Where the Wild Things Are

More than just a gateway to the wild, Singapore's Mandai region has been reimagined as a living blueprint for coexistence. Across its five wildlife parks and forest-fringed resort, nature is not only observed, but actively protected and restored

- By Nafeesa Saini

It is early morning at Rainforest Wild Asia, a few days before Asia's first immersive wildlife adventure park opens in March-and the forest is alive with activity.

François langurs, among the world's rarest monkeys, leap effortlessly across limestone karsts modelled after dramatic limestone cliffs found in Vietnam and Malaysia, while visitors navigate the Wild Apex Adventure course high above. The scent of damp earth lingers as mousedeer dart across boardwalks and startling passersby. Nearby, a Malayan tiger prowls silently, its amber silhouette brushing against the fine mesh that is the only barrier between predator and human.

This latest addition to Mandai Wildlife Reserve, which is managed by Mandai Wildlife Group, marks the culmination of a nearly decade-long transformation.

Rainforest Wild Asia joins the Bird Paradise (renamed and relocated from the old Jurong Bird Park), Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and River Safari.

Together, these five interconnected wildlife parks invite the exploration of free-flying aviaries, dense rainforest and nocturnal landscapes, as well as riverine habitats, and are linked to the Mandai Boardwalk, which opened to the public this January, as well as the Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree in April.