Tidsrejsen: A Journey Through Time at Randers Regnskov

Tidsrejsen, meaning 'The Time Travel,' is an expansive 22,000 m² outdoor exhibit at Randers Regnskov, designed to transport visitors through various epochs of Denmark's natural history. This innovative attraction, developed in collaboration with Randers Municipality and Museum Østjylland, offers an engaging exploration of the region's prehistoric landscapes, extinct species, and the evolution of flora and fauna. The journey begins just before the last Ice Age, where visitors encounter towering trees reminiscent of 30-story skyscrapers. This era's landscape alternated between dense forests and vast open plains, inhabited by Neanderthals and cave hyenas. While the cave hyena is extinct, its close relative, the spotted hyena, can be observed up close, providing a tangible connection to the past. Progressing through time, the exhibit delves into the Neolithic Age, highlighting the transition to permanent settlements and the presence of the Eurasian lynx in Danish forests. The Iron Age segment features a recreated sacrificial bog, offering insights into ancient rituals and practices. A significant portion of Tidsrejsen is dedicated to the domestication of animals, showcasing species like goats, pigs, and cows. These exhibits illustrate the selective breeding processes that have led to the domesticated animals familiar today. Interactive elements, such as a farm playground, allow children to engage directly with these animals, fostering a deeper understanding of human-animal relationships. In 2023, Tidsrejsen introduced 'The Ice Age' exhibit, immersing visitors in the end of the last Ice Age. This section features a landscape dotted with massive ice formations, a reindeer hunter's camp, and encounters with prairie dogs and wolverines, one of the North's top predators. Throughout Tidsrejsen, authentic settings inspired by different eras, ranging from before the last Ice Age to the present and even into the future, provide a comprehensive and immersive experience. The exhibit also guides visitors to specific locations in Randers Municipality where they can observe traces of Denmark's past and future, encouraging exploration beyond the zoo's boundaries. Tidsrejsen is more than just an exhibit; it's an educational adventure that brings Denmark's rich natural history to life, making it a must-visit for families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.