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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

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What Makes This Resort Hotel Unique

Exotic Animals

Discover over 30 species of African wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, gazelles, kudu and flamingos. Read More

Discover over 30 species of African wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, gazelles, kudu and flamingos. Identify each species with a Wildlife Field Guide (found in your Guest Room, with extras available from the Front desk), and learn more about African animals and ecosystems during fun programs led by Animal Specialists.

Award-Winning Dining

Savor vibrant African specialties and favorite American classics at our award-winning restaurants.

Pool with Waterslide

Escape to an 11,000-square-foot pool with an exciting waterslide and gently sloping, zero-depth entry point similar to that of a natural watering hole. Read More

Escape to an 11,000-square-foot pool with an exciting waterslide and gently sloping, zero-depth entry point similar to that of a natural watering hole. Surrounded by large canopy trees and Floridian palms, Uzima Pool includes a children’s wading pool and 2 whirlpool spas.

You can also cool off at Samawati Springs Pool, which offers a thrilling waterslide, 2 whirlpool spas and Uwanja Camp—an animal observation site-themed water playground with squirting Venus flytraps, a rope bridge, water cannons and more. Samawati Springs Pool is located just a short walk away at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village.

Learn more about recreation at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge.

Room Types Sure to Suit Your Style

Choose from a wide array of accommodations, from rooms and suites—some offering Concierge service—to home-like options in the villa section of the Resort. Read More

Choose from a wide array of accommodations, from rooms and suites—some offering Concierge service—to home-like options in the villa section of the Resort. All room types share the same Resort amenities, including pools, dining and recreation.

Room types offered at this Resort:

• Rooms and Suites (sleep up to 4 adults)
• Rooms and Suites with Club-Level Service (sleep up to 8 adults)
• Deluxe Studios (sleep up to 4 adults)
• Deluxe Studios with Club-Level Service (sleep up to 4 adults)
• 1-, 2- and 3-Bedroom Villas (sleep up to 12 adults)
• Villas with Club-Level Service (sleeps up to 5 adults)

Villas feature:

• A fully-equipped kitchen , so you can prepare meals and snacks from the comfort of your villa
• Spacious living and dining areas where your family can share even more quality time together after you return from the parks
• Separate bedrooms that offer space, privacy and tranquility – so it’s easy to rest, relax and recharge your spirit after each exhilarating vacation day
• A washer and dryer , so you can pack lightly and always have fresh, clean clothes

Studios and Deluxe Studios feature:

• A kitchenette , so you can prepare meals and snacks from the comfort of your studio
• A sleeper sofa , in addition to one queen bed and one pull-down bed

Deluxe Studios are larger than Studios.

Visit the Room Rates page to see what's available for your stay!

More Magic for Your Stay

A More Magical Stay Starts with "Hey Disney!”

The "Hey Disney!" voice assistant experience features tons of character fun plus a helpful host, who can order you extra towels and answer lots of your park questions.

Disney Signature Services

Guests staying in Club-level rooms and suites are eligible for personalized vacation-planning support.

Enhance Your Stay with the My Disney Experience App

Simplify your arrival, access your room and discover a world of fun with this helpful app. Read More

Simplify your arrival, access your room and discover a world of fun with this helpful app.

Be sure you have the latest version of the My Disney Experience app to enjoy these handy features during your stay.

Check In and Check Out with Ease

Enjoy a simplified arrival at your Disney Resort hotel! Use the app to begin the check-in process , view your room number and even unlock your door .

At the end of your stay, there’s no need to stop by the Front Desk if you have a valid payment card on file or a zero-dollar balance on your account. Instead, check out of your room via the app by visiting My Reservations or your Hotel Account.

Plan, Play, Dine and Unwind

There are many more ways to enhance your stay! With the app, you can:

• Make vacation plans during your stay—and review existing plans
• Enter the theme parks (with a valid park reservation and valid admission) using Disney MagicMobile service
• Order food and beverages with mobile order service
• Check park schedules
• Get directions
• Explore transportation options
• View your Disney PhotoPass photos

And that’s only the beginning!

Learn more about the My Disney Experience app .

Available for iPhone®, iPad® and smartphones for Android™. Message, data and roaming rates may apply. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first. Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone, and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google Inc .

Easier Trip Planning – Like Magic!

Once you’ve settled in, let Disney Genie service summon the attractions, entertainment and dining experiences you love the most. Plus, as a Disney Resort hotel guest get early access to purchase individual Lightning Lane entry for up to two different attractions each day.

View Rooms and Prices

Hotel Address

(407) 938-3000

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

View prices for your travel dates

• Excellent 5,135
• Very Good 2,042
• Average 781
• Terrible 184
• All languages ( 8,485 )
• English ( 7,683 )
• Spanish ( 276 )
• Portuguese ( 225 )

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DISNEY'S ANIMAL KINGDOM LODGE - Updated 2024

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Kid-Friendly

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Orlando, Central Florida, Florida, United States

• Full Review
• One of Disney’s Deluxe Resort Hotels, with incredible African-inspired decor
• Hotel is surrounded by four savannas, home to 30 species of African wildlife
• Safari lodge-like rooms with carved furniture and mosquito net canopies
• Most rooms have balconies that overlook one of the savannas
• Large zero-entry pool with a waterslide and tiny kiddy pool
• Two restaurants serving African and American cuisines
• Club Level includes lounge access and concierge service at the Kiliminjaro Club
• Arcade-style game room, kids' club, and an outdoor playground
• Disney perks like Extra Magic Hours and express luggage transport
• Large gift shop with Disney souvenirs and sundries
• Small gym and massage center
• 24-hour self-service laundry room
• Free parking and Wi-Fi
• Far from most Disney attractions
• No monorail or water taxi service -- Disney shuttle busses only
• Dining on-site without reservations is nearly impossible
• Front desk lines can be long (common at Disney hotels)
• Only one pool (most Deluxe Resort Hotels have multiple)

Bottom Line

Modeled after a traditional "kraal" (village), Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge brings a slice of Africa to Orlando. Surrounded by four massive savannas, this 972-room upscale hotel offers guests a hands-on safari experience. Balconies overlook zebra watering holes, safari guides are on-hand to explain the differences between gazelle species, and custom trucks give guests special access to giraffes, impalas, and wildebeest. Rooms are infused with authentic African decor and artwork, and the hotel’s top-notch amenities like a pool, multiple restaurants, and a fitness center, make it one of Disney’s best Deluxe properties. However, it’s at least a 10-minute drive from most Disney attractions, and there’s no monorail or water taxi service (only shuttle buses). The Grand Floridian offers more convenient transportation options, but it doesn’t have AKL’s intriguing African theme.

Hotel & Amenities Photos

Restaurants and Bars

Standard Room

Wading Pool

Fitness Center

Oyster awards.

• Best Luxury Hotels in Disney World, Orlando
• Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in Orlando
• Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in Disney World, Orlando
• Best Family Resorts in Florida
• Roller coasters, trapeze lessons, and more: Oyster's top kid-friendly hotel attractions
• Kid-Friendly Hotels in Disney World
• Great Hotel Rooms in Disney World

Oyster Hotel Review

What are the grounds and scene like at disney’s animal kingdom lodge, this african-themed disney property feels equally adult- and kid-friendly, with upscale safari decor, roaming animals, and multiple features. .

One of Disney’s most majestic hotel lobbies, the entryway at the Animal Kingdom Lodge is a sight to behold. Enormous lotus-shaped canvas chandeliers hang from a vaulted thatched ceiling, where skylights flood the room with natural light. Tribal relics hang from the walls, and a giant suspension bridge connects the upper floors. Cozy seating areas are arranged around kilim rugs, and carved armoires display glass-encased artwork. At the far end of the room, a floor-to-ceiling window offers sweeping views of the savannas.

Animal Kingdom Lodge’s thematic elements are immediately impressive (perhaps some of Disney’s best), but some travelers may find the theme over-the-top or gimmicky (those that do will probably feel out of step with any properties on Disney grounds). However, sticklers for authenticity will be happy to know that Disney infuses the property with plenty of African cultural elements. Guests will find illustrated Fante proverbs in their rooms, South African pap and bobotie at the breakfast buffet, and a stunning Igbo Ijele at the center of the lobby. The Igbo Ijele is a 16-foot tall Nigerian tribal mask, and only one of 380 museum quality art pieces found throughout the hotel. In fact, the Animal Kingdom Lodge houses the largest collection of African art outside of the continent.

Obviously, the Animal Kingdom Lodge is a family-friendly resort. Besides a large swimming pool and cool safari features, the hotel has a kids’ club, an arcade, and regularly scheduled kid-centric activities, like campfire s’mores making or African instrument lessons. But the hotel also appeals to adults -- especially animal lovers -- more than other Disney properties. Although there’s only one pool, while most Deluxe Resort Hotels have multiple, the one here is huge.

Where is Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Located in Orlando?

Across from animal kingdom, but at least a 10-minute drive from other disney attractions and 30-minute drive from orlando international airport.  .

Built in 2001, the Animal Kingdom Lodge is actually Disney’s newest property. Because of this, the hotel is located farther from Disney attractions than most of the other resorts on the Disney compound. However, it’s just across the street from the Animal Kingdom Theme Park. AKL doesn’t offer monorail or water taxi service, so guests relying on Disney transportation will have to use the shuttle buses (the slowest Disney transportation method). Though Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios are all within a 10- to 14-minute drive, it can take much longer to reach these parks via bus. Blizzard Beach is a quick four-minute drive from the property, while Typhoon Lagoon and Disney Springs are farther afield, at 12 and 14 minutes, respectively. Downtown Disney is a 15-minute drive or roughly 30 minutes via shuttle bus. Outside of Disney, Sea World is a 16-minute drive, Universal Studios is a 17-minute drive, and Orlando International Airport is a 30-minute drive.

What are the Rooms and Their Views Like at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge?

Rooms have safari-themed decor, standard disney amenities, and furnished balconies – most with savanna views..

Like the lobby, guest rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge have an African safari theme. Intricate wooden headboards feature symbolic tribal carvings and mosquito nets mimic the bed coverings of Southern Africa’s tented camps. Ghanaian woven baskets hang on the walls, along with illustrated Fante proverbs and wrought-iron sconces. Flat-screen TVs are housed in clawfoot armoires, and additional amenities include mini-fridges and single-cup coffeemakers. Closets are stocked with ironing equipment and key-operated safes. Bathrooms feature the classic Disney layout -- sinks and vanities in one room, shower/tub combos and toilets in another -- and decor is impressive. Custom wallpaper here depicts some of Africa’s most important sights, like Mt. Kilimanjaro, Victoria Falls, and Ngorongoro Crater. Beige granite and double sinks are nice touches, and the provided toiletries are the standard Disney products. All of AKL’s rooms have furnished balconies, many of which overlook one of the property’s four savannas (though some have views of the parking lot).

The majority of rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge are Standard Rooms with one king or two queen-size beds, although families with young children can also request a room with one queen bed and one bunk bed. Standard Rooms are subdivided by their views. Standard View Rooms comprise the entry-level category, and overlook the parking lot. Pool View Rooms (you guessed it) overlook the pool, but do not have savanna views. Savanna View Rooms are the hotel’s most expensive and most popular option. From the Savanna View Rooms, guests can spot wildlife roaming the grounds at all hours. For some travelers, this is a priceless feature, for others it’s a pointless upgrade, considering the hotel has dozens of communal wildlife viewing decks across the property.

Like other hotels in Disney’s Deluxe category, Animal Kingdom Lodge has a private Club Level. The Club Level rooms offer access to a private lounge that serves continental breakfast, snacks, and drinks throughout the day. Club-level guests also receive personal check-in and concierge service, which can be a particularly nice perk, considering the hotel’s typically long front desk lines. Besides Standard Rooms, the Club Level also offers one- and two-bedroom suites.

What’s the Pool Like at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge?

The huge freeform pool has a waterslide, but it’s the only one on-site.  .

Unlike other Deluxe Resort Hotels, Animal Kingdom Lodge only has one pool, Uzima Springs, but it’s huge. Guests can access the Samawati Springs pool at the neighboring Kidani Village (AKL’s separate villas property), but it’s a long walk from the hotel. Uzima Springs is an 11,000 square foot freeform pool with both zero-entry and traditional stepped entrances. The pool is surrounded by tons of lounge chairs, and always feels crowded. Kids typically dominate the pool scene, thanks to the 67-foot-long waterslide. There’s a tiny wading pool for toddlers, but AKL doesn’t have a kiddie splash zone like other Disney properties. Next to the pool there are several whirlpools, an outdoor playground, and an open-air bar that serves snacks and drinks throughout the day.

What Restaurants and Bars are Available at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge?

An excellent array of african food, along with typical american dishes and a lounge..

Dining at Animal Kingdom Lodge offers a brief introduction to African culinary traditions. Jiko, the hotel’s signature a la carte restaurant, skillfully infuses African flavors into familiar dishes. Guests can expect exotic ingredients like fenugreek, piri piri, cassava, and chermoula to be paired with the likes of roasted chicken, halibut, and filet mignon. Guests can also choose wines from an extensive South African wine list. At dinnertime, the restaurant’s wood-fired ovens fill the dining room with aromas of freshly baked bread and roasted meats. Dark woods and vibrant colors give Jiko a quintessential African feel. Reservations are strongly recommended. It’s nearly impossible to be accommodated as a walk-in, no matter the time of year.

Boma, the hotel’s buffet restaurant, is open for breakfast and dinner. Reservations are strongly recommended for dinner time. Reservations aren’t accepted for breakfast, but breakfast-goers will undoubtedly have to wait to be seated. During our visit, when we arrived for breakfast at the restaurant’s early opening time, there was already a line at the host stand. Boma’s buffet is a force to be reckoned with -- it’s huge and offers tons of food. American breakfast favorites like eggs, omelets, pancakes, and waffles sit alongside African specialties like pap, bobotie, and chakalaka. For dinner, the buffet introduces more African flavors with Ghanian oxtail stew, Nigerian fufu, Tunisian couscous, and South African geelrys.

The Mara, named for the river that flows through Kenya and Tanzania, is Animal Kingdom Lodge’s quick-service restaurant. The quick-service concept is incredibly popular across the Disney brand and is known for its varied options, tasty food, and unbelievable cleanliness. In the mornings, guests can swing by for coffee, bacon and eggs, and Mickey waffles, while lunch and dinner hours feature American favorites like burgers, grilled cheese, and flatbreads. It also sells snacks and desserts like chips, doughnuts, and ice cream bars. Both indoor and outdoor seating are on hand.

Victoria Falls Lounge is a few steps down from the lobby and overlooks Boma’s dining room. This is the property's only bar apart from the poolside one. The full bar menu covers sandwiches and appetizers, and serves a variety of specialty cocktails, African beers, and South African wines.

What Other Features are at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge?

Tons of great amenities include four savannas with 30 species of wildlife..

Many guests choose to stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge because of its unique setting in the middle of four diverse savannas. More than 30 species of African wildlife live on the property, including zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and flamingos. The hotel has dozens of viewing areas across the grounds, many of which are staffed by in-house wildlife experts who can explain the animals’ behavioral patterns, eating habits, and idiosyncrasies. Guests can also book private safaris along the hotel’s grounds.

Animal Kingdom Lodge also has a handful of nice amenities, including a huge souvenir shop with Disney paraphernalia and sundries, a 24-hour self-service laundry room, and a signature Disney arcade-style game room. Wi-Fi and standard parking are free, and guests are entitled to Disney hotel benefits, like Extra Magic Hours and the Magical Express luggage transportation service. As mentioned, Animal Kingdom Lodge does not have monorail or water taxi service, only Disney shuttle busses.

Most Disney hotels do not have fitness centers. If they do, their gyms are typically small. Animal Kingdom Lodge falls into the latter category -- its gym is nicely equipped with modern cardio and weight-lifting machines, but the room is tiny for a resort of this size. AKL doesn’t have a full-service spa, but it has a massage center, where guests can book massages and facials.

What does Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Offer for Families?

An on-site kids' club and lots of family-centric activities keep families entertained..

Simba’s Clubhouse is the on-site kids' club where children ages 3 to 12 can participate in regularly scheduled activities throughout the course of the day. Kids can play with Disney toys, watch movies, create arts and crafts, and eat kid-friendly snacks. The kids’ club isn’t free, but parents dining at Boma or Jiko receive one free hour with a valid dinner receipt. Besides the kids' club, the hotel regularly hosts family-friendly activities across the property. Families can make s’mores on an outdoor fire pit, learn to play African instruments, or participate in group storytelling sessions.

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Things You Should Know About Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Also known as.

• Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney
• Animal Kingdom Lodge Orlando
• Animal Kingdom Florida
• Disney Animal Kingdom Resort
• Disney Animal Kingdom Hotel
• Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Animal Kingdom Hotel
• Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Animal Kingdom Resort
• Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Kilimanjaro Club Level 2 Bedroom Suite
• Kilimanjaro Club Level One Bedroom Suite
• Kilimanjaro Club Level Royal Asante Presidential Suite
• Kilimanjaro Club Level Royal Kuba Vice-Presidential Suite
• Kilimanjaro Club Level Standard Room
• Standard Room with Arusha Savanna View
• Standard Room with Bunk Beds, Arusha Savanna View
• Standard Room with Bunk Beds, Pool View
• Standard Room with Bunk Beds, Savanna View
• Standard Room with Pool View
• Standard Room with Savanna View

2901 Osceola Parkway, Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, Florida 32830-8410, United States

1 (407) 938-3000

Air Conditioner

Airport transportation, babysitting services, balcony / terrace / patio, basic television, beauty / hair salon, business center, children's pool, dry cleaning, full kitchen, gameroom / arcade, kids allowed, meeting / conference rooms, poolside drink service, room service, separate bedroom / living room space, supervised kids activities, swim-up bar, tennis court.

Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

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Theme park reservations are not required for tickets added as part of a room-and-ticket package. For other admission types, theme park reservations may be required. Learn more about theme park reservation requirements.

Rooms & Suites

• Complimentary high-speed WiFi Internet access
• In-Room Safe
• Telephone with voicemail
• Coffee maker
• Coffee and tea set up
• Flat panel TV
• Iron & Ironing Board
• Beverage Cooler
• Patio or Balcony

Water View - King Bed

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge shares all Resort amenities—including pools, dining and recreation—with the other sections of the Resort: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village.

The following room types are available at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge:

• Rooms and Suites
• Rooms and Suites with Club-Level Service, offering complimentary continental breakfast, snacks and evening beverages

Views of Pool

Sleeps up to 2 Adults

• Includes a beverage cooler, coffee and tea station, and a patio or balcony.

Check Availability

Resort View - King Bed

Views of rooftop or parking area

Savanna View - King Bed

Views of one of the savannas

Resort View

Views of Rooftop or Parking Area

2 Queen Beds

Sleeps up to 4 Adults

Savanna View

Views of One of the Savannas

Rooms & Suites with Club Level Service

• Complimentary health club access
• Secured key access to the club-level lounge, serving refreshments 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily
• Personalized Front Desk and Guest Services
• Access to Concierge service at the Kiliminjaro Club

Includes All Room Amenities, Plus:

• Access to Disney Signature Services—for personal assistance with your vacation. Call: 407-939-7777

Savanna View - Club Level Access

Views of Arusha Savanna

• Includes a beverage cooler, coffee and tea station, patio or balcony and Personalized Guest Services. Plus, enjoy access to the Kilimanjaro Club.

Resort View - 1 BR Suite - Club Level Access

2 Queen Beds and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa

Sleeps up to 6 Adults

• Includes a small fridge, coffee and tea station, patio or balcony and Personalized Guest Services. Plus, enjoy access to the Kilimanjaro Club.

Savanna View - King Bed - Club Level Access

Savanna view - 1 br suite - club level access, 2 bedroom suite - club level access.

1 King Bed and 2 Queen Beds and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa

Sleeps up to 8 Adults

Deluxe Studios

• Paper plates and bowls, plastic utensils
• Refrigerator - small

Studio - Value

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House shares all Resort amenities—including pools, dining and recreation—with the other sections of the Resort: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village.

The following room types are available at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House:

• Deluxe Studios with a kitchenette
• Deluxe Studios with Club-Level Service* and a kitchenette
• Villas featuring a kitchen, private bedrooms, and a washer and dryer
• Villas with Club-Level Service*, featuring a kitchen, private bedrooms, and a washer and dryer

Villa room types let you make the most of your vacation:

• A fully-equipped kitchen lets you prepare meals and snacks from the comfort of your villa
• Separate bedrooms in our 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom villas offer space, privacy and tranquility—so it’s easy to rest, relax and recharge your spirit after each exhilarating vacation day
• A washer and dryer let you pack lightly and ensure you’ll always have fresh, clean clothes

*Club-Level Service includes complimentary continental breakfast, snacks and evening beverages.

Views of Landscape or Parking Area

1 Queen Bed and 1 Double-Size Sleeper Sofa

• Comfortable accommodations: includes a kitchenette with small fridge and microwave, and a balcony.

Deluxe Studio - Savanna View

Views of Savanna

Deluxe Studio - Standard View

Views of Landscaping or Parking Area

• Comfortable accommodations: includes a kitchen with small fridge and microwave, and a balcony.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village shares all Resort amenities—including pools, dining and recreation—with the other sections of the Resort: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House.

The following room types are available at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village:

Views of Pool or Parking Area

Villas with Club Level Services

• Complimentary newspapers in Club Level lounge

1 Bedroom Villa - Club Level

Views of Pool or One of the Savannas

1 King Bed and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa and 1 Twin-Size Sleeper Chair

Sleeps up to 5 Adults

• Great for families: includes a full kitchen, living and dining areas, washer and dryer, and a balcony. Plus, enjoy access to the Kilimanjaro Club.
• Dishes, glasses and utensils
• Refrigerator
• Washer & Dryer
• Whirlpool Tub
• Stove and oven
• Pots and pans

1 Bedroom Villa - Standard View

• Great for families: includes a full kitchen, living and dining areas, washer and dryer, and a balcony.

3 Bedroom Grand Villa - Savanna View

Savanna views can be enjoyed throughout this 2300 sq. ft. space—game room included.

1 King Bed and 4 Queen Beds and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa

Sleeps up to 12 Adults

• Great for large families: includes 3 full bathrooms, a full kitchen, living and dining areas, game room, washer and dryer, and a balcony.

1 Bedroom Villa - Savanna View

1 Bedroom Villa - Value

1 King Bed and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa

• Great for large families: includes 4 full bathrooms, a full kitchen, living and dining areas, washer and dryer, and a balcony.

Views of Parking Area

• Great for families: includes 2 full bathrooms, a full kitchen, living and dining areas, washer and dryer, and a balcony.

2 Bedroom Villa - Savanna View

1 King Bed and 2 Queen Beds and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa and 1 Twin-Size Sleeper Chair

Sleeps up to 9 Adults

• Great for large families: includes 3 full bathrooms, a full kitchen, living and dining areas, washer and dryer, and a balcony.

2 Bedroom Villa - Standard View

Deluxe studios with club level services.

Deluxe Studio - Club Level

• Comfortable accommodations: includes a kitchenette with small fridge and microwave, and a balcony. Plus, enjoy access to the Kilimanjaro Club.

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Much more than the Lion King: Review of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

When staying at Walt Disney World, you have the luxury of choice when it comes to lodging options. On Disney World property, you can pick from a couple of dozen resorts , not to mention the array of off-site options . Each of the Disney World resorts has its own theme, and one of the most spectacular and unique themes can be found at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge.

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This African-themed lodge is nearest to the Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park, but you don't have to leave the hotel's grounds to enjoy the animals roaming the safari. They are viewable from the lobby, the hallways and even many of the rooms. Paying extra for a better view (especially considering how much a trip to Disney World can cost ), is rarely worth it in the realm of family travel, but at Animal Kingdom Lodge, a savanna-view upgrade is absolutely worth consideration.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge opened in 2001 but was expanded a few years later to include a few hundred Disney Vacation Club villas, giving the resort a variety of accommodation types to meet the needs of families of different shapes and sizes. Now, the rooms have undergone a recent renovation, to the extent that an update to this review (originally completed in late 2018), was in order after a March 2020 stay.

Animal Kingdom Lodge is considered a Disney Deluxe Resort (along with iconic properties such as Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Polynesian Village Resort). This means that your stay probably won't be inexpensive, but the investment in a 24/7 magical Disney Resort experience is worth it. Thankfully, there are also some ways to save big on your stay.

FOR NO COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

You can book Walt Disney World Resort hotels using some types of points (such Citi ThankYou points ). For our late-2018 stay, we paid cash by booking directly with Disney via targeted bounce-back offers that allow you to save up to 35% or so by booking a return trip -- sometimes while you are still on a current trip.

Rack rates for entry-level rooms at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge usually range from about $300 to $500 per night, but Disney sales and discounts can drop that price to under $300 per night certain times of the year.

A great way save money at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is to rent Disney Vacation Club points . Not only does this spare you from the daily parking fee, but, as outlined here , you can pretty easily save 50% on the retail price of the stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge by renting points. There are trade-offs (such as the lack of daily housekeeping), but turning a $2,000 multi-night stay into a $1,000 stay may be worth making your own bed.

We put our stay on my Chase Sapphire Reserve to earn 3x points for the travel charge, but we primarily used discounted Disney gift cards to cover the majority of the charges while at the resort.

The main reason you might want to avoid a stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge is its location. On our stay, we found it to be the most remote of all of the Walt Disney World Resorts, and it could have easily taken us 45 minutes to get to the Magic Kingdom from the lodge door to door. None of the Disney World parks were within walking distance of this resort, and only the Animal Kingdom was relatively nearby.

I mean, we were still on Disney property, so nothing was terribly far away. However, unlike when staying on the monorail at the Contemporary , nothing was especially close, either. If you stay at Disney's Animal Kingdom, expect to rely heavily on the Disney bus system, your own rental car or the (magical but pricey) Disney Minnie Vans .

Related: Best credit cards for a trip to Disney

Disney World didn't have an elite status program or anything that got us guaranteed early check-in (or late checkout), so I always assumed that the room wouldn't be ready until the stated time. In this case, it often means 3 p.m. check-in for the traditional hotel rooms in the lodge and 4 p.m. for the deluxe villa-style accommodations you would probably be renting with Disney Vacation Club points.

We arrived at the lodge a little before 1 p.m. and fully expected to wait a few hours for a room, but it was ready for us upon arrival.

On other Disney trips, we have loved the added convenience of a Disney Club-level room for ready-to-eat breakfast, upgraded service and included simple dinners and evening snacks, but none were available for booking on our dates online, since we booked pretty close to our travel dates. So I inquired at check-in if a Club Level upgrade was possible. The good news was that it was available, but at a staggering charge of $400 additional per day. We politely (and quickly) passed on that option. Had the upgrade been $150 per day or less, our family would have likely said yes.

At check-in, we were also given an itinerary of the on-site entertainment and cultural activities, of which there were many — more than I've seen at any other Disney Resort.

There were two separate villages at Animal Kingdom Lodge: the original Jambo House and the Kidani Village that was added later and made up of DVC villas. We spent the entirety of this stay in the Jambo House and were assigned a savanna-view room on the second level, about as far down the hallway away from the lobby and pool as possible.

The lobby was on the third level, which meant taking an elevator down to the second level. This resort is massive, with well over 1,000 rooms and villas, so expect to do some walking. We brought the stroller into the resort simply because the walk to the room in the evenings with a tired 3-year-old was very far.

Our room was around 350 square feet with two queen beds, a small table, TV and, most importantly, a balcony with a view of the zebras and giraffes and more.

The view of the animals was the star of the room and the primary reason to stay at this resort. My tween was totally overwhelmed with happiness watching the animals from the room.

If you love the idea of waking up to drink coffee and view animals on the savanna from your private balcony, then book the room with a view. We watched the animals for hours. These were real animals, not animatronics, so they roamed different parts of the savanna at different times of the day and weren't always visible from our room.

Other than the view, the room was totally fine for a Disney property, but not over-the-top spectacular. We appreciated the two queen beds ( instead of the doubles found in some Disney rooms ) and the African theme was carried throughout, though in 2020 the carpeting, mock-mosquito netting and some of the older decor have been thankfully retired.

The bathroom has a double vanity separate from the shower area. We did have issues with both the toilet and phone during our 2018 stay, as both required maintenance. At the time, this made calling down for our $33-per-day car valet impossible, but service was very efficient even without the call-ahead option. These issues did not repeat on the 2020 stay.

Related: How to use points for a trip to Disney World

Food and beverage

Animal Kingdom Lodge had some of the best dining available at Disney World . Many of the restaurants have an African theme, which I personally consider great news, but your experience traveling with more narrow eaters may vary.

Boma — Flavors of Africa is the breakfast and dinner restaurant located in Jambo.

It's an all-you-care-to-eat restaurant, and while there were no characters here (unlike at many similar Disney restaurants), it simply doesn't need them. The food and surroundings stood alone quite nicely.

For breakfast, there were both African and traditional American favorites: corned-beef hash, sweet plantains, goat-cheese scrambled eggs, bread pudding, bacon and even Simba waffles.

The house juice, coffee and service were also well above average at this pricey but delicious restaurant. Breakfast for two adults and two kids rang in around $100, so expect dinner to be more than that.

For a less expensive on-site dining option, there was Mara, just out back off the Jambo lobby. Mara had hot items such as fried eggs, ham-and-cheese sandwiches and Mickey waffles, cheeseburgers and flatbread, as well as grab-and-go drinks, snacks and muffins.

On a longer stay, or if you just really like tea, coffee or soda, you may want to spend $19.99 for the refillable mug that you could fill up in this grab-and-go restaurant. You could also pick up a bottle of wine for some animal watching on your patio.

For a nice dinner, there's Jiko — The Cooking Place and Sanaa. While I've still yet to try Sanaa, I had appetizers and a wine tasting at Jiko on my most recent visit to Animal Kingdom Lodge. I was able to walk in to an open seat at the bar shortly after the restaurant opened for the evening and from the service to the food itself, the experience was fantastic.

The $19 'Tour of Africa' appetizer recommended by the server included sausage, honeyed goat cheese, pimento spread, house-made hummus, Egyptian fatir bread and more. It was -- worth it.

The wine tasting, consisting of three South African wines, was also quite a lot of fun. Jiko has a couple of different wine tastings you can choose from, depending on what you'd like to try.

I've also tried out room service at Animal Kingdom Lodge, ordering two kid meals for the littles and two glasses of wine for the bigs. After a long day in the parks, it was fantastic to have dinner and drinks appear at our room.

The animals are king of the jungle at Animal Kingdom Lodge, but the resort had much more going on than "just" a savanna.

First, let's talk about the African drumming that was going on when we walked in for our 2018 stay. It set the tone, and the women who were drumming were excellent at getting the kids involved in making music. We encountered the drumming around the resort multiple times per day on our stay.

Other free activities available on site during our stay were African face painting, talks with a savanna guide, access to African cultural experts, wildlife-themed games, the Primal Parade, night-vision animal viewing, cookie decorating and a daily culinary tour that allowed you to tour and sample food from the on-site restaurants. Again, these activities are all free. My biggest regret from this trip was that we didn't have more downtime at the resort to try out all of the available tours, talks and other options.

On-site amenities included one of the largest pools at a Disney World resort, on the Jambo portion of the resort. There was also a pool with small waterslides and a kids play area on the Kidani side of the village, though we didn't make it over there during our stay.

The Jambo pool had a zero-entry section, a medium-sized waterslide and attentive Disney lifeguards.

If your family was in search of some drier fun, there was a nearby playground to burn off steam while you waited for dinner, since they will text you when your table is ready.

A few steps away from the playground was a spot to enjoy on-site flamingos.

There was also an above-average arcade and Simba's Activity Center. This spot used to be known as Simba's Clubhouse, a kids club that provided childcare. In 2018 it became an activity center where children need parental supervision, but can play and make African-themed crafts for a small fee.

Like at all Disney Resorts, staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge provides included access to the Magical Express Bus to and from the Orlando airport, as well as complimentary bus transportation around the Walt Disney World Resort.

Overall impression

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is not a cartoon version of Africa. It's not "The Lion King" and "Hakuna Matata" at every turn -- you'll actually find those rooms at Disney's Art of Animation . This is a breathtakingly detailed property that is a joy to inhabit for a few days. The amount of real African art, the emphasis on knowledgeable cultural guides and local experts, and the way that they engage guests in learning about a place many have never seen is nothing short of impressive.

While renting Disney Vacation Club points or hunting for deals can make this one of the more affordable Disney Deluxe Resorts, it will still be an investment in the experience of staying here, so make time to actually enjoy the unique on-site amenities, meals and resources. Choosing this resort means you are isolating yourself from much of Disney World, since no park is within walking distance. But if a taste of African culture, watching animals on the savannah and learning a thing or two on your vacation sounds good, then Animal Kingdom Lodge should be the site of your next Disney World vacation.

Read on to learn more about maximizing your time, points and money at Disney World:

• TPG ultimate guide to Walt Disney World
• Hotel review: Disney's Contemporary Resort
• Hotel review: Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
• The best points hotels near Disney World
• The 10 best Disney thrill rides around the world
• How to use points for Disney tickets
• Disney World without kids: 10 ways to enjoy an adult trip to Disney
• How to ride every Disney World ride in one day
• How to eat healthy at Disney World
• Best $69 you can spend at Disney World

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Ultimate Guide to the Best Rooms at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

There’s nothing quite like staying at a Disney World resort ! You get proximity to the parks, impeccable theming, and all kinds of unique amenities.

But with thousands of hotel rooms around the various hotels , there are definitely some that are better than others in terms of view, location, and features. If you’re planning a stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge soon, we’ve done the research, and now we’re presenting our guide the BEST rooms at the resort!

Savanna View

When it comes to Disney World hotel rooms with a view, the creme de la creme are the savanna view rooms at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge . This is the only resort where you’ll find live safari animals living outside your balcony, and many guests want to take advantage of those spectacular views!

Around the resort, there are four major savanna areas, each with its own name. Pembe Savanna is the smallest of the four on the north side of Kidani Village. It’s the savanna without any giraffes, but you’ll find other animals like impala, waterbuck, red river hogs, ostrich, and okapi there.

The Sunset Savanna is shared space between most of Kidani Village and the left side of Jambo House. It has the largest variety of animals with male giraffes, bongos, impalas, ostriches, African crown cranes, and more. It’s a very large area with a wide selection of rooms on most sides.

Next, we’ve got the Arusha Savanna, which you’ll be familiar with if you’ve ever walked out the back of the Jambo House lobby and out into the viewing area. All the rooms that face this savanna are located in Jambo House, which forms a curve around the area. The location is pretty prime here, and you can see a good selection of animals like pelicans, geese, giraffes, zebra, wildebeest, and others.

Finally, there’s the Uzima Savanna, which is on the eastern-facing side of Jambo House. It’s smaller, but still has giraffes, impalas, kudus, bongos, and gazelles. Mostly, you’ve got giraffes and a variety of hoofed and/or horned animals on this side.

Keep in mind that no matter which savanna you request, you’ll probably want an upper-level room to get one of the best views of the animals. Also, it’s important to note that the savanna view rooms cost extra, and you’ll need to select that particular room category when booking.

Jambo House

One big thing to keep in mind about Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is that there are two main sections — Jambo House and Kidani Village. These two different buildings are close enough to walk between, but they’re large enough that it can be a HIKE if you’re on the further ends. So it’s important to know which building to choose based on your needs!

Jambo House is the main building at the resort, home to both Disney Vacation Club villas and standard guest rooms, it has a massive (STUNNING!) lobby and a variety of amenities. This is where you’ll find Boma , Jiko , The Mara , Zawadi Marketplace, and the Uzima Pool. Parking is located in a lot out in front of the building.

In Jambo House, the lobby is centered between four different hallways (two small ones at the front of the lobby and two large, curved halls on either side of the Arusha Savanna). If you’re hoping to be close to the lobby and the parking in those smaller hallways, you’ll want to stay in the 00s and 100s rooms. (These are the Giraffe Trail and Ostrich Trail guest rooms.)

For those hoping to be close to the pool and the restaurants, the 00s and the 400s are both nearby, but only some of the 400s will have the possibility to be a savanna view if you’re looking for both a good view and proximity to amenities.

Keep in mind that rooms with numbers in the 300s and 500s are the furthest from the lobby, but it might be worth it to stay there if that’s your only availability for a savanna view.

Kidani Village

Finally, we’ve got Kidani Village, the secondary area of the resort. You’ve got all DVC villas and studios over here, so the rooms will likely be a bit more expensive than the basic ones at Jambo House. The lobby is much smaller (though still beautiful), and you have access to a separate pool and gift shop. This part of the resort is home to one major restaurant — Sanaa .

Kidani Village is two long, curved hallways extending from the lobby in the middle, and it’s quite the walk if you’re at the very end. Parking for this resort is located in a garage underground, so you could park relatively close to your room, even if you’re not near the lobby or pool.

For rooms that are closest to the lobby, request a room number that ends in 00-20. Rooms 7613-7641, 7713-7741, 7813-7841, and 7913-7941 are all closest to the pool.

And for those who want to be nearest to Jambo House for the dining options, you’ll want to request rooms 7228-7262, 7328-7362, 7428-7462, or 7528-7562. These are all closest to the path between the resorts.

So there you go — a full guide to the best rooms at Disney’s Animal Kingodm Lodge! This resort is truly one of a kind, and it’s a favorite of many guests. It’s also a deluxe resort, so it’s a bit more pricey, but you’ll get the Extended Evening Hours perk if you choose to stay here.

For all the news about Disney World hotels and all the advice on where to stay during your next trip, stay tuned to AllEars. We’ve got you covered with tips from the experts! (That’s us!)

Click Here to Go Inside the Rooms of Every Disney World Hotel!

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Have you ever stayed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge? Tell us in the comments!

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2 Replies to “Ultimate Guide to the Best Rooms at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort”

We’ve stayed in a one bedroom 3x’s and we’re just headed down in about 10 days just my husband and myself for a few days! Can’t wait!!

We first stayed at Jamba House in 2011. It was awesome! Have stayed nowhere else since! It is home to us whenever we go to Disney World. The music when you walk into the lobby, the smells, the whole atmosphere. Will never stay anywhere else!

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Wild Africa Trek

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Walt Disney World® Resort

Valid admission required. A theme park reservation may be required based on admission type.

Age Interest

Tweens, Teens, Adults

Accessibility and Other Information - Opens Dialog

Accessibility

• Must Be Ambulatory
• The harness on this experience may prohibit guests of certain body shapes or sizes from participating.

What's New, Behind the Scenes, Animal Encounters

Embark on a privately-guided, VIP expedition full of close encounters with exotic African wildlife!

An Exhilarating Safari Adventure

The Journey Walk along a grassland path, cross a rope bridge and ride in a rugged safari vehicle over an open savanna—with a chance to view African creatures including towering giraffes, powerful rhinos, hippos and crocodiles.

Along your journey, your knowledgeable guide will share insights about the majestic animals you’re viewing, as well as details about the park’s dedication to animal conservation.

And as if your safari weren’t memorable enough, you’ll receive a complimentary souvenir as well!

Complimentary Photo Services Enjoy your encounters with the animals of the Harambe Reserve while a trained photographer captures all the action and excitement throughout your adventure—a service that’s included with your tour.

At the end of your expedition, you’ll receive a photo code that you can use to access and download images taken during your Wild Africa Trek experience.

Theme park admission is required, but not included in the price of this tour. Theme park reservations are also required.

Indulge In Gourmet Eats

Sample Menu

• Garlic and leek hummus and pita
• Prosciutto and mozzarella
• Fresh fruit
• Chicken wrap
• Marinated tandoori shrimp

Please note: Menu items are subject to change without notice.

Know Before You Go

• WARNING: For your 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 participate.
• Guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a participating adult (18 years of age or older).
• Participants must be 8 years of age or older and at least 48 inches (122 cm) tall.
• Participants must be between 45 pounds and 300 pounds. The safety harnesses used for this experience may prohibit Guests of certain body shapes or sizes from participating.
• You must have physical stamina, comfort with heights, and the surefootedness to negotiate small hills, foliage and unsteady rope bridges on this tour. Guests seeking a less strenuous or wheelchair-accessible trek should contact Wild Africa Trek operations at (407) 938-1373 for alternative programs.
• Recommended attire includes shorts or pants and a comfortable shirt. Closed-toe shoes with a back strap or hiking boots are required. No flip-flops will be allowed. Skirts or dresses are not recommended.
• Complimentary lockers for your belongings will be provided. You will also receive a safety vest and wireless headset so that you can hear your guide at all times. Cameras are allowed as long as they can be securely fastened to the vest.
• Please check in 15 minutes prior to the start of the experience at the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk, located across from the Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction entrance. Late arrivals may not be able to join the experience.
• Excursion occurs rain or shine, with the exception of severe weather or lightning.
• Tour itinerary, content, duration and availability are subject to change without notice.
• There is a 24-hour cancellation policy. Full price will be charged/forfeited if the Guest cancels within one day or fails to show up for the reservation.

Thursday, June 06, 2024

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• News / Resorts / Walt Disney World

Starlight Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Are Back!

by Melissa Roden · March 10, 2022

We’ve got some exciting news to share with fans of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge .  Their beloved Starlight Safaris evening tour is BACK!

This is one of the magical add-ons you can pick to make your stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge truly memorable. I mean what’s better then winding down your day with an after-dark tour of Disney’s African savannas and wildlife.  

During the one hour tour you’ll climb aboard an open-sides safari vehicle and feel the rush of night air as you travel past lush scenery looking for over 30 species of wildlife that call Animal Kingdom Lodge home! 

Worried you won’t be able to see? Don’t worry! Animal Kingdom Lodge has you covered. Guests will be provided with a night vision device.  You won’t believe everything you’re able to see including zebras, giraffes, wildebeests and antelopes!  

As you can see from the image taken from disneyworld.com , the experience is available to guests at $89.00 per person 

Right now it looks as if there will be two tours daily, one at 8:30 pm and another at 10 pm.  However, spaces are limited and spots fill up incredibly fast so making a reservation well in advance is essential! 

Credit: Disney

Aren’t staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge? No need to worry!  Guests staying at a Walt Disney World resort may also book. 

Here are a few additional details you’ll want to know: 

• Reservations can be made using the My Disney Experience app
• Guests must be 8 years or older and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 
• WARNING: The experience is a rugged safari ride over an open savanna.  Participants should be in good health and free from high blood pressure, back or neck problems, motion sickness or other conditions that might get aggravated. Expecting mothers should not participate. 
• Late arrivals will not be accommodated. 
• Check in is at the porte-cochere at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Kidani Village and it is recommended you do so at least 15 minutes before the tour. 
• Valid photo ID is required at check in. 
• ECVs and other mobility devices must be left behind at the Resort. There will be a wheelchair available for guests to transfer into. 
• Guests are responsible for transportation to and from Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. 

Readers are encouraged to keep following along with MickeyBlog for further Walt Disney World news and updates!

Didn’t make it to Disney in 2021!? Well we’ve got some fantastic news- Disney Packages are currently available to book through the end of 2022! That gives you plenty of time to plan that magical getaway and I’m here to help. 

With new policies and procedures in place during the year ahead, there’s never been a better time to work with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner who can help you navigate through Disney World’s new way of doing things!  I’ll be on hand to assist with everything from finding that perfect package and getting the best deals to organizing park passes, Disney Genie+ and dining reservations.  Best of all- my services are ABSOLUTELY FREE!

Just fill out my form  HERE  to get your FREE, no-obligation quote. Alternatively, feel free to reach out at  [email protected]  or follow along on  Facebook

Tags: Animal Kingdom Disney World Starlight Safaris Tours

Melissa Roden

As an agent with MickeyTravels and a Blogger with MickeyBlog I enjoy sharing, tips, tricks and advice to help readers and clients get the most out of your time with Disney. When I'm not helping clients plan their perfect holidays or nab those hard-to-get discounts you can find me enjoying a Dole Whip at Disney World with my daughter! Reach out for a FREE, no obligation quote at 1.800.801.4025 or find me on Facebook !

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Starlight Safari at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

As the sun sets, the savanna awakens.

Witness the wild as it comes to life on an after-dark safari tour of Disney’s African savannas and wildlife! This popular, nighttime expedition is open to all Guests at Walt Disney World Resort.

Climb aboard an open-sided safari vehicle and feel the rush of night air as you rumble through lush scenery, scanning the horizon for over 30 species of African wildlife!

The Nightlife of Wildlife To make the most of your animal-viewing extravaganza, Guests will be provided with a night vision device! You’ll be astounded by what you can see: zebras, giraffes, wildebeest and antelopes—plus ostriches and over 20 other exotic African species that freely roam across the savannas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge .

Reservations and Important Details Reservations can be made on this page or in the My Disney Experience app .

This nighttime tour lasts approximately one hour. It’s available exclusively to Guests 8 years of age or older. Guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a participating adult who is 18 years of age or older.

Know Before You Go

• Warning: This experience features a ride in a rugged safari vehicle over an open savanna. For your 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 participate.
• Late arrivals after the start of the tour will not be accommodated.
• Check in at the porte-cochere at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge – Kidani Village, and plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the tour. Valid photo ID will be required to check in.
• There is a 24-hour cancellation policy. Full price will be charged/forfeited if the Guest cancels within one day or fails to show up for the reservation.
• Guests must be at least 8 years of age to participate in Starlight Safari, and Guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
• Guests using an ECV must leave their mobility devices behind at the Resort. They will retrieve them upon conclusion of the tour. This experience requires Guests in ECVs to transfer into an available wheelchair in order to participate in the tour.
• Nontransferable wheelchair Guests may remain in their wheelchair throughout this experience, however due to limited capacity on board the safari vehicle, all accommodation requests must be confirmed by calling 0800 028 0778 (UK) or 1800 812 678 (Ireland).
• While safari vehicles are equipped for rain and wet terrain, experiences may be cancelled due to inclement weather.
• All aspects of the tour are subject to change without notice.
• Starlight Safari is a night experience, and Guests are responsible for transportation to and from Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Kidani Village.
• Allow up to 1.5 hours to travel to your destination within Walt Disney World Resort.

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Disney Enforces No-Entry Order, Thousands Barred from Toy Story Hotel

in Disney Parks , Tokyo Disneyland

Be prepared for Disney to turn you away if you attempt to so much as step foot into this resort.

One of the best things about planning a Disney vacation, no matter what resort you choose, is the chance to explore everything from the theme parks to the endless hotels that share their story and distinct look. Disney is known for their over the top theming, and while the parks are certainly jaw-droppers, a lot of their hotels hold the same astonishing qualities.

For example, at Walt Disney World Resort, you can walk into Disney’s Art of Animation and step into different sections, allowing you to feel like you are entering Cars, Finding Nemo, The Little Mermaid, and The Lion King . Or, if you want to step foot into the real-life jungle and feel like you are on a safari reserve, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge will have you transported in no time. Each of the resorts has its own theme that is set to blow guests away when they enter.

At Walt Disney World, guests cannot just park at a resort they are not staying at, but they can park there if they are a guest of the hotel, or if they have a dining reservation there. Alternatively, if a guest travels to the resort via Disney transportation, such as taking a break from Magic Kingdom and hopping on the monorail to check out Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, they could enter and explore the property without issue.

The same is not true everywhere else.

At T okyo Disney Resort, there are incredible resorts, but not all of them will allow you to step foot on the grounds. While most hotels are accessible from the theme parks or the monorail system and will allow you to enter and explore, the Toy Story Hotel does not allow this.

One guest recently sparked this conversation online after asking, “Am I allowed to visit the Toy Story hotel and take pics if I’m staying at the Miracosta?” The answer is no. Guests who are not sleeping at the Toy Story Hotel at Tokyo Disney Resort cannot even walk up to the front of the hotel. If you have ever been to Tokyo Disney to enjoy the wonders of Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea, you may have already encountered this issue.

When you walk to the roadway that leads to the front of the Toy Story Hotel from the road, you will be met with one or two cast members with a tablet. If you cannot produce a room key or do not appear in their system as a guest of the resort, they will turn you away before you can even lay eyes on the lobby. All of the other resorts at Tokyo Disney Resort are accessible to other guests, leaving the Toy Story Hotel as a very elusive and coveted location, even though it is on the lower end regarding nightly pricing.

The Toy Story Hotel invites guests to shrink down to toy size and experience the magic of Pixar’s beloved Toy Story films. This immersive hotel caters to families and Disney fans alike, offering a playful and unforgettable stay.

From the moment guests arrive, they’ll be transported into Andy’s backyard. The oversized lobby resembles a child’s playroom, complete with giant building blocks, a towering Jenga game, and a whimsical reception desk fashioned from a board game box. Guest rooms continue the playful theme, with each floor decorated to represent a different character’s room from the movies. Guests can choose from rooms themed around Woody’s Roundup, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, or Jessie’s Giddy Up ‘n Go rooms. Each room features character-specific details, creating a truly immersive experience for fans.

Beyond the charming design, the Toy Story Hotel offers a variety of activities and entertainment options for guests of all ages. Children can partake in supervised playtime in the hotel’s indoor play area, while adults can relax in the lobby or enjoy a meal at the Lotso Garden Cafe, a restaurant themed around the lovable (but slightly villainous) bear Lotso. In the evenings, guests can gather for character meet-and-greets, allowing them to interact with their favorite Toy Story characters like Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and others.

The Toy Story Hotel is conveniently located within the Tokyo Disney Resort, offering easy access to both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea parks via monorail. Guests staying at the hotel enjoy exclusive benefits, including extended park hours and priority access to select attractions. The hotel also offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a laundry service.

If you want to check out the other Disney resorts, they include:

• Tokyo Disneyland Hotel: This Victorian-style grand dame overlooks Tokyo Disneyland, offering stunning park views and a touch of elegance.
• Disney Ambassador Hotel: This charming hotel evokes a Disney ambassadorial residence, featuring international design influences and character-themed rooms.
• Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta: Embrace the nautical charm of the Mediterranean at this hotel, steps away from Tokyo DisneySea. Thematic details transport guests to a beautiful port town, with rooms offering harbor or park views.

There are also official hotels partnered with The Oriental Land Company on the property, including:

• Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel: This luxurious hotel offers stunning views of Tokyo Bay and convenient access to the resort via a complimentary shuttle service.
• Hilton Tokyo Bay: This modern hotel provides spacious rooms, excellent amenities, and a connection to the resort via the Disney Resort Line monorail system.
• Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel: Enjoy a relaxing stay at this comfortable hotel, featuring a variety of room options and easy access to the resort via the complimentary shuttle service.
• Grand Nikko Tokyo Bay Maihama: This sophisticated hotel offers a luxurious experience with a focus on Japanese hospitality. Guests can access the resort via the complimentary shuttle service.
• Hotel Okura Tokyo Bay: Experience exceptional service and stunning bay views at this renowned hotel, connected to the resort via the Disney Resort Line monorail system.

Now, the Tokyo Disney Resort officially welcomes its newest addition – the Tokyo Disney Resort Fantasy Springs Hotel. This highly anticipated hotel is part of the Fantasy Springs expansion and promises a one-of-a-kind experience.

The hotel comprises two distinct buildings: Grand Chateau, offering a luxurious “castle hotel” experience, and Fantasy Chateau, catering to a more “deluxe” level. Guests can expect an immersive atmosphere inspired by classic fairytales and Disney stories.

Did you know that the Toy Story Hotel was strictly off-limits at Tokyo Disney Resort? 

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Disneyland vs. Disney World: How to choose which resort is right for you

Are you a Marvel fan? Star Wars buff? Just need a weekend getaway? Here's how to pick the right destination for your family.

• Brooke McDonald
• January 22, 2022

A Disney vacation finds its way onto most travel bucket lists at some point, and if you’re ready to start planning yours, you’ll probably be faced with one big decision upfront: Disneyland vs. Disney World.

Unless you live very close to either the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, or Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, you’ll want to check out all that’s unique about both destinations before choosing where to head for your Disney trip.

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Depending on your interests — Do you love Star Wars, Marvel or Pixar? Is a great pool or immersive hotel your top priority? — one of America’s two Disney destinations may clearly be a better choice for you. Here’s how to decide which House of Mouse is best for your big trip.

Disneyland vs. Disney World: Visit Disneyland if …

You’re short on time.

With two theme parks — Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure — just a stone’s throw apart and the Downtown Disney District and Disneyland Resort’s three hotels all within walking distance, you can get a lot more done in a hurry at Disneyland without wasting time on transportation.

MORE: 18 items you need for a Disney vacation

To really maximize your time, get Park Hopper Tickets (which allow you to move freely between the two parks each day) and purchase Disney Genie+ . The latter feature is Disney’s replacement for the old FastPass+ and MaxPass services, and gives you Lightning Lane access and the opportunity to bypass the standby lines on many of Disneyland’s most popular rides.

You’re a Disney History Buff

A cultural icon since it opened on July 17, 1955, Disneyland isn’t just a vacation destination, it’s a piece of modern American history .

Take a nostalgic stroll past Walt Disney’s apartment, which sits above the fire station where a lamp still shines in the window for the park’s beloved founder, then meander back in time down turn-of-the-century Main Street, U.S.A. Ride iconic opening-day attractions like Jungle Cruise, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride and Peter Pan’s Flight, classic boat rides like Pirates of the Caribbean and It’s a Small World, and the park’s most famous thrill rides, like Matterhorn Bobsleds, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Space Mountain.

You Love Seeing Characters

Once the hallmark of a Disney vacation , character meet-and-greets have been some of the slowest offerings to return to normal operations at Disney’s theme parks during the COVID-19 era. Although you still can’t get as close to your favorite characters as you used to, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure both take the cake over Walt Disney World when it comes to the plethora of character appearances that happen all day long throughout both parks.

While you can’t get those hugs or autographs you might remember, you can still interact with characters — including many unique and rare favorites — and they’ll pose for plenty of photos with you (only slightly distanced).

You’re a Marvel Fan

If the Marvel Cinematic Universe is your jam, Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure is the place to assemble. Opened in June 2021, this new land buzzes with energy (and that iconic Avengers soundtrack) and teems with characters and entertainment. Aspiring superheroes can get training tips from the Dora Milaje warriors from “Black Panther,” watch Spidey soar through the air in a spectacular stunt show, visit Dr. Strange’s mysterious Ancient Sanctum and spot countless other MCU characters .

Rides include the new all-ages Web Slingers: A Spider-Man Adventure and the fan-favorite Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: Breakout. You can also grab a bite at Pym Test Kitchen (warning, parts of your meal may be super-sized or super-small, depending on how Hank Pym’s experiments are going!).

You Love Pixar Movies — Especially ‘Cars’

Disney California Adventure Park is home to one of Disney’s most impressive and immersive lands at any Disney theme park in the world. Cars Land so perfectly recreates Radiator Springs, the setting for the first of Pixar’s “Cars” films, you’ll swear you’ve stepped into the film. You can meet Lightning McQueen and Mater, chow down on Chicken “Fenders” at Flo’s V8 Cafe and ride Radiator Springs Racers, one of the most impressive rides Disney has ever imagineered.

Around the corner from Cars Land, Pixar Pier is another spot at Disney California Adventure for lovers of the beloved studio. Ride the thrilling Incredicoaster, play 3D carnival games on Toy Story Midway Mania or take an aerial spin on the Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind and enjoy a meal at Lamplight Lounge. The Pixar-themed restaurant serves great food and Pixar-themed cocktails and is packed with Easter eggs from the movies at every turn.

Disneyland vs. Disney World: Visit Walt Disney World if…

You’re a planner.

With four theme parks, two water parks, more than 25 Disney resort hotels and countless restaurants and experiences to choose from, planning a trip to Walt Disney World means making a lot more decisions. But, if you’re a planner at heart, that’s part of the fun! In fact, research has shown that the process of planning a vacation can actually boost your mental health .

Disney World’s Disney Park Pass reservation system requires guests to book a reservation for the first park they plan to visit each day, and dining reservations open up 60 days in advance, so you’ll have lots of decisions and plans to make long before your plane touches down in Orlando. Note: Disneyland also requires theme park reservations and dining reservations are also highly recommended, but with fewer hotels, restaurants and theme parks to manage, there are far fewer factors to consider there.

You Want to Stay Immersed All Trip Long

At roughly 40 square miles — nearly the size of San Francisco! — Walt Disney World is one massive, magical playground. From the moment you pass under the resort’s iconic gates, you’re “on property” and very firmly on vacation. In stark contrast to Disneyland — where moments after leaving the park gates you can find yourself staring down chain restaurants, liquor stores and urban hubbub — you could travel for miles after leaving Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park and remain in the Disney World bubble.

And with so many hotels, restaurants and entertainment options on Walt Disney World’s property, you truly don’t need to leave until it’s time to go home. Palm trees, beautiful grounds and resorts, consistent signage and diligent theming all help to solidify the feeling that you’re in a special place, far removed from the stifling atmosphere of the everyday.

You Want to Stay at a Themed Disney Hotel

This is a big one for travelers on a budget. While Disneyland Resort does have three official Disney hotels, each with its own immersive theming, even the lowest-tier Disneyland option, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, is liable to break the bank at most times of year. On the flip side, Walt Disney World boasts more than eight times as many hotels, with options for every budget.

Choose from Value-, Moderate- or Deluxe-tier resorts, all with their own elaborate theming and plenty of Disney touches, from the Pop Century Resort and Art of Animation Resort at the Value level, to the Port Orleans Resort and Caribbean Beach Resort at the Moderate level, to the Polynesian Village Resort, Riviera Resort and Wilderness Lodge at the Deluxe tier. Every Disney World resort features themed pools and dining options and includes transportation to and from the parks.

You Love Star Wars

If you’ve always dreamed of traveling to a galaxy far, far away, this is the vacation destination you’re looking for. Both Disneyland and Walt Disney World are home to the epically immersive new land, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge , and Disney’s most ambitious attraction ever created, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. But diehard fans will want to take their experience truly out of this world by adding a two-night experience aboard Disney World’s Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser .

Way more than a simple hotel , Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser gives guests the illusion that they’re on a “space cruise” on the Halcyon starcruiser. Guests blast off on their adventure to a galaxy far, far away via a “launch pod” and will spend two days and two nights channeling their inner Light or Dark Side as they rub shoulders with members of the Resistance and First Order. The immersive itinerary includes live entertainment, lightsaber training, role playing, elaborate themed dining and a special excursion to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios park.

You Want to Visit Truly Unique Parks

While Disney parks around the globe feature their own versions of the Magic Kingdom, with its castle centerpiece and iconic themed lands, two of Walt Disney World’s four theme parks, EPCOT and Disney’s Animal Kingdom , offer experiences you won’t find at any other Disney resort.

EPCOT’s World Showcase takes guests on a trip around the world, with immersive pavilions representing different countries and cultures through architecture, food and drinks, entertainment and even rides like the brand new Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure in EPCOT’s France pavilion.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom, meanwhile, is one of Disney’s most beautiful theme parks, with breathtaking areas representing Asia, Africa, the mythical Pandora from “Avatar” and more. Animal lovers can’t miss Kilimanjaro Safaris, an open-air excursion on an African savanna packed with real animals. This is the closest you’ll get to an African safari without needing a passport.

You Want to Do More Than Just Visit Theme Parks

Walt Disney World has so much to offer beyond the resort’s four theme parks that you could easily fill a vacation with activities without ever setting foot in a theme park. Walt Disney World is home to four stunning golf courses , including one, Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, that backs right up to two of Disney World’s Deluxe resorts, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa and Disney’s Old Key West Resort, so hardcore golfers may want to consider a stay at one of those. You can also practice your putts at Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf and Winter Summerland Miniature Golf .

To beat the Florida heat while logging theme park-level thrills, guests can visit one of Disney World’s two elaborately themed water parks, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park and Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park . Guests can ride a chairlift up the “mountain” before plunging down Summit Plummit at Blizzard Beach or hone their surfing skills in North America’s largest wave pool at Typhoon Lagoon. The all-ages water parks feature numerous family-friendly water slides and other attractions to keep everyone cool and happy.

You’re Into Long-Distance Running

Whether you’re a hardcore runner or just want something to train for, runDisney offers four action-packed race weekends at Walt Disney World. Featuring events ranging from a 5K to a full marathon, there’s a distance for every athlete. Themed races feature music, entertainment and character stops along the way and participants get bragworthy race shirts and finisher medals.

You could easily plan a trip to the resort around one of the races, giving you a great, built-in way to celebrate your achievement in a meaningful way.

Which is your favorite in the age-old debate of Disneyland vs. Disney World?

Brooke Geiger McDonald is a theme park journalist covering all things Disney and Universal. When she’s not  screaming on the newest roller coaster  or critiquing the cheese served with her  Mickey pretzel , she’s busy breaking the latest theme park news on  Twitter  and  Instagram .

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Disney, oversight district agree to 5th major park, 2 minor parks, 14,000 more hotel rooms, more

Expansion plans Cinderella Castle, inspired by the Disney film Cinderella, is the enchanting icon of Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Abigail Nilsson, Photographer) (Abigail Nilsson/Abigail Nilsson, Photographer)

The years-long battle between the Walt Disney Company and the Gov. Ron DeSantis administration may soon be at an end.

Disney and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District have come to an agreement that clears the way for more development for the theme park resort, WFTV reported.

The five-member board that was appointed by DeSantis voted Wednesday morning to give the primary approval for the expansion plan, The Associated Press reported. A second vote that gives final permission is scheduled for next week.

The entertainment company had been in a legal battle with the district for nearly two years after the governor had taken control of the former Reedy Creek Improvement District. over the Parental Rights in Education Acts that critics of the law had dubbed the “Don’t Say Gay” bill. They settled in March which ended the lawsuits each side had filed.

The parental rights bill, which was passed in 2022, does not allow school lessons discussing sexual orientation and gender identity in elementary schools, the AP reported.

Disney opposed the law and after the company spoke out the state legislature did away with Reedy Creek and replaced it with the oversight district. Reedy Creek existed for more than 50 years, controlling infrastructure and services such as a fire department, much like a local government.

“We are heading towards a brand new day, and I’m excited about where this is going,” said Charbel Barakat, vice chair of the district’s board. “I only wish we could have gotten here sooner.”

The plan once fully adopted will allow for the construction of a fifth gate, two more minor parks, 14,000 more hotel rooms and more retail and restaurant locations, adding more visitors to the parks and WFTV reported.

Currently, the resort has nearly 40,000 rooms, but the expansion will increase them to more than 53,000 rooms.

The expansion is said to add thousands of jobs to the state’s largest single-site employer if Disney completes the plan.

The agreement is for the next 15 years, the AP reported.

Disney will donate up to 100 acres of property for infrastructure projects that the oversight district controls and half of the projects that Disney undertakes will have to be awarded to Florida-based companies. Disney will also be required to spend at least $10 million on affordable housing in the Sunshine State, the AP reported.

Earlier this year Disney announced plans to expand the parks as part as a $60 billion investment in its theme parks, CNN reported in April. The company teased one project as “Beyond Big Thunder” referring to a roller coaster in the Magic Kingdom park.

NEW: Walt Disney World is currently in the process of filing permits for development work behind Magic Kingdom that will prepare the area for a future expansion expected to be the largest expansion in the park’s history. pic.twitter.com/nGmn78ZkH7 — Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) April 4, 2024

Last year the company also spoke about a revamp of parts of the Animal Kingdom park as part of the “Blue Sky” presentation at the annual D23 event, Deadline reported. The Dinosaur, U.S.A. portion is expected to be rethemed to “tropical Americas” with rides or experiences themed to “Encanto” and the “Indiana Jones” saga.

The company’s newest ride, “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” is in previews and is slated to open on June 28. It also recently introduced a limited-time drone show at Disney Springs.

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