Chessington World of Adventures has unveiled its new £17 million World of Jumanji land, based on Sony Pictures’ $2 billion film franchise.
Opening in spring 2023, World of Jumanji boasts the world’s only Jumanji-themed coaster, Mandrill Mayhem. It is also home to two more rides, Mamba Strike and Ostrich Stampede.
Additionally, six Jumanji-themed rooms are being added to the Chessington Safari Hotel. These will be available from 1 April ahead of the launch of the new land.
“We look forward to welcoming you to the jungle this spring, as the amazing World of Jumanji opens at Chessington World of Adventures,” said Scott O’Neil, CEO of Merlin Entertainments.
‘Mandrill Mayhem’ thrill coaster
Mandrill Mayhem, which wraps around a huge ‘Jaguar Shrine’ structure, will “sweep up riders in the long arms of a mandrill”, according to a news release.
Guests will dodge the hazards of the jungle as the mandrills race at full speed through the treetops, flip upside down and travel to the summit of the Jaguar Shrine.
The coaster is a winged, launch, shuttle ride with an inversion – a first for Chessington. The World of Jumanji project is the single largest investment in the park’s history.
“Families should prepare to be turned upside down… literally, as the first new roller coaster in nearly 20 years at the resort has a twist, turn and flip that will have you holding on to your seat,” O’Neil added.
“This is the next level for families wanting to explore the ultimate adventure together.”
The land will also feature a maze of pathways based on the iconic board game, as well as themed F&B and merchandise.
Chessington, part of Merlin, has teamed up with Sony Pictures to open new rides, lands and hotel rooms based on Jumanji at its attractions across the globe.
Gardaland recently announced a new Jumanji-themed maze attraction for spring 2023. It joins Jumanji – The Adventure, Gardaland’s new family-friendly dark ride.
Jumanji is Sony Pictures’ biggest wholly-owned film franchise of all time. The original Robin Williams movie premiered in 1995 and was followed by Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) and Jumanji: The Next Level (2019).
Images: Merlin
