A Roaring Good Time
If one park at Walt Disney World truly transports you to another world, it’s has to be Disney’s Animal Kingdom. In this Animal Kingdom guide explore the lavish landscapes, unique attractions, and close encounters with exotic wildlife, this isn’t the typical theme park we know, it truly is an adventure unlike any other. Whether you’re soaring over Pandora, trekking through the savanna, or getting up close and personal with a (very large) dinosaur, there’s something here for all ages.
So grab your khakis and safari vest, or whatever explorers wear these days, and let’s talk a walk on the wild side at Disney World!
Animal Kingdom Guide to Understanding the Layout
Pandora, The World of Avatar: Disney’s Most Stunning Land
If you haven’t been to Pandora, prepare to have your for a jaw dropping experience. With it’s floating mountains, glowing bioluminescent plants, and other worldly scenery, this is Disney Imagineering at its best. And if you think it’s impressive during the day, just wait until the sun goes down, when this land comes to life with it’s glowing landscape.
Pandora: Land of must do Rides
Avatar Flight of Passage: A breathtaking, first-person flight on a banshee over Pandora. If you’re not moved by this ride, check your emotional circuits.
Na’vi River Journey: A slow moving, mesmerising boat ride through Pandora’s mystical forests.
Pro Tip: Pandora gets insanely busy all day so either rope drop Flight of Passage or grab a Lightning Lane Multi Pass.
Africa – The Beating Heart of Animal Kingdom
The village of Harambe, feels like you’ve landed somewhere in East Africa. The detail from the worn walls of the village to the bustling street performers offer an incredible level of immersion. But the real star here is the wildlife!
Top Attractions in Africa:
- Kilimanjaro Safaris: No two safaris are alike on this real, open-air tour of the savanna. With giraffes, rhinos, elephants, bongos and more!
- Festival of the Lion King: In this broadway style celebration of The Lion King, see acrobatics, fire-dancers, swimming monkeys and a whole lot of “Hakuna Matata.”
Pro Tip: Kilimanjaro Safaris is best experienced, in the morning or late afternoon when the animals are most active, just remember these are live creators and do not perform to a schedule.
Asia: Thrill Rides & Waterfalls
Home to Expedition Everest, one of Disney’s most thrilling coasters. But if Yetis aren’t your thing, do not worry, there is plenty more to explore.
Top Attractions in Asia:
- Expedition Everest: This high-speed rollercoaster that features a backward drop and a (sometimes-working) Yeti.
- Kali River Rapids: A whitewater rafting adventure where you run the risk of getting completely soaked.
- Maharajah Jungle Trek: A self-guided walking tour featuring tigers, Komodo dragons, and giant bats, oh my.
DinoLand U.S.A. A land soon to be extinct
DinoLand is a odd one. Half roadside attraction, half research facility, it’s had a quirky charm—but it’s also the most divisive land in the park. Still, if you love dinosaurs, there’s fun to be had here.
Attraction in DinoLand:
- DINOSAUR: A dark ride that sends you back in time to almost get crushed by a meteor. It’s loud, intense, and awesome.
The Best Places to Eat at Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom has some great food and offers a range of styles to suite everyone in your party. Hands down, here are our top spots you don’t want to miss:
- Satu’li Canteen (Pandora) – Customisable bowls with fresh ingredients. The Cheeseburger Pods are a must-try (best food in the Park!
- Flame Tree Barbecue (Discovery Island) – Huge portions of smoked meats with a killer view of Everest.
- Yak & Yeti (Asia) – Tasty and flavourful Asian inspired dishes in a stunning and beautifully themed restaurant.
- Tiffins (Discovery Island) – Signature dining for those who want to try a more adventurous menu.
- Tusker House (Africa): This all you care to enjoy character dining experience blends American flavours with African-inspired dishes. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you’ll feast on a delicious buffet while meeting Mickey, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy, dressed in their safari best!
How to Conquer Animal Kingdom Like a Pro
Looking to make the most out of your day? Here’s how:
- Arrive early: Rope drop Flight of Passage or Kilimanjaro Safaris.
- Use Lightning Lane Multi Pass Prioritise Flight of Passage, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and Expedition Everest. (click here for our complete guide to Lightning Lanes)
- Stay hydrated: This is Disney’s hottest park. Water is your best friend.
- Take your time: Unlike other parks, Animal Kingdom is meant to be explored slowly!
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Final Thoughts: Is Animal Kingdom Worth It?
We hope you enjoyed this Animal Kingdom guide and agree this isn’t your regular theme park, it’s an experience getting you up lose to nature. No matter if you’re soaring on the back of a Banshee, doing a bit of Lion spotting on the Savanna, or going on a Yeti mission on Expedition Everest, every visit feels like a a different adventure.
What’s your favourite thing about Disney’s Animal Kingdom? Do you have a go to spot to relax, a favourite animal to find on safari, or a ride you never skip (for me its sitting watching the Gorillas, the Elephants or Komodo Dragons and Finding Nemo: The Big Blue..and Beyond)? Let us know in the comments!