animals on kilimanjaro safari

Ultimate Guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris (Animal Kingdom)

If you love animals, you are going to love the Disney Animal Kingdom Safari ride.   Kilimanjaro Safaris magically takes you on what feels like a real African Safari in this amazing experience. 

Kilimanjaro Safaris allows guests to explore the Harambe Wildlife Reserve in an open air vehicle.  Disney’s wildlife reserve is 110 acres with over 30 species of real animals.  You’ll drive through wide-open plains, forests, and wetlands. 

Each ride vehicle has an expert guide, who shares tons of interesting facts about the creatures you are seeing.   The bumpy ride is about 20 minutes long, making it the longest ride in the Disney parks.  

Kilimanjaro Safaris is a very engaging ride as you never know what animals you’ll get to see up close and what they will be doing as you pass by.  

Disney provides salt licks along the path to attract animals to points where you can see them.  You’ll also pass by watering hole areas as well as great views of a lot of animals on the African savanna.  

Kilimanjaro Safaris is the closest thing to a real African safari.  We’ve ridden this ride many MANY times and it’s always different.  

Different cast member tour guides share different bits of information, the animals are always on the move, so sometimes you get a great view of an animal up close, sometimes there’s new baby animals to see, and sometimes you get to see your favorite animal eat lunch, etc.  

Regardless, you can count on getting a unique experience every time you ride!

When Should you Ride Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris?

Kilimanjaro Safaris is the main attraction of the Africa section at Animal Kingdom, so the lines can get long at times.  

The best time to ride, in my opinion is late morning or late afternoon.  

It’s a bit tricky because the safari doesn’t always open right away, so you can’t count on rope dropping this one first thing in the morning.  

You also want to avoid riding it in the heat of the day because many times the animals are hidden because they are wanting to cool off.

The best thing to do is to get in line right before it opens (Which varies day to day) OR ride it around late afternoon when the lines have gotten shorter.  

Many people leave this Disney park early to park hop to another one, which eases up some of those long lines!

Ideally, if you have Lightning Lanes, I would schedule a ride around 10:30 am as the lines are likely long, but the animals are active – you can skip that long line with your lightning lane passes.

If you don’t have that Lightning Lane access – save this ride for late afternoon.

What animals are on the safari ride at Animal Kingdom?

Here’s a list of the animals you will see on Kilimanjaro Safaris.

You’ll see:  

• African Wild Dogs
• Ankole Cattle
• Black Rhino
• Common Eland
• Hippopotamus
• Nigerian Dwarf Goat
• Nile Crocodiles
• Pink-Backed Pelican
• Saddle-Billed Stork
• Scimitar Oryx
• Spotted Hyena
• White Rhinos 

 This list does change from time to time, but in general, you can expect to see a LOT of different animals on this amazing ride.

How bumpy is safari ride at Animal Kingdom?

The ride vehicles for Kilimanjaro Safaris are open-sided safari vehicles.  Your tour guide drives his/her big custom made safari truck over fairly rough terrain.  

The safari driver does their best to avoid potholes, but the path is pretty rough and bumpy.  

Disney advises that guests need to be in good health, no high blood pressure, heart, back or neck problems.  

They also say that expectant mothers should not ride as there can be unexpected jolts on the ride.

In addition, Disney warns that this could cause motion sickness.   For what it’s worth, my son and I are prone to motion sickness and neither one of us have ever had a problem on this ride.  

Has the Animal Kingdom Safari Ride Changed over the years?

Kilimanjaro Safaris has definitely changed over the years.  If you remember riding it many years ago, you might remember a Poacher storyline.  

Over time, Disney dropped that storyline in favor of not scaring child with imaginary poachers and instead, giving you more information about the amazing animals on this ride.

General Information

Theme Park: Disney’s  Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Area of the Park:   Africa

Age Range Appeal:  all ages – Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults

Queue Description:   The standby queue for the Disney Animal Kingdom Safari Ride is fairly simple. It can get very hot as it is outdoors. Lines can get long mid-morning and mid-day.  

Queue Length:   This ride often opens up later in the morning, not always at rope drop.  Lines tend to grow mid-morning to mid afternoon.  Then lines tend to drop as early as 3:30pm.

Ride Height Requirements:   No heigh requirement but kids under age 7 must be with a person age 14 years or older.

Pregnant mothers and those with health conditions are advised not to ride due to the bumpy nature of the ride.  

Scary Factor:   Low – it’s a slow ride, but there are unexpected bumps and jolts as you ride along on the rough terrain.

Official URL:   https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/attractions/animal-kingdom/kilimanjaro-safaris/

Kilimanjaro Safaris Video

More Animal Kingdom Information

Want to learn more about Disney’s Animal Kingdom? Be sure to check out our other articles.

You can find all the best rides at Animal Kingdom here. We outline all the details on the must-do rides and of course, the one ride you should avoid.

Eating gluten free? You can find all the best Gluten Free Dining Options at Animal Kingdom here.

You’ll want to learn all about Avatar Flight of Passage here. This is such an incredible ride in the World of Pandora section of Animal Kingdom.

You can find all our Best Animal Kingdom Tips and Strategies here for having an amazing day in the park!

Be sure to check out our handy list of Disney’s Ride Height Requirements . Find out before you go, which rides your kids are able to ride.

Learn all about the Best Souvenirs at Disney World here. So many cool ideas for a memento of your amazing Disney vacation.

If you are in the thick of starting to plan your trip, be sure to read Best Day of the Week to visit Disney World .

And of course, don’t forget to grab our free printable Disney World Packing List . Everything you need to remember to pack for the perfect Disney vacation!

Be sure to pin the image below to save this Disney Animal Kingdom Safari Ride info for later!

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Kilimanjaro Safaris

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Guests Can Be

Age Interest

Thrill Level

Ride in an open-air vehicle for a day or evening tour of a lush African savanna, home to real-live exotic animals.

A Wildlife Adventure Glimpse real African animals in their natural habitats during an 18-minute expedition into the Harambe Wildlife Reserve.

Traipse along a picturesque twisting path beyond a lush garden gateway, on your way to rendezvous with Kilimanjaro Safaris, the touring company for your adventure into the wilds. Featuring vivid open plains, shady forest landscapes and rocky wetlands, the 110-acre Harambe Wildlife Reserve is a spectacular sanctuary dedicated to the protection of African animals.

The Call of the Wild  Board an open-air safari vehicle and brace yourself as you begin a guided tour into the African outback—where over 34 different species of exotic African wildlife roam, cage-free. As your bumpy transportation rides over rugged terrain, look for an array of exotic animals in a variety of unique habitats, your helpful guide providing you with valuable information about the land and its inhabitants.

Unique Animal Encounters  Discover a shy hippopotamus nestled within a still pond. Behold a regal lion sunbathing on a rocky perch. Drive past a gentle giraffe grazing on a tall tree or wave hello to a swinging baboon. Since each animal behaves differently, every Kilimanjaro Safari expedition is a unique and unforgettable experience.

Here are some animals you may encounter during the tour:

• Black rhino
• Hippopotamus
• White rhino

Be sure to stay alert and have a camera ready! You never know what amazing animals you’ll see on a Kilimanjaro Safaris outing.

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The Family Vacation Guide

Kilimanjaro Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: The Ultimate Guide

posted by Charmaine Cortes on December 26, 2022 // last updated on June 12, 2023

Are you planning to visit Kilimanjaro Safari Disney World with your family or loved ones and want to learn more about it? Then you have come to the right place!

In this article, we will provide you with an overview of everything you need to know about Kilimanjaro Safaris. This safari ride at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park will transport you across the globe into an African Wildlife setting.

In this Ultimate Guide, we will cover all the basics from the history of the Safari, how to ride it and some further frequently asked questions about the wildlife park. Read on to find out more!

About Kilimanjaro Safaris

The kilimanjaro safaris ride, kilimanjaro safaris accessibility, interesting facts.

Walt Disney had a lifelong dream of adding live animals to his Jungle Cruise. Back then, this was not possible until the Kilimanjaro Safaris opened its gates in Disney’s Animal Kingdom park in April 1998.

The park in Walt Disney World wanted to differentiate itself from a zoo from the beginning. While it had live animals, it was more focused on conservation and experiencing the animals in their (somewhat) natural habitat.

Since 2016, visitors can enjoy special sunset safaris where they get to enjoy African animals after dark.

You will find Kilimanjaro Safaris located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom park, which is part of Walt Disney World.

Make your way past the Tree of Life to the back of Africa, all the way past Mombasa Marketplace and Dawa Bar. As you cross the bridge, you will get to Kilimanjaro Safaris.

The queue will lead you through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve before you enter your safari vehicle and head out to experience the African Savanna without leaving the States!

The Kilimanjaro Safaris vehicles are open-air trucks that can accommodate up to 35 guests. Each vehicle can seat three to five guests in one row.

The Savanna provides a bumpy ride along a dirt trail and is different from the other smooth theme park rides at Disney. So buckle up.

You will be provided with a game-spotting guide. Be on the lookout, as not all wildlife will be visible at all times.

A Kilimanjaro Safaris ride is approximately 20 to 30 minutes long and leads through 100 acres of Savanna. During this time, you will be able to spot about 34 different species. Among these, you will find famous members of the African Animal Kingdom:

• Hippopotamus
• Sable Antelopes
• Thompson’s Gazelles
• African Wild Dogs
• Termite Mounds

Each expedition through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve is completely unique. The animals are all free roaming and are, therefore, always in a different place or sometimes in hiding.

If you are looking for a specific unique experience, you can visit Kilimanjaro Safaris at night! During those nighttime safaris, you will be able to experience the wildlife in a completely different setting. Some animals tend to be more active during the night, so we recommend trying out both times.

The ride with Kilimanjaro Safaris is longer than some other rides at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, so factor that into your time at the park, so you don’t miss other rides.

Since you will be dealing with real animals, we recommend behavior that suits the setting. No loud noises or erratic behavior as this can scare the wildlife. Small children are to be watched at all times. In general, this might be a better experience for children above the age of six.

Fastpass/ Lightning Lane:  Yes

Time:  20 -30 minutes

Height Restrictions:  None

Age Restrictions:  None

Handicapped Accessibility:

• Kilimanjaro Safaris is Wheelchair Accessible

To access the safari ride, you can wheel up a ramp and ride into the truck itself. Your wheelchair will be tied down and secured, so you do not have to worry about bouncing around during the ride through the wilderness.

• Other guests need to take a small step into the safari vehicle.
• no high blood pressure
• no heart, back, or neck problems
• no motion sickness
• no other severe conditions

Disney does advise against expectant mothers or people that aren’t in good health riding with Kilimanjaro Safaris, as the rides can get bumpy, and there is also no option for an emergency exit while in the safari vehicle.

Service Animals:

Kilimanjaro Safaris allows service animals to be taken into the premises and on rides. However, the park advises visitors to do so with caution. The animals might be completely new to this wildlife experience and might act differently.

 In the beginning, Kilimanjaro Safaris included a lot of information about poaching in their ride and even had a specific section in the park set up to educate about the illegal hunting of wildlife.

These days, Kilimanjaro Safaris is more focused on the educational part of the conservation of the African Savanna and its wildlife.

The ride is designed to be as realistic as possible. Therefore, the roads are quite rough (as mentioned previously in this article). You need to be ready for some rough and rugged terrain during your safari adventure at Kilimanjaro Safaris.

How big is the Kilimanjaro Safari Park?

Including the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, the Kilimanjaro Safaris Park is about 1.5 miles.

While this might not sound too lengthy, keep in mind that you will follow winding roads that are extremely bumpy. On top of that, the Kilimanjaro Safaris area is about 110 acres big. Plus, the safari trucks will drive extremely slow. This is also to ensure you will see enough wildlife.

Can you pet animals at Kilimanjaro Safaris?

This is a clear no. You are dealing with wildlife from the African animal kingdom at Kilimanjaro Safaris. These animals are wild. They are no pets. A direct encounter with lions is to be treated with respect and can end in a dangerous situation should you mistake them for a house cat.

Should you or your children wish to pet animals, we recommend visiting the petting zoo at Rafiki’s Planet Watch.

Are all animals real at Kilimanjaro Safaris?

Yes, the animals are all real. The tour however does include some fake elements, such as:

• Ostrich Eggs
• Moonlight during the safari ride after sunset
• Termite mounds

When Is The Best Time To Ride Kilimanjaro Safaris?

We recommend purchasing your Harambe Wildlife Reserve pass early in the morning and heading straight to the open-air safari experience. The animals tend to be more active during the morning hours as well as after sunset.

During midday, most animals will hide in the shade or be less active because of the heat. It will also be more strenuous on visitors, as this is an open-air vehicle and you might not feel too comfortable in the hot climate.

Does the Weather influence the Safari?

Kilimanjaro Safaris is an open-air safari. So the rides are in some way influenced by the weather. The animals might not be bothered by the rain, but they might be less active in extreme heat. So plan your visit accordingly.

Since this is an open-air safari, we recommend dressing for whatever weather you might encounter. If there is a possibility of rain, dress warm and take a raincoat. Should the weather be pleasant with sunshine, we recommend a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Check your forecast and come with the necessities to make the ride enjoyable.

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

Complete Guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom

Board a safari truck and get your cameras ready! Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom gives you the experience of a real-life African safari, but at Walt Disney World.

As you travel through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve you will learn about conservation, the importance of taking care of animals, and, of course, get the chance to see amazing creatures, like elephants, hippos, and giraffes.

Now, let’s explore our guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris .

In this article

Kilimanjaro Safaris Quick Facts

• Location : Animal Kingdom, Africa
• Height Requirement : None
• Suitable for: Everyonest
• Attraction Length: 18 minutes
• Do we recommend? Definitely a high priority attraction you must experience.
• When to Visit : Typically at opening/within the first hour, or later in the day toward park closing.
• Lightning Lane Available: Yes
• Scheduled Refurbishments
• Tip(s) : Visit first thing in the morning at park open. The line gets really long, really fast, and the animals seem to be out more in the morning. The next best time to visit is at sunset for park closing. Crowds level off earlier at Animal Kingdom, wait times may be reduced, and animals can be out feeding.

Description : You board safari vehicles that are driven by guides who really do drive (no tracks) and are very knowledgeable about the animals. As you make your way through the savanna, the guides provide lots of information based on what you see along the ride. Sometimes have to stop to wait for animals to clear the path.

No two rides are the same as the animals are free roaming and on their own schedule. We would recommend experiencing the safari twice in your park day, if possible.

Everything You Need To Know About Kilimanjaro Safaris

You can find Kilimanjaro Safaris in the heart of Africa. Here’s the location on the map.

Download the PDF

How to Ride Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris has a Standby Lane and a Lightning Lane. There is no Single Rider Line.

Like most attractions, standby lines typically are the lowest first thing in the morning and at the end of the evening. The middle of the day will see the longest lines.

Even though it’s not listed as an available attraction for Early Theme Park Entry, sometimes Kilimanjaro Safaris is open during the 30-minute early entry.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Standby Lane wait time jumps quickly after park open and can see sustained wait times well over 60 minutes for most of the park day.

Do I need to use Genie+ at Kilimanjaro Safaris?

Kilimanjaro Safaris is available with Genie+ and we highly recommend using it at this attraction for anyone who has purchased Genie+ or if it’s a must-do.

This is a highly popular ride at Animal Kingdom, given that it is a long ride time and suitable for all ages.

Many park guests make it a top priority of their park day. So unless you do this ride first, right at park open, plan to reserve a Genie+ time for Kilimanjaro Safaris.

If you want to try and experience the Safaris twice in one day, we would recommend using the Standby Lane at park open and then using Genie+ to ride it again later in the day.

Make sure you check out our touring strategies for Animal Kingdom for more Genie+ advice.

Rider Switch/Child Swap

You cannot use  Rider Switch  for Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Rider Switch is Disney’s system allowing guests with small children to take turns riding bigger rides, while another person/people wait with the little one.

There also isn’t Single Rider available here.

What to expect when you ride

The Kilimanjaro Safaris queue is outdoors, with part of it shaded. It paints the scene of an African tour company with its straw, thatched roof.

While there isn’t  an interactive queue , the line is themed to the attraction.

You can learn the African Swahili names to your favorite animals on displays as you move through the line. You can even hear the safari trucks driving by as you walk through.

Ride vehicles

Kilimanjaro Safaris ride vehicles can fit a total of 35 individuals. Each row can seat three to five guests, depending.

There is no seatbelt or safety restraint, but there is a door on the right side of each row that closes for security and safety purposes when you’re on the ride.

Motion Sickness

Kilimanjaro Safaris is far from a thrill ride, but it can get rough at times with the trucks bouncing up and down along the paths and bridges.

Sometimes you might even have to brace yourself, so you don’t slide in your seat.

We have a  guide on motion sickness  that’s filled with information and tips, so feel free to check that out.

Accessibility information

Guests in ECVs or power wheelchairs must transfer to a manual wheelchair. There are wheelchair accessible vehicles with built-in ramps.

Those using an ECV who don’t wish to transfer to a vehicle bench, must transfer to a Disney-provided manual wheelchair.

You will be seated in Row 1 right behind the tour guide. A bench is located directly next to the wheelchair space and additional companions will be directed to sit in the rows behind the wheelchair space.

Those using ECVs or wheelchairs can remain in their mobility devices until they reach the accessible boarding and unloading area, which is not long after the stroller drop-off area.

This area is where ECVS and other mobility devices can be parked. They will be waiting in the same space when guests return from their safari.

Keep in mind that each safari vehicle only holds one occupied wheelchair at a time, so anyone needing this type of access could have an additional wait compared to those who transfer to a vehicle bench.

Handheld captioning , assistive listening, and video captioning is available for guests.

Service animals are also permitted, but with caution.

On the Ride

Spoilers ahead! If you want to go in knowing absolutely nothing about Kilimanjaro Safaris, feel free to skip this section.

After walking through the queue you and your party finally make it to the boarding lanes awaiting your safari tour.

You can’t miss the sound of your safari truck approaching. A warm greeting from your tour guide “Jambo,” which is Swahili for “Hello.”

After boarding your safari truck, your group will take off entering the Harambe Wildlife Reserve.

Be alert and have your cameras ready, because these are live, free roaming animals, so you never know what you will see or how close the animals will get.

No tour is ever the same!

You start off in the forest seeing the Okapi, the closet living relative to the giraffe. You’ll next approach a watering hole where you can catch sights of animals like the saddle billed stork, bongo, kudu, and black rhinoceros.

Heading out of the forest your truck will enter a river where you can spot hippopotamus’. The only way to exit the river is by crossing over an old, shaky bridge.

Under the bridge, down low you’ll spot a crowd of Nile crocodiles. But not to fear, you’re with an expert driver and guide! Your truck makes it over the bridge safe and sound.

Exiting the river your safari tour will enter the savanna marked by a big Baobab tree.

As your truck makes its way down the savanna you will spot many animals like zebras, African wild dogs, giraffes, wildebeest, and cattle. Some animals may cross in front of or come right up to the truck. Be sure to look out past the truck under trees and in the shaded areas to spot animals.

Leaving the savanna your guide will spot a couple of fallen down trees. That means the mighty elephants are near! On the way to find the elephants you pass a family of Mandrill monkeys.

Your truck approaches another old shaky, bridge, worse than the last one. Your tour guide crosses successfully with care.

In search of more elephants you enter the red clay pit. Sure enough you may be able to catch sight of the elephants! Females are usually found with their young, while the male elephants stick more to themselves. If there are new babies on the tour, your guide will be sure to point them out.

Driving through the watering area of the red clay pit, you will see a flock of flamingo. Did you know flamingos start off gray in color? Be sure to listen to the tour guide to hear what makes flamingos pink!

Approaching the mud pit you will spy white rhinoceros. Up in the shade you’ll spot a couple of cheetah, the fastest land mammals on earth.

Next up, the highlight of every tour, and sometimes the hardest animal to see, are the lions up on the rock. Since lions are nocturnal animals and sleep most of the day, your best chance to see them awake are on safaris later in the day near park closing.

Are you ready for more? Your tour is still not over! Next up be sure to look out for warthogs, ostrich eggs, and Bontebok antelopes.

Before your safari comes to an end, you’ll see some super adorable Nigerian Dwarf Goats, who are originally from Nigeria and considered to be of high value because of the high protein milk they provide.

You leave the reserve and head back to the village of Harambe. After the vehicle comes to a complete stop the doors on your right side will open, allowing you and your party to exit.

Keep in mind that each time you ride is different, because you never know what animals you’ll see or how they’ll act. This makes the attraction super unique.

Is Kilimanjaro Safaris kid-friendly?

Overall, Kilimanjaro Safaris is kid-friendly. After all, it doesn’t even have a height requirement. It should be fun for most kids to see the different animals. And, don’t worry, there aren’t any dark or scary moments.

That said, the ride can get rough at times thanks to the paths, bridges, and the safari vehicle itself. This could be either fun or upsetting to little ones. But, for the most part, the ride is kid-friendly.

Be sure to check out our full guide on several other  things that might scare little ones at Disney World .

Strollers are not allowed on the Kilimanjaro Safaris vehicles. You’ll need to park your stroller in the designated stroller parking area at the attraction entrance.

If you forget to park your stroller or want to take it into the line, you can, but know you’ll have to park it mid-way. There is an area with Cast Members waiting, who will take your stroller and park it for you.

Kilimanjaro Safaris first opened in 1998, the same year as Animal Kingdom. Actually, both the attraction and the park opened on April 22, aka Earth Day.

Animal Kingdom is the largest of all Disney World theme parks. It spreads out over 500 acres, which also gives the animals plenty of room to roam and live.

The Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction itself spans 110 acres with the Harambe Wildlife Reserve serving as home to 34 species!

Your guide drives around as they gives facts about the animals you encounter along the way during the 18-minute journey.

When the ride initially opened, there was a poachers storyline and even a rickety bridge that threw some excitement into the mix. But, both of these elements were removed and now there’s more of a focus on the actual animals and the importance of conservation.

Former Imagineer Joe Rohde is responsible and to thank for not only breathing life into Kilimanjaro Safaris, but Animal Kingdom as a whole. Without him, this park wouldn’t be is what is today.

There’s no doubt Kilimanjaro Safaris is a fantastic experience and the closest thing many will ever get to experiencing an African safari.

Other Fun Details

• If you want an even more in depth and VIP tour of the savanna, you can sign up for the 3-hour guided Wild Africa Trek tour , where you will embark on some adventurous activities and see animals even more up close. This tour is priced separately and must be booked in advanced.

• For an additional price, Up Close with Rhinos is a 60-minute tour giving you the chance to go backstage at Animal Kingdom to meet and learn more about white rhinos, with help from a guide.

• Take some time to visit the Gorilla Falls Exploration walking trail, located near the exit of Kilimanjaro Safaris. It runs along parts of the driving tour and gives another look at many of the animals you saw on the drive, along with different ones like gorillas and meerkats!

• Pay attention as you drive by the flamingos for a fun Hidden Mickey.

Other Attractions in Africa

• Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
• Festival of the Lion King
• Wildlife Express Train (takes you to Rafiki’s Planet Watch)

Attraction Guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney World

in Walt Disney World

In this guide to one of Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s most popular attractions, we are going to take you through everything you need to know about the ride. From its incredible history to answering some of the most important questions that guests have on the attraction, we’re covering it all in our Attraction Guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney World.

If you wanted to jump to a specific section, just click on one of the links below:

• What is Kilimanjari Safaris?

History of Kilimanjaro Safaris

• FastPass Information
• Your Questions Answered

What is Kilimanjaro Safaris?

Kilimanjaro Safaris is Disney’s attempt at creating a real safari experience in a theme park. It’s a huge attraction spanning 110 acres and home to 34 different species of wildlife. The entire attraction was designed from the ground-up to look just like a real African reserve and this illusion starts as soon as you get into the queue for the attraction.

You can find Kilimanjaro Safaris within Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, right toward the back of the park.

Related: Go Wild for this Disney+ playlist themed to Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Believe it or not, Walt Disney helped to inspire the attraction, despite passing away many years before the Imagineers came up with the idea for the attraction.

When designing Disneyland, Walt Disney always wanted to use live animals for the Jungle Cruise . Thankfully this wasn’t allowed at the time, otherwise we would never have gotten the classic Jungle Cruise attraction, which is widely considered one of the best at the Disney Parks.

The Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction owes a lot to legendary Imagineer Joe Rohde who headed up the design for Disney’s Animal Kingdom and worked on the attraction, getting it ready for the parks opening date over 20 years ago on April 22, 1998.

The original story for the attraction taught guests about the dangers of poaching and the impact it had on animals in the African Savannah. The original poaching storyline was actually far more intense than guests ended up seeing a dead corpse of Little Red’s mother. This was removed before the grand opening of the ride and replaced with the happy reunion between the two animals.

In 2012 the story of “Little Red” the elephant was dropped in favor of a new section of the attraction, a Zebra exhibit.

Related: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge welcomes new baby zebra

Though nighttime safaris were originally introduced as far back as 1998, the additional costs and poor visibility of animals meant that they just weren’t feasible until technology changed. Thankfully the Imagineers reintroduced nighttime safaris back in 2016 when hyenas were brought to the reserve.

FastPass+ Information

FastPass+ is available for the Animal Kingdom safaris attraction. Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of the busiest attractions at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and is, therefore, an attraction you are likely going to want to get a FastPass for.

Your Questions Answered on Kilimanjaro Safaris

How long does kilimanjaro safaris take to experience.

This is one of the longest attractions at Walt Disney World, with the average safari taking around 20 minutes from when you first set off.

There’s an average because there are times where it can be a lot longer or shorter, it all depends on whether or not an animal sits down in front of your safari truck!

What are the height requirements?

Great news: there are no height restrictions at all for Kilimanjaro Safaris! This means you can board with all of your Junior Wilderness Explorers — just make sure they sit toward the inside of the vehicle.

Are the animals in Kilimanjaro Safaris real?

You’d be surprised at how much we hear this question! Every animal that you can see is a real animal that lives in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The only exception to this is the termite mounds you see, these are used to hide treats for the animals. Oh, and while the Ostriches you see on the attraction are real, the eggs that are ALWAYS by the roadside are made of concrete.

What are the ride vehicles like?

Many guests assume that the attraction is on a track. These are real custom built GMC and Ford trucks that are actually being driven by the Cast Member that you see at the front of the attraction.

Cast Members go through rigorous training to be able to get a role on Kilimanjaro Safaris. The trucks are real because many Cast Members have had to stop, swerve and move for the numerous animals that wander the attraction. Remember, the animals have right of way!

Each night the safari trucks are driven off the road and into a lot where they are assessed and serviced ready for the next day at the park.

The trucks seat 3-5 guests to a row and while there is a cushioned back, there are no safety restraints (such as seat belts) on this attraction.

Does weather affect Kilimanjaro Safaris?

It is rare that the attraction will close due to weather.

A bit of rain won’t stop the attraction, but if there is a heavy storm it will result in the attraction having to temporarily close.

Does Kilimanjaro Safaris run at night?

Yes! Nighttime safaris were introduced back in 2016 and have been pleasing guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom ever since.

What is a Nighttime Safari?

A nighttime safari is a great chance to see some of the animals on the reserve when they are a bit more active. Hyenas, in particular, are really active at night but many of the other species are also more comfortable at night thanks to the cooler temperatures.

The ride’s duration at night is slightly shorter than the day as the safari truck avoids areas where animals aren’t going to be visible.

Does Kilimanjaro Safaris cost extra?

No, Kilimanjaro Safaris is included in the cost of admission to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Disney offers paid walking tours of the attraction that come at a cost but are well worth the money. Here’s Ryan taking one of the tours ( Wild Africa Trek ) last year:

Can you ride Kilimanjaro Safaris when pregnant?

The official response from Disney is that the attraction isn’t suitable for expectant mothers.

That being said, this is certainly one of the tamer rides that sit within this bracket. You need to assess every scenario and what works well for you. There are many Disney fans that will tell you the first trimester won’t be an issue but do your own research and remember the warning is there for a reason.

What animals are on Kilimanjaro Safaris?

Here are just some of the animals you can expect to see when riding Kilimanjaro Safaris:

• Black Rhinoceros
• Egyptian Goose
• Pink-backed Pelican
• Common Waterbuck
• Greater Kudu
• Greater Flamingo
• Reticulated Giraffe
• Sable Antelope
• White-bearded Wildebeest
• African Elephant
• African Lion
• White Rhinoceros
• African Wild Dog
• Nile Crocodile
• Masai Giraffe

What is the best time to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris?

While the rest of the park is running (or fast walking) to Flight of Passage in the morning at rope drop, wander over to Africa just as the park opens and you will get one of the best rides of the day.

Many of the animals like to take cover from the intense Florida heat during the course of the day, so your best time to see active animals is typically right at the start of the day or as the sun is setting.

Based on the number of times we’ve been on Kilimanjaro Safaris (which is a lot), we’d say you’d likely have more luck seeing active animals in the morning.

Keep in mind that one of the major selling points of the attraction is that every ride experience differs!

What is the worst time of day to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris?

There’s not really a time where you aren’t going to see anything but as we said previously, many of the animals like to seek shelter from the sun during the middle of the day. Plan for a safari during the morning or evening if you can to stand the best chance of seeing the most amount of animals.

That being said, don’t let us discourage you from visiting during the day. We’ve had many safaris during the hottest hours of the day and they’ve still been fantastic and memorable.

Do you have further questions you want answering about Kilimanjaro Safaris? Ask us anything in the comments below and we will add the answer to our guide!

Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris – The Ultimate Guide Updated

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Want to know more about the Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris?

One of the most immersive of all the Animal Kingdom rides, the Disney Kilimanjaro Safari takes you on a journey through the African planes.

In Orlando Florida.

This highly unique experience is one of the highlights of any trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It truly is an adventure that you cannot find anywhere else in North America.

Discover what you need to know about Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris so that you and your family can get the most out of this immersive attraction.

Disney Kilimanjaro Safari Guide

The Disney Imagineers have successfully created the Harambe Wildlife Reserve in Animal Kingdom park.

Walt Disney himself always wanted to have live animals incorporated into his theme parks.

Whilst in Disneyland this dream was kind of realized in Jungle Cruise (Walt originally wanted real animals for this attraction), Disney’s Animal Kingdom finally achieved that dream.

The area where your Kilimanjaro Safari Bus will take you is vast.

110 acres of vast.

And it is home to 34 different species of animal including lions, hippos, giraffes, and elephants.

What is the Disney Kilimanjaro Safari Ride Like?

The first experience of any Disney ride is the line area!

The advantage of the Kilimanjaro Safari Ride is that the queue is well-shaded.

There are some things to look at along the way, including some videos about conservation. But mostly the best thing about this line is that it is in the shade!

It can get very very hot in Orlando and it can be a challenge to wait in line at the height of the heat. There are a few spots where you can even sit down on a small wall which gives your feet a bit of a rest!

This is one reason not to ride Kilimanjaro Safari in the heat of the day – the queue will be a lot easier to deal with if it is a bit cooler.

A short way into the line you will have to put your stroller in the parking place.

A Cast Member will be there to guide you to the exact spot.

Then by the time you get back, your stroller will have moved of course!

Photo Credit

The Disney Animal Kingdom Safari ride vehicles are custom-built GMC and Ford trucks.

Lots of guests think that Kilimanjaro Safaris is on a track, but it isn’t. Those safari vehicles are true off-roaders controlled by the Cast Members!

Each ride vehicle holds up to 32 guests in 9 rows each seating up to 4. There is no height requirement for this Animal Kingdom ride.

It is very much for families, but as I discuss below, it is very bumpy.

Take notice of the warnings.

If you have a health condition or are pregnant give Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safaris a miss!

Is there a best place to sit on the Disney Kilimanjaro Safari ride?

There really aren’t any bad seats, but the best is the front and the back row.

However, be aware that the further towards the back you get, the bumpier the ride!

If you have small children they should not be at the edge.

In front of you, there are signs which help you recognize which animals you may see on your safari.

The most popular sitings are those of elephants, giraffes, gazelles, rhinos, crocodiles, hippos, and lions.

The safari guides always make sure that they keep you entertained as well as educated. And they will try their best to point out the sometimes very well camouflaged animals.

If you can be organized enough it is a great idea to take some High Powered Binoculars with you.

I went on the safari ride for years before I actually did this. It made a huge difference to what you can see.

There is usually plenty of time to take photos of the animals. Your Cast Member guide will do their best to point out the best photo ops.

Animal Kingdom Safari Ride Fun Facts

Don’t worry. Of course, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has things well designed so that you are not going to get up close and personal with a lion. Big trenches separate humans from the dangerous animals.

Jurassic Park this is not.

Disney has some great tricks to keep the animals visible and happy.

Ever wonder why the lions are always sitting out on the rocks? Yes, they are mimicking what they do in the wild, but what most people don’t know about the rocks is that they are air-conditioned!

The lions originally came from a much cooler park in Oregon, so they needed a little help cooling down in the hot Florida sun. If it ever gets too cold, the rocks can be heated too!

Disney also knows how to get the animals as close as possible to you. How do they do this? The usual incentive for food and water.

They place food, watering holes, and salt licks close to the vehicle paths.

The emphasis is on safety both for humans and animals.

You might think you can reach out and touch that giraffe but there is a large system of trenches, bridges and fences on all the savannas to keep humans from the animals and to keep the animals from predators.

Many years ago there was a story about poachers with a graphic illustration of the fate of Little Red, a baby elephant. This storyline has not been seen for almost a decade as many considered it too upsetting for a Disney attraction.

Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris Best Time To Ride

What is the best time to ride the Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris? This Animal Kingdom ride is popular. And popular means lines.

The best tactic for the best time to ride Disney Kilimanjaro’s Safari? Arrive early. I know that’s always the advice, but it works.

If you can arrive at the Animal Kingdom at rope drop and then go straight to Kilimanjaro Safaris you will most likely be beating the crowds. Even better is if you have Early Entry at 8 am. You can really get ahead of the crowds.

The attraction is right at the back of the park. If you plan to be there early look at a map of Animal Kingdom so you get your bearings as to where you are going.

There are plenty of signs in the park, but it is always good to have an overall view.

There is another great reason to ride Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safari as early as possible. The animals are much more active in the morning.

You are more likely to see a greater selection of active animals than in the afternoon when it is hotter.

 Kilimanjaro Safaris Wait Time

The Disney Kilimanjaro Safari wait times will vary from anywhere between 10 minutes to 120 minutes, This depends on the time of day as well as whether it is peak season or not.

As we have said, the lowest wait time will be as soon as the park opens.

If you leave it until 11 am you are likely to hit the peak wait times of at least 70 to 90 minutes.

Really try and avoid that time of day as it is likely to be the worst.

If you don’t get to the attraction early in the day, the next best time to ride Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris is usually around 3 pm onwards.

A lot of people head for the attraction earlier in the day and have cleared that area by mid-afternoon.

The wait times for this Animal Kingdom attraction are somewhat better now that Disney’s Animal Kingdom has extended opening hours. It used to only ever be open 9 am until 5 pm.

Now the hours are often extended into the evening so this also gives a chance to experience the safari ride at night.

Kilimanjaro Safaris at Night

Now the hours are often extended into the evening so this also gives a chance to experience the Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris at night.

This is a very different experience from touring during the day.

If possible you should try and ride once in the early morning and then go back late in the evening.

The least busy times will be just before the park closes.

Adapting the experience for nighttime was not an easy task. Disney had to spend more than a year preparing the animals and the environment for the nighttime Kilimanjaro Safaris.

They introduced some new animals, such as the nocturnal hyenas, to be better suited to the nighttime experience.

They also added a huge wall of graphic displays to enhance the Kilimanjaro Safaris at night. This is so that guests can actually have enough light to see the animals.

The graphics cleverly mimic a gradually setting sun over an extended period of time.

This is so that the animals can adjust to the environment and the guests can actually still see the animals which are up and about in the evening.

The Kilimanjaro Safaris at Night is definitely a different experience than during the day. Ideally, you should do both. If you have to choose just one though, I would say go in the morning. You are likely to see more active animals.

Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris For Pregnant Ladies

I visited Disney World many times while pregnant. It’s a very pregnant lady-friendly place!

However, there are some Disney World rides that recommend that if you are pregnant you should not ride.

Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safari Ride very clearly states that pregnant ladies should not ride.

This is going to be very much an individual decision. There are some rides at Disney World where it is very obvious that a pregnant woman should not ride.

You probably aren’t going to want to sign up to ride Space Mountain, Expedition Everest, or Rock N Roller Coaster when you are pregnant.

That’s obvious.

But Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of those Disney World rides where you are thinking shall I or shan’t I?

My personal experience is that when I was pregnant with my youngest son I did go on the Kilimanjaro Safari Ride. After about 10 seconds I realized that for me, it was the wrong decision. Kilimanjaro Safari is bumpy!

I remember just wanting it to end almost as soon as it started.

I am fortunate and have experienced the Animal Kingdom Safari Ride many times. However, at that time I really wished I hadn’t. It’s fine normally to speed through the African planes in your safari vehicle over all the bumps, but when pregnant I just wanted to be somewhere else!

Will you be experiencing Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safaris on your next visit to the Animal Kingdom?

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

Disney Animal Kingdom Rides - EverythingMouse Guide To Disney

Saturday 17th of August 2019

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Kilimanjaro Safaris

A Truly Wild Adventure

Explore the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, home to over 30 species living in 110 acres of picturesque open plains, shady forest landscapes and rocky wetlands. Your rugged safari vehicle is driven by an expert guide, who helps point out animals and shares fascinating wildlife facts during this extraordinary 18-minute expedition.

Unique Animal Sightings Spot a lounging hippopotamus nestled in a peaceful pond. Behold a regal lion sunbathing on a rocky perch. Drive past a towering giraffe grazing on the tall trees or a white rhino relaxing in the cool mud. Other amazing animals you may encounter include cheetahs, crocodiles, elephants, hyenas, zebras—and so many more!

Since animals have minds of their own, every expedition is a unique and unforgettable experience. Be sure to keep your eyes open and have a camera ready—you never know what you’ll see on a Kilimanjaro Safaris outing.

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Related Activities

Wild africa trek, disney animals at walt disney world resort, even more magic – as you wish, safety, accessibility and guest policies, times for kilimanjaro safaris.

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Kilimanjaro Safaris Guide

On Kilimanjaro Safaris, guests will embark on an African safari in one of the most ambitious attractions ever developed by Walt Disney Imagineering.

Ride Information   Restrictions   Accessibility   Location   Fun Facts   Top 5 Tips

Ride Information

Opening Day: April 22, 1998

Type of Ride: African safari

Age Recommendation: All ages

Duration of Ride: About 20 minutes

Typical Queue Time: Long; often peaks at over one hour

Single Rider Line: No

Chicken Exit Available: Yes

Baby Swap Available: No

Type of Vehicle: Safari truck

Type of Restraint: None

Attraction Open During Early Theme Park Entry: Yes. See our Early Theme Park Entry page for more information.

Ride Photo Available For Purchase: No

Ride Restrictions

Height Requirements: None

Flash Photography or Video Allowed: Yes

Safety, Accessibility, and Guest Policies

Accessibility: 

• Guests must transfer from wheelchairs
• Video Captioning
• Assistive Listening
• Handheld captioning
• Service animals permitted with caution

Guest Policies: Children under age 7 years must be accompanied by a person age 14 years or older.

Shopping: Near Kilimanjaro Safaris in the Animal Kingdom’s Africa section, guests can purchase apparel, plush dolls, and collectible ostrich eggs at “Ziwani Traders”; and African wines, art, crafts, and instruments at “Mombasa Marketplace.”

Dining/Refreshment: Dining options abound near Kilimanjaro Safaris. Guests wanting a counter service lunch or dinner can enjoy chicken skewers, vegetable stacks, gyros, fried sausages, and ribs at Harambe Market . Those preferring a sit-down meal should make ADRs for a buffet breakfast, lunch, or dinner at Tusker House . At Tusker House guests can choose between a variety of American and African dishes served amidst entertainment from Donald Duck.

Restroom: Find facilities convenient to Kilimanjaro Safaris at Mombasa Marketplace.

Smoking Location: Smoking is permitted in designated smoking areas only. Disney parks are smoke-free.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Fun Facts

Did you know.

• Guests can encounter more than 34 African animal species on Kilimanjaro Safaris, including antelopes, baboons, cheetahs, crocodiles, elephants, flamingos, gazelles, giraffes, hippos, hyenas, impalas, lions, ostriches, rhinos, warthogs, wild dogs, and zebras. Each safari vehicle is equipped with pictorial guides of all the animals you might encounter during your wildlife adventure.
• The fictitious African village, Harambe, where Kilimanjaro Safaris is located is a homage to real African villages that sit adjacent to vast preserves. Harambe is Swahili for “working together.”
• Kilimanjaro Safaris’ savannah encompasses 110 acres, rendering this single attraction larger than the entire Magic Kingdom park, which only occupies 105 acres.
• Kilimanjaro Safaris’ savannah is called “Harambe Wildlife Reserve.”
• As Kilimanjaro Safaris is located in a theme park, precautionary boundaries, including berms, moats, fences, wires, and chains, are overtly or covertly implanted throughout the savannah to keep the animals in their respective habitats.
• Devices such as air-conditioned rocks, cool breezes, salt licks, cooling or warming waters, and food help guide the animals toward the vehicle routes.
• Guests experience Kilimanjaro Safaris in 10-ton, open-sided GMC trucks, with a camouflage exterior, and seats up to 32 passengers. Cast Members actually drive each vehicle and provide educational commentary throughout the safari.
• The attraction replaces its plants daily to account for the animals’ consumption.
• Guests can experience two related tours, Wild Africa Trek and “Starlight Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge,” for an additional cost. The latter experience begins at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge , not the Animal Kingdom Park.

• Kilimanjaro Safaris’ 1998 debut marked the realization of Walt Disney’s idea to utilize live animals in an adventure attraction. Disneyland ’s Jungle Cruise originally intended to fill this role in the late 1950s. Animatronic animals replaced the live animals in the version of Jungle Cruise that guests enjoy today.
• Kilimanjaro Safaris’ development entailed much research. In 1990, Imagineer Joe Rhode ventured to Kenya and Tanzania to view animals and experience authentic East African safari tours.
• Kilimanjaro Safaris toned down and then eliminated an overt poaching plotline. First, during the Cast Member previews in 1998, complaints arose over the grotesque depiction of a fake elephant named “Big Red,” who was killed by poachers. Imagineers immediately wrote Big Red out of the attraction. The attraction debuted with a tamer plotline, where poachers kidnap an animatronic baby elephant called “Little Red” and, subsequently, get apprehended. Then, in 2007, this version was altered to limit the dialogue related to poaching between the safari driver and a naturalist named Ms. Jobson. In 2012, the entire poacher storyline, including the related props, were eliminated from the attraction. A zebra habitat replaced the space that the props originally took up. In early 2013 the addax antelope replaced the zebra in this space to allow for better viewing.
• Save for a trial during the 1998 holiday season, Kilimanjaro Safaris ended its tours at sunset, regardless of park closing time, until 2016 because of lighting and animal sleeping issues. Beginning in the summer of 2016, with the debut of nighttime entertainment at the Animal Kingdom, Kilimanjaro Safaris will commence extended hours.

Hidden Mickeys:

Top 5 Tips for Kilimanjaro Safaris

• Consider experiencing Kilimanjaro Safaris multiple times as the live animals render each journey different.
• Guests wanting to view the Lions should ride either in the morning or closer to park close when the sun is not as intense.
• Take photos of the savannah and the animals.
• Hang onto your belongings. Anything dropped from the vehicle cannot be retrieved.
• Following Kilimanjaro Safaris, guests can view more African animals, such as gorillas, hippos, naked mole rats, and birds, by walking the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail .

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Five Things to Know About Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris is an open-air safari through 110 acres called the Harambe Wildlife Preserve. Think of your trip as more of a photo safari during which you have an opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife roaming “freely” through forests, grasslands, and savannas.

The wonderful (and sometimes frustrating) aspect of Kilimanjaro Safaris is that no two journeys are alike. You may see a lot of animals, or sometimes only a few! Here are the five things to know before you head for the savannah.

(If you’re in a hurry and just want details like where it is and how long the ride lasts, click here to jump straight to the Nuts and Bolts section.)

1. It Really Looks Like a Safari

What I have learned from the animal world, and what anyone will learn who studies it, is a renewed sense of kinship with the earth and all its inhabitants. – Walt Disney

Long before the Animal Kingdom existed, Walt wanted to create a ride featuring live animals at Disneyland. He originally proposed the idea while Disneyland’s Jungle Cruise was being designed. The impracticality of using animals soon became apparent and was shelved in favor of using animatronics.

Later, Disney World would offer something Disneyland couldn’t. Walt said, “Here in Florida, we have something special we never enjoyed at Disneyland… the blessing of size. There’s enough land here to hold all the ideas and plans we can possibly imagine.” So, in a sense, Walt’s dream of a ride featuring live animals came true when Kilimanjaro Safaris opened with Animal Kingdom on April 22, 1998.

Animal Kingdom, headed by lead designer Joe Rohde, was revolutionary in that this park was alive – but it didn’t feel like a zoo. Incredible care was taken to ensure it looked like an actual African reserve. Equally important was that the animals be afforded an environment in which they could thrive. This attention to detail and respect for the animals that you see on Kilimanjaro Safaris is a big part of what makes this park different.

An overhead sign in the queue puts it best: “These lands preserve a portion of Africa’s vanishing wildlife. Please show respect to all animals you meet. Your care will ensure their survival. Asante Sana – Thank You.”

2. Looks are Deceiving

“You can’t just let nature run wild.” – Walt Disney

All the animals appear to be roaming freely. Which is true, to a degree. The Imagineers have strategically placed camouflaged barriers built into the savanna, woodland, and rocky hills. This is done to prevent predators like lions, or potentially dangerous animals like hippos, from wandering where they shouldn’t. (It keeps guests safe, too!)

But don’t worry – your ride experience will still be more than a tame drive through the woods. You’ll see a wide variety of landscapes and different terrains, all designed as homes for African animals. Since animal behavior is unpredictable, you never know which animals you’ll see on your safari. This makes it a different experience each time you take the journey!

For the list-makers, some of the 34 species roaming about include giraffes, hippos, wildebeests, elephants, antelope, impalas, gazelles, crocodiles, lions, rhinos, and cheetahs! Your guide will point out which animals are visible as you drive through and provide facts about them. Like the Jungle Cruise, this ride is different every time as your guide’s information is unique to your trip.

To maximize the number of species you may be able to spot on your safari, the Imagineers have taken a few steps to encourage them to appear. Water holes, forage areas, and salt licks are placed in spots that “tempt” animals to be in sight near your path when your safari truck passes along.

Bonus fact: the rocks in the preserve can provide the animals with air conditioning during extreme heat. They can also be heated when it gets colder than it should be for the animals.

3. It’s Real, Which Means It’s Not Perfect

“I don’t want the public to see the world they live in while they’re in the park. I want them to feel they’re in another world.” – Walt Disney

Kilimanjaro Safaris is intended to be as realistic as possible to an actual safari. The entire experience is designed to help you feel as if you’re on the real thing. Truth be told, it accomplishes this goal very nicely.

However, as a consequence of the devotion to making the experience as real as possible, the roads are bumpy! As you travel through the preserve, you can be guaranteed that you’ll hit some potholes and bumps in the path that will cause your safari truck to bounce and lurch around.

Bonus fact: The ride vehicles for Kilimanjaro Safaris are custom-built trucks. They aren’t attached to a track or predetermined route of any sort. Your guide is actually driving the truck over the rough terrain. They do their best to miss any really bad dips and divots in the road, but there’s only so much room to maneuver on the paths.

As you attempt to take photos, it’s important for you to know that the vehicle isn’t guaranteed to stop at any given location. Drivers will try to accommodate guests and stop the truck when animals are visible from the path, but be prepared to click your shutter without having time to frame the perfect shot. I have a whole roll of film (yeah, it was a while ago) of blurry images as we tried our best to take pictures of wildebeests or lions to no avail.

For the best possible pictures, sit toward the outside of the seats (and Cast Members will probably recommend that little ones be seated on the inside). Even though both sides offer views of the animals, the left side is considered the best by some.

4. The Queue is a Sharp Contrast

“Whenever I go on a ride, I’m always thinking of what’s wrong with the thing and how it can be improved.” – Walt Disney

I’m totally guessing that Walt would have suggestions to improve the queue area for Kilimanjaro Safaris. To be honest, there’s not a lot to see as you wait in what is a really long queue. At one point, you pass through the “booking office.” It made me think about the plethora of details in the Jungle Cruise queue area “office.” I wished that something with similar interest and fun had been done here at the very least.

In the final stretch of your line, overhead screens show clips about the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. Frankly, there’s not a lot else to see as you wait. And because it’s an open-air queue, it’s not all that comfortable on a hot, humid Florida day despite the overhead fans.

One improvement has been made to the attraction, at least in my opinion. The earliest script for the safari included a plotline about poachers. The experience could be a little intense – even a bit scary – at times. I remember in particular one part that involved crossing a rickety bridge that appeared to almost collapse while we were on it. Honestly, I didn’t mind when either of these parts of the story were removed.

5. The Nuts and Bolts

Kilimanjaro Safaris is located at the rear of the Africa section in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. The ride lasts 20 minutes, plus or minus. Bonus fact: It’s the longest ride in the parks that’s not a movie or show.

The safari trucks are open-air vehicles, providing you with the widest possible range of vision. Each can hold 35 guests with 3-5 guests in a row. As you might expect, the seats aren’t easy chairs and consist of a slightly padded bench with a back.

To board, you have to take a small step up into the vehicle. There are no height restrictions for Kilimanjaro Safaris. Guests in an ECV must transfer to a standard wheelchair.

There are some significant health advisories for Kilimanjaro Safaris. Disney advises that for safety, you should be in good health and free from high blood pressure, heart, back, or neck problems, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure. Expectant mothers should not ride. The reason for all of these is the previously discussed bumpy terrain.

Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of Animal Kingdom’s busiest attractions, along with Expedition Everest and the two Pandora attractions. Waits diminish in the late afternoon, sometimes as early as 3:30 p.m. The ride does operate when it’s raining, if possible, but it may close if the weather takes a turn for the worse.

To make the safari accessible to as many as possible, the following aids are available from Guest Services with a refundable deposit: Handheld Captioning , Video Captioning , Assistive Listening Devices, and Audio Description Devices .

Lastly, Lightning Lane via Genie+ is available.

The Bottom Line

Walt said, “You can design and create, and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it takes people to make the dream a reality.”

We think the Imagineers totally succeeded here. Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World author, Bob Sehlinger, agrees, saying: “Having traveled in Kenya and Tanzania, I can tell you that Disney has done an amazing job of replicating the sub-Saharan east-African landscape. As on a real African safari, what animals you see, and how many, is pretty much a matter of luck. We’ve experienced Kilimanjaro Safaris more than 100 times and had a different experience on each trip.”

How many times have you taken the safari? Which animals were you most excited to see? Let us know in the comments below. Asante!

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Bob Jacobs lives in Wisconsin where he retired as Editorial Director for a well-known catalog company. He and his wife Cristie have four children, seven grandchildren and a cocker spaniel named Penny the Dog. They’ve visited Walt Disney World regularly since 1992.

2 thoughts on “ Five Things to Know About Kilimanjaro Safaris ”

This will be my frist time on the safari at Disney world I’m so excited about the ride and I can’t wait to ride it and I love the African aminals because I’m part African

If you enjoy the Safari, I would also recommend doing the Wild Africa Trek to anyone that has a chance to do so! This experience was fantastic and goes into places that the Safari doesn’t and is a much more “up close and personal” tour of the area.

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Animal Kingdom Kilimanjaro Safari Ride

By: Author Kristi

One of the top 5 attractions in Animal Kingdom is Kilimanjaro Safari. This is an open-air safari that takes guests on a trip through the 110-acre Harambe Wildlife Reserve. What is amazing about the Animal Kingdom safari is that you get close to animals in their natural environment.

Kilimanjaro Safari

The Kilimanjaro Safari is a 20-minute ride in an open-air truck. The truck has bench seating and if you have a party of less than 5 you will all be able to sit together in one row.

The best seats are always the outside seats. Either side will provide a great view of the wildlife, but I always prefer to sit on the far left.

The safari takes you on a ride through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. This part of Animal Kingdom is the largest in all of Disney World.

 At 110 acres, it is larger than all of Magic Kingdom.

Animals are sectioned off into different areas of the reserve and your Animal Kingdom Safari driver will explain different animals and their habitats as you approach them.

There is also a spotting guide posted at the front of the seating area.

The key about enjoying the Kilimanjaro safari ride is to have low expections.

You never know which animals you are going to see. Some animals might be hiding or sleeping during your time in the reserve.

The animals you will see are free roaming. This means they could be up close to your vehicle or farther away.

You may find that your vehicle even has to stop to let animals pass!

How to Avoid Lines for Kilimanjaro Safari

The lines for the ride can be ridiculously long. If you don’t want to wait in a long line, the best things to do are either ride it when you arrive at the park or get a Lightning Lane pass for it.

If you do have to stand in the line, it is covered and shaded with fans located sporadically.

When is Best time to Ride the Kilimanjaro Safari?

Each time you go on the Animal Kingdom Safari you can have a different experience. This is because animals have different eating and sleeping schedules throughout the day.

Some believe that best time to go on the Kilimanjaro Safari is first thing in the morning or before dusk. We have done the safari both morning and afternoon.

What I can tell you is that we saw animals up close both times, but often they were different animals.

During the summer in the late afternoon, we saw an amazing amount of wildlife, but certain animals (like the lions) were in the shadier areas where they are not easily visible from the safari vehicle.

Semi Private Safari Tours in Animal Kingdom

If you want an even closer experience with the animals in Animal Kingdom, you can always pay for a semi-private tour. These are a few that you can choose from:

Wild Africa Trek Tour

If you are a big fan of Kilimanjaro Safari, you should consider the Wild Africa Trek Tour . On this private tour, you will embark on a guided expedition that takes you up close with exotic wildlife species.

This tour is only available to children 8 and older. You will get a private safari ride and photo CD.

Caring for Giants

During this 60-minute experience, get to meet with those who care for the African elephant herd. They’ll give you a glimpse into their day-to-day responsibilities as they provide fascinating facts about the elephants.

While you will not get to touch them, you will get closer to them than any other place in the park.

Up Close with Rhinos

On this hour-long guided adventure, the rhinos’ keepers will take you to see these massive creatures as few people ever do.

You will learn about the species’ behavior and biology and discuss the challenges that threaten populations of white Rhinos in the wild.

Have you been on Kilimanjaro Safari? What was your favorite part of the trip?

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The Best Time to go on Kilimanjaro Safaris

by Chad Kennedy | Published on Aug 6, 2018 | Last updated Aug 22, 2023 | Animal Kingdom , Parks

Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of Animal Kingdom’s most popular rides and a unique Disney World experience, taking you on a journey to see some of Africa’s amazing wildlife. With so many different areas and animals on the safari, it can be hard to see them all in one ride. Choosing the right time of day will give you the best chance to see as many animals as possible.

This really is one of the most unique and entertaining rides Disney World has to offer. That’s why it’s high on my list of 110 Disney World Must Do’s .

What is the best time to go on Kilimanjaro Safaris?

The best time to go on Kilimanjaro Safaris is first thing in the morning or right at sundown. Certain animals are more active during specific times of the day or even at night, so choosing a time close to sunrise or sunset is best for animal activity with enough sunlight for you to comfortably see.

I’ve been on Kilimanjaro Safaris more times than I can count. The beauty of the ride is that it’s always a different experience. There are just so many species of animals running around inside the preserve that it’s impossible to predict exactly where they’ll be at any given time. The large size of the preserve also factors in to the unpredictability.

P.S. – We also have a big list of Animal Kingdom tips and secrets . It’s extremely helpful for planning and getting the most out of your trip.

It’s worth noting that Central Florida gets very, very hot, especially during summer afternoons. Many animals will take this hottest time of day as an opportunity to relax and escape the sun. On the flip side, some animals are simply more likely to make their way to the water during the hottest hours.

It’s almost impossible to pinpoint the perfect time to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris, but from my personal experience, your safest bet will usually be early or late in the day. My best advice would be to enjoy the ride at several different times. You’ll be surprised at how different one safari ride can be from another.

All that said, don’t stress yourself too much over timing. There may be “optimal” times to enjoy the ride, but there isn’t a “bad” time. These animals are accustomed to people and many drivers will tell you that the animals will often “show off” for the tour. You’ll get to see plenty of action no matter what time of day you choose to ride.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Tips

• Ride first thing in the morning:  A morning ride is good for two reasons. First, the animals tend to be a little bit more active early in the morning. Second, you’ll avoid peak wait times. Kilimanjaro Safaris is very popular and wait times are often very high from 11:00 AM until 4:00 PM.
• Ride right at sunset:  A sunset ride is great for seeing animals. Many of the animals start moving around a little more as the sun starts to go down. This time of day strikes a nice balance between active animals and enough daylight for good visibility.
• Ride late at night:  Even though the darkness can limit your overall visibility, nighttime is one of my favorite times to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris. It’s worth noting that nighttime rides are only available with special tours, which makes it even more exciting. Many areas of the preserve are partially lit, so it’s not like you’re going to be totally blind. This is often the best time to see more activity from the lions and other somewhat nocturnal species.
• Don’t avoid the rain:  With Kilimanjaro Safaris, rain is usually your friend. Most of the animals love the rain and become far more active when it’s raining. So don’t avoid Animal Kingdom just because it’s raining. The Safaris’ trucks have large roofs, so don’t worry too much about getting wet. If you want to stay totally dry and comfortable, simply come equipped with some good rain gear. (Click to see some of our rain gear recommendations)
• Sit on the left side of the truck:  Many of the best areas on the safari will be seen off the left side of the truck. You can’t always control where you end up, so don’t worry about it too much if you can’t get to the left side. But if you can, try to put yourself in a position to slide all the way to the left side of the truck. Keep in mind that you’ll be entering your truck row from the right side of the vehicle.
• Don’t forget your camera: If there is a Disney World ride that’s especially awesome for photography, it’s Kilimanjaro Safaris. Make sure to bring a good camera, like the ones we recommend in our Disney World Gear Guide . There are so many cool opportunities to get interesting, unique shots during the ride. A camera with a good zoom lens and image stabilization will be a big help to you while you try to capture the perfect moments.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Highlights

• Lions:  It’s not surprising that the lions are the most popular part of Kilimanjaro Safaris. The problem is that, like most cats, they sleep a lot. Rides during the early morning, dusk, and especially nighttime will give you the best chance to see the lions up and about.
• Elephants:  In my experience, seeing the elephants is usually the most hit or miss part of the ride. Sometimes they are all right out in the open. Other times they are nowhere to be found. They are one of the most interesting animals in the preserve and it’s fun to watch them play in the water.
• Giraffes:  The giraffes are one of the least timid animals on the preserve. They’re also one of the most reliable species on the ride. You’ll almost always see a big group of giraffes interacting with each other, often very close to the truck.
• Cheetahs:  The cheetah enclosure has a fairly heavy amount of foliage, making it somewhat difficult to see the cheetahs if they aren’t walking around. If the cheetahs are up and about, they’re usually pacing around in the front of the exhibit and you shouldn’t have a problem spotting them.
• Black and white rhinos:  The rhinos are one of the most interesting animals in the more “open” part of the safari. The areas they inhabit allow you to get a better view than many of the other popular animals. If you’re lucky, you’ll have a chance at seeing a rhino extremely close to the truck.
• Hippos:  You’ll see the hippos early on in the ride. They’re most often sitting still in the water, but it’s really cool to see them when they are walking around outside of the water.
• Ostriches:  The ostrich is one of the more comical animals running around in the open part of the safari. I’ve been on the ride a number of times where an ostrich came very close to the truck for and gave everyone a show.

This was very helpful for our trip planning! I’ve read lots of basic things about this attraction, but this gave me more insight to help plan. My kids are the most excited about seeing the animals. Thank you.

Thanks Jill! Kilimanjaro Safaris is definitely one of the “can’t miss” rides at Animal Kingdom (and at Disney World in general). There’s really not a bad time to ride, but it’s always nice to avoid some of the peak crowds and have the best shot at seeing more animals. No two trips through the Harambe Preserve are the same, so you’ll almost always have something unique that stands out from ride to ride.

What is the latest time to ride the safari in June? My family will be eating dinner at Boma at 6:45 and will go to Animal Kingdom for Rivers of Light. We hope to ride the Safari before Rivers of light at 9:15 (using fast pass).

Hey Morgan!

To my knowledge, Disney hasn’t released the official June hours for Kilimanjaro Safaris yet, but I would guess that it would operate until 8:30PM. My advice would be to check into Boma 15 minutes early (or earlier, if they’ll allow it). That way, you’ll give yourself a little bit of extra time. If you can make it to Animal Kingdom by 8:00, I think you’d probably be safe to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris and still make it to your Rivers of Light FastPass. Try to find a FastPass for Kilimanjaro Safaris in the time slot before Rivers of Light!

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9 Awesome Facts & Secrets About Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of our all time favourite attractions at Walt Disney World. We love it so much we rated it 5/5 in our Animal Kingdom attractions guide . With that in mind, here are 9 awesome facts about one of Disney’ most beloved and ambitious rides.

#1 Walt Disney Inspired Kilimanjaro Safaris

While it might seem incredibly unlikely, Walt Disney himself actually played a part in the creation of Kilimanjaro Safaris.

The first plans for the Jungle Cruise actually included real animals but it was quickly discovered that they would be far too unpredictable for the kind of attraction Disney wanted to deliver to park guests.

Fast forward to when Disney’s Imagineers were planning Animal Kingdom and Walt’s original dream became a reality.

#2 That’s One Big Attraction

Kilimanjaro Safaris is the biggest Disney park attraction in the world. Don’t believe us? You could fit the entire Magic Kingdom park in Kilimanjaro Safaris quite comfortably!

Kilimanjaro Safaris is 110 acres whereas the entire Magic Kingdom park comes in at 107 acres. Disney were not messing about with animal welfare when it came to designing this attraction.

The attraction itself makes up 20% of the entire Animal Kingdom park.

#3 The Lion Feels the Breeze Tonight

Though they aren’t always completely visible, the Lions in Kilimanjaro Safaris would be even less visible if it wasn’t for a bit of clever engineering from Disney.

The rocks in which the Lions hang around on for much of the day are actually air conditioned! The Lions originally came from a much cooler zoo in Oregon so Disney had to install air-con into the rock formation. Better yet, if it gets cold they can heat up so the lions can be comfortable all year round!

#4 Every Animal Needs to Rest

At the end of every day, animals throughout the attraction are called in to rest in their enclosures for the night. Each animal has been specially trained to respond to a different sound.

A few examples of this include crocodiles responding to a metal bar being hit underwater, elephants come in to the beat of a drum, giraffes for a cowbell and a duck call is used for the Thompson’s Gazelle.

#5 Free Roaming Animals

While every animal has set space to walk around in (you wouldn’t want the Lions in with the gazelles!), within their space they are free to walk wherever they wish.

That means that they have right of way, even to the Safari trucks that form part of the attraction. If an animal chooses to walk in front of a truck (has happened to us many times) then be thankful as it means you will be able to get up close with those cameras!

Spaces are controlled through a combination of chains in the ground (to stop animals crossing into another area), walls and even deep pits in the case of the lions.

#6 Fake Plastic Baobab Trees

Okay, not plastic but we wanted to sneak in a Radiohead reference… The famous Baobab trees that are scattered around Kilimanjaro Safaris are actually all fake and made of concrete. The real tree has a thick trunk and is very good at storing water during periods of drought.

There was a single real Baobab tree in Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Harambe Village but sadly it died during a cold winter a few years ago.

#7 Animals Are Kept Close to Park Guests

Though it would be almost impossible to see on the first few experiences of Kilimanjaro Safaris, Disney actually does a lot to make sure the animals wander as close to guests as possible.

In addition to the air-conditioned rocks we already covered, Disney tactically place hay, grass, salt licks and drinking water close to the roads in which the safari trucks travel. Some of these placements are obvious when you know to keep an eye out but others are really well hidden, how many can you spot on your next safari?

#8 Real Safari Trucks

A lot of guests simply assume that the cast members aboard the great big safari trucks are simply onboard for guest safety and that the attraction is all on a track. This is completely false.

Cast Members go through rigorous training to land the role on Kilimanjaro Safaris and all of the custom built GMC and Ford trucks are free roaming. It is essential that this is the case as on many occasions cast members have had to swerve off course to go round an animal that has decided to settle on the road.

Each night the safari trucks are driven off the road and into a lot where they can be assessed and serviced ready for the next day.

#9 Timing is Everything

Though it is fair to say animals can be seen no matter what time of day Kilimanjaro Safaris is ridden, there are times of day where the animals are most active.

Early in the mornings, just after Disney’s Animal Kingdom has opened, can be a great time to experience the safari due to the cooler temperatures. In addition to this, the animals are all grazing on their breakfasts!

Disney introduced nighttime safaris in 2016 and this also offers a great time to see some of the animals who prefer to be active during the evening. These include Warthog, Hippo, Hyena and African Wild Dog.

Of course every safari is different and we can never guarantee that you will see great views of the animals on every trip.

Want more on Disney’s Animal Kingdom? Be sure to check out the rest of our Animal Kingdom guides .

Ryan has been attending theme parks since as long as he can remember and his first proper memory comes from when he was just three years old sitting in Main Street USA drinking a Nesquik milkshake from a carton while the piano was being played outside Casey’s Corner.

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THEN AND NOW: How Your Favorite Disney World Rides Have CHANGED Since They First Opened

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The more things change…

Walt Disney once famously said that “Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world,” and over the years, that has proven true for all of the company’s theme parks. In Walt Disney World’s 5+ decade history, the resort’s theme parks have seen plenty of changes, with new cutting edge attractions replacing old favorites. However, changes aren’t limited to replacements. Some of Disney World’s most iconic attractions are technically still there, but have changed a GREAT deal over the years.  

Pirates of the Caribbean  

There’s no denying that Pirates of the Caribbean has been one of Disney’s most popular attractions since the day the Disneyland original first opened in 1967. In fact, the ride wasn’t initially planned for Walt Disney World — Imagineers thought Florida audiences would find pirates mundane — and was quickly greenly and added to the park (at the expense of Marc Davis’s Western River Expedition) after many guests complained about the lack of pirates when the resort opened in 1971.  

However, despite that popularity, the ride has been changed considerably over the years. There have been TWO major instances of the ride being refurbished to line up better with modern cultural sensibilities. In 1997,   scenes of male pirates chasing women, was altered,   with two now showing pirates chasing the women in pursuit of food the women were carrying, and third reversing the scenario and featuring a woman chasing one of the pirates. In addition, the well-known “Pooped Pirate” who was exhausted from chasing a woman who was now hiding in a barrel behind   was recast as a “Gluttonous Pirate” in search of food, while the woman hiding in the barrel was replaced by a cat.  

The second major cultural change happened in 2017, when the bridal auction scene was altered. The redheaded captive who was previously being auctioned off by the pirates was changed to a pirate herself, who was helping the auctioneer sell off the stolen belongings of the townspeople.

Pirates other big change wasn’t inspired by cultural sensitivity, but rather box office success. In 2006, after the massive success of the P irates of the Caribbean film series based on the attraction, Disney added animatronics of Johnny Depp’s Captain Jack Sparrow as well as other elements of the films to the ride, altering its plot considerably and tying it to the cinematic narrative.  

Spaceship Earth

EPCOT’s iconic attraction has seen several major changes over the years, with major updates in 1986, 1994, and 2007.  

The initial version of the attraction was narrated by actor Vic Perrin, and featured a large space station final featuring astronauts at the top of the sphere. This version was updated in 1986, with new narration from Walter Cronkite and additional scenes including a “paperless office” and a young boy working on a computer added near the end. The first half of the ride remained mostly unchanged.

Spaceship Earth was refurbished again in 1994, headlined by new narration from Jeremy Irons. Once again, the first half of the ride remained mostly unchanged, while the second was changed drastically. Three scenes, including the two added in 1986, were replaced by a new single new scene depicting a boy and girl using the Internet to video call between America and Japan. The space station and astronauts were removed from the climax, and the descent was also overhauled with new scenes depicting communication of the future.  

Finally, the most recent Spaceship Earth refurbishment was completed in late 2007. New narration was provided by Judi Dench, a new musical score by Bruce Broughton and new “costumes, lighting, projections, props and audio-animatronic figures.” Several scenes were changed, including the former Greek play becoming a mathematics lesson, and the aforementioned video call between the boy and girl with new scenes depicting the creation of mainframe computers and the personal computer, with vague reference to Apple specifically. On the descent, an interactive touch screen system was installed in the ride vehicles that allowed riders can choose their vision of the future.   A major refurbishment was scheduled for the early 2020s, but was canceled in the fallout of the Pandemic.  

Journey Into Imagination

Speaking of ECPOT, the park is the site of arguably Disney’s most controversial ride refurbs of all time: The saga of Journey into Imagination.  

In March of 1983, Journey into Imagination (which was supposed to open with the rest of the park in 1982, but was hit with delays) opened at EPCOT to widespread acclaim. The attraction followed the affable Dreamfinder and his sidekick Figment on a journey through the very concept of imagination. The ride was hugely popular, and Figment became the mascot of the park in many ways.  

The ride was still a fan-favorite heading into the new millennium, but then-sponsor Kodak wanted a new ride. So, the attraction was refurbished — AKA gutted and shortened considerably — into Journey into YOUR Imagination. The new attraction did away with both Dreamfinder and Figment, replacing them with a story about the Imagination Institute tied to Honey I Shrunk the Audience. The ride was, to put it mildly, unpopular. In fact there was so much outrage that the ride closed within two years.  

Journey into YOUR Imagination was retooled into Journey into Imagination with Figment. The are attraction is still a shadow of the original, but does feature heavy does of Figment and has bene a presence at EPCOT since it opened since 2002. That said, we would love to see another update — possibly with the return of Dreamfinder — in the future.  

Hollywood Studios

When Disney’s Hollywood Studios first opened in 1989 as the Disney/MGM Studios, the theme park portion of it was actually viewed as secondary to the fact that it was a real functioning film and animation studio. In fact, the park’s two premiere attractions at opening were the Backlot Tour and the Magic of Disney Animation studio tour. The entire development was part of Disney’s plan to turn Orlando into a “Hollywood of the East” (and, depending what theme park urban legend you believe, possibly Michael Eisner’s way of sticking it to Universal).  

By the time the park’s name changed Hollywood Studios in early 2008, it was literally just a studio in name only. These days, the park is defined by massive IP-based lands like Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land , with any hints of its studio past being few and far between,  

Speaking of the Studios park, one of its first major non-studio attractions was the Walt Disney World version of Star Tours . The simulator ride set in the Star Wars galaxy, which was already a classic at Disneyland, remained unchanged for over 20 years, despite promises from George Lucas that the ride film would be updated. Finally, in 2010, the ride was closed for a refurbishment and reopened as Star Tours: The Adventure Continues. The new version features interchange scenes that combine to create hundreds of possible ride experiences. Disney continues to add new scenes to the attraction to this day.  

Kilimanjaro Safaris

The biggest appeal of the Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction at Animal Kingdom is the reality of it. The realistic African setting, the real animals, the unplanned interactions, etc. Which makes it even stranger that Disney initially had a contrived poaching storyline as part of the attraction, complete with animatronic animals! The storyline was eventual phased out of the attraction, and it’s all the better for it.  

These are just SOME of the Walt Disney World attractions that have changed drastically over the years. Stay tuned to AllEars for more Walt Disney World history.  

Disney Guests Share the Part of Disney World History THEY Would Like to Visit

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Which of these Walt Disney World changes is your favorite? How about least favorite? Let us know in the comments below.  

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• Family Safari Escapes: Discovering the Best National Parks in Tanzania

Planning a Family Escapade in Tanzania — A vast country, much like the vastness of its national parks. 

Moreover, it is a top destination for incredible family safaris. Where families can enjoy the thrill of adventure and become one with nature & wildlife, the different regions will offer you as many surprises as each other. 

During your family trip to Tanzania, you have a golden chance to immerse in the beauty of the wild and forge lasting connections with the natural world. How exciting is that?

The Marvels of Tanzania’s National Parks:

Few places can offer such varied and intensely beautiful scenery as Tanzania’s National Parks. Tanzania has 22 national parks managed by TANAPA(Tanzania National Parks Authority), including renowned names like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, harboring species from African elephants to elusive leopards and giraffes. 

These parks are wildlife sanctuaries that significantly conserve the country’s rich biodiversity, containing more than 20% of Africa’s large mammal population.

Also contributing to Tanzania’s economy through eco-tourism by attracting global visitors to an annual spectacle involving millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other animals migrating journeying across the plains, sustaining a delicate balance of predator-prey life chain and serving as a natural marvel.

Can’t read now? Pin for later!

Navigating Family Safari Planning:

Tarangire national park , serengeti national park, ngorongoro conservation area, ruaha national park, selous game reserve, mount kilimanjaro national park, faqs about tanzania and its national parks.

Ensuring everything goes smoothly for a successful family adventure where everyone has a fantastic time. 

But how do you make it awesome? 

First, consider when you want to go on your safari adventure. You’ll want to aim for the dry seasons, usually between June & October or from December to Feb. During these times, the weather is just right, and the animals are near water sources, making it easier to spot them.

Now, about the weather in the big parks up north, like Serengeti, Tarangire, and Manyara have a warm high-altitude climate about 1,500 meters above sea level. Hence, it’s pretty warm but not too hot. Jan, Feb, and March are the hottest months which could be perfect if you see animals in action during the warmer times. But watch out for April – it’s the rainiest month. On the flip side, August is the driest.

So we’ve got the timing down. Let’s move on to something more important: keeping everyone healthy and comfy. You’ll want to sort out your transportation and make sure you’ve got any needed health precautions covered. This might include vaccinations or medications to stay safe and sound during your adventure.

And speaking of adventure, you’ll want to ensure you’ve got the right tour operator and safari guide to make your experience top-notch. Safari companies are experts at ensuring families like yours have a fantastic time. They know how to plan things just right so that everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, has a blast and creates memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Tanzania’s Best National Parks For Family Safaris

Tarangire is recognizable because it is made up of forests of acacias and giant baobabs, with huge areas of marshland. During the dry season, you can admire beautiful landscapes. The land is red and dusty & the grass is parched and yellow, and the Tarangire River is very narrow. 

On the contrary, the plains are green during the rainy season, with an imposing river and many animals regaining their strength.

This park’s no joke – it’s 2,600 square kilometers of animal-packed adventure, especially between August and January. And here’s the scoop: Tarangire is the place to be if you’re looking for critters that are a bit trickier to find in other northern parks. 

Come June, this place will become the hangout spot for elks, oryxes, elephants, wildebeests, and zebras. They all gather around the river and the marshes to quench their thirst. And you won’t believe your eyes when you see elephants digging for water underground, using their hefty paws! It’s quite a sight to see!

Let’s get one fact straight: Serengeti’s wet season means fewer animals, except in the south, where the real action happens. 

Driving in from Ngorongoro, it’s like stepping into a grassy savannah sprinkled with kopjes – those fancy granite rock formations. Venture a bit, and you’ll hit greener acacia savannah. Head north, and it’s all about hills. On the flip side, the Western Corridor, crisscrossed by rivers, spreads out to Lake Victoria.

May to June is a show-stopping period. That’s when the jaw-dropping wildebeest migration hits the stage. Imagine over a million of these creatures embarking on a great migration over 800 km from Tanzania to Kenya’s Maasai Mara , perfectly in tune with the rain’s rhythm. A staggering 2 million wildebeests and 300,000 zebras gather for a parade, making herds that stretch as far as 40 km. 

Serengeti isn’t just a park; it’s a world-class zoo sprawled over 14,763 km² and home to Big 5 “Lions, leopards, elephants, black rhinos, and buffaloes”. 

Ngorongoro is known for its volcano, gigantic crater, and thriving wildlife scene. The Ngorongoro Crater Protected Area is over 2 million years old and around 20 km in diameter. Also, the historic Olduvai Gorge is just 40km from the crater, where traces of humanity’s earliest days are found.

In Ngorongoro, prepare for a rich and diverse range of creatures. The Big 5, antelopes, cheetahs, and endangered black rhino – we’re talking around 30,000 animals. And also have over 400 bird species, including the elegant pink flamingos. Keep your eyes open for jackals, hyenas, and cheetahs.

And if you plan a family safari around July-August, you’ll enjoy some cool temperatures on the caldera’s edges. But remember, Ngorongoro is not only just a crater; it’s part of the grand Ngorongoro Protected Area, And it’s quite the tourism hub, hosting around 400,000 visitors annually.

The Ruaha River sustains the diverse animal community in Ruaha Park, which flows through its heart. This thriving community includes African elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, lions, hyenas, cheetahs, leopards, and the world’s third-largest population of wild dogs. 

Ruaha is a hidden gem, not famous like other parks, but its reputation is rising. It remains a safari secret. You won’t have to battle huge crowds here, even during the peak/high season. Plus, it’s budget-friendly compared to more popular parks like the Serengeti.

And here you can also go for the walking safaris. But remember minimum age required for a walking safari is 16.

Nyerere National Park, previously called Selous Game Reserve, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Africa’s largest national park. 

You can witness the unusual annual elephant migration as thousands of these majestic elephants cross the river. Also, you can take part in walking safaris, spot African wild dogs, and go on Elephant Migration Boat Safaris for memorable adventures.

Plan your visit between late June and October for prime wildlife viewing or from November to March to enjoy bird watching. Wildlife in the park ranges from elephants, African wild dogs, sables, kudus, &  waterbucks to hippos and crocodiles.

Nyerere National Park is a haven of nature and offers easy access to attractions like Zanzibar and Dar Es Salaam. It’s an excellent destination for an incredible adventure.

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park stands as a remarkable destination for an unforgettable family safari. Encompassing an expansive area of approximately 755 square miles, the park in Northeastern Tanzania shares a border with Kenya. 

The park’s star attraction, Mount Kilimanjaro, is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. Known as the rooftop of Africa, it is the highest mountain (freestanding) in the world. Families need not be seasoned climbers to experience its splendor. Guided walks along various trails allow all family members to soak in the breathtaking scenery and the stunning views of the surrounding plains.

Besides its majestic mountain, the national park boasts a diverse array of animal species. Families can catch glimpses of elusive leopards, playful colobus monkeys, as well as antelopes, gazelles, lions, rhinos, and elephants. 

Bird enthusiasts will be captivated by the dazzling spectacle of migratory birds, their vibrant colors brightening the park. Non-migratory species, including soaring eagles and graceful flamingos, grace the skies around Kilimanjaro, creating a spectacle that is truly unique.

The park is also home to a variety of activities and attractions. While some trails are designed for more experienced hikers, others are tailored to casual walkers or wheelchair access. Families can explore an array of caves, visit traditional villages, enjoy cultural tours, or just relax in one of the many lodges located within the park.

Tanzania is home to 22 national parks. Each park offers visitors a chance to experience the country’s unique wildlife, landscapes, and culture. The most famous of all the parks is Kilimanjaro National Park – famed for its iconic mountain peak – while others such as Serengeti National Park are renowned for their vast savannah plains and provide one of the best opportunities for game viewing. 

The beauty of Tanzania’s parks is hard to measure. Each park has something unique to offer and is worth exploring. However, many visitors cite Serengeti National Park as the most beautiful. It is renowned for its breathtaking views, abundant wildlife, and wide-open plains.

Visitors can also explore Tarangire National Park for its acacia-filled savannah and incredible bird watching. Another popular destination is Selous Game Reserve, which is home to the world’s largest population of African elephants. Ultimately, visitors should explore each park for themselves to determine what makes it most beautiful. 

The largest national park in Tanzania is Nyerere National Park, previously called Selous Game Reserve. Spanning over 55,000 square kilometers (21,000 sq mi), it is the largest protected wildlife area in Africa and one of the largest unfenced reserves in the world.

The park is known for its abundant African wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, antelope, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and more. Nyerere National Park offers a unique experience for visitors, where they can immerse themselves in the untouched African bush. 

The least visited national park in Tanzania is Ruaha National Park. Located in south-central Tanzania, Ruaha is a relatively remote and untouched park that offers visitors an opportunity to explore the vast wilderness of East Africa.

The best time to travel to Tanzania is during the dry season, which typically runs from late June through October. During this period, temperatures are mild and the chances of rain are low, making it perfect for safaris and exploring the country’s national parks.

The warmest months are December through February, but these can also be very wet and humid. April and May are also good months to visit, since temperatures are more moderate. 

The best time of year to go on safari in Tanzania is during the dry season, which typically runs from late June through October. This period offers the best combination of ideal weather conditions and prime game viewing opportunities. Days are hot but not too humid, while evenings can be cool.

Wildlife sightings are more frequent during this period due to less vegetation cover and the animals coming to the waterholes more often. Additionally, the dry season coincides with calving season for antelope, which makes it a great time to view baby wildebeests and zebras! 

Tanzania is a very popular and sought-after destination for tourists due to its rich history, diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and unparalleled wildlife. It is home to 22 national parks and numerous game reserves that are filled with an amazing array of animals such as lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, buffalos, cheetahs,  and more.

The country also boasts some of the world’s highest mountain peaks, including Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s tallest peak. Additionally, Tanzania is renowned for its welcoming people and vibrant cultures. From traditional Swahili villages to bustling cities like Dar es Salaam, there is something here for everyone! 

It really depends on what you want to do and see! If you’re just looking for a quick getaway, then three to five days will give you enough time to explore the country’s main attractions. However, if you’d like to go on safari, or dive deep into its history and culture, then seven days or longer is recommended. There’s so much to discover and experience in Tanzania, you won’t want your time there to end! 

Last Thoughts

As you plan your family’s visit to Tanzania, recognize the far-reaching impact of these national parks. By supporting responsible tourism and experiencing the parks firsthand, you create cherished memories and contribute to safeguarding these invaluable ecosystems for generations to come. Make sure you have a joyous and memorable family travel experience in Tanzania!

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Save on Rooms at Select Disney Resort Hotels This Fall and Holiday Season

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• Save up to 30% on rooms for stays most nights from November 24 to December 25, 2024
• Enjoy other savings for stays most Sunday to Thursday nights from October 6 to November 21, 2024

Plus, get FREE Park Hopper benefits when you take advantage of this offer and upgrade to a Walt Disney Travel Company room-and-ticket package that includes nondiscounted 4-day (or longer) date-based theme park tickets! With Park Hopper benefits, you can visit multiple theme parks each day of your ticket. Learn more about Park Hopper benefits .

This offer is valid for the Disney Resort hotels listed below. View the chart to explore savings.

Stay in the Magic!

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With Disney Resorts Collection, you can experience the same legendary detail, service and storytelling found in the theme parks. And you’ll discover enchantment around every corner.

Explore some highlights of staying at a Disney Resort hotel:

Early Theme Park Entry When you stay at a Disney Resort hotel, you can get 30 minutes early entry to any theme park on each day of your stay (subject to capacity)—so you can enjoy select attractions, shops and dining before regular park opening.

For early theme park entry, you’ll need a MagicBand, Disney MagicMobile service or a Key to the World Card, as well as valid admission. Theme park reservations may be required based on admission type. Learn more about theme park reservations .

Extended Evening Theme Park Hours When you stay at a Disney Deluxe Resort or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort, you’ll enjoy extended evening hours on select nights in select theme parks.

For extended evening hours, you’ll need a MagicBand, Disney MagicMobile service or a Key to the World Card, as well as valid admission. Theme park reservations may be required based on admission type. Learn more about theme park reservations .

Get Around with Ease Complimentary transportation options make it easy—and fun—to get around Walt Disney World Resort. Zip about on the world-famous monorail, glide across the sky on Disney Skyliner and cruise along serene waterways aboard a water taxi. Some Disney Resort hotels are even within walking distance of select theme parks.

Magic Around Every Corner Be immersed in fantastical worlds both real and imagined—including some favorite Disney and Pixar tales. Whether you’re taking in views of an African savanna, splashing into a whimsically themed pool or savoring the flavors of the Polynesian Isles, you’ll find fun and surprising Disney touches in every detail.

The fun is seemingly endless at a Disney Resort hotel, where you can enjoy themed pools with waterslides, poolside activities and delicious dining experiences. You may even spot some familiar Disney friends!

Activities and amenities vary by Disney Resort hotel.

Holiday Décor and More

Disney Resort hotels get decked out in seasonal style just in time for the holidays! Read More

Disney Resort hotels get decked out in seasonal style just in time for the holidays!

Each Disney Resort hotel is uniquely transformed with festive touches. Highlights include:

• Grand Christmas trees —inspired by some favorite Disney stories and locations—adorned with shimmering ornaments and twinkling lights
• Cheerful decorations and accents to spruce up the scene

Plus, be on the lookout for holiday treats during your stay—available at select dining locations and shops for a limited time.

Fun in the Theme Parks

When you add valid theme park admission, you can discover new experiences and classic favorites at Walt Disney World Resort. Read More

When you add valid theme park admission, you can discover new experiences and classic favorites at Walt Disney World Resort.

Theme Park Reservations To enter a theme park, a theme park reservation may be required based on admission type. Learn more about theme park reservations .

View the park reservation availability calendar .

• Embark on a culinary adventure around the world at EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival —from August 29 to November 23, 2024.
• Feel oh-so-jolly when you observe global holiday traditions shared by storytellers from around the world at EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays —from November 29 to December 30, 2024.
• Stroll along a lush trail where you can explore the wonders of water and discover its playful personality at Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana .
• Blast off on an intergalactic chase with Rocket, Groot, Gamora and Star-Lord on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind —a coaster inspired by the rockin’ movies.
• Board an ancient Norwegian vessel and be whisked away to the kingdom of Arendelle during Frozen Ever After .
• Meet some of your favorite Disney Characters at Mickey & Friends in CommuniCore Hall, a delightful new location at EPCOT.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

• Enjoy spirited holiday entertainment! Meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse dressed in holiday attire at Adventurers Outpost. Plus, check out the Merry Menagerie on Discovery Island, featuring artisan-sculpted puppets of reindeer, foxes, polar bears and other arctic animals—November 12 through late December.
• Celebrate the magic of nature at Pandora – The World of Avatar . Here, you can fly on the back of a banshee on Avatar Flight of Passage , hike amid floating mountains in the Valley of Mo’ara and take a mystical boat ride into a bioluminescent rainforest on the Na’vi River Journey .
• Set off in an open-air vehicle across a lush African savanna teeming with exotic animals on Kilimanjaro Safaris .
• Witness Finding Nemo : The Big Blue… and Beyond! —a vibrant stage show set in the underwater world of Finding Nemo .
• Behold Festival of the Lion King —a larger-than-life show filled with pageantry, puppetry and classic songs from The Lion King .
• Speed through the Himalayas on a runaway train while avoiding the clutches of the Yeti on Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain.

Magic Kingdom Park

• Get wrapped up in all things merry and bright, with holiday decorations and cheerful touches around the park from November 12 through late December. You won’t want to miss Frozen Holiday Surprise , a dazzling experience that will illuminate Cinderella Castle—featuring appearances from Elsa, Anna and other Frozen friends.
• NEW! Drop on in to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure —a new attraction where bayou thrills meet Disney magic! Join Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis as they traverse winding waterways in search of musical critters for a grand celebration during Mardi Gras season.
• Leave the real world behind for a high-stakes race across the Grid—the dark, computerized world from TRON —on TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise.
• Feast your eyes on a Happily Ever After , a nighttime fireworks spectacular featuring lights, lasers and special effects.
• Explore iconic attractions and experiences in 6 incredible lands—including Seven Dwarfs Mine Train , a swaying family coaster ride that will have you racing through a diamond mine.
• Be dazzled by music, dancing and vivid pageantry during the Festival of Fantasy Parade —a grand tribute to the tales and inhabitants of Fantasyland.
• Take off on an exhilarating coaster ride on Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad .
• Rediscover beloved classic Disney attractions such as Jungle Cruise and Haunted Mansion .

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Gaze in wonder as the Hollywood Tower Hotel is transformed with captivating holiday projections during Sunset Seasons Greetings —from November 12 through late December.
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• Hurtle up and down on a haunted elevator ride at The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™.
• Hear from Royal Historians of Arendelle and sing along to popular Frozen tunes during For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration . And starting November 12, 2024, enjoy a festive finale featuring Olaf the snowman.
• Watch in awe as a stunt team recreates thrilling movie moments during Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular .

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

The most magical holiday tradition returns to Magic Kingdom park on select nights from November 8 to December 20, 2024. Read More

The most magical holiday tradition returns to Magic Kingdom park on select nights from November 8 to December 20, 2024.

Holiday wishes come true when you celebrate the season with Mickey Mouse and pals at this separate-ticket event. With a ticket to this event, you can:

• Gather to watch Disney Characters give a yuletide nod to the season during Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade
• Behold fantastically festive entertainment, like Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show !
• Get the perfect picture with Disney pals dressed in their Christmas best
• Savor sweet moments as you enjoy cookies and cocoa —included with your event ticket no additional charge
• Walk in a winter wonderland as you witness a stunning “snowfall” on Main Street, U.S.A!
• Take in the cheerful decorations that bring the spirit of the season to life
• Enjoy iconic Magic Kingdom attractions —including some with a holiday twist

Early Purchase Opportunity for Disney Resort Hotel Guests Special event tickets can be purchased starting July 10, 2024—and Guests of Disney Resort hotels and other select hotels can purchase tickets early, beginning on July 2, 2024.

Tickets are limited and may not be available for purchase on the day of the event (or earlier).

More Information Learn more about Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party —including how to purchase tickets to this event.

Upgrade to a Select Package—and Get Park Hopper Benefits FREE

When you take advantage of this room offer and upgrade to a Walt Disney Travel Company room-and-ticket package that includes nondiscounted 4-day (or longer) date-based theme park tickets, you’ll get Park Hopper benefits FREE! Read More

When you take advantage of this room offer and upgrade to a Walt Disney Travel Company room-and-ticket package that includes nondiscounted 4-day (or longer) date-based theme park tickets, you’ll get Park Hopper benefits FREE!

With Park Hopper benefits, you can visit multiple theme parks each day of your ticket. Learn more about Park Hopper benefits .

How to Book a Package After selecting your room, simply add on theme park tickets to create your room-and-ticket package.

Once you’ve selected your theme park tickets, you’ll have the option to add a dining plan to your package. With a dining plan, you can enjoy the convenience and flexibility of prepaid meals and snacks during your Walt Disney World vacation.

Theme Park Reservations Theme park reservations may be required based on admission type. Learn more about theme park reservations .

For admission types requiring theme park reservations, be sure to check reservation availability prior to purchase. Availability of theme park reservations is limited, not guaranteed and subject to change.

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To book by phone, call (407) 939-5277† and speak with a vacation-planning expert. Or, contact your travel agent.

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• Valid admission is required to enjoy the theme parks and is not included unless you upgrade to a room-and-ticket package. Theme park reservations may be required based on admission type. Learn more about theme park reservations .

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A Ban on Elephant Hunting Has Collapsed. Or Maybe It Never Existed.

Five bulls from the area around a Kenyan wildlife reserve have been shot and killed in Tanzania in recent months.

By Shola Lawal

Reporting from Longido, Tanzania.

On the lush, rolling savannas that link northern Tanzania to Amboseli National Park in Kenya, foraging elephants move back and forth on a sloping landscape in the shadow of snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro.

The animals are accustomed to open-sided 4x4s full of tourists on the Kenyan side and seem to sense no danger from the visitors pointing phones. But what the animals probably do not know is that just across the border on the Tanzanian side, which for three decades was just as safe as the park, there are now people pointing guns, not cameras.

Since September, five bull elephants from a population centered around Amboseli have been shot and killed, most likely by trophy hunters, in the Tanzanian part of this wildlife corridor. At least two were so-called super tuskers, with tusks so long that they swept the ground.

There hasn’t been a similar cluster of rapid killings in the area since the mid-1990s. Conservationists say it points to a breakdown of a tacit agreement between the countries that banned hunting in the border zone.

It also highlights challenges the neighbors face in aligning different approaches to managing their shared wildlife heritage: Kenya forbids hunting and gets all its wildlife revenue through sightseeing. While wildlife spotting safaris are an important part of the Tanzanian economy, the country also permits wealthy tourists to shoot big game.

“This is heartbreaking for me,” said Cynthia Moss, an American zoologist monitoring the roughly 2,000 elephants in the Amboseli herd as director of the Amboseli Trust for Elephants. About 10 of Amboseli’s super tuskers are left, and an additional 15 or so remain across the Kenya, she said. “I know these elephants. I know how trusting they are.”

The killings have sparked an uproar in Kenya. In April, scores of leading conservationists wrote an open letter to the Tanzanian government demanding that the authorities ban hunting within 25 miles of the Kenyan border. Tanzanian officials have remained silent; government statements in the past have justified hunting on the grounds that it brings in millions of much-needed income.

Kaddu Sebunya, who heads the African Wildlife Foundation, a conservation organization based in Kenya, said it was unlikely that the elephants had been shot by poachers. He noted that there were no signs of an investigation by the Tanzanian authorities.

“If a poacher were to kill an elephant illegally at the same site, they would be dealt with by law,” he said. Tanzanian wildlife management officials, as well as Kenya’s wildlife service, did not respond to repeated requests for comments.

Elephant killings on the Tanzanian side three decades ago prompted similar anger and led to the announcement of a moratorium on hunting.

In December 1994, three Amboseli elephants were killed in quick succession near Longido, a town about nine miles from the border, prompting an outcry from Kenya. By May 1995, the Tanzanian authorities, under pressure from conservationists and scientists in Kenya and around the world, announced a nine-month ban on hunting in the area.

The moratorium, Tanzanian officials said, would be lifted once the two countries agreed to a clear, defined conservation area in talks.

That’s where things get muddy. While old newspaper clippings confirm that the ban was announced, it’s unclear whether talks were ever held or whether the nine-month restriction was ever lifted. No evidence appears to exist of any further action. But, for whatever reason, hunters had avoided the area until recently.

Ms. Moss and other conservationists in Kenya say there was an unspoken agreement between the two countries after the initial announcement, and it appears to have fallen apart. Experts say they don’t know why. Tanzanian conservation law has not changed.

Hunters, meanwhile, say the lack of clarity means the agreement simply did not exist.

Tanzania has about 60,000 elephants today, down from some 316,000 in 1978. In Kenya, about 35,000 remain, down from approximately 160,000 around the same time.

As a keystone species, elephants not only shape ecosystems for other wildlife — by creating watering holes with their tusks, for example, and dispersing seeds in their droppings — but their intelligence and sophisticated social structure mean violent deaths could traumatize surviving elephants and result in aggressive behavior .

The bigger, older bulls being targeted are considered crucial for reproduction, and also for transmitting culture and maintaining social order. Male elephants live mostly outside herds, and young bulls will sometimes spend time with older ones who pass on knowledge, like where to forage and where to go when the seasons change.

They also model behavior. One study found that an absence of older males can make younger bulls more aggressive .

According to Mr. Sebunya, super tuskers even help younger bulls understand which humans to avoid. “They tell them, ‘When you see these tourist vehicles, those are OK, But if you see other types of vehicles, those are problems,’” he said.

The first elephant lost in the recent wave, Gilgil, a 35-year-old who was killed in September, was one such big tusker.

Singling out elephants like Gilgil, Ms. Moss said, “takes away the natural elements of competition and survivorship, allowing younger, less tested, perhaps less vigorous, males to reproduce.”

Sporting groups, on the other hand, assert that hunting, when properly managed, can be a net positive in a poorer country like Tanzania. (GDP per capital in the country is about $1,200, according to the World Bank , compared with roughly $2,100 in Kenya.)

Zidane Janbeck and Quintin Whitehead, who run Kilombero North Safaris — which offers hunting trips for elephants, lions, leopards and other big game — say the company shares a percentage of its revenue with communities that own some of the hunting territory. (Kilombero said it paid the Enduimet Wildlife Management Area a total of $250,000 in 2023. Enduimet officials did not respond to a request for comment.)

In addition, human-elephant clashes are rising in Tanzania, in part because of the country’s rapidly growing rural population and also because of more frequent and more intense droughts in East Africa. But farmers are less likely to kill elephants that invade their fields, hunters say, if they know they’ll receive a share of hunting revenue.

And setting aside well-managed wilderness areas for hunting means less land will be razed for agriculture, they add.

Tanzania sets yearly quotas for animals to be hunted (50 elephants this year) and each hunting party must be monitored by an official.

Kilombero confirmed that it had hunted an elephant in the area where Gilgil’s carcass was found, his tusks removed, but denied it had killed a super tusker.

“We are guaranteeing you, we are conservationists, we’re not targeting big elephants,” Mr. Janbeck, who led the September hunt, said in a video interview. “We’re doing everything under the regulations in Tanzania. We’re backed up by the government. We have all the blessings from the local communities.”

In Longido, locals seem split.

On a recent weekday, a group of men gathered for late-evening drinks and weighed their stance on trophy hunting. As long as it’s legal, fine, one older man concluded. A soft-spoken younger man countered, saying killing for sport was not right.

But do the men benefit from hunting revenue? “No,” they all said in unison, shaking their heads. The authorities favor wild animals and sport hunters but abandon vulnerable farmers, they said.

“You have to take a loan to grow your farm and these elephants destroy it and we get nothing,” a farmer, Edward Masaki, 53, said in Swahili with a heavy frown.

“Right now I have men guarding my farms day and night with flashlights,” he said. “The annoying thing is, you can’t kill the animals when they attack.”

He was referring to a nationwide ban on wildlife killing that Tanzania has put in place to guard against poaching. Killing animals without a permit carries a stiff prison term: from three years to 30 years.

Meanwhile, conservationists across the border in Amboseli say they are waiting in dread, fearing news that another big tusker has been killed, even as they scramble to get a response from the Tanzanian government.

“All our pleas have landed on deaf ears,” Ms. Moss said. If the killings continue at the same pace, she said, Amboseli’s tuskers will be wiped out in two years, transforming the ecosystem in unprecedented and negative ways.

“A population that is hunted becomes unnatural because humans are choosing who should pass on his genes and who should not, who should live and who should die,” she said.

Shola Lawal was the 2019 Elizabeth Neuffer Fellow at the International Women’s Media Foundation. More about Shola Lawal