If you're not a fan of using your phone to access everything, be prepared to be very disappointed...
Let's start by saying the first thing that is on your mind "But Animal Kingdom Park is just a big expensive Disney version of a zoo!"
I was 100% one of those people, I scoffed at the idea of going to Animal Kingdom, sweating in the heat, and "wasting" my time at "bonified zoo". But in fact, it's "NAHTAZU", It's so much more than a ZOO!
Here are many reasons why you should add Animal Kingdom Park as one of your must-do while visiting Walt Disney World.
1. The WILD side of the "Disney Bubble"
Think of this as the anti-park. While Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios focus heavily on the attractions you can see, play and enjoy, Animal Kingdom gives you a more scenic route to your park ride destinations and theme park attractions. Everything is aged with natural beauty to fit perfectly with the park's lush vegetation and rustic "little villages"You'll get lost in the unique scenes, maybe even snap a few photos or an entire photo shoot. This park also has many little bars stationed throughout the park offering unique libations to quench your thirst in the Florida heat. While walking to your next destination, you'll notice animal habitats along the way. I feel like Animal Kingdom is like a bubble within the "Disney bubble". It feels completely different than any of the other parks. It’s a refreshing retreat from every other park on the property. And although I love Epcot's World Showcase, Animal Kingdom feels eager to give guests the opportunity to visit these other countries, but on a much larger scale.
2. NAHTAZU
While Disney's Animal Kingdom boasts up to 300 species and almost 2000 animals on its lush property. The animals have lots of room to roam, as anyone who's been on the park's 18-minute Kilimanjaro Safaris expedition can all agree. The Harambe Wildlife Reserve, alone is home to over 30 species living on the picturesque open plains, shady forest landscapes, and rocky wetlands. This reserve boasts a whopping 110 acres, the safari grounds that are meant to transport guests to an African savanna make up the largest attraction in any Disney theme park in the world. Almost the entire Magic Kingdom could fit inside the safari space. You'll also want to note that Animal Kingdom is AZA affiliated, which essentially means that Disney's Animal Kingdom must maintain safety standards and regulations for both its guests and its animals in order to keep its accreditation. You'll notice throughout the park, its tours, and cast members that the animals in their care thrive by providing services advancing animal welfare, public engagement, and the conservation of wildlife. Let's just say that these park animals are treated like Disney royalty, with a steady diet, fun enrichment practices, and physical touch. In addition to the many species on Harambe Wildlife Reserve, there are about 150 different species of plants and vegetation grown on-site to keep things different and exciting for the wildlife that calls Harambe home. After visiting the savannah, and seeing the wildlife habitats, you'll never compare Disney's Animal Kingdom to a zoo again.
In addition to the beauty and wonder of these magnificent creatures to see and explore, you can also enjoy some SPIRIT ANIMALS with shows like The Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo: The Big Blue...and Beyond. Featuring Broadway caliber performances to get you dancing, singing and enjoying the magic and showmanship that only Disney knows how to put on.
3. Things Get WILD
Did you know that Disney's Animal Kingdom is one of the other parks that also have extensive libations and spirits available for park guests? If you're looking for a BUZZ stronger than Joffrey's cold brew, I highly recommend visiting these spots to quench your thirst.
1. Nomad Lounge: Stop off at this refreshing oasis to discover specialty cocktails and enticing appetizers from all across the globe. Friends of mine spent so much time here and they expressed that the beverages were SUPER STRONG so be mindful. Located next to Tiffins Restaurant, Nomad Lounge invites all to stake a claim in their own wanderlust over mouth-watering small plates and a large selection of beer, wine, and mixed drinks.
.jpeg?width=523&height=392&name=image-asset%20(3).jpeg)
The infamous "Tag Chandelier" with answers from past nomads who visited the lounge. Festive banners hang in the center of the lounge, each posing a different question about traveling the world and the thrill of discovery.
The DAWA BAR
2. Dawa Bar: Despite being a favorite of many Animal Kingdom fanatics, you could easily miss Dawa Bar, as it has next to no signage and is actually overwhelmed by Tusker House signage.
The bar serves a variety of beers, specialty cocktails, and wine. You can try your choice cocktail here, but you may be a little limited by what they have on hand.
.jpeg?width=537&height=403&name=image-asset%20(7).jpeg)
3. Thirsty River Bar: If you're still "PARCHED" pull up to this open-air bar offering specialty drinks and beers, along with a selection of refreshing frozen beverages. While everything at the park is usually pre-mixed, the bartender may be able to make some substitutions if you ask nicely.
While there are so many little hidden spots and carts you can quench your thirst, these are just my top 3.
4. Explore PANDORA and so much MORE!
While everyone instantly thinks of Avatar when anyone mentions Animal Kingdom, there are two distinct rides located in the Pandora section of Animal Kingdom
- Na'vi River Journey: Take a mystical journey by boat deep into Pandora’s glowing bioluminescent rainforest. Soon, you’ll join the legendary Na’vi Shaman of Songs, who demonstrates her deep connection to the life force of Pandora—and sends positive energy out into the forest through the power of her music..
- Flight of Passage: Climb atop a winged mountain banshee for a breathtaking 3D flight over Pandora’s otherworldly landscape. This has easily become one of my favorite rides at Walt Disney World, I won't give too much away if you have yet to experience this ride but it's so much fun and such a delight to experience.
In addition to these blockbuster attractions, Animal Kingdom has some other thrills for those who want a little more fun to experience than just safaris and education.
- Expedition Everest-Legend of The Forbidden Mountain: Careen through icy Himalayan peaks on a speeding train while avoiding the clutches of the mythic (disco) Yeti.
- DINOSAUR- Think INDIANA JONES Adventure but with Dinosaurs. Board a rugged Time Rover vehicle and set off on a thrilling adventure through a primeval forest filled with life-like dinosaurs. Careen through unpredictable hairpin turns. Dart around a fearsome Velociraptor hunting for prey. Avoid the clutches of a Cearadactylus soaring overhead!
- Kali River Rapids- Wanna cool off? (Get drenched) Set out on a thrilling whitewater adventure through a lush jungle in the heart of Asia. You will surely get splashed on this attraction—and you may even get soaked. Guests wishing to remain dry are encouraged to bring a waterproof poncho, extra clothes, or a towel to dry off. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND having someone either standing by outside the ride holding your stuff, do not bring your cellphones or any electronic devices as you may never see them again. Lockers are available for guests just outside of this attraction.
5. The Wilderness Must Be Explored
Additional opportunities to explore the wilderness are available, especially for the littles, and more importantly for the entire family to enjoy!
- Wilderness Explorers:
Set out on a series of fun, nature-themed challenges on your way to becoming an official Wilderness Explorer.
Self-guided activities range from animal observation to learning important wilderness skills. Collect over 25 badges and earn the right to echo the Wilderness Explorer call: Caw! Caw! Roar!
- 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 theme park. Visit Anandapur Theater to learn how these specialists care for and train their feathered friends.
- Kilimanjaro Safaris: Set off in an open-air vehicle for a guided tour of a lush African savanna—and spot real animals roaming free. It is truly a WILD adventure!
More on Disney's efforts for wildlife conservation
Get an inside look into how Disney is committed to the conservation and protection of endangered wildlife. The animals — brought in from zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums — include such endangered species as Sumatran tigers, western lowland gorillas, and cotton-top tamarins. Nearly 40 Guam kingfisher chicks have hatched at the park over the years, significantly raising the population of these birds to nearly 150 worldwide. Recently the pair of Cotton-Top Tamarins have two new little ones that have joined their troop, these miracle babies were born as twins which is extremely rare for this critically endangered species. It was brought to my attention via a cast member that without approval from the AZA the animals do not breed unless deemed necessary to the species to thrive.
Conservation at Walt Disney World Resort
Here are just a few of the conservation efforts in place at Walt Disney World Resort:
- Gardens for Butterflies: Across our theme parks and Disney Resort hotels, you’ll discover special flower gardens designed to attract butterflies—beautiful pollinators who help nature thrive.
While at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, take the Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch to see an alluring pollinator garden where butterflies abound—located in the courtyard outside of Conservation Station. - Habitats for Migratory Birds: Walt Disney set aside one-third of Walt Disney World Resort—over 8,000 acres of wetland and upland habitats—as a protected area. This area is an important corridor for many species of migratory birds. More than 200 bird species live at Walt Disney World Resort, either seasonally or year-round.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park is home to remarkable non-native migratory birds. Look for bar-headed geese at Maharajah Jungle Trek, white storks at the Tree of Life and other migratory species throughout the treks and trails in Africa and Asia. - Earth Day Celebration: On select dates in April at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park—and connect with the magic of nature!
In addition to its efforts at the park to help with animal conservation, Disney Conservation helps to save wildlife and build a diverse global community inspired to protect the magic of nature together. Since 1995, Disney Conservation has directed more than $120 million and the expertise of our dedicated teams to support organizations working with communities to save wildlife, inspire action and protect the planet.
With many up-close opportunities to showcase these wildlife wonders, Disney really does an incredible job of caring for each and every single animal on the property. It takes more than just magic to care for the amazing animals at Animal Kingdom. With animal care experts go above and beyond to make sure that all animals receive top-notch care—from the smallest butterfly to the largest elephant.
Here are some of the unique ways to see how Disney cares for the animals (some experiences available at an additional cost)
- Caring for Giants – 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 them. This experience costs as little as $35 per person to enjoy.
- Conservation Station – Get an inside look at animal habitats around the globe and see the expert veterinary care our animals receive.
- Wildlife Express Train – Cross the African savanna on a rustic locomotive for a behind-the-scenes look at some of the park’s animals. Special Access to the Savanna
Your safari begins with a journey deep into the heart of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. You’ll soon find yourself within one of the most secluded and breathtaking private viewing areas the savanna has to offer.
Listen along as your guide tells tales of the unique residents who inhabit the reserve. Don’t hesitate to ask questions as your guide shares insightful information about the wildlife and the special care they’re provided at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park.
Rafiki’s Planet Watch
Accessible by the Wildlife Express Train, Rafiki's Planet Watch is home to delightful exhibits for animal aficionados.
Explore Affection Section, which is home to their onsite petting zoo and Habitat Habit!, an outdoor discovery trail.
- Savor The Savana- Immerse your senses during a privately guided journey and explore the sights and sounds—and tastes—of Africa. Your guide shares insightful information about the wildlife and the special care they’re provided at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. (This experience is $174 per Guest and worth the splurge!) On some tours, you may even have access to an onsite Zoologist to discuss daily life on the Savanna
So are you ready to give Animal Kingdom a try on your next Walt Disney World Vacation? Want more tips and tricks about other parks? Ask me how to book your next adventure today!
