I don’t know about you but I’ve always been a homebody. But there’s just something about going out in nature and existing in it. Maybe it’s the tranquillity of the flora and fauna or the fresh air and sunshine. Either way, I would always make an exception for a hike. So when Rainforest Wild Asia’s opening was announced, I was intrigued.
With the recent opening of Bird Paradise, Singapore is filled with so many nature-based attractions. How exactly does the new Rainforest Wild Asia differ? Since it’s more fun to show you, come along, dear readers, as we discover what Mandai Wildlife Reserve’s new launch has to offer.
Set to open its doors at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve in March 2025, this adventure-based zoological park adopts the concept of traversing through the different layers of the rainforest. Uncover what the rainforest has to offer at your own pace as you tune into nature and its subtle cues to spot the 29 different species that inhabit this environment.
So regardless of whether you’re in the mood for a serene walk along the walkways, a heart-pumping adventure on the scrambling paths, or diving off the top of the Canopy Jump, do it all with Asia’s rainforests buzzing in the background!
Asia’s Rainforests In Front Of Your Eyes
While I won’t spoil everything, let’s check out the highlights of Rainforest Wild Asia. After entering, the first zone visitors will come across is The Karsts. Jagged limestone formations peek through the canopy and reach for the skies. Canopy-dwelling primates swing from treetop to treetop as you take in this scenic backdrop. Wanna get your heart thumping? Scale the sheer cliffs along a via ferrata path! No worries, you’ll be guided all the way.
While you’re done admiring this rocky horizon, head towards The Forest Floor. Watch your step, as you jump over fallen logs and duck under hanging branches. If you like cats (like me), keep an eye out for the Malayan tigers, who could be sunbathing on their rocky abode at the Rock Cascade. Enjoy and observe these majestic felines as they navigate the waterfalls, streams and stony outcrops of their home.
Turn your gaze up to the treetops as we head towards The Canopy. Here the trees are dense and lush, so keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of life hiding amongst the flora and fauna! If you’re lucky, you’ll spot species like the Javan langur, red-shanked douc langur and siamang roaming freely about the thriving treetops. Be sure to look down at the forest floor and spot the Philippine spotted deer, which are new to Singapore.
Now, we leave behind the forest and venture into a 220-metre chilly cave structure known as The Cavern. Inspired by the Mulu Caves in Sarawak, Malaysia, these chambers are as cavernous as you might imagine. Modelled after real-life cave systems like the Mulu Caves, which is actually one of the largest and most intricate cave systems in Southeast Asia – you know you’re in for a treat!
But not to worry, for there is a straightforward and safe subterranean walkway for those who want to take it easy (or get it over with). However, if you’re in the mood for a little bit of fun in these caves, detour down some side paths and seek out some racer snakes and giant black scorpions!
If you’re really looking to make your cave experience fun? Then sign up for the Critter Crawl. Navigate in the dark and tight confines of a cave with only the help of a dim headlamp. Alongside a small group, traipse through a 60m cave tunnel, scattered with stalactites, stalagmites rock formations and fossil imprints. Crouch and crawl through this underground wonderland and get up close and personal with hissing cockroaches. Hope you’re not scared of them!
Rainforest Wild Asia
What do you think, ready to explore the rainforests of Asia? If a homebody like me is intrigued, you know it’s gotta worth trying at least once. Regardless if you’re strolling through the refreshing ambience of the forest or bounding over logs and streams, Rainforest Wild Asia has something for you!
If you want more, a little birdie told me that the next phase will be the opening of Rainforest Wild Africa. Moving from Asia, this next park will take the diverse landscapes of the Afro-Tropical region and Madagascar and bring them here! So stay tuned and keep up to date with Mandai Wildlife Reserve’s Instagram and TikTok as well as their website!
Visuals courtesy of Mandai Wildlife Group
