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Kilimanjaro Safaris

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Guests Can Be

Age Interest

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Ride in an open-air vehicle for a day or evening tour of a lush African savanna, home to real-live exotic animals.

A Wildlife Adventure Glimpse real African animals in their natural habitats during an 18-minute expedition into the Harambe Wildlife Reserve.

Traipse along a picturesque twisting path beyond a lush garden gateway, on your way to rendezvous with Kilimanjaro Safaris, the touring company for your adventure into the wilds. Featuring vivid open plains, shady forest landscapes and rocky wetlands, the 110-acre Harambe Wildlife Reserve is a spectacular sanctuary dedicated to the protection of African animals.

The Call of the Wild  Board an open-air safari vehicle and brace yourself as you begin a guided tour into the African outback—where over 34 different species of exotic African wildlife roam, cage-free. As your bumpy transportation rides over rugged terrain, look for an array of exotic animals in a variety of unique habitats, your helpful guide providing you with valuable information about the land and its inhabitants.

Unique Animal Encounters  Discover a shy hippopotamus nestled within a still pond. Behold a regal lion sunbathing on a rocky perch. Drive past a gentle giraffe grazing on a tall tree or wave hello to a swinging baboon. Since each animal behaves differently, every Kilimanjaro Safari expedition is a unique and unforgettable experience.

Here are some animals you may encounter during the tour:

• Black rhino
• Hippopotamus
• White rhino

Be sure to stay alert and have a camera ready! You never know what amazing animals you’ll see on a Kilimanjaro Safaris outing.

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Kilimanjaro Safaris

An Attraction in Animal Kingdom

Last updated: April 26, 2024

At a Glance

Animal Kingdom’s premier zoological attraction, Kilimanjaro Safaris offers an exceptionally realistic, albeit brief, imitation of an actual African photo safari. Thirty-two guests at a time board tall, open vehicles and are dispatched into a simulated African veldt habitat. Animals such as zebras, wildebeests, impalas, Thomson’s gazelles, giraffes, and even rhinos roam apparently free, while predators such as lions, as well as potentially dangerous large animals like hippos, are separated from both prey and guests by all-but-invisible, natural-appearing barriers. Although the animals have more than 100 acres of savanna, woodland, streams, and rocky hills to call home, careful placement of water holes, forage, and salt licks ensures that the critters are hanging out by the road when safari vehicles roll by.

Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World author, Bob Sehlinger, says: "Having traveled in Kenya and Tanzania, I (Bob) can tell you that Disney has done an amazing job of replicating the sub-Saharan east-African landscape. As on a real African safari, what animals you see, and how many, is pretty much a matter of luck. We’ve experienced Kilimanjaro Safaris more than 100 times and had a different experience on each trip."

Animal Kingdom may offer a nighttime version of Kilimanjaro Safaris. Before the first safari truck rolled into the setting sun, Disney spent more than a year acclimating the existing animals, as well as nocturnal species such as hyenas, to life in a theme park. For the nighttime version, Disney also installed a baseball stadium–size wall of graphics displays at the far end of the attraction’s savanna grasslands.

Turned on late in the day, the displays are programmed to simulate a gradually setting sun for hours on end—providing enough light for guests to see the animals that are still roaming around. It’s hard to predict which ones you’re likely to see, however: On one nighttime tour, we found that the rhinos were noticeably more active at night, while other animals, such as hippos, crocodiles, and elephants, became virtual recluses. A Wilmington, Delaware, man had a different experience, though:

Animal Kingdom at night was the hit of our trip, and Kilimanjaro Safaris was great. We saw more animals in action than we had ever seen in the daytime, and the nighttime added just a hint of danger to the entire proceeding that made it fun.

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Touring Tips

Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of Animal Kingdom’s busiest attractions, along with Expedition Everest and the two Pandora attractions. From a touring standpoint, this is a good thing: By distributing guests evenly throughout the park, those other attractions make it unnecessary to run to Kilimanjaro Safaris first thing in the morning.

Waits for Kilimanjaro Safaris diminish around midafternoon, sometimes as early as 3 p.m. but more commonly somewhat later. We recommend taking the nighttime safari after you’ve experienced the daytime version.

If you want to take photos, note that the vehicle isn’t guaranteed to stop at a given location. Drivers try their best to accommodate guests and stop when big animals come into view, but be prepared to snap at any time. As for the ride, it’s not that rough.

Other attractions you might like Users who like Kilimanjaro Safaris, generally also like:

Hollywood Studios

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Mission: SPACE Orange

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

Animal Kingdom

Avatar Flight of Passage

Here's roughly how many minutes you'll wait for Kilimanjaro Safaris at each Animal Kingdom Crowd Level.

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Ultimate Guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris (Animal Kingdom)

If you love animals, you are going to love the Disney Animal Kingdom Safari ride.   Kilimanjaro Safaris magically takes you on what feels like a real African Safari in this amazing experience. 

Kilimanjaro Safaris allows guests to explore the Harambe Wildlife Reserve in an open air vehicle.  Disney’s wildlife reserve is 110 acres with over 30 species of real animals.  You’ll drive through wide-open plains, forests, and wetlands. 

Each ride vehicle has an expert guide, who shares tons of interesting facts about the creatures you are seeing.   The bumpy ride is about 20 minutes long, making it the longest ride in the Disney parks.  

Kilimanjaro Safaris is a very engaging ride as you never know what animals you’ll get to see up close and what they will be doing as you pass by.  

Disney provides salt licks along the path to attract animals to points where you can see them.  You’ll also pass by watering hole areas as well as great views of a lot of animals on the African savanna.  

Kilimanjaro Safaris is the closest thing to a real African safari.  We’ve ridden this ride many MANY times and it’s always different.  

Different cast member tour guides share different bits of information, the animals are always on the move, so sometimes you get a great view of an animal up close, sometimes there’s new baby animals to see, and sometimes you get to see your favorite animal eat lunch, etc.  

Regardless, you can count on getting a unique experience every time you ride!

When Should you Ride Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris?

Kilimanjaro Safaris is the main attraction of the Africa section at Animal Kingdom, so the lines can get long at times.  

The best time to ride, in my opinion is late morning or late afternoon.  

It’s a bit tricky because the safari doesn’t always open right away, so you can’t count on rope dropping this one first thing in the morning.  

You also want to avoid riding it in the heat of the day because many times the animals are hidden because they are wanting to cool off.

The best thing to do is to get in line right before it opens (Which varies day to day) OR ride it around late afternoon when the lines have gotten shorter.  

Many people leave this Disney park early to park hop to another one, which eases up some of those long lines!

Ideally, if you have Lightning Lanes, I would schedule a ride around 10:30 am as the lines are likely long, but the animals are active – you can skip that long line with your lightning lane passes.

If you don’t have that Lightning Lane access – save this ride for late afternoon.

What animals are on the safari ride at Animal Kingdom?

Here’s a list of the animals you will see on Kilimanjaro Safaris.

You’ll see:  

• African Wild Dogs
• Ankole Cattle
• Black Rhino
• Common Eland
• Hippopotamus
• Nigerian Dwarf Goat
• Nile Crocodiles
• Pink-Backed Pelican
• Saddle-Billed Stork
• Scimitar Oryx
• Spotted Hyena
• White Rhinos 

 This list does change from time to time, but in general, you can expect to see a LOT of different animals on this amazing ride.

How bumpy is safari ride at Animal Kingdom?

The ride vehicles for Kilimanjaro Safaris are open-sided safari vehicles.  Your tour guide drives his/her big custom made safari truck over fairly rough terrain.  

The safari driver does their best to avoid potholes, but the path is pretty rough and bumpy.  

Disney advises that guests need to be in good health, no high blood pressure, heart, back or neck problems.  

They also say that expectant mothers should not ride as there can be unexpected jolts on the ride.

In addition, Disney warns that this could cause motion sickness.   For what it’s worth, my son and I are prone to motion sickness and neither one of us have ever had a problem on this ride.  

Has the Animal Kingdom Safari Ride Changed over the years?

Kilimanjaro Safaris has definitely changed over the years.  If you remember riding it many years ago, you might remember a Poacher storyline.  

Over time, Disney dropped that storyline in favor of not scaring child with imaginary poachers and instead, giving you more information about the amazing animals on this ride.

General Information

Theme Park: Disney’s  Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Area of the Park:   Africa

Age Range Appeal:  all ages – Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults

Queue Description:   The standby queue for the Disney Animal Kingdom Safari Ride is fairly simple. It can get very hot as it is outdoors. Lines can get long mid-morning and mid-day.  

Queue Length:   This ride often opens up later in the morning, not always at rope drop.  Lines tend to grow mid-morning to mid afternoon.  Then lines tend to drop as early as 3:30pm.

Ride Height Requirements:   No heigh requirement but kids under age 7 must be with a person age 14 years or older.

Pregnant mothers and those with health conditions are advised not to ride due to the bumpy nature of the ride.  

Scary Factor:   Low – it’s a slow ride, but there are unexpected bumps and jolts as you ride along on the rough terrain.

Official URL:   https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/attractions/animal-kingdom/kilimanjaro-safaris/

Kilimanjaro Safaris Video

More Animal Kingdom Information

Want to learn more about Disney’s Animal Kingdom? Be sure to check out our other articles.

You can find all the best rides at Animal Kingdom here. We outline all the details on the must-do rides and of course, the one ride you should avoid.

Eating gluten free? You can find all the best Gluten Free Dining Options at Animal Kingdom here.

You’ll want to learn all about Avatar Flight of Passage here. This is such an incredible ride in the World of Pandora section of Animal Kingdom.

Be sure to check out our handy list of Disney’s Ride Height Requirements . Find out before you go, which rides your kids are able to ride.

Learn all about the Best Souvenirs at Disney World here. So many cool ideas for a memento of your amazing Disney vacation.

If you are in the thick of starting to plan your trip, be sure to read Best Day of the Week to visit Disney World .

And of course, don’t forget to grab our free printable Disney World Packing List . Everything you need to remember to pack for the perfect Disney vacation!

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Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris – The Ultimate Guide Updated

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Want to know more about the Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris?

One of the most immersive of all the Animal Kingdom rides, the Disney Kilimanjaro Safari takes you on a journey through the African planes.

In Orlando Florida.

This highly unique experience is one of the highlights of any trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It truly is an adventure that you cannot find anywhere else in North America.

Discover what you need to know about Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris so that you and your family can get the most out of this immersive attraction.

Disney Kilimanjaro Safari Guide

The Disney Imagineers have successfully created the Harambe Wildlife Reserve in Animal Kingdom park.

Walt Disney himself always wanted to have live animals incorporated into his theme parks.

Whilst in Disneyland this dream was kind of realized in Jungle Cruise (Walt originally wanted real animals for this attraction), Disney’s Animal Kingdom finally achieved that dream.

The area where your Kilimanjaro Safari Bus will take you is vast.

110 acres of vast.

And it is home to 34 different species of animal including lions, hippos, giraffes, and elephants.

What is the Disney Kilimanjaro Safari Ride Like?

The first experience of any Disney ride is the line area!

The advantage of the Kilimanjaro Safari Ride is that the queue is well-shaded.

There are some things to look at along the way, including some videos about conservation. But mostly the best thing about this line is that it is in the shade!

It can get very very hot in Orlando and it can be a challenge to wait in line at the height of the heat. There are a few spots where you can even sit down on a small wall which gives your feet a bit of a rest!

This is one reason not to ride Kilimanjaro Safari in the heat of the day – the queue will be a lot easier to deal with if it is a bit cooler.

A short way into the line you will have to put your stroller in the parking place.

A Cast Member will be there to guide you to the exact spot.

Then by the time you get back, your stroller will have moved of course!

Photo Credit

The Disney Animal Kingdom Safari ride vehicles are custom-built GMC and Ford trucks.

Lots of guests think that Kilimanjaro Safaris is on a track, but it isn’t. Those safari vehicles are true off-roaders controlled by the Cast Members!

Each ride vehicle holds up to 32 guests in 9 rows each seating up to 4. There is no height requirement for this Animal Kingdom ride.

It is very much for families, but as I discuss below, it is very bumpy.

Take notice of the warnings.

If you have a health condition or are pregnant give Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safaris a miss!

Is there a best place to sit on the Disney Kilimanjaro Safari ride?

There really aren’t any bad seats, but the best is the front and the back row.

However, be aware that the further towards the back you get, the bumpier the ride!

If you have small children they should not be at the edge.

In front of you, there are signs which help you recognize which animals you may see on your safari.

The most popular sitings are those of elephants, giraffes, gazelles, rhinos, crocodiles, hippos, and lions.

The safari guides always make sure that they keep you entertained as well as educated. And they will try their best to point out the sometimes very well camouflaged animals.

If you can be organized enough it is a great idea to take some High Powered Binoculars with you.

I went on the safari ride for years before I actually did this. It made a huge difference to what you can see.

There is usually plenty of time to take photos of the animals. Your Cast Member guide will do their best to point out the best photo ops.

Animal Kingdom Safari Ride Fun Facts

Don’t worry. Of course, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has things well designed so that you are not going to get up close and personal with a lion. Big trenches separate humans from the dangerous animals.

Jurassic Park this is not.

Disney has some great tricks to keep the animals visible and happy.

Ever wonder why the lions are always sitting out on the rocks? Yes, they are mimicking what they do in the wild, but what most people don’t know about the rocks is that they are air-conditioned!

The lions originally came from a much cooler park in Oregon, so they needed a little help cooling down in the hot Florida sun. If it ever gets too cold, the rocks can be heated too!

Disney also knows how to get the animals as close as possible to you. How do they do this? The usual incentive for food and water.

They place food, watering holes, and salt licks close to the vehicle paths.

The emphasis is on safety both for humans and animals.

You might think you can reach out and touch that giraffe but there is a large system of trenches, bridges and fences on all the savannas to keep humans from the animals and to keep the animals from predators.

Many years ago there was a story about poachers with a graphic illustration of the fate of Little Red, a baby elephant. This storyline has not been seen for almost a decade as many considered it too upsetting for a Disney attraction.

Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris Best Time To Ride

What is the best time to ride the Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris? This Animal Kingdom ride is popular. And popular means lines.

The best tactic for the best time to ride Disney Kilimanjaro’s Safari? Arrive early. I know that’s always the advice, but it works.

If you can arrive at the Animal Kingdom at rope drop and then go straight to Kilimanjaro Safaris you will most likely be beating the crowds. Even better is if you have Early Entry at 8 am. You can really get ahead of the crowds.

The attraction is right at the back of the park. If you plan to be there early look at a map of Animal Kingdom so you get your bearings as to where you are going.

There are plenty of signs in the park, but it is always good to have an overall view.

There is another great reason to ride Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safari as early as possible. The animals are much more active in the morning.

You are more likely to see a greater selection of active animals than in the afternoon when it is hotter.

 Kilimanjaro Safaris Wait Time

The Disney Kilimanjaro Safari wait times will vary from anywhere between 10 minutes to 120 minutes, This depends on the time of day as well as whether it is peak season or not.

As we have said, the lowest wait time will be as soon as the park opens.

If you leave it until 11 am you are likely to hit the peak wait times of at least 70 to 90 minutes.

Really try and avoid that time of day as it is likely to be the worst.

If you don’t get to the attraction early in the day, the next best time to ride Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris is usually around 3 pm onwards.

A lot of people head for the attraction earlier in the day and have cleared that area by mid-afternoon.

The wait times for this Animal Kingdom attraction are somewhat better now that Disney’s Animal Kingdom has extended opening hours. It used to only ever be open 9 am until 5 pm.

Now the hours are often extended into the evening so this also gives a chance to experience the safari ride at night.

Kilimanjaro Safaris at Night

Now the hours are often extended into the evening so this also gives a chance to experience the Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris at night.

This is a very different experience from touring during the day.

If possible you should try and ride once in the early morning and then go back late in the evening.

The least busy times will be just before the park closes.

Adapting the experience for nighttime was not an easy task. Disney had to spend more than a year preparing the animals and the environment for the nighttime Kilimanjaro Safaris.

They introduced some new animals, such as the nocturnal hyenas, to be better suited to the nighttime experience.

They also added a huge wall of graphic displays to enhance the Kilimanjaro Safaris at night. This is so that guests can actually have enough light to see the animals.

The graphics cleverly mimic a gradually setting sun over an extended period of time.

This is so that the animals can adjust to the environment and the guests can actually still see the animals which are up and about in the evening.

The Kilimanjaro Safaris at Night is definitely a different experience than during the day. Ideally, you should do both. If you have to choose just one though, I would say go in the morning. You are likely to see more active animals.

Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris For Pregnant Ladies

I visited Disney World many times while pregnant. It’s a very pregnant lady-friendly place!

However, there are some Disney World rides that recommend that if you are pregnant you should not ride.

Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safari Ride very clearly states that pregnant ladies should not ride.

This is going to be very much an individual decision. There are some rides at Disney World where it is very obvious that a pregnant woman should not ride.

You probably aren’t going to want to sign up to ride Space Mountain, Expedition Everest, or Rock N Roller Coaster when you are pregnant.

That’s obvious.

But Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of those Disney World rides where you are thinking shall I or shan’t I?

My personal experience is that when I was pregnant with my youngest son I did go on the Kilimanjaro Safari Ride. After about 10 seconds I realized that for me, it was the wrong decision. Kilimanjaro Safari is bumpy!

I remember just wanting it to end almost as soon as it started.

I am fortunate and have experienced the Animal Kingdom Safari Ride many times. However, at that time I really wished I hadn’t. It’s fine normally to speed through the African planes in your safari vehicle over all the bumps, but when pregnant I just wanted to be somewhere else!

Will you be experiencing Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safaris on your next visit to the Animal Kingdom?

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

Disney Animal Kingdom Rides - EverythingMouse Guide To Disney

Saturday 17th of August 2019

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Wild Africa Trek

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Walt Disney World® Resort

Valid admission required. A theme park reservation may be required based on admission type.

Age Interest

Tweens, Teens, Adults

Accessibility and Other Information - Opens Dialog

Accessibility

• Must Be Ambulatory
• The harness on this experience may prohibit guests of certain body shapes or sizes from participating.

What's New, Behind the Scenes, Animal Encounters

Embark on a privately-guided, VIP expedition full of close encounters with exotic African wildlife!

An Exhilarating Safari Adventure

The Journey Walk along a grassland path, cross a rope bridge and ride in a rugged safari vehicle over an open savanna—with a chance to view African creatures including towering giraffes, powerful rhinos, hippos and crocodiles.

Along your journey, your knowledgeable guide will share insights about the majestic animals you’re viewing, as well as details about the park’s dedication to animal conservation.

And as if your safari weren’t memorable enough, you’ll receive a complimentary souvenir as well!

Complimentary Photo Services Enjoy your encounters with the animals of the Harambe Reserve while a trained photographer captures all the action and excitement throughout your adventure—a service that’s included with your tour.

At the end of your expedition, you’ll receive a photo code that you can use to access and download images taken during your Wild Africa Trek experience.

Theme park admission is required, but not included in the price of this tour. Theme park reservations are also required.

Indulge In Gourmet Eats

Sample Menu

• Garlic and leek hummus and pita
• Prosciutto and mozzarella
• Fresh fruit
• Chicken wrap
• Marinated tandoori shrimp

Please note: Menu items are subject to change without notice.

Know Before You Go

• WARNING: For your safety, you should be in good health and free from high blood pressure; heart, back or neck problems; motion sickness or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure. Expectant mothers should not participate.
• Guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a participating adult (18 years of age or older).
• Participants must be 8 years of age or older and at least 48 inches (122 cm) tall.
• Participants must be between 45 pounds and 300 pounds. The safety harnesses used for this experience may prohibit Guests of certain body shapes or sizes from participating.
• You must have physical stamina, comfort with heights, and the surefootedness to negotiate small hills, foliage and unsteady rope bridges on this tour. Guests seeking a less strenuous or wheelchair-accessible trek should contact Wild Africa Trek operations at (407) 938-1373 for alternative programs.
• Recommended attire includes shorts or pants and a comfortable shirt. Closed-toe shoes with a back strap or hiking boots are required. No flip-flops will be allowed. Skirts or dresses are not recommended.
• Complimentary lockers for your belongings will be provided. You will also receive a safety vest and wireless headset so that you can hear your guide at all times. Cameras are allowed as long as they can be securely fastened to the vest.
• Please check in 15 minutes prior to the start of the experience at the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk, located across from the Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction entrance. Late arrivals may not be able to join the experience.
• Excursion occurs rain or shine, with the exception of severe weather or lightning.
• Tour itinerary, content, duration and availability are subject to change without notice.
• There is a 24-hour cancellation policy. Full price will be charged/forfeited if the Guest cancels within one day or fails to show up for the reservation.

Friday, April 26, 2024

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I paid $185 for a private safari at Disney World. Up-close interactions with wildlife weren't even the best part.

• I paid $185 to go on a private safari tour in Animal Kingdom at Disney World. 
• The ticket included a two-hour safari, African-inspired food, drinks, and a souvenir at the end.
• The experience was top-notch and worth it for the up-close interactions with the animals and guides.

I live 10 minutes away from Disney World and visit the parks frequently, but I'm always learning about new offerings. I recently discovered Savor the Savanna — a two-hour private safari tour at Animal Kingdom.

Although I've experienced the park's 18-minute Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction, I wanted to see what the add-on experience was all about.

Here's what the private safari tour was like.

The Savor the Savanna tickets are limited, so they have to be bought in advance.

There are only 12 tickets available for each Savor the Savanna tour, so they must be booked in advance via the My Disney Experience app or Disney World's website.

The two-hour tour is held at 3:15 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. every day, weather depending.

I booked a ticket two days in advance for the earlier time and paid $174 before tax. The tour ticket doesn't include park admission, which is required to access this event. Fortunately, I didn't need to buy a park ticket because I had an annual pass. 

I checked in at the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk.

I entered Animal Kingdom and made my way over to the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk just in time for the 3 p.m. check-in.

Upon arrival, I was asked to sign a waiver.

I had to sign a waiver before the tour that covered topics including medical treatment, insurance, and assumption of risk.

I received a personalized name tag.

I wasn't expecting to receive a name tag when I checked in for the tour, but I was glad I did as I could keep it as a souvenir .

Our safari vehicle was different from the standard Animal Kingdom attraction.

The Kilimanjaro Safaris ride vehicles have seats in horizontal rows, but our private tour vehicle had wooden benches lining the perimeter.

I enjoyed the seating style because it created a welcoming environment.

The vehicle's seating layout created an intimate atmosphere.

Our tour guide , Emma, was friendly and knowledgeable — she encouraged questions and ensured everyone could capture photos.

I liked that we were all able to face each other throughout the experience. It made the tour more intimate. 

We had extra time to speak with a park employee working with the giraffes.

At the beginning of our tour, we met John, a park employee who works closely with the giraffes in the savanna.

He shared fun facts about the animals and answered questions in great detail.

Since the vehicle was stopped, people could also stand up and take photos of the giraffes and other nearby animals. 

We stopped at the Boma Platform for refreshments and great views of the savanna.

We arrived at the Boma Platform, an enclosure-inspired stop, about 40 minutes into the tour.

Boma is a popular restaurant at Animal Kingdom Lodge, and we were welcomed with a table of similar African-inspired cuisine, including various cheeses , fruits, breads, and salads — the chicken salad was my favorite. 

The stop also offered a raised view of the savanna with binoculars for an even closer look at the animals. 

Various regional wines were also available to sip on.

Although I don't drink, there was a selection of regional wines available for guests 21 and over. 

We could also have complimentary POG juice (pineapple, orange, and guava).

A glass of the fan-favorite POG juice at Disney restaurants can cost upwards of $6, but we were able to have as much as we wanted during the rest stop.

I found the unlimited supply of juice to be a bonus, especially since I don't drink alcohol.

Dessert was my favorite part of the meal.

There were three desserts available at the Boma stop, and the fudge pop was the best dessert I've ever had at Animal Kingdom.

Toward the end of the tour, we had the opportunity to see rhinos up close.

This was my first time seeing a rhino in person, so it was a unique and fun experience .

The tour ended with everyone getting a small souvenir.

In exchange for the lanyard that held my name tag (I could keep the paper part with my name on it), I was gifted a wooden coaster with Savor the Savanna engraved on the front.

Although this tour was pricey, I found it to be worth the value.

Kilimanjaro Safaris is about a 20-minute attraction, but Savor the Savanna is nearly two hours, so I deemed the $185 ticket to be worth it .

I was able to ask many questions and had access to delicious food and unlimited POG juice.

Although the ticket is pretty pricey — especially since it doesn't include park admission — I'd definitely do the tour again for a special occasion.

• Main content

Africa at Animal Kingdom (Kilimanjaro Safaris, Festival of the Lion King)

By: Author Allyson Koerner

Published: October 31, 2022 Updated: September 7, 2023

Animal Kingdom is the youngest park at Walt Disney World. It’s also one of the most unique thanks to its zoo-like atmosphere.

Even though there are a variety of animals to see, including giraffes, zebras, and elephants, it’s far different than a zoo.

Animal Kingdom is known for having some of the best park food on property, thrilling attractions, exciting tours, and much, much more.

As the biggest Disney World theme park, there’s  a lot  to see and do, so why not take a deep dive into each land?

Here we take a closer look into Africa , one of the most vibrant and entertaining lands at Animal Kingdom.

This land celebrates African culture, food, animals, and so much more. From unique merchandise, to phenomenal entertainment, to seeing animals on the savanna, Africa is one land that you certainly shouldn’t overlook.

In this article

Location : Animal Kingdom Restaurants : 8 Quick Service ( Mahindi , Tamu Tamu Refreshments , Harambe Market , Harambe Fruit Market , Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery , Dawa Bar , 2 Snack & Drink Carts); 1 Table Service ( Tusker House ) Shops : Africa Hub Cart, Kilimanjaro Safaris Cart, Zuri’s Sweet Shop, Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders, Mariya’s Souvenirs Entertainment : Kora Tinga Tinga, Tam Tam Drummers, Harambe Village Acrobats, Festival of the Lion King, Dino-Bash Flotilla, Discovery Island Drummers Flotilla, Discovery River Character Cruise, Adventurer’s Flotilla — Disney Ducks, Adventurer’s Flotilla –  Up Animals : Seen on Kilimanjaro Safaris (Bongos, Okapi, Nyala, Bontebak, Black Rhino, Hippos, Nile Crocodiles, Giraffes, Sable Antelope, Gazelles, Ankole-Watusi Cattle, Wildebeest, Hyenas, African Wild Dogs, Mandrill, Elephants, Greater Flamingos, White Rhinos, Greater Kudu, Scimitar-Horned Oryx, Long-Horned Eland, Impala, Cheetahs, Lions, Addax, Warthogs, Ostriches, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Zebras); Seen on Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail (Okapi, Yellow-Backed Duikers, Colobus Monkeys, Naked Mole Rats, Snakes, African Birds, Hippos, Gerenuk, Meerkats, Zebras, Western Lowland Gorillas) Attractions : Kilimanjaro Safaris Tours : Wild Africa Trek, Caring for Giants, Up Close with Rhinos, Savor the Savanna Trails : Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail Characters : None Popular snacks and drinks : Simba Sunset (Tamu Tamu Refreshments), Grilled Corn on the Cob (Harambe Fruit Market), Lost on Safari (Dawa Bar), Ngumu Jungle Juice (Dawa Bar) Not-to-miss : Kilimanjaro Safaris, Festival of the Lion King, Tusker House, Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, Harambe Village Acrobats

• Check out our DinoLand, U.S.A. deep dive

Africa’s Table Service offering is a popular character meal location that has some fantastic food offerings. You can also find great African flavors at the Quick Service restaurants. Plus, Dole Whip .

Quick Service Restaurants

Mahindi is a popcorn stand that you’ll see first thing as soon as you cross the bridge into Africa from Discovery Island. You can also usually purchase seasonal and limited-time popcorn buckets here.

Tamu Tamu Refreshments

Tamu Tamu Refreshments is located in the heart of Africa.

In addition to a range of breakfast options , this is the stand to visit if you’re in need of a cold treat. You can even order pineapple Dole Whip here.

There are also special Dole Whip menu items, including Simba’s Sunset (pineapple Dole Whip with strawberry), Lion’s Lair (pineapple Dole Whip topped with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum and sour apple), and King’s Cooler (pineapple Dole Whip with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum), to name a few.

Next to Tamu Tamu Refreshments, there’s a partially covered seating area.

Harambe Market

The Harambe Market has a wide range of African-inspired dishes . This is a good place to grab a bite if you want something healthier or lighter.

From salads, to a rice and chicken bowl, to a ribs bowl, to a plant-based bowl, there are several options. Plus, kids can choose from a peanut butter and jelly Uncrustable, chicken nuggets, or a chicken bowl.

The market area has a big outdoor section with tables and chairs for guests. You can also place Mobile Orders, which we always recommend taking advantage of to make life easier.

The theming here is on point and you can even find the famous “You Are Most Beautiful Wall” tucked back in the corner.

“You Are Most Beautiful” wall location:

Harambe Fruit Market

The Harambe Fruit Market is a small outdoor stand where you can order snacks, including the ever-so- popular Grilled Corn on the Cob (with or without African spices).

Yes, the corn is messy, but we’ve heard it’s worth having the corn get caught in between your teeth.

There is also fruit, chips, Mickey Pretzels, hot dogs, bottled beverages, and more available here for purchase.

• More about dining at Walt Disney World

Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery

Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery is located across from the Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders.

It’s easy to miss, so keep your eyes peeled, because this stand has some great menu items .

From breakfast options including sausage, egg, and cheese biscuit and a pistachio honey croissant, to flatbreads, to house-made chips, there are some unique offerings here that are usually pretty delicious.

The Dawa Bar is a fun spot to grab a drink, take a rest, and watch the Tam Tam Drummers and Harambe Village Acrobats.

There’s a small list of beer, wine, and cocktails available , including specialty beverages like the Lost on Safari (Starr African Rum and Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum with Pangani Punch) and the Ngumu Jungle Juice (Snow Leopard Vodka, Bols Peach Schnapps and Tusker’s famous Jungle Juice).

There is a spacious covered area with tables and chairs, too.

Snack & Drink Cart

Across from the Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders, there is a snack and drink cart if you want ice cream, chips, or a bottled beverage.

As you walk the path from Africa to Pandora , you’ll come upon a snack and drink cart selling ice cream, snacks, and bottled beverages.

Table Service Restaurant

Tusker house.

Tusker House is the only character meal at Animal Kingdom — and it’s a great one.

In addition to a buffet serving African dishes (with many kid-friendly choices), you get to meet Safari Donald, Mickey, Goofy, and Daisy!

This is one of the best character dining options and is super fun. You can book it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

• Check out the best character meals at Disney World

Seating Areas

Here are the different seating areas you can find around Africa.

Near Tusker House and Dawa Bar:

By the Harambe Fruit Market:

Next to Tamu Tamu Refreshments:

At Harambe Market:

There are several shops that you should definitely take the time to explore while you’re in Africa.

Africa Hub Cart

The Africa Hub Cart is next to Mahindi and across from Tamu Tamu Refreshments. There is a small offering of pins, hats, and other Disney merchandise.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Cart

This cart has different Animal Kingdom and Disney souvenirs, including plushes.

Zuri’s Sweet Shop

Zuri’s Sweet Shop is connected to the Mombasa Marketplace and Ziwani Traders. While you can buy different souvenirs here, you can also pick out Disney desserts from the bakery case.

There are typical Disney treats, like caramel apples and cookies. But, if you want to try something unique, order the Mickey Dark Chocolate with Chili Pepper. You can only find it at Zuri’s.

Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders

Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Tarders is the main gift shop in Africa. There are so many fantastic items available for guests to take home.

Yes, there are shirts, plushes, and even National Geographic souvenirs, but there are special offerings, including jewelry and other items made my artisans from Africa.

You can even visit the wood carver outside, who transforms wood into beautiful one-of-a-kind wooden animals and more.

Mariya’s Souvenirs

Mariya’s Souvenirs is found near the Harambe Theatre, where Festival of the Lion King plays. You can browse hats, plushes, snacks, toys, and more.

There are 4 popular animal-related tours that you can book up to 60 days in advance. You’ll check in for all of these tours at the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk located near Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Here’s a brief breakdown of each tour. Click the link for more information, including pricing.

• Wild Africa Trek : A privately-guided, VIP expedition full of close encounters with exotic African wildlife.
• Caring for Giants : Get a closer look at African elephants and learn what it takes to care for them.
• Up Close with Rhinos : Meet and learn about rhinos in a special viewing area backstage.
• Savor the Savanna : Enjoy the savanna with a private safari, African-inspired tapas, beverages and more.

Attractions

There is only one attraction in Africa, but it is a popular and worthy ride. This is a must-do if you’re visiting Animal Kingdom.

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris is the ride at Animal Kingdom allowing you to see all kinds of African animals.

You board a Safari truck and head out on the Harambe Wildlife Reserve as if you’re going on an actual safari.

The attraction spans 110 acres and is home to 34 species! The ride is also 22 minutes giving you the chance to see elephants, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, lions, and so many more amazing creatures.

There is a Standby Line and a Lightning Lane available.

• Here are best Genie+ choices at Walt Disney World

Entertainment

Africa has some of the best entertainment. The land wouldn’t be the same without the following.

Kora Tinga Tinga

Kora Tinga Tinga plays a hand-crafted African harp with 21 strings, aka the “kora,” outside the Harambe Market. It’s a beautiful performance. Find daily showtimes in the My Disney Experience app.

Tam Tam Drummers

The Tam Tam Drummers play on the stage across from Dawa Bar. You won’t be able to stop dancing to the African rhythms the drummers deliver. Find daily showtimes in the My Disney Experience app.

Harambe Village Acrobats

You don’t want to miss the Harambe Village Acrobats. They either perform by the stage across from Dawa Bar or near the Harambe Market. They are beyond amazing. You won’t believe what the acrobats they’re capable of. Find daily showtimes and location in the My Disney Experience app.

Festival of the Lion King

Festival of the Lion King tells the story of The Lion King with some of the most talented and best performers at Disney.

You’ll hear songs from the film performed, along with standout acts, like a fire dancer, the Tumble Monkeys, and the gorgeous flying blue bird.

You can either wait in the Standby Line or use the Lightning Lane. Regarding the latter, using Genie+ here isn’t totally necessary, because the theater holds a lot of people.

But, you will want to plan accordingly, because this is the most popular show at Animal Kingdom.

Find daily showtimes in the My Disney Experience app.

Note about the following cavalcades: All of the character flotillas can be seen sailing around the Discovery River. They have set showtimes that are posted in the My Disney Experience app and we recommend checking the schedule ahead of time. You usually have to be in the right place at the right time to catch them (crossing a bridge, walking a trail, dining at Nomad Lounge or Flame Tree Barbecue, or taking a break in the Discovery River Amphitheater).

Dino-Bash Flotilla

• Features : Goofy and Pluto

Discovery Island Drummers Flotilla

• Features : Discovery Island Drummers

Discovery River Character Cruise

• Features : Pocahontas and Meeko from  Pocahontas   or  Timon and Rafiki form  The Lion King

Adventurer’s Flotilla — Disney Ducks

• Features : Scrooge McDuck and Launchpad McQuack

Adventurer’s Flotilla –  Up

• Features : Russell and Dug from  Up
• More about characters and cavalcades in Animal Kingdom

There is one trail in Africa and it’s a must. Plus, you get to see a ton of animals and what’s better than that at a park all about animals?

Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail

The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is located next to Kilimanjaro Safaris and gives guests the chance to see and learn about different animals.

Keep reading for more information about the trail and its animals.

You can find a range of animals in Africa when you walk the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail and ride Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Tip : You can also find select animals in the My Disney Experience app under the “attractions” category .  Plus, at the park entrance next to the  park guide map , there should be literature on the animals and their locations.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Animals

Below is a list of the animals you may see when riding Kilimanjaro Safaris.

• Black Rhino
• Nile Crocodiles
• Sable Antelope
• Ankole-Watusi Cattle
• African Wild Dogs
• Greater Flamingos
• White Rhinos
• Greater Kudu
• Scimitar-Horned Oryx
• Long-Horned Eland
• Nigerian Dwarf Goats

Save this map for future reference when you ride Kilimanjaro Safaris:

We say “may see,” because depending on the animal, the time of day, the weather, or the time of year, certain animals might not be out.

What makes Kilimanjaro Safaris so fun is it’s a different ride every time. You never know what animal you’ll see.

Save this map for future reference as you explore the Africa animal trail:

The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is located near Kilimanjaro Safaris and features a range of animals. The star of the trail are the gorillas, of course, but there are also other animals not to be missed.

Note : There are no shortcuts or exits mid-way for this trail. Once you enter, you have to walk through all of it in order to exit. The time it takes to walk through depends on how long you linger and watch the animals. But, overall, it’s not super lengthy.

Here are the main animals you can see as you walk the trail.

Yellow-Backed Duikers

Colobus Monkeys

Naked Mole Rats & More

In the “Research Center,” you’ll find Naked Mole Rats, snakes, mice, and more creatures.

African Birds

Western Lowland Gorillas

There are a few activities in Africa that little ones, especially, will love.

Coin Press Machines

You’ll find one coin press machine in Africa near the Dawa Bar and Tusker House dining areas.

This machines has Animal Kingdom and The Lion King designs. You can purchase 1 for $1.00 or all 3 for $3.00.

This drum area is located across from Tamu Tamu Refreshments and is a great spot for kids.

• Check out other fun things for little ones at Disney World

Disney PhotoPass Photographer

While not officially listed in the My Disney Experience app, you should be able to find a PhotoPass photographer on the bridge leading into Africa.

Don’t forget to ask if they have any fun Magic Shots!

Sometimes your photo may even include Expedition Everest in the background, making for a stunning picture.

Remember : unless you have Memory Maker, Memory Maker Day One, or a PhotoPass entitlement with your Annual Pass, you will have to pay to download or print these photos.

• Read more about PhotoPass and Memory Maker

Near the stage in the center of Africa there are a set of restrooms.

You’ll also find restrooms past the Festival of the Lion King as you take the path from Africa to Pandora.

Africa Checklist

• Download PDF version

*****************

What’s your favorite thing about Africa in Animal Kingdom? Tell us in the comments!

Select an option

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Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park

Expedition Everest — Legend of the Forbidden Mountain at DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM® Theme Park, Part of WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort in Orlando (©Disney)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom ® Theme Park

For the most up-to-date information on WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort, please visit:  Welcome to a World of Magic .

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park at  Walt Disney World ® Resort , you can explore throughout the day and into the night on an adventure into a world alive with magic. Visit a distant planet with floating mountains, or view thousands of animals in their natural habitats back on Earth — all without leaving Orlando.

Save on discount tickets:  WALT DISNEY WORLD Resort

If you haven’t visited recently, you’ll likely want to visit the park’s newest land first: Pandora — The World of Avatar . Float down a mystical bioluminescent river and fly on the back of banshees that soar past floating mountains. In addition to the  Avatar Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey attractions, it features out-of-this-world dining and shopping.

But to be sure, all six lands at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park will transport you to hauntingly gorgeous realms you’ve only dreamed of seeing. In the first area, Oasis, you can enjoy a self-guided tour at The Oasis Exhibits, which features fauna such as wallabies, giant anteaters, exotic boars and even barking deer.

Your next port of call is Discovery Island ® , the nexus of the park’s other lands and home to the iconic Tree of Life ® . It also features a self-guided tour at Discovery Island Trails, as well as family-friendly entertainment at It’s Tough to Be a Bug! ® .

From there, it’s a short distance to Africa, which has a self-guided tour at Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. Then, witness exotic creatures in natural environments by day or night at one of Orlando’s most unforgettable experiences, Kilimanjaro Safaris ®. Africa also hosts one of the park’s most incredible shows, Festival of the Lion King.

Keep moving and you’ll come to Asia, where a legendary creature awaits you at Expedition Everest — Legend of the Forbidden Mountain ®. Keep an eye out for the vengeful Yeti as you race to escape the cursed mountain. Kali River Rapids ® offers more white-knuckle thrills, or set a slower pace with a self-guided tour at Maharajah Jungle Trek ®. This area also features Feathered Friends in Flight, where you can see birds from all over the world.

Once you’ve experienced Earth’s present and explored another planet’s future, it’s time to travel to the past at DinoLand U.S.A. Younger guests will particularly enjoy TriceraTop Spin and The Boneyard ® Dig Site, while those seeking more action won’t want to miss DINOSAUR.

Throw in the park’s entertainment, special encounters and other enthralling features, and it’s easy to spend a full day or more exploring Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.

Add value to your Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park visit with special savings on Walt Disney World Resort tickets . Plan for your best vacation while saving time and money. As an official seller of Orlando attractions tickets, Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com makes it easy for you. You can also customize your Disney experience with a ticket plan that works best for you.

Please note: Annual passholders and Disney Cast Members are required to have an advance reservation via the  Disney Park Pass system .

Disney Genie Service

Available for all Walt Disney World Resort guests in the My Disney Experience app, the complimentary Disney Genie Service offers new features that let you create your best Disney day. These features include a personalized itinerary creator that effortlessly and smartly maps out an entire day inspired by the things guests tell Disney they love — helping you make the most of your park time so you can have more fun.

Similar to a navigation app on a phone, the Disney Genie Service continues to update your itinerary from morning to night as the day changes, so you can stay spontaneous and go with the flow — whether you need a nap, encounter an unexpected rain shower or want to take a detour for a Mickey ice cream bar.

Through the My Disney Experience app, you can also purchase the Disney Genie+ Lightning Lane Entrance for more than 40 attractions across the four Walt Disney World theme parks, as well as Individual Lightning Lane Entrance for highly demanded attractions. As a reminder, attractions continue to offer a traditional standby queue.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park's attractions and rides highlight the beauty of the natural world and our connection with animals in a fun and unique way. Feel like you’re on safari or an incredible expedition as you stroll through a rainforest or dodge the Yeti on a climb up Mt. Everest. Unless otherwise noted, all experiences at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park are suitable for all ages and heights.

Pandora — The World of   Avatar

Step into a world like no other with a bioluminescent rainforest and rivers that glow, and set sail on winged creatures that take you above the moon to somewhere unimaginable and incredibly otherworldly. Join Alpha Centauri Expeditions as they explore a land so filled with splendor it defies explanation.

Avatar   Flight of Passage

Venture deep into the Valley of Mo’ara , where you’ll take flight on a winged mountain banshee granting you spectacular views of the moon’s magic, highlighting an unforgettable ride through a unique world.

Height Restrictions : 44 inches (122 cm)

Na’vi River Journey

Find yourself adrift on the Na’vi River in a reed boat as you search for the Na’vi Shaman of Songs. Stream past caves and a sacred bioluminescent rainforest with plants that glow and creatures that astound. Once you encounter the Shaman, she’ll share her powerful connection to Pandora while sending out positive energy throughout the rainforest with her music.

Valley of Mo'ara

Smile at the serendipity of amazing sights and sounds. You’ll discover Na’vi totems and cultural icons, exotic plants, and a Na’vi drum circle. You might even bump into an Alpha Centauri Expeditions tour guide or scientist from the Pandora Conservation Initiative. Explore floating mountains and enchanting landscapes throughout the valley.

Enter a lush tropical setting with sprawling pathways and walking trails leading to impressive animal viewing opportunities. Wildlife abounds with adorable otters, storks and porcupines plodding along the flora and fauna of this natural setting.

The Oasis Exhibits

Walk down shaded, scenic trails and experience soothing waterfalls and meandering streams while spotting amazing wildlife: giant anteater, exotic boar, barking deer, wallabies and spoonbills.

Discovery Island

Wander past the Tree of Life ®  and explore pathways and trails that lead to phenomenal wildlife encounters. Take your time as you slowly see a diverse array of wildlife come into view: lemurs, storks, porcupines and more.

Discovery Island ®  Trails

Explore an exotic paradise as you wander along picturesque trails surrounding the majestic Tree of Life ® . Relax and soak in the tranquil setting at your own pace. While exploring pathways, you may even encounter wildlife creatures such as Galapagos tortoises, flamingos, ring-tailed lemurs, red kangaroos and otters.

It’s Tough to Be a Bug! ®

Flik, from Pixar’s  A Bug’s Life , serves as your guide during a comical, nine-minute, 3D movie adventure. Put on your “bug eye” glasses and experience an assortment of special effects: bug spray and stink, fog, rain, and black widow spiders dropping down from above. Meet a Chilean tarantula, termites, rhino beetles and more as you get a first-hand look at a bug’s life.

Tree of Life ®

Towering at 145-feet and covered with over 100,000 leaves, the Tree of Life is a magnificent park icon celebrating all animals found within Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Unique, intricate carvings of creatures small and large, from tiny insects to enormous elephants, appear on the impressive tree trunk and its sprawling roots. It’s the centerpiece of the park as well as the venue for an amazing nighttime spectacular show, Tree of Life ®  Awakenings.

Wilderness Explorers

Team up with Russell and his loyal dog, Dug, from the Disney movie,  Up ! Participate in several self-guided activities encompassing everything from animal observation to learning essential nature skills. Earn up to 30 badges as you compete in challenges and fun interactive games throughout the park.

Venture into the heart of an awe-inspiring and mysterious continent. Set off on a rugged safari, board a rustic train for behind-the-scenes fun, wander down picturesque pathways, and witness the most amazing animals around.

Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail

Full of captivating scenery, this is a rich tropical rainforest you won’t want to miss exploring. Learn more about the western lowland gorillas, often just as curious as onlooking guests. You’ll also spy delightful meerkats and intriguing African flora and fauna.

Kilimanjaro Safaris ®

Set off in an open-air vehicle for either a day or evening tour, where you’ll explore the diverse terrain of the Harambe Wildlife Preserve: grassy plains to shaded forests to rugged wetlands. Hold on, as it can be a bumpy but extraordinary trek. Experience some of the most amazing creatures in the world: cheetahs, gazelles, giraffes, hippos, hyenas, rhinos, wildebeests, zebras and more. Don’t worry, gawking is expected.

African Elephants — Disney Animals

Observe a herd of enormous African elephants, the world’s largest land mammal, while becoming versed on Disney’s conservation efforts to protect them.

Butterflies — Disney Animals

Vibrant, colorful butterflies flutter and fly around the park. Witness their beauty up close as they extract nectar from an array of flowers throughout the park.

Giraffes — Disney Animals

Beautiful and statuesque, giraffes are the tallest terrestrial creature with neck spans up to 6 feet. They spend most of their day eating up to 100 pounds of leaves and twigs. Catch them on the African grasslands munching away or walking about.

Gorillas — Disney Animals

Observe a family of endangered western lowland gorillas on the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail . Learn about the plight of the world’s largest primate as you witness these powerful yet gentle creatures interact with each other.

Hippopotamuses — Disney Animals

You can’t help but smile when spotting water loving hippos lounging and playing as you stroll through the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail . Weighing in at over 3,000 pounds, they’ll be hard to miss.

Lions — Disney Animals

There’s nothing quite as awe-inspiring as catching sight of a noble lion sunning on a giant rock or sauntering across the grasslands at Kilimanjaro Safaris ® .

Okapis — Disney Animals

Rare and unusual, okapis look similar to zebras but are actually classified in the giraffe family. Learn more about these amazing animals that were only recently discovered in the 20th century.

Rhinos — Disney Animals

Viewing these prehistoric-looking, horned creatures in their natural habitat on the Kilimanjaro Safaris ®  ride or the Wild Africa Trek is sure to be a definite highlight. Learn more about conservation efforts for one of the most endangered species in the world.

Whisk down whitewater rapids in the ultimate river raft ride, face down a legendary snow beast, be entertained by exotic birds, and enjoy the marvels of the largest continent in the world. Live out your world explorer dreams.

Expedition Everest — Legend of the Forbidden Mountain ®

Trek up the steep sides of the colossal Mt. Everest while narrowly escaping the clutches of the legendary snow beast, the Yeti. Exhilarating drops, loops and curves await as you careen through ominous caves within the mountain. Grip yourself for the shadowy image of a growling Yeti within close range. If that doesn’t shake you up, perhaps the rollercoaster train almost leaping off the rails and on to the edge of the mountain will.

Height restrictions:  44 inches (113 cm)

Feathered Friends in Flight!

Join the animal behavior specialists for a behind-the-scenes look at the free-flying birds of Disney’s Animal Kingdom . Located at the Caravan Stage, learn how they care for and train their feathered friends.

Kali River Rapids ®

Splash and dive through whitewater rapids as you bob and spin on a river raft ride like no other. Cool off as geysers blast water around you, while guests from above mischievously squirt you as your raft passes by. Invest in a poncho or bring spare clothes, because there’s also a thrilling 20-foot plunge bound to soak everyone on board.

Height restrictions : 38 inches (97 cm)

Maharajah Jungle Trek ®

Traipse through secret lush pathways that lead into a jungle revealing an overgrown ancient Indian hunting camp and a centuries-old palace. Find yourself in an otherworldly scene, where you’ll behold the exquisite beauty of over 50 species of birds, Asian tigers, gibbons, Malayan flying foxes, water buffalo and more.

Tigers — Disney Animals

It feels like an extraordinary honor to be in the presence of the grace and power of the rare Sumatran tiger. Look out for these beautiful creatures as you travel through the Maharajah Jungle Trek ® .

DinoLand U.S.A. ®

Dinosaur-lovers will be left spellbound by this area devoted to the fascinating prehistoric creatures that roamed the planet millions of years ago. From digging up fossils to zooming into the jaws of a dinosaur, the fun and wonderment never end.

The Boneyard ®

Enter this dig site and play junior paleontologist — excavate fossils from a triceratops and a Tyrannosaurus rex. Jump into a jeep for a make-believe driving session, or step on a huge dinosaur footprint.

Climb aboard a Time Rover and venture back in time to over 65 million years ago to save the Iguanadon before a meteor collides with Earth, dooming it to extinction. Lightning bursts, thunder booms, and menacing dinosaurs growl and roar as you speed past in the cool darkness. Every turn builds the suspense. Will you escape danger or face off with a prehistoric beast?

Height restrictions : 40 inches (102 cm)

Walk under this massive dinosaur looming above you at an expansive 13 feet in height and 40 feet in length. Sue is the size of a 4-story building, and she’s also the largest replica of a Tyrannosaurus rex to be found. Just imagine her walking the earth 67 million years ago.

Fossil Fun Games

Try your hand at dinosaur-themed games like Bronto-Score basketball and Mammoth Marathon racing. Oh, and don’t forget the popular Whac-A-Packycephalosaur, where kids bop mischievous dinosaurs with a mallet as they pop out of their holes.

TriceraTop Spin

Little dinosaur-lovers are sure to adore this ride that resembles a giant toy top with cartoon-like triceratops vehicles that spin about. Move the lever up and down to control your triceratops and keep it on the move.

From special cavalcades down the Magic Kingdom ® Park parade route and friends sailing the waterways of Disney’s Animal Kingdom ® Theme Park to motorcades on Hollywood Boulevard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios ®, each area will come to life throughout the day. You never know when a party of your pals may come by, so be prepared for plenty of surprises.

Note: Some experiences may be modified, limited in capacity, and subject to availability or closure.

It’s no secret that characters enhance the overall experience. Make your visit even more unforgettable with these fantastic character meet-and-greet and photo opportunities, when available.

Discovery Island Drummers Flotilla

The Discovery Island Drummers take their music to the water, performing live as they sail around the Discovery River.

Discovery River Character Cruise

Catch a glimpse of Characters from Disney’s Pocahontas or Disney’s The Lion King as they float along the Discovery River.

Donald’s Dino Bash Flotilla

Donald and his friends take Donald’s Dino Bash to the Discovery River. Keep an eye out for their party boat throughout the day.

Goofy and Pals Set Sail

Leaving their posts at Donald’s Dino Bash, Goofy and his Pals cruise down the Discovery River.

Meet Favorite Disney Pals at Adventurers Outpost

Hang out with Mickey and Minnie, who are outfitted in khakis and ready for their next safari excursion. Be sure to check out their mementos and souvenirs from all their globe-trotting exploits.

Mickey and Friends Flotilla

Ready for a brand-new adventure, Mickey and his friends set sail on the Discovery River.

Please note, sales of Disney dining plans are temporarily unavailable.

Savor a varied mix of American, African and Asian cuisines at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park with menu items ranging from chicken fingers to sushi to wontons to hearty, African-inspired dining. Whether you opt for a buffet, sit-down meal or counter service, there really is something for everyone.

Rainforest Cafe® at Disney's Animal Kingdom

Encounter all the sights and sounds of a real rainforest complete with audio-animatronic gorillas, monkeys and tropical birds at Rainforest Cafe . Expect the sounds of thunder and rainfall, as well as shots of cool mist to add to the jungle ambiance. Be sure to top off your meal with the ever-popular Volcano dessert.

Restaurantosaurus

A quirky, well-themed eatery centers around the storyline of a group of paleontology students on a dig expedition. Check out fossils, artifacts, dig tools and even a student bulletin board. Quick-service food such as grilled chicken sandwiches and burgers can be enhanced at the premium topping bar with items like guacamole, specialty pickles and grilled veggies. A variety of indoor and outdoor seating is available. Of course, the airstream trailer seats are the most popular.

Satu’li Canteen

No visit to Pandora is complete without grabbing a bite at this themed dining option, which is designed to look like a former RDA mess hall. Immerse yourself in the art and culture of the Na’vi people while you dine on Pandora’s bounty.

Tusker House Restaurant

Anticipate smiling faces when your kids encounter Donald Duck and his Disney friends outfitted in their safari attire and ready for adventure. Adults will be pleased with the versatile menu. House specialties include carved sirloin, rotisserie chicken and pork, as well as Indian-inspired curries and chutneys.

Yak & Yeti™ Restaurant

You might find yourself a little hungry after escaping the Yeti on Mt. Everest. No worries, this Nepalese-style restaurant is located nearby and features American and Asian cuisine. Popular entrees and appetizers at Yak & Yeti include spicy Korean barbecue ribs, ahi tuna nachos and fried wontons.

Exotic entertainment featuring native musicians from countries in Asia and Africa will amaze you with unique choreography and rhythms. And when the sun dips into the horizon, there are more surprises in store for everyone. Don’t miss out on these spectacular Disney shows.

Festival of the Lion King

It’s a larger-than-life performance inspired by the hit movie,  The Lion King . Expect a Broadway-quality show featuring singing, dancing, stilt-walking, fire-juggling and daring acrobatics. During the interactive show, Simba and friends share their own version of the tale. Experience the iconic story of a beloved lion prince and his destiny to be king, all over again. You’ll be cheering Simba every step of the way.

Location :   Near Tusker House Restaurant, Africa

Finding Nemo : The Big Blue… and Beyond!

Phenomenal special effects blend with live performers, animated backdrops and music to bring the magical undersea world of Pixar's  Finding Nemo  to life. Reminisce with the wonderful adventures of Marlin, Dory and Nemo in a brilliant musical format.

Location : DinoLand U.S.A., Discovery River Amphitheater

Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe

You’ll have a ball dancing and clapping to the wondrous rhythm of the Congo. Talented drummers spill out onto the streets with electrifying African music.

Location :   Harambe Village, Africa

Tree of Life ® Awakenings

You'll be entranced by the vivid and radiant Tree of Life , as luminous fireflies awaken incredible animal spirits. Celebrate the balance and harmony of nature while being inspired at the beauty of the world’s animal kingdom.

Whether you’re on safari on the African plains or venturing up Mt. Everest, there’s so many wonderful shops along the way. Stop in and purchase wonderful mementos of your Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park experience. Every store does its best to salute the animal world.

Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures

Make a pit stop at this unusual roadside store. Shop for all things prehistoric and dinosaur themed. Go ahead, pose with the dinosaur. Also, it’s fairly certain you won’t leave the store without a popular dinosaur egg or two.

Island Mercantile

Wander around this multi-room, expansive store where an array of murals, large wood carvings painted by Balinese craftspeople, and a massive T. rex are part of the décor. Discover beautiful animal carvings, unique collectibles, and all the Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park gift and souvenir essentials.

Mombasa Marketplace

What’s not to love about this open-air market with tons of authentic African treasures and handcrafted pieces? There’s also Ziwani Traders nearby, which is perfect for the younger set, featuring a variety of plush animals of all the Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park creatures.

Serka Zong Bazaar

As you descend from your Mt. Everest expedition, you won’t want to miss this inventive shop featuring a variety of interesting keepsakes. The store, set in the mythical town of Anandapur, is adorned with artifacts and carved figurines, which give it a mystical feel. Shop for a Yeti plush animal or a rare Asian souvenir.

Ever wonder what it would be like to experience a behind-the-scenes look at the animals, or to go on a true wildlife trek for up close encounters with wildlife at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park? Now you can with these firsthand experiences.

Caring for Giants

On this 60-minute tour, get a closer look at the majestic African elephants at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and find out what it takes to care for the park’s largest inhabitants.

Savor the Savanna: Evening Safari Experience

Board an open-air vehicle and head out on your own private safari. Experience incredible animal encounters on the Harambe Wildlife Preserve. As the sun falls, you’ll make a dining camp in a beautiful, open-air area. Relax and savor delectable, African-influenced tapas, select wines and specialty drinks as you enjoy a meal under a starlit sky.

Up Close With Rhinos

The white rhinoceros — Earth’s second-largest land animal — takes center stage in this 60-minute guided adventure. Go backstage for a close encounter you’ll never forget, including insights into the rhinos’ behavior, biology and survival challenges.

Wild Africa Trek

View African wildlife on this privately guided tour, where you’ll board a safari vehicle for portions of your journey. A knowledgeable guide will provide insight into fauna of the Harambe Wildlife Preserve. Walk along a grassland plain, cross a rope bridge and even suit up with a harness and vest as you’re suspended for up-close animal encounters. You’ll witness the beauty of giraffes, rhinos, hippos and more. Of course, the close views of crocodiles aren’t for the faint-hearted.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park has taken a forward-thinking and mindful approach to its conservation efforts and animal husbandry. Notably missing from the theme park are plastic lids and straws in order to protect wildlife. It’s paper straws for sipping here.

Additionally, you will find ample recycling bins dispersed throughout the park. Recycling doesn’t end there, though. Many of the souvenirs that you can buy are actually made from recyclable materials.

Disney’s Conservation Fund (supported by Disney and guest contributions through portions of tour proceeds and merchandise purchases) has been able to support an ever-growing number of conservation efforts, including hundreds of wildlife conservation projects. The fund has contributed more than $20 million to conservation efforts globally. This includes planting approximately 3 million trees, protecting over 40,000 acres of coral reefs in conjunction with The Nature Conservancy, and protecting 65,000 acres of savanna in conjunction with the African Wildlife Foundation.

Finally, Disney has made a vital commitment to the reintroduction of endangered species and special breeding programs. Currently, they are involved in 34 Species Survival Plans. And their world-class veterinary care and educational efforts on a grand scale serve as a shining example of their commitment to wildlife worldwide.

View maps, amenities and more information for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park at Walt Disney World Resort.

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The Best And Worst Time To Go On Animal Kingdom's Popular Safari

T here's more to Disney's Animal Kingdom than just Pandora — The World of Avatar. In terms of wait times, Kilimanjaro Safaris is right up there with Avatar Flight of Passage and Na'vi River Journey as one of the park's most popular attractions. This is where Animal Kingdom lives up to its name and shows you some real live animals as you board a truck for a bumpy ride through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. With all the other animal-free rides like Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom , it would be easy to lose sight of the fact that it's as much a zoological park as it is a theme park. Kilimanjaro Safaris puts you in touch with both sides of that, letting riders see over 30 different species in their element, provided you catch them at the right time.

Unlike other Animal Kingdom attractions, Kilimanjaro Safaris isn't just subject to the whims of tourist crowds or the fickle malfunctions that sometimes cause Disney rides to break down. Even when the safari trucks are up and running, the best and worst time to ride one may depend on the animals' habits. Sometimes, they could appear to be hiding simply because they're resting out of sight somewhere in the 110-acre wildlife reserve. With hippos and crocodiles, for instance, you might only catch a glimpse of their heads above water. It helps to know when the animals are generally most active so you can maximize your sightings of them on Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Read more: 75 Things Every American Should Do In Their Lifetime

Plan Around The Florida Sun For Kilimanjaro Safaris

Like South Florida's Lion Country Safari, Kilimanjaro Safaris offers a savanna tour where you might momentarily forget you're in the Sunshine State, not Africa. Technically, it's Animal Kingdom's version of Africa, where the "Festival of the Lion King" show also takes place. As you cross the bridge into it, you might see tourists posing in front of Africa signs. Yet this is still Florida, and the weather here factors into how the safari animals behave. When it's too hot, they're more likely to be cooling off in the shade.

That's one reason why you'll hear frequent visitors recommend early morning, late afternoon, or early evening as the best time to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris. Aim for when the sun is lower and the animals are out feeding, like our giraffe friend above. It's a tip backed up by panelists at planDisney, who suggest visiting first thing after the park opens or later in the day before it closes. Keep in mind, Animal Kingdom usually closes earlier than Disney's other parks, with Kilimanjaro Safaris often ending its tours before sunset.

Conversely, the worst time to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris — especially in Florida's summertime heat — could be mid-day. This is true not only for animal sightings but potentially for your own comfort, as you'll be riding 20 minutes outdoors in an open-air truck. The tour's resident lions may actually be more comfortable than you since Disney reportedly built air conditioning into the rocks where they lounge.

Try To Catch The Kilimanjaro Safari After It Rains

One mistake to avoid when planning your next Florida trip is expecting all sunshine and no rain. The same is true of Animal Kingdom, where cooling rain can draw out the animals on Kilimanjaro Safaris after the downpour stops. When I was there with family one summer, we got caught in a typical afternoon rainstorm and ducked into Pizzafari. Later, I kicked myself for getting tied up there instead of heading straight for the real safari when the rain let up.

Understanding Lightning Lane can also help you strategize with Kilimanjaro Safaris since it's one of the attractions that service covers. You can always keep an eye out for special offerings on Disney's list of Enchanting Extras, too. One previous offering was a private Kilimanjaro Safaris ride, combined with a meal at Tiffins Restaurant and VIP seating for "Festival of the Lion King." When we did it, we had the safari truck mostly to ourselves, with only our guide and a few other guests.

If you don't mind paying for an add-on like that, the next best one that's often available is the Starlight Safari at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. It offers the rare chance for a night safari at Disney (again, with real animals, as opposed to the fake ones you'd see on the Jungle Cruise at night). Otherwise, just keep the beginning or end of the day in mind as your best bet for spotting the most animals on Kilimanjaro Safaris.

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The Animal Kingdom Lodge is home to a very special evening called the “Wanyama” Safari. Up to 12 people ride in a specially designed van around the lodge’s savannas. Learn about the animals and animal management at Animal Kingdom Lodge. The van stops and you get lots of photo opportunities of the animals and birds. An animal guide is on the van with you to offer information and answer questions.

The tour is about 90 minutes.

Afterwards, you have a wonderful dining experience at Jiko – The Cooking Place at Animal Kingddom Lodge.

Note that this experience is in a rugged safari vehicle over an open savanna. For your safety, you should be in good health and free from high blood pressure; heart, back or neck problems; motion sickness or any other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure. Expectant mothers should not participate.

Age: Guests must be 10 years of age or older. Cost: $209.

Hours: Daily. Check-in at podium at Jiko at 3:20 p.m. for a pre-safari reception. Safari starts at 4 p.m.

Reservations: (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529. Note that there is a 48-hour cancellation policy.

NOTE: Guests are asked to adhere to Disney’s signature dining dress code: No tank tops, flip-flops, swimsuits, swimsuit cover-ups, hats for gentlemen, cut-offs, torn clothing and t-shirts with offensive language and/or graphics. Men must wear khakis, slacks or dress shorts and collared shirts. Jeans may be worn if in good condition. Sport coats are optional. Women must wear Capri pants, skirts, dresses or dress shorts. Jeans may be worn if in good condition.

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

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Escape to an 11,000-square-foot pool with an exciting waterslide and gently sloping, zero-depth entry point similar to that of a natural watering hole. You can also cool off at Samawati Springs Pool, which offers a thrilling waterslide, two whirlpool spas and Uwanja Camp – an animal observation site-themed water playground with squirting Venus flytraps, a rope bridge, water cannons and more. Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge serves award-winning, African-inspired specialties and classic American favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner, amid a lush, wildlife preserve.

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Included extras.

Transportation to the four Walt Disney World® Theme Parks and Disney Springs®

Complimentary parking at all Walt Disney World® Theme Parks and Disney Springs®

Complimentary standard overnight self-parking at hotel

Early Theme Park Entry♦

Executive Member Benefit

Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,000, on qualified Costco Travel purchases

Vacation Includes

5-Day Disney Theme Park Tickets

Accommodations at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

All applicable taxes

Theme Park Information

Walt Disney World® Resort

Consent to Information Sharing with The Walt Disney Company

Costco will share the following Traveler Information with The Walt Disney Company to complete your reservation: name, age and gender. By making a reservation, you consent to such sharing. Once shared, this information will be subject to The Walt Disney Company's Privacy Policy, not Costco's Privacy Policy.

Accommodations

Costco Member Reviews

2901 W Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee, FL, 34747, United States

Step into the heart of Africa at this magnificent Resort hotel. Inspired by the traditional African kraal, the horseshoe-curved design provides spectacular views of 4 lush savannas that over 200 hoofed animals and birds call home. Delight in dazzling pool areas, exciting animal programs and one of the largest collections of African art in the United States as you experience your own African safari adventure with a touch of Disney magic.

The Costco Star Rating assigned to each hotel is only intended as a guideline. The rating is based on information that has been compiled by Costco Travel buyers and might differ from other references.

Property offers the ultimate in elegance and sophistication, with highly personalized service and hospitality.

Property offers upscale design and decor, superior dining venues, manicured grounds, and a high level of service and hospitality.

Property offers above-average accommodations, service, comfort, facilities and grounds.

Property offers basic accommodations, decor, facilities and grounds.

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Available Dates & Prices

Other dates, room categories and lengths of stay are available. Airfare is available at an additional cost. Vacation shown is based on availability. Your final price and inclusions may vary from those shown. Blackout dates apply.

Terms & Conditions

♦Early Theme Park Entry provides guests of Disney Resort hotels a 30-minute jump on their day available at all four Walt Disney World theme parks subject to capacity. For this benefit, you'll need valid park admission and a Disney MagicBand or Disney MagicMobile pass.

As to Disney’s artwork, properties and logos: ©Disney.

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Package ID: FLAMCODAKL20210617

Member reviews become available after at least 5 are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of this travel product.

Activities Details

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