Mandai Rainforest by Banyan Tree Review: Luxury, Wildlife & Honest Tips (2025)

Opened in April 2025, Mandai Rainforest by Banyan Tree is Singapore’s first rainforest-concept hotel, nestled in the north near the Mandai Wildlife Reserve. This eco-luxury resort offers a tranquil escape surrounded by lush greenery while providing convenient access to major attractions like the Singapore Zoo, Bird Paradise, and Night Safari. We booked a Retreat Twin room during the soft launch and experienced both the highlights and growing pains of a newly opened property.

Getting Around to Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree  

Getting to the resort can be a challenge with the poor signage. Look out for the sign to "resort" and you will have to drive pass the carpark/coach sign. Complimentary carpark tickets are given to hotel guest. Alternatively, one can book a taxi/private hire car to get there. 

For excursions to the nearby Mandai Wildlife Reserves, the hotel offers complimentary shuttle services, making visits to the zoo, Bird Paradise, and Night Safari seamless. Do check with the hotel for timing.  

Room & First Impressions

Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by the staff, and thankfully, our rooms were ready by 3 PM and 4 PM—unlike some guests who faced delays until 8 PM. The Retreat Twin was spacious, with a clean, modern design and a partial reservoir view. The bed was exceptionally comfortable, ensuring a restful sleep. However, we noticed rust on the windows, surprising for a week-old property. The bathroom was a standout, featuring his-and-hers sinks and a sleek layout. 

If you prefer a better view, opt for the Sanctuary Room, which guarantees a reservoir-facing outlook.

Dining & Amenities

Breakfast at Planter’s Shed was a buffet-style spread with international options, including complimentary free-flow bubbly. Unfortunately, the food quality was mediocre, and service felt rushed, falling short of Banyan Tree’s usual standards. Pro tip: Arrive early to avoid long queues in the tropical heat.

There are only one restaurant in the hotel at the time we were visiting. Plus, the restaurant only offer buffet option. For in house room service, be prepared to wait.  Thus highly recommend you to make plans to visit other place for dinner. 

Kids club - The Ranger Club 

The Ranger Club (Kids Club) was a hit, offering indoor and outdoor play areas with activities like arts & crafts, puzzles, and a mini rope course. We were lucky the rain held off, allowing our little one to enjoy the outdoor playground.

Swimming pool 

The rooftop pool boasts stunning views of Upper Seletar Reservoir, but limited sun loungers made it hard to relax—a clear oversight given the demand.

Overall, Mandai Rainforest by Banyan Tree delivers a unique, nature-immersive experience, perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts. However, as a newly opened property, it still has kinks to iron out—particularly in service consistency and maintenance. At $300+ per night, expectations are high, and while the setting is breathtaking, the dining and operational hiccups were disappointing. Wait a few months post-opening before visiting to allow the team to refine the experience.Plus more shop will be opening on Q3/4 2025! 

"Would you brave the soft-opening hiccups for this rainforest retreat? Share your thoughts in the comments—or ask us about our stay!"