Rainforest

Rainforest bursts into life as one of Chessington World of Adventures’ most vibrant family areas, designed especially for younger adventurers. Opening in 2020, this compact land transformed previously underused space around the former Toadie’s Crazy Cars site. As a result, it brought fresh energy to a part of the park that had evolved through Toytown and later Africa.

However, Rainforest offers more than just new attractions. It ties together rides, entertainment and animal experiences into one cohesive space. Consequently, it creates a world where little explorers can fully immerse themselves in adventure. At the same time, the area reflects Chessington’s ongoing support for conservation, inspired by its work with the World Land Trust to help protect vital rainforest habitats.

At the heart of the land, Jungle Rangers lets children take control and navigate their own off-road journey. Meanwhile, Treetop Hoppers sends riders bouncing high above the canopy, offering a playful first taste of thrills. Then there’s River Rafts, a gentle yet splash-filled flume that delivers a fun surprise at the finale. Together, these attractions create a well-rounded experience built with younger guests in mind.

Beyond the rides, Rainforest continues to entertain. The Mane Stage hosts a variety of live shows throughout the year, from lively performances to seasonal spectacles. As a result, there’s always something happening, adding even more life to the area. Nearby, The Coffee Hut provides a convenient stop for drinks and snacks, perfect for a quick recharge between adventures.

Importantly, Rainforest also represents a clever reinvention of the park’s past. It builds on the foundations of Toytown and Africa while introducing a fresh identity.

Ultimately, Rainforest proves that great things come in small packages. It combines rides, shows and theming into one engaging space for families. So, whether you’re splashing down, bouncing high or taking the wheel, this land delivers big adventures for little explorers.

Animals

Capybara

Capybaras are the largest rodents in the world, and they bring a calm, curious presence to the Rainforest land. Native to South America, these semi-aquatic animals thrive in environments close to water. As a result, they feel perfectly at home in lush, river-filled habitats.

However, capybaras are far from solitary creatures. They live in social groups and rely on strong bonds to stay safe and relaxed. Often, they communicate through a mix of sounds, including whistles, purrs and barks. Meanwhile, their laid-back nature makes them fascinating to observe as they interact with one another.

In addition, capybaras are excellent swimmers. Their partially webbed feet help them glide through water with ease. When needed, they can even stay submerged for several minutes to avoid danger. Therefore, water plays a vital role in their daily routine, from staying cool to escaping predators.

Their diet mainly consists of grasses and other vegetation. As they graze, they help shape their environment, which supports the wider ecosystem. Consequently, they play an important role in maintaining balance within their natural habitat.

Ultimately, capybara perfectly represent the gentle and interconnected world of the Rainforest. Whether resting together or exploring their surroundings, they offer a peaceful glimpse into life in one of the planet’s most diverse environments.

No photos available.

Sulcata Tortoise

The Sulcata Tortoise, also known as the African spurred tortoise, stands as one of the largest tortoise species in the world. Native to the southern edge of the Sahara Desert, it thrives in hot, dry environments. As a result, it has adapted perfectly to life in some of the harshest conditions on Earth.

However, these tortoises remain surprisingly active for such a slow-moving species. They spend much of their time grazing on grasses and vegetation. Meanwhile, their strong, sturdy beaks allow them to tackle tough plant material with ease. This constant grazing plays an important role in maintaining their natural habitat.

In addition, Sulcata Tortoises are expert diggers. They use their powerful front legs to create deep burrows, which provide shelter from extreme heat. Therefore, these underground spaces help them regulate their body temperature and stay safe from predators.

Despite their tough exterior, they display calm and gentle behaviour. They often explore their surroundings at a steady pace, showing curiosity as they move. Consequently, they offer a fascinating glimpse into desert life and survival.

Ultimately, the Sulcata Tortoise highlights the importance of adaptation and resilience. From powerful digging to efficient grazing, every behaviour helps it thrive in challenging environments.

No photos available.