Welcome to The Ultimate Guide to Animal Kingdom Attractions
Ready to go wild? You’ve come to the right jungle. In this Ultimate Animal Kingdom Attractions Guide, we’ll take you through every ride, show, and animal encounter in Disney’s most untamed park. From thrill rides to feathered friends, this is where nature and magic collide.
We’ll also give you insider tips on how to navigate it all, whether you’re a rope drop rookie or a seasoned safari veteran.
Oh, and don’t forget to check out our Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Individual Pass Guide, Rope Drop strategy post, Animal Kingdom main page, and the MagicBand guide for even more planning magic.
In this guide we provide an overview of all the attractions and entertainment within Animal Kingdom. We’ll cover:
- Height requirements
- Lightning Lane options
- Average wait times (these are estimates and can vary like a giraffe’s mood)
- Our own five-star rating system, powered by the most discerning critics of all: our kids.
Our Star Rankings
⭐ Ranked by our kids (the real experts):
No stars – “I’d rather do homework.”
⭐ – “Fine, but only if there’s a snack after.”
⭐⭐ – “Yeah, that was alright.”
⭐⭐⭐ – “Pretty cool, can we ride again later?”
⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “That was awesome! Let’s do it again!”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “Best. Ride. Ever. I’d give up screen time for this!”
Plus, we’ll tell you:
- What to ride and when.
- Which rides have festive overlays.
- And how to shave time off those queues without needing fairy dust.
Current and Upcoming Closures at Animal Kingdom (2025–2026)
While Animal Kingdom is full of wild adventures and jaw-dropping shows, even Disney’s most magical habitats need a bit of pruning now and then. Whether it’s for future expansions or a long-overdue retirement, a few familiar faces have officially left the park – but don’t worry, new magic is already on the horizon!
Here’s what’s gone walkabout:
- It’s Tough to Be a Bug: Closed permanently on March 17, 2025. This long-running 3D adventure under the Tree of Life is buzzing off to make way for something brand new: a Zootopia-themed attraction. Expect more Judy Hopps and fewer startled toddlers.
- TriceraTop Spin: Took its last loop-de-loop on January 13, 2025. This dino-themed spinner has made way for the Tropical Americas, a massive land expansion scheduled for 2027. Pack your explorer’s hat – we’ll be trading dino bones for jungle vines soon.
- Primeval Whirl: Officially extinct. This wild mouse coaster shut down quietly in 2021, and Disney has since paved over the prehistoric party.
With Dinoland USA now officially on the endangered list, we’ll dive into what’s coming next in that area later in this guide. But spoiler alert: think less fossils, more fiestas.
Keep in mind: closures can shift faster than a yeti on roller skates. Always check the My Disney Experience app before your trip for up-to-date attraction availability.
The top 5 must do Attractions
- Avatar Flight of Passage
- Kilimanjaro Safaris
- Expedition Everest
- Na’vi River Journey
- Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…and Beyond!
Animal Kingdom is…
Part theme park? Part zoo?. 100% a celebration of nature and storytelling.
Animal Kingdom opened in 1998 and quickly roared into the hearts of Disney fans. Anchored by the stunning Tree of Life, this park is all about conservation, adventure, and deeply immersive lands.
Whether you’re tracking tigers in Asia, flying a banshee in Pandora, or joining a safari across the African plains, Animal Kingdom blends education with enchantment.
Insider tip? Don’t rush. This park rewards the wanderers.
Oasis
Where your Animal Kingdom adventure takes root, and possibly a selfie with a macaw. Before you dash off to Pandora or make a beeline for the Kilimanjaro Safaris, take a breath, literally. The Oasis is Animal Kingdom’s tranquil, leafy welcome mat. It’s not just a walkway; it’s a living, breathing introduction to the park’s lush, immersive world. Think of it as Disney’s way of letting you know, “You’ve left the real world behind.”
Discovery Trails
Winding garden paths full of animal habitats and peaceful views.
Height requirement:
None
Type of ride:
Walkthrough trail
Lightning Lane:
No
Lightning Lane Tier:
N/A
Average Wait Time:
None
Riding Tip:
Do this early when it’s quiet and shady.
Special Note:
Great photo ops and peaceful vibes.
“Yeah, that was alright.”
You’ll spot anteaters, wallabies, and the elusive “Is that a cast member or a bird handler?” question.
Photo opportunities with leafy backdrops and the Tree of Life slowly coming into view, this area gives you some of the most natural, least-crowded photo spots in the park. And yes — there’s a good chance a macaw will make it a Disney postcard moment.
Dinoland USA
If you’ve got a soft spot for kitschy roadside attractions, carnival games, and the occasional dino in need of dental work, DinoLand U.S.A. has always delivered. But the winds of change are blowing stronger than a T-Rex sneeze, and this land is slowly evolving into something new entirely.
Boneyard
A fossil-themed play area where kids can dig, climb, and run wild.
Height requirement:
None
Type of ride:
Playground
Lightning Lane:
No
Lightning Lane Tier:
N/A
Average Wait Time:
N/A
Riding Tip:
Great break for the kids while adults rehydrate.
Special Note:
Scheduled to close in 2026.
“That was awesome! Let’s do it again!”
DINOSAUR (The Ride)
Take a Time Rover through a chaotic, prehistoric rescue mission. Your goal? Grab a gentle Iguanodon and get out before the giant meteor hits.
Height requirement:
40 inches / 102 cm
Type of ride:
Dark ride
Lightning Lane:
Yes
Lightning Lane Tier:
Multipass Tier 2
Average Wait Time:
25 – 45 minutes
Riding Tip:
Sit on the right-hand side of the Time Rover for the ultimate jump-scare moment when Carnotaurus gets way too friendly. Kids (and some adults) may find it intense so pre-warn them.
Special Note:
his attraction is one of the last remnants of the original DinoLand U.S.A. Due to close in 2026.
“That was awesome! Let’s do it again!”
DinoLand U.S.A. has always been a bit of a prehistoric paradox, part science, part carnival. While it’s never been the most immersive land in Animal Kingdom, it has earned its place in the hearts of many thanks to it’s quirky theming, and DINOSAUR (the ride).
Asia
Asia at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is one of the most beautifully themed lands in any Disney park. It’s rich in detail, steeped in story, and packed with layers you might miss if you’re sprinting to Expedition Everest (guilty).
Set in the fictional kingdom of Anandapur, this area draws inspiration from real-world Southeast Asian countries like Nepal, India, Thailand, and Indonesia.
Expedition Everest Legend of the Forbidden Mountain
Brace yourself for a runaway train ride through the icy Himalayas, where broken tracks, dark tunnels, and the Yeti await. It’s fast, it’s furious, and was the first coaster in Disney World that dares to go backwards.
Height requirement:
44 inches / 113 cm
Type of ride:
Steel coaster, high-speed, forward and backward motion
Lightning Lane:
Yes
Lightning Lane Tier:
Average Wait Time:
20 – 60 minutes
Riding Tip:
Ride early in the day or peak meal times for shorter waits.
Special Note:
The Yeti animatronic has been in “static” mode for years, but the story and thrills are still fully intact.
“Best. Ride. Ever. I’d give up screen time for this!”
Kali River Rapids
This ride combines rushing rapids, a cautionary tale about deforestation, and a high probability of walking off looking like you just lost a water balloon fight with a fire hose. The lush jungle setting and environmental message make it more than just a splash-fest—though, fair warning, you will get wet. Possibly soaked. Okay, definitely soaked.
Height requirement:
38 inches / 97 cm
Type of ride:
Water ride, river rapids
Lightning Lane:
Yes
Lightning Lane Tier:
Average Wait Time:
20 – 40 minutes
Riding Tip:
Wear quick-dry clothes or pack a poncho, you’ll thank yourself later. Ride during peak heat for the most refreshing (and drying) experience.
Special Note:
Lockers are available nearby to keep your belongings dry
“Yeah, that was alright.”
Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…and Beyond!
Dive into an underwater world of puppetry, music, and Pixar heart as Nemo, Marlin, and Dory swim back onto stage in this Broadway-style spectacular. With stunning visuals and toe-tapping tunes, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Height requirement:
None
Type of ride:
Indoor seated theatre show, musical
Lightning Lane:
Yes
Lightning Lane Tier:
Average Wait Time:
Arrive 20–30 minutes before showtime for best seating
Riding Tip:
Sit centre stage halfway back for the best view of both puppetry and projections.
Special Note:
None
“That was awesome! Let’s do it again!”
Wilderness Explorers Maharajah Jungle Trek
This trek is also one of the stops on the Wilderness Explorers scavenger hunt across the park, so kiddos can earn a badge here while learning something wild (literally).
Height requirement:
None
Type of ride:
Walkthrough trail
Lightning Lane:
No
Lightning Lane Tier:
N/A
Average Wait Time:
None
Riding Tip:
Visit earlier in the day when animals are most active and the sun isn’t blazing. Take your time, there’s a lot to see, and it’s a nice change of pace from the usual high-energy park vibes.
Special Note:
Cast Members stationed along the trail love sharing fun facts, ask questions! It adds an extra layer to your adventure.
“Pretty cool, can we ride again later?”
Discovery Island
The heart of Animal Kingdom, where nature and storytelling intertwine. EXPAND talk about any animals and walk thoughts here, shops and food. Discus the tree of life.
Feathered Friends in Flight
Soar into a show that’s all about the real stars of the sky. Feathered Friends in Flight is a live bird demonstration featuring some of the most intelligent, impressive, and occasionally sassy birds on Earth. Expert animal behaviourists leading the way, you’ll watch hawks swoop, macaws glide, and parrots show off their incredible mimicking skills.
Height requirement:
None
Type of ride:
Live stage show featuring trained birds
Lightning Lane:
No
Lightning Lane Tier:
N/A
Average Wait Time:
10–20 minutes; arrive early for the best seats.
Riding Tip:
Sit near the centre or aisle seats for the best chance of close fly-bys. And keep your snacks tucked away
Special Note:
No seasonal overlays.
“Pretty cool, can we ride again later?”
Tree of Life Awakening
As day turns to dusk, the heart of Animal Kingdom comes to life. The Tree of Life Awakenings are a series of beautifully animated projection shows that play across the face of the park’s iconic centerpiece. With dazzling lights, vivid colours, and stirring music, the tree transforms into a storytelling canvas showcasing nature-inspired tales and scenes.
Think of it as Disney magic meets nature documentary meets dream sequence. Each awakening is a short, stunning story, some emotional, some whimsical, featuring animals in enchanting journeys that reflect the spirit of the park.
“Pretty cool, can we ride again later?”
Africa
This immersive land captures the heart and soul of East Africa, complete with lively drumming, bustling market vibes, and the scent of sizzling skewers from Harambe Market. From cultural performances to jaw-dropping wildlife encounters, Africa is where Animal Kingdom’s conservation message really roars to life.
Kilimanjaro Safaris
A guided tour through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, this 18-minute open-air safari ride takes you deep into the African savanna. You’ll encounter live animals roaming free (well, Disney-free), including giraffes, elephants, hippos, lions, cheetahs, rhinos, zebras, crocodiles, and more
Height requirement:
None
Type of ride:
Safari ride
Lightning Lane:
Yes
Lightning Lane Tier:
Average Wait Time:
20 – 60 minutes
Riding Tip:
Go early in the morning or just before sunset, as these are the times when animals are most active. Midday safaris can be quieter (and hotter).
Special Note:
For better photos, sit on the left-hand side of the vehicle.
“Best. Ride. Ever. I’d give up screen time for this!”
Festival of the lion king
Join Simba, Timon, Pumbaa, and a wildly talented cast of singers, dancers, acrobats, and fire twirlers in this Broadway-calibre celebration of The Lion King.
Height requirement:
None
Type of ride:
Live musical stage show
Lightning Lane:
Yes
Lightning Lane Tier:
Average Wait Time:
10–30 minutes
Riding Tip:
Try to arrive 20–30 minutes early for the best seats (centre section for the win).
Special Note:
No seasonal overlays.
“Pretty cool, can we ride again later?”
Read more about Hall of Presidents
Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
Located right next to Kilimanjaro Safaris, this self-paced walking trail transports you deep into the heart of Africa, minus the jet lag. A serene, self-guided walking trail through African habitats filled with animals, informative exhibits, and a spectacular gorilla overlook.
Height requirement:
None
Type of ride:
Walkthrough trail
Lightning Lane:
No
Lightning Lane Tier:
N/A
Average Wait Time:
N/A
Riding Tip:
Catch this trail right after your Kilimanjaro Safari, it’s right next door and a perfect thematic double feature. Morning is best for active animals.
Special Note:
Don’t rush through! Cast Members are stationed throughout and love chatting about the wildlife.
“Pretty cool, can we ride again later?”
Pandora – The World of Avatar
Welcome to the Valley of Mo’ara, where Disney Imagineering went all in to deliver a land so stunning, even the Na’vi would pause for a selfie.
Inspired by James Cameron’s Avatar, Pandora isn’t just a themed area, it’s a full sensory experience. Floating mountains rise impossibly above you. Exotic plants pulse with colour and respond to your touch. You’ll hear alien wildlife echoing through the trees, and when the sun goes down, the entire land glows with bioluminescent beauty. It’s not just a movie tie-in it’s a living ecosystem.
There are two headline attractions, but don’t rush through! The land itself is the third. Walk the trails. Tap the drums. Look down, the ground glows at night. Pandora rewards the curious explorer, with a full eco immersion experience.
Avatar Flight of Passage
3D flight simulator that straps you to the back of a banshee and soars you across Pandora. Think Soarin’. You’ll feel it breathing beneath you, smell the alien jungle, and dive through floating mountains, ocean waves, and bioluminescent forests. It’s as close as you’ll ever get to flying without leaving Earth.
Height requirement:
44 inches / 113 cm
Type of ride:
Simulator
Lightning Lane:
Yes
Lightning Lane Tier:
Average Wait Time:
60-90 minutes
Riding Tip:
Rope drop or use Lightning Lane to avoid long waits.
Special Note:
Some motion sensitivity possible, especially for those prone to simulator sickness.
“Best. Ride. Ever. I’d give up screen time for this!”
Na’vi River Journey
A peaceful, slow-moving boat ride through the bioluminescent rainforest of Pandora. You’ll drift past glowing plants, exotic wildlife, and ethereal music as the mysterious Shaman of Songs welcomes you into the heart of Na’vi culture.
Height requirement:
None
Type of ride:
Boat ride
Lightning Lane:
Yes
Lightning Lane Tier:
Average Wait Time:
30-60 minutes
Riding Tip:
Ride during meal times for shorter waits.
Special Note:
None
“That was awesome! Let’s do it again!”
Rafiki’s Planet Watch
Tucked away like a hidden Mickey, Rafiki’s Planet Watch is a peaceful oasis of animal encounters and behind-the-scenes Disney magic. It’s not just about learning, it’s hands-on, informative, and surprisingly entertaining, especially for little explorers.
To get there, you’ll first hop aboard the…
Wildlife Express Train
Climb aboard this charming open-air train for a scenic 7-minute journey through the backstage areas of Animal Kingdom. You’ll pass animal housing and veterinary buildings, Disney doesn’t usually let you peek behind the curtain, but here, it’s part of the experience.
Conservation Station
This is the heart of the land, where science meets storytelling. You can peek into working veterinary treatment rooms, watch animal care in action (yep, real procedures!), and check out interactive displays on conservation efforts.
Inside you’ll find:
Invertebrates Exhibit
A bit Creepy? But Cool? This small but mighty exhibit gives you a close look at the tiny critters that keep the planet spinning, think tarantulas, leafcutter ants, and more. Great for bug lovers or anyone needing a quick escape from the Orlando heat and humidity.
The Animation Experience at Conservation Station
Unleash your inner Imagineer in this hidden gem of an activity. A Disney artist teaches you how to draw beloved animal-inspired characters like Simba, Timon, or even Scar, step by step. It’s relaxing, creative, and you get to keep your masterpiece (or at least your attempt).
Top tip: Ask the Cast Member which characters are scheduled for the day!
Affection Section
This outdoor petting zoo is full of friendly animals, sheep, goats, pigs, and the occasional cow. It’s clean, calm, and a perfect way for little ones to burn some energy without the line-waiting chaos.
Hand-washing stations are nearby, so no need to worry about taking the scent of goat back to Harambe Market with you.
Whether you’re travelling with young kids, animal lovers, or you just need a little break from the hustle of Expedition Everest and Pandora crowds, Rafiki’s Planet Watch is well worth the detour. It’s quiet, it’s interactive, and it might just be the most underrated spot in the entire park.
What’s Coming Next at Animal Kingdom
Change is rumbling on the horizon like a distant stampede, and this time, it’s not dinosaurs. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is on the edge of a major evolution, one that promises to bring new life, stories, and adventures into the park while honouring its core theme of nature, conservation, and exploration.
The much-loved DinoLand U.S.A. is being retired, making way for something vibrant, immersive, and culturally rich. Say hello to a new land inspired by the Tropical Americas, set to open in 2027.
Confirmed and Rumoured Changes
Pueblo Esperanza – The Tropical Americas
This brand-new land will transport guests to a lush, tropical region influenced by real-world environments and cultures from Central and South America. Dense jungles, ancient ruins, vibrant village markets, and wildlife-inspired theming that brings together the magic of nature and storytelling.
From colourful flora to architectural details straight from Colombia and beyond, Pueblo Esperanza promises to be a place where guests can feel immersed in the sights, sounds, and spirit of Latin America with a Disney twist.
Indiana Jones Ride
Grab your fedora! The long-standing DINOSAUR attraction is expected to undergo a complete re-theme, transforming into an Indiana Jones adventure. While the ride system will remain the same (a rugged EMV jeep-style journey), the storyline will take a sharp turn from prehistoric peril to ancient artefacts and booby-trapped temples.
Rumour has it the reimagined ride will be inspired by Indiana Jones and the Temple of the Forbidden Eye from Disneyland, but unique to Animal Kingdom. Possibly weaving in the lore of the Tropical Americas and adding new surprises for seasoned Indy fans.
Encanto Ride
Yes, we are talking about Casita. Disney is reportedly developing a ride based on Encanto that will bring the magical Madrigal family to life in a brand-new way. Details are still under wraps, but it’s expected to be an indoor family-friendly attraction full of colour, music, and of course magic.
Early whispers suggest guests might “step into the house” and experience its sentient wonders firsthand. And with Antonio’s love of animals and nature, this addition fits surprisingly well into Animal Kingdom’s evolving identity.
The Big Picture
These changes represent more than just new rides, they signal a new direction for Animal Kingdom. One that maintains the park’s unique focus on the natural world, but uses fresh cultural narratives and beloved IPs to deepen the experience. It’s a bold move, blending storytelling and environment in a way only Disney can.
Whether you’re an old-school fan mourning Primeval Whirl or already planning your Encanto singalong outfit, the next few years at Animal Kingdom are shaping up to be nothing short of wild.
Final Thoughts: Where adventure awaits around every corner.
From thrilling expeditions to serene nature trails, Animal Kingdom offers a unique blend of excitement and education. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, there’s always something new to discover. Check our other attraction guides for more information on Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
Did we miss your favourite Animal Kingdom attraction? Do your kids have a better rating system (or just want more snacks)? Leave us a comment, we’d love to hear your roars, reviews, or random animal facts.
