab or a van to reach.

Tips

It is essential to remain sheltered from the sun by wearing appropriate headgear and covering the eyes with shades.
Visitors are advised to carry drinking water with them during the tour
Covering the feet is important to avoid injuries
Applying mosquito repellent liberally on the bare skin will help to keep the mosquitoes and insects at bay