We revisited the resort in 2026 July and was surprise to find out a couple of changes. Will update accordingly!
Read Guide to Mandai Wildlife and Things to do
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.
Update 2026 : Shuttle service available every hour from the resort to Mandai East, Mandai West and Khatib Station ($2.50/pax for guest age 7 and above). Travelling within Mandai is free for everyone. In order to alight at the khatib station, you need to inform the driver upon boarding and pay the fee
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.
Update 2026: Check in is seamless now. We were able to get our rooms on time without long wait time
Dining & Amenities
Update 2026: Kids drawing corner was remove in 2026. Also after understanding that they are not operated by Banyan Tree, i understand the shortfall of service. Previously we could request for barista coffee. However, on the recent trip, we were ask to take help ourself with coffee at the coffee machine. Ice can be taken requested at juice corner.
Pro tip: Arrive early (before 8am) 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.
Update 2026: A fee of $10 per kids per day is required to enter the indoor kids club. To be honest, i was very surprise by the fee because previously it was free. The outdoor playground remain to be free of charge. However, Y didnt play for long as it was not suitable for his age.
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 - $600 per night, most 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!
Update: Many restaurants are opened at the food village near by. There is Food court, Sushiro, Song Fa Bakut Teh, Watami and etc. If you are looking for more dining option, you can take a shuttle to the West. There are more public dining area and free outdoor playground over in the West.
Latest deal for Mandai Rainforest by Banyan Tree
Check out the short clip of Mandai Rainforest by Banyan Tree Review below
Read Guide to Mandai Wildlife and Things to do
"Would you brave the soft-opening hiccups for this rainforest retreat? Share your thoughts in the comments—or ask us about our stay!"
