Get set to embark on a wild expedition that will transport you to a world of natural wonders and mystical landscapes. Animal Kingdom is a fusion of fantasy and nature that seamlessly blends the magic of storytelling with lush bioluminescent lands, villages from far off lands and sweeping savannah sunsets.

With a tapestry of visual cultures, the sounds of distant roars and the rush of roller coasters and rapids, Animal Kingdom manages to balance natural beauty and conservation education with thrills for all ages.

Opened on April 22nd 1998, Animal Kingdom is the largest Disney theme park, covering over 500 acres. It’s also the largest themed animal park in the world, home to around 2000 animals representing 300 species. It also features 4 million (3,000 species) trees, plants, shrubs, vines, grasses and ferns.

But it’s not all about animals. There are immersive themed lands, thrill rides, live shows and some great restaurants too.

Animal Kingdom
Overview

Join us on this virtual safari to explore the wonders and celebrate the spirit of adventure that makes Animal Kingdom a crown jewel in Walt Disney World animal experiences.

Call of the Wild

Animal Kingdom isn’t just a theme park; it’s a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and those yearning to connect with nature. From the iconic Tree of Life, adorned with thousands of intricately carved animals, to the Kilimanjaro Safaris that transport you to the heart of Africa, every corner of Animal Kingdom gives explorers a wild experience.

Attractions for All Ages

Animal Kingdom might be a haven for nature lovers, but it doesn’t fall short in delivering pulse-pounding thrills and adventures either. Brace yourself for Expedition Everest, a high-altitude train journey, or feel the rush of the rapids on Kali River Rapids. Take flight on a banshee or a mystical boat ride in Pandora. There’s something for all ages.

Animal Kingdom Overview

Celebrating Cultures

From the vibrant streets of Africa and Asia to the floating mountains of Pandora, Animal Kingdom is a cultural mosaic. Authentic architecture, beating music and flavors from around the world create an immersive experience from across the globe and beyond.

Energetic Live Shows

The animals of the kingdom take center stage. From the Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo The Musical, to It’s Tough to be a Bug, live shows and attractions capture the essence of fan favorite stories, bringing fun and laughter for all ages. Plus, there are floating drummers, African acrobats, Viva Gaia Street Band and more.

Conservation and Education

Animal Kingdom is a powerful advocate for conservation and education. The park’s commitment to wildlife preservation is evident in its initiatives, including the Disney Conservation Fund. There are interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and expert-led programs that foster a deeper understanding of our planet’s incredible biodiversity.

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Animal Kingdom
Layout

Firstly, let’s get you familiar with the layout at Animal Kingdom:

  • Oasis – as you pass through the turnstiles, you will be in the Oasis where you’ll find several animal viewing locations in the lush botanical gardens. As you follow the pathway, you’ll cross the bridge over to Discovery Island, where you’ll get your first view of the Tree of Life right ahead.
  • Discovery Island – home to the iconic Tree of Life and the central hub of Animal Kingdom – all lands spoke off from Discovery Island. The Tree of Life itself is worth some time. Take a stroll around Discovery Island Trails for a close up view of the intricate carvings on the tree.
    There are 4 bridges from Discovery Island taking you to the other lands.
  • Pandora – World of Avatar – this new world is 4.4 light years from earth and is a totally immersive experience. You won’t see a hint of Mickey and friends on this planet. Pandora is based on the 2009 Avatar movie, but no knowledge of the movie is needed to explore Pandora.
  • Africa – home to the themed village of Harambe, complete with a lively market place and crumbling buildings. Experience Kilimanjaro Safari, Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail and the Wilderness Express Train which takes you to Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
  • Asia – Attractions here include Kali River Rapids, Maharajah Jungle Trek and Expedition Everest.
  • DinoLand U.S.A. – perfect for the younger kids, but a great storyline for adults too. DinoLand USA is home to the Dino Institute accompanied by fairground rides and attractions, the Boneyard playground and dino themed dining.

Animal Kingdom Map

Animal Kingdom
Characters

You can meet a variety of characters at Animal Kingdom. Keep a look out on the waterways around the park, you’ll see floatillas with characters aboard multiple times throughout the day:

  • Dino-Bash Flotilla – Pluto and Goofy are on deck of this party boat to wave as it sails along Discovery River.
  • Discovery River Character Cruise – Characters from The Lion King or Pocahontas are aboard this floating vessel.
  • Adventure Flotilla – Scrooge McDuck and Launchpad McQuack are out on an adventurous voyage along Discovery River. Alternatively, you might see Russell and Dug from Up! as they sail along for some floating fun.
  • Discovery Islands Drummers – listen out for the lively beat of the Discovery Island Drummers as they make their way along Discovery River.

Characters at Animal Kingdom

Mickey & Minnie – meet these two world traveller’s dressed in their safari outfits throughout the day at Adventurers Outpost on Discovery Island.

Moana – Meet Moana, the voyager from Motunui, over in Character Landing on Discovery Island. She’s welcoming visitors several times a day.

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Animal Kingdom
Lands

We’ll enter the park at the Oasis, then we’ll head clockwise and take you round the park:

Oasis

As soon as you pass through the entrance of Animal Kingdom, you’ll find yourself in the Oasis. Here you’ll find pathways leading left and right that take you around towards Discovery Island.

The Oasis is exactly what it says on the tin. An Oasis, home to several species such as deer, giant anteaters and spoonbills. Look down at the pathways for prints, look up into the tree canopies for animals and birds. And see if you can spot DiVine.

As you leave the Oasis, the bridge will cross over Discovery River, leading you to Discovery Island.

Rainforest Cafe is located right at the entrance of Animal Kingdom. It also has entrance/exit turnstiles inside for direct access to and from the Oasis area of Animal Kingdom.

Discovery Island

The central hub of Animal Kingdom – you can reach all other lands from here.

The iconic Tree of Life is 145 feet tall and 50 feet wide with 7,000 branches and 100,000 leaves, each attached by hand. Ten artists and three Imagineers worked full-time for 18 months to create the 337 animal carvings.

The core of the tree is part of an upturned oil rig to guarantee it can withstand hurricanes.

Tree of Life at Discovery Island

Discovery Island Attractions

Tree of Life Awakenings

Starting at sunset, the Tree of Life comes alive with Projections, music and special effects tell visual tales of the Tree of Life spirits that will have all ages enchanted. Each show is only minutes long but it’s magical to watch.

Tree of Life Awakenings at Animal Kingdom

It’s Tough to Be a Bug

One of our favorites! A must see 3-D film starring Flik with a supporting cast of millions of ants and creepy crawlies. Become an Honorary Bug by donning the special bug eye 3-D glasses, sit back and enjoy the show.

There is a spider scene which ‘could’ alarm little ones. It’s great fun watching the adults scream though!

Discovery Island Trails

There are two sprawling pathways that snake all around the Tree of Life. You can a close-up look at all the intricate carvings on the tree and all around the trails.

As you make your way around winding pathways, through tunnels and over bridges, you’ll also see exotic birds, ring-tailed lemur, red kangaroo, storks, flamingo’s, vultures and Asian small-clawed otters among others.

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Winged Encounters – The Kingdom Takes Flight

6 species of macaw – hyacinth, green-winged, blue and gold, scarlet, blue-throated and military – take to the skies around Discovery Island. Get up close and personal with the birds in front of the Tree of Life and listen to avian experts share stories.

Dining on Discovery Island

Tiffins – this has to be one of our favorite restaurants in Disney – there’s something naughty and nice about fine dining in flip flops! The menu features African, Indian & South American cuisine.

Nomad Lounge – Right next to Tiffins, this is the perfect spot to sit and sip a cocktail and try small plates and appetizers from across the globe.

Nomad Lounge

Nomad Lounge Animal Kingdom

Pizzafari – Flatbreads, pizza, pasta and salads served up in 6 bright and colorful themed dining areas.

Flame Tree Barbecue – An assortment of smokehouse meat and chicken served with signature baked beans and jalapeno cornbread.

Quick Counter Service Locations: The Smiling Crocodile, Eight Spoon Cafe, Isle of Java,  Terra Treats and Creature Comforts.

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Pandora – World of Avatar

Flying banshees, floating mountains, glowing rivers, alien wildlife, bio-luminescent plants and exotic dining all blend to give you a sensory experience unlike any other.

Opened in May 2017, Pandora – World of Avatar is set 4.4 light years from earth. Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE) are the corporation that make space travel to Pandora possible.

The land is themed around the Avatar movie, but is set a generation after the movie, where peace reigns.

With 22 floating mountains in the Valley of Mo’Ara as the dramatic backdrop, Pandora is home to one of a kind rides, out of this world cuisine and unique merchandise.

As the sun sets and night falls, Pandora undergoes a breathtaking transformation. The entire land comes alive with bioluminescent lighting, that illuminates everything from plant life to floating mountains.

It’s a visual spectacle that adds an extra layer of magic to your Pandora experience. For that reason, be sure to explore Pandora both day and night.

Pandora World of Avatar at night

Start exploring the cultures of the Na’vi people. Greet Cast Members by saying “Oel Ngati Kameie” (“I See You”), the traditional Na’vi phrase of greeting and respect.

Attractions on Pandora

Flight of Passage

Where else in our galaxy can you ride a banshee that breathes and moves as you take flight? Flying on a banshee is a vital rite-of-passage to the Na’vi people and you get to be part of the culture by experiencing it yourself.

Buckle up as you get ready to soar above the Valley of Mo’Ara, swoop under floating mountains and fly around ancient stone arches.

The combination of cutting-edge technology, stunning visuals, and a dynamic flight simulation creates an experience like no other.

Pandora Attractions

Na’vi River Journey

Board a reed boat to float along with the currents of the sacred Kaspavan River. This family friendly adventure explores the heart of the rainforest set deep within the Valley of Mo’Ara.

Exotic and alien plants light the way as they glow. You may catch a glimpse of the alien wildlife that roam the shores.

Listen to the haunting sounds of the Na’vi Shaman of Songs. As you come face to face with her, she serenades about the sacred bond between humans and nature.

Dining on Pandora

Satu’li Canteen: Long ago, this Quonset-hut structure was an RDA mess hall. Today it’s owned by ACE who supply weary space explorers so you can recharge and refuel with out of this world cuisine.

The fusion of flavors inspired by the Na’vi people, includes vegetarian and healthy options as well as funky looking food the kids will love. Build your own bowl or try one of the Bao Buns. Make sure you leave room for some Blueberry Cream Cheese Mousse.

Pongu Pongu: This ex-pat run pit stop offers Na’vi-inspired bioluminescent cocktails and indigenous beers. Pongu Pongu also offers an Animal Kingdom favorite snack – the Pongu Lumpia.

This Asian street food favorite has a twist on Pandora. Unlike the more usual savory version, this spring roll is filled with a pineapple cream cheese.

Shopping on Pandora

Windtraders – If you’re up for an exotic shopping expedition while you visit this new world, Windtraders isn’t your typical souvenir store. Like everything else on Pandora, it’s an immersive experience.

You’ll be able to pick up one of over 200 products unique to Pandora. There’s handcarved Na’Vi creatures such as a Direhorse, a Viperwolf with her pups, a Thanator and a Sturmbeest. Also, a Bead Bar where you can design your own jewellery.

At The Rookery, an ACE naturist will assist you in connecting to your very own interactive Banshee. Your newly acquired pet can sit on your shoulder or in your arms as you bond and command movements.

Africa

Harambe Village is an atmospheric African village complete with crumbling buildings and a vibrant street market. The village of Harambe is the gateway to Animal Kingdom’s largest animal exhibit, the 110-acre Harambe Wildlife Reserve.

Take time to explore Harambe Village, stroll through the zanzibar and stores and look out for street entertainers. The Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe bang to the beat of the Congo.

And do take some time to look at all the signage, some are gems!

Signs in Harambe Village

Attractions in Africa at Animal Kingdom

Kilimanjaro Safari

An 18-minute expedition through Harambe Wildlife Reserve. Board an oversized open air safari jeep and take in the sights and sounds while the driver helps you to spot animals and talks about their habits.

The safari after sunset will give you a different encounter. Special lighting is strategically placed to help you see as much as possible with minimal disruption to the animals. Try to aim for sunset for the best experience.

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Animals you might encounter on the Kimilanjaro Safari include: Antelope, Baboon, Black & White rhinos, Cheetah, Crocodile, Elephant, Flamingo, Gazelle, Giraffe, Hippopotamus, Hyenas, Lion, Ostrich, Warthog, Wildebeest, Wild dogs and Zebra.

Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail

A self-guided tour through 5 acres of lush forest. You’ll see native African wildlife including gorillas, hippos, meerkats and exotic birds all living within Pangani Forest and grazing on the savanna. The observation stations will help you discover the habits of the animals and Disney’s global conservation efforts.

Wildlife Express Train

A 7 minute journey that takes you through the Savanna to Rafiki’s Planet Watch, passing the buildings where animals sleep at night.

Rafiki’s Planet Watch

Home to a selection of animal exhibit areas: 

  • Conservation Station: Animal activities and experiences where you can watch animal treatment at the Veterinary, see meals prepared at the Nutrition Center, check out amphibians and reptiles and see what scientists are up to in the Science Center.
  • Affection Section: The only petting zoo at Disney World, where children (and adults) can pet, brush and feed a variety of animals including goats, donkeys and pigs. This self-guided tour primarily educates us all about the important conservation of endangered species and how we can assist to ensure their survival.
  • Animation Experience: Learn the secret of how Disney create animated characters from live animals and bring your own characters to life.

Festival of the Lion King

One of Disney’s most popular live shows. An explosion of color and music tells the tale of the cub who would be king. Puppets, dancers, acrobats and stilt walkers take us on Simba’s journey. Tumbling monkeys and exotic fire dancers mix with audio-animatronic characters to recount the story in song, music, dance and fun.

The air conditioned theater is the perfect place to rest weary legs for 30 minutes.

Festival of the Lion King Stage Show

Live Entertainment

Look out for pop up shows from Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe and Harambe Village Acrobats.

Dining in Harambe Village, Animal Kingdom

Tusker House Restaurant is where Disney pals will join you for dinner. The American/African buffet has something for all tastes and the kids will love the character dining.

Harambe Market is an outdoor plaza offering 4 walk-up windows with food and drink options. Kitamu Grill, Famous Sausages, Chef Mwanga’s and Wanjohi Refreshments all offer unique flavors that you can sip and savor as you sit in the courtyard.

You can also get eats, sweets and treats at Kusafiri Bakery, Harambe Fruit Market, Zuri’s Sweet Shop, Africa Hub Cart, Mahindi, Dawa Bar and Tamu Tamu Refreshments.

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Asia

Anandapur, meaning “Place of many delights”, is the fictional kingdom at the hub of Asia. The Anandapur kingdom is home to two villages – Anandapur which is a riverside village and Serka Zong, at the foot of the Himalayas.

You’ll know you’ve arrived at your destination when you see Everest looming over you. This snow capped mountain stands at 200 feet tall.

Everest in Asia at Animal Kingdom

Attractions in Asia, Animal Kingdom

Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain

One of the most popular rides in Animal Kingdom, where you explore the Forbidden Mountain of the Himalayas on a rickety old train. Race along the track till it disappears after being ripped apart by the legendary Yeti.

Great fun with loads of screaming from fellow travelers. The line from the entrance to the ride is interesting too, so take time to explore all the artifacts lining the walls and glass cases. Height restriction is 44 inches.

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Kali River Rapids

This is an exciting whitewater rafting experience along the Chakranadi River with a height restriction of 38 inches.

The ride travels serenely through dense vegetation before trees disappear to be replaced by dying stumps as a warning that illegal logging is destroying the natural habitat of countless animals and birds.

A 30 foot drop into the swirling water means that you might be splashed and could get wet. Awe, who am I kidding? You’re going to get soaked and if the rapids don’t get you, Elephant Squirters aimed directly at you by non-rafters on the bridge above will.

Don’t worry, you can use these Squirters to get your own back later.

Kali River Rapids

The Maharajah Jungle Trek

A self-guided tour through the Asian mythical Anandapur Royal Forest, a paradise of swaying tropical trees, palace ruins and waterfalls exploding many feet below.

View a plethora of animals such as Bengal tigers, gibbons, comodo dragons and bats.

Feathered Friends in Flight

Take a behind the scenes look at the free-flying birds that call Animal Kingdom home. Animal behavior specialists show how these majestic creatures are cared for and trained.

Dining in Asia, Animal Kingdom

The Yak & Yeti Restaurant in Anandapur is one of the most popular restaurants in Animal Kingdom. A Pan-Asian fusion, this eclectic eatery offers an array of Indian, Thai and Chinese cuisine in wonderfully themed surroundings. Reservations are recommended.

If you can’t nab a table, you can get a selection from the menu at the quick-service Yak & Yeti Local Food right next door.

Counter Service Outlets: Caravan Road, Drinkwallah, Warung Outpost, Yak & Yeti Quality Drinks, Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafe, Anandapur Ice Cream Truck, Thirsty River Bar and Trek Snacks.

As with Africa, take some time to check out all the signage, it’s just as good in Asia!

Fun Signs in Animal Kingdom Asia

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DinoLand U.S.A.

Finding Nemo – The Big Blue and Beyond

As you leave Asia and head towards DinoLand, you’ll pass Theater in the Wild which is home to Finding Nemo – The Big Blue and Beyond.

Finding Nemo The Big Blue and Beyond

This 25 minute stage show features an original music score, elaborate puppetry and vibrant sets to tell the tale of Nemo and friends.

DinoLand USA:

To really understand the theming behind DinoLand and figure out how it fits into Animal Kingdom, you have to delve into the history a little.

Once you understand that, DinoLand will have you looking into every nook and cranny to discover more about the fascinating and comical back story.

History goes that a dinosaur bone was discovered in Digg County way back in the 1940’s. Scientists and students flocked to the area to try and discover their own findings.

The Dino Institute bought the land and, after extensive research, discovered how to travel back in time. They developed a high tech lab and started offering visitors time tours aboard Dinosaur to offset some of the cost.

Chester & Hester owned a run down Gas Station bordering the land of the Dino Institute. Super excited by the thought of all the tourism driving right by them, they converted their gas station into a tacky fossil souvenir shop. They then threw together a theme park to capture all traffic that was using Digg County Highway to reach the Dino Institute next door.

They put up bright colored signs all along the highway to advertise Dino Rama. Being short of cash, they cut corners every step of the way and re-used anything lying around the gas station they could.

Chester and Hester's Dino-Rama

Kids will enjoy the fun of the theming and games, adults will have fun discovering all the short cuts used by Chester & Hester, such as planters being old tires and a trailer converted into a concession stand.

Attractions in DinoLand U.S.A.

Dinosaur

The Dino Institute’s Time Rover taking you back to prehistoric days to rescue a mild-mannered Iguanodon from extinction. The dark forest is alive with dangerous animals and exploding meteors as you attempt the rescue mission 65 million years ago. Man eating Carnotaurus is hot on the heals of visitors.

The tricky ride in darkness includes loud noises and scary dinosaurs and may be unsuitable for nervous youngsters. 40” height restriction.

Dino-Sue

A 13’ tall and 40’ long replica of the biggest Tyrannosaurus ever found, dating from 67 million years ago. The original Sue was discovered in the Black Hills of South Dakota in 1990, 90% of her bones being uncovered. The skeleton is on permanent display at the Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois.

The Boneyard

A play area with a prehistoric theme. Could this be the spark needed to turn a youngster into a paleontologist? The kids can climb ropes and dig in the dirt (sand) while parents sit on the sidelines and catch a break and look for more history behind Hester & Chester.

The Boneyard DinoLand USA Animal Kingdom

Chester & Hesters Dino Rama

The roadside attraction thrown together by Chester & Hester features typical carnival attractions:

  • Fossil Fun Games – All traditional fun carnival games: Dino Whamma, Mammoth Marathon, Fossil Fueler, Comet Crasher, Bronto-Score and Whac-A-Packycephalosaur.
  • TriceraTop Spin – the only ride without a height restriction is this dinosaur ride in the sky themed on old tin toys. Those sitting in the front control whether the gondola tips up or down while passengers in the back determine what height the dinosaur flies at.

Dining in DinoLand, Animal Kingdom

Restaurantosaurus – originally an old ramshackle fishing lodge, the building was taken over by Dino Institute and converted in to a commissary and dormitory for grad students. Take time to explore the dining areas inside. The restaurant serves burgers, chicken and mac & cheese along with other items.

Quick Counter Service: Dino-Bite Snacks and Trilo-Bites.

Wilderness Explorer

Kids can become a Wilderness Explorer, completing fact-finding challenges to collect badges and test your knowledge about animal wildlife. Wilderness Explorer Field Guides will provide you with all the information you need.

Find the Field Guides in Africa, Asia, Rafiki’s Planet Watch, DinoLand, Pandora and on the bridge between Oasis and Discovery Island.

This could be quite a time-consuming effort which may not be completed in a single day, but kids can do as much or as little as they like.

Wilderness Explorer Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom Tours

There are several tours you can take to enhance your time at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Go behind the scenes, learn about animal care, tour the Savanna and more.

Caring for Giants – This 60 minute tour enables you to get up close and personal with the African elephants that call Animal Kingdom home. Your guide will give you insight into the level of care needed to take care of these majestic animals.

Up Close with Rhinos – A 60 minute tour open to guests aged 4 and over. During your tour, you’ll be given insights into the care and behaviors of the white rhinoceros. You’ll be up close to these rhino’s while learning the challenges that threaten them.

Savor the Savanna – This private tour, open to guests 8 years and over, gives you unique access through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve in a rugged safari vehicle.

As you experience one of the most secluded viewing locations on the savanna, your guide gives you a glimpse into the special care provided to the wildlife residents of Animal Kingdom. You’ll also indulge in African inspired cuisines along with regional beers and wines.

Wild Africa Trek – The ultimate VIP Animal Kingdom tour. This 3 hour guided tour of the Safi River Valley gives you an up close insight into a wide variety of wildlife, including rhinos, giraffes, hippos and crocs.

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From the heart-pounding adventure of Avatar Flight of Passage to the serene beauty of the savanna, every aspect of Animal Kingdom invites you to immerse yourself in the wonders of wildlife. As you explore vibrant landscapes and experience an array of wildlife, you’ll discover Animal Kingdom isn’t just a theme park, it’s a journey into the magic of imagination and nature.


Accommodation near Animal Kingdom

If you are visiting to explore Animal Kingdom, we’d love to welcome you to one of our cozy Orlando Vacation Homes located just a few miles away.

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