Planning Your Perfect Day at Disney's Animal Kingdom
Welcome to the wild, wondrous, and at times alien realm of Disney's Animal Kingdom – a place like no other in the Disney World parks! Planning your day exploring the safaris and jungles of this extraordinary place is a journey into the heart of nature and discovery.
Distinctive & Immersive Atmosphere
Animal Kingdom is both the newest and largest of the Disney World parks. Opened in 1998 and spanning 580 acres, it is a harmonious blend of adventure, conservation, and imagination wrapping its beauty all around you. Unlike any other park, Animal Kingdom's atmosphere is alive with the sounds of wildlife chittering from the grasses and behind the trees, with cool shadows of lush greenery curling overhead its winding paths. From virtually any viewpoint, the towering presence of the Tree of Life on Discovery Island looms high, a symbol of the interconnectedness of all living things.
Animal Kingdom is typically has the earliest opening hours of the four Walt Disney World theme parks, sometimes as early as 8am, so this is a favorite rope-drop location. If you are staying at a Disney World Resort, you will also be able to enter 30 minutes prior to general opening, having access to certain parts of the park before the crowds arrive.
This park is also the first to close, sometimes as early as 6pm. While the shops will remain open for an hour after close, be mindful when planning your day, especially if you plan on park hopping, and check your My Disney Experience app for daily open and close times.
The Lands of Disney's Animal Kingdom
Begin your day on Discovery Island, where the Tree of Life towers, its roots woven with intricate carvings of animals and wildlife. This central point at the park will be your guide in navigating your day, as all lands branch away from this landmark. Many shops, restaurants and quick service locations are also centralized on Discovery Island.
In Africa, you can explore the savannas of Africa on Kilimanjaro Safaris, a bus tour that takes you along the often bumpy roads of the jungles and plains of Africa. There are over 34 species of wildlife, and your guide will not only tell you all about the wild animals, but also speak about conservation practices both Disney Parks - and you - can practice. Pro Tip - look up to the ceiling of your bus for a handy species guide!
One of my favorite attractions is the Celebration of the Lion King, a 30 minute theatrical joyride filled with music, dancing, acrobatics, and of course your favorite beloved Lion King characters. I did not know what to expect the first time I attended it, but now it's a must on every trip to Animal Kingdom. This show is a fan favorite and it fills up fast!
Asia offers the heart-thumping adventure of Expedition Everest, which can be seen on the horizon - and the screams can be heard from afar! Wander through the Himalayan-themed streets and alleys, grab some street food, and immerse yourself in this faraway land.
In the mystical world of Pandora, alien architecture, phosphorescent walkways, and the sounds of strange creatures transport you to an otherworldly experience. Look up into the sky and see the magnificent floating Hallelujah Mountains, soaring in the air near the entrance to Avatar: Flight of Passage.
Strange Encounters at Disney's Animal Kingdom
Throughout Animal Kingdom, you'll encounter a cast of characters, both fictional and real. Keep an eye out for Kevin, the mama bird from Up, as she roams the park, squawking and curious about the visitors around her. If you think you see the bushes moving, then you’ve been lucky to catch a glimpse of DiVine!
Do you Need to Purchase Genie + at Disney's Animal Kingdom?
Not necessarily. If you would like to ride the most popular attraction, Avatar: Flight of Passage, but don't want to spend an hour or more in line, you can purchase and individual Lightning Lane and save yourself some time. Expedition Everest offers single rider lines if you are on a solo day or don't mind your party riding separately, which can shorten your queue time by quite a bit.
In my experience, a Lighting Lane will always come in handy, but it is not necessary to enjoy your day at Disney's Animal Kingdom, as the park offers so many other attractions and experiences that are not limited to waiting in line for a ride.
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