disney world jungle cruise

Jungle Cruise

Magic Kingdom Park

Adventureland

Guests Can Be

Age interest, thrill level.

Accessibility and Other Information - Opens Dialog

Accessibility

• May Remain in Wheelchair/ECV
• Wheelchair Access Vehicle
• Sign Language
• Assistive Listening
• Handheld Captioning
• Supervise children at all times. Children under age 7 years must be accompanied by a person age 14 years or older.

Chart a course for high adventure on a scenic and comedic boat tour of exotic rivers across Asia, Africa and South America.

Adventure Around Every Corner

Steam past lush foliage, butterflies and waterfalls on the Amazon in South America. Glimpse an abandoned camp overrun by curious gorillas on the shores of the African Congo.

Watch for angry hippos, hungry lions and “sleeping” zebras along the Nile and be on the lookout for a missing Jungle Cruise vessel and its helpless passengers. As the cruise continues down the Mekong River, you just might learn that the jungle always gets the last laugh.

It’s a 10-minute, 10,000-mile journey that you won't soon forget!

Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen

Prepare your palate for exotic flavor adventures sure to tame your wildest appetite.

Even More Magic – As You Wish!

Let Disney Genie service summon the attractions, entertainment and dining you love most.

• 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Saturday, May 18, 2024

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The Family Vacation Guide

Jungle Cruise at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom: Everything You Need to Know

posted by Charmaine Cortes on January 10, 2023 // last updated on January 13, 2023

There are few rides as iconic to Disney World as the Jungle Cruise. 

The riverboat adventure has been delighting guests since Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in Florida first opened up its gates back in the 1970s!

Since then, the ride has only improved– and despite having one of the longest wait times in the Magic Kingdom, guests of the park continue to visit this ride on every trip. That’s thanks both to nostalgia, and the fact that no two rides are ever the same. 

Now, with the release of a major motion picture inspired by the ride, new and regular visitors will be flocking to visit! 

Before heading out to Magic Kingdom and hopping aboard, here’s everything you need to know. 

• What Is Jungle Cruise? 

Where Is Jungle Cruise Located?

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Jungle Cruise is one of the original Magic Kingdom attractions, running since its opening in Disney World in 1971. 

The real OG Jungle Cruise opened at Disneyland in the 1950s, and versions of the ride exist in all Disney theme parks worldwide. 

The ride was originally inspired by a series of 1950s movies, including ‘The African Queen’ and the ‘True Life Adventures series.

Bill Evans was tasked with creating a jungle within the park on a budget. To achieve this, he used a mix of tropical plants and plants that appeared to be tropical (but were actually local) . 

He even used the trick of planting orange trees upside down, making the roots look like vines!

Marc David later made significant contributions to the design in later versions, including many of the scenes, present today. 

The ride’s early renditions were more of an experience at first, like visiting a zoo or a botanic garden. However, over time the ride has developed into a funny, lighthearted attraction, and as a result, has increased in popularity. 

A comedic script was added, the scenes became more humorous, and the guides were encouraged to have fun with the guests. You’ll now find them cracking jokes with guests, showing their personalities, and ad-libbing along the way!

Audio effects have been improved and modernized, the animatronics updated, new scenes added, and the jungle has grown and expanded throughout the years. 

In 2010, the jungle became a self-sustaining ecosystem, after 45 years of careful care and growth. The ride has also removed elements that were offensive to native cultures.

The Jungle Cruise story was expanded in 2015 with the opening of the Jungle Cruise-themed restaurant, Jungle Skipper Canteen. 

This introduced Dr. Albert Falls as the founder of Jungle Cruise in 1911. He then handed it over to his granddaughter Alberta Falls in the 1930s, where the story of the ride takes place. 

The ride is full of audio-animatronic characters– mostly jungle animals– such as ones found on an African safari. There are waterfalls, a temple to pass inside, and many other scenes along the way! 

All of the scenes can be experienced from within your boat, making you feel as if you’re an explorer from the thirties. 

The ride is suitable for all ages and very accessible to those with disabilities. It’s a smooth, slow ride, but there’s never a dull moment thanks to the story unfolding around you and your skipper’s commentary.

‘Jungle Cruise’ is the latest in a long line of movies inspired by rides at Disney theme parks, the most notable being Pirates of the Caribbean. The 2021 film starred Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Emily Blunt and followed the general theme of the ride. 

The Magic Kingdom’s Jungle Cruise is located in Adventureland. 

You can find it by going to the hub and taking the first left to Adventureland. After passing shops, restaurants, and the Swiss Family Treehouse, you’ll see the Magic Carpets of Aladdin. 

From there, look to your left and you should see the entrance to Jungle Cruise! 

Queue  

The queue has four areas that can be opened up, depending on the size of the line. The average wait time for the ride is about an hour, one of the longest at the park. 

It can get pretty hot waiting in the queue on a summer’s day, so beware if you have anyone in your party that may struggle with this. Don’t forget your water bottle, sunscreen, and hat!

As you wait in line to enter the line, it’ll feel like you’re in a colonial outpost. You’ll pass artifacts, photos, and tools from the theme and period of the ride to get you in the right headspace. 

Your boat will pull up with your guide at the helm when it’s your turn. There are 15 boats in rotation, each with its memorable name (like Wamba Wanda ). 

Jungle Cruise FastPass+

FastPass+ was discontinued and replaced with Disney Genie in 2021. 

However, due to public outcry, it was announced in 2022 that FastPass would be coming back to the parks. At this point, it doesn’t appear to have been reinstated just yet.

Currently, you can use the Disney Genie service to get you through the queues faster with Lightning Lane entrances. However, Genie+ can no longer be pre-purchased– though you can still purchase through the app when you visit the park.

For more information on Disney Genie, be sure to check out the Disney World website .

The ride has a long wooden bench on each side of the boat, so guests face each other and sit side by side. 

The bench doesn’t have a back, so if you lean back you’ll find yourself against the slightly curved side of the boat. 

Plexiglass dividers are placed between sections of the bench, allowing four or five people to fit within a section. If you have small children, you may be able to squeeze a couple more in. 

Once you step onto the boat, the skipper will welcome you and you’ll set sail down the river. 

You’ll encounter giant butterflies, Inspiration Falls, a beach shop called “Boats, Baits, and Bites”, an African rock python, and a Gorilla-raided camp– all before you head down the Nile River. 

In this new area, you’ll find African Elephants along with many other animals. You’ll pass a zebra watching a lion eat a member of its pack, and a group of lost safari goers hanging from a long pole, avoiding a black Rhino. 

After passing gaters, waterfalls, and a plane crash, the boat is threatened by angry hippos. Thankfully, the skipper will frighten them off. After seeing chimps raid a ship, it’s off to the next area! 

There, you’ll find yourself sailing into a temple damaged by an earthquake. Exotic animals like peacocks and a Bengal Tiger await! The ride will end just as you narrowly avoid being sprayed by a group of Indian Elephants. 

While the ride is quite cruisy, the fun of Jungle Cruise lies with the skipper. There is a script, but most skippers will bring their own flare to the show– keeping guests laughing and the energy high. 

The ride duration is about nine minutes long. 

Jungle Skipper Canteen

After experiencing the ride, consider continuing the adventure by stopping at Jungle Skipper Canteen. 

Here you can have a meal inspired by African, Latin, or Asian cuisine. Try Skipper Dan’s Dan Dan Noodles, “Hardy Har Char” Siu Pork, or Panna-Connie’s Congo Lime Delight. 

There’s an extensive kids’ menu with menu items such as Junior Skip’s Macaroni & Cheese, or Chef Tandaji’s Crispy Chicken. 

You’ll also find an extensive allergy-free menu here (as is the case throughout much of the Magic Kingdom), with allergy-free choices on apps, kids’ meals, entrees, and desserts. 

Feeling a little parched? Choose from the selection of fun tropical cocktails, as well as their large selection of beer and wine!

Two of the boats, Bomokandi Bertha and Wamba Wanda, have wheelchair-accessible lifts. Most wheelchairs, including motorized and some ECVs, can be accommodated by these boats. 

Guests in wheelchairs can choose to board the boat without their chair if able, leaving the chair at the dock. Alternatively, they can wait until one of the accessible boats arrives.

There are days when a sign language interpreter and Disney’s Handheld Devices are available. 

These feature Assistive Listening, which will amplify the sound through either headphones or an induction loop. Handheld Captioning is also available on these devices, displaying on-screen text.

Disney’s Handheld Devices are available for a fully-refundable $25 daily deposit at Guest Relations. Devices are on a first-come, first-served basis, and they recommend that you bring your own headphones or an induction loop for use.

All guests should take care as they step down onto the boat from the dock, as it can bob and lean slightly while boarding. The skipper or ride assistant can offer a hand if needed.

There are periods of darkness, and it’s possible to get damp from the mist near the waterfalls. 

There is an instance of gunfire sound effects, but guests can request that it’s not played if this will trouble someone at the party. 

Guests must remain seated at all times, including small children. The boat will bob some, and sea sickness is possible, but it is generally a pretty smooth ride. 

There is no age or height restriction. Babies and toddlers can ride on their parent’s laps or in strollers. 

Children under the age of 7 will need to be accompanied by someone at least 14 years of age.  

Jungle Cruise closes during inclement weather, as most of the attraction takes place outdoors. 

How long is the Jungle Cruise ride at Magic Kingdom?

The entire ride lasts for just over nine minutes. 

How long does the Jungle Cruise line take?

The average wait time is about one hour. It’s a good idea to get to this ride as soon as the gates open to avoid a long queue. 

During very hot days, the line can get uncomfortable and is best avoided if you are sensitive to this. 

What do you do on the Jungle Cruise?

Guests ride along on a river boat with a skipper at the helm and explore various locations. You’ll see plenty of animals up to no good, and people in plenty of trouble! 

The whole experience is fun and comical and suitable for the whole family. 

Is Jungle Cruise a good ride at Disney?

This ride is a classic, and it’s only been made better over the years. It’s great for children and toddlers, as there are no age or height restrictions. 

It’s a slow and steady ride, so its movement is not frightening. However, some young or sensitive children could be startled in the dark temple with snakes present, or by the gunshot sound effect. 

When is the best time to ride Jungle Cruise?

Surprisingly, Jungle Cruise is a great ride at night! You can still see everything, and it looks even more realistic. Some riders report that the skippers tend to have more fun during sundown.

Christmas is another fun time to ride Jungle Cruise– or “ Jingle Cruise” , as it’s called– as it gets a makeover for the season and a snowman attraction is added. 

The script even gets a rewrite, so it’s quite a different experience if you’ve already seen the original version!

Who is Jungle Cruise for?

Jungle Cruise is a blast for children but is also enjoyed by the young-at-heart. Some adults may find themselves rolling their eyes at their skipper’s cheesy lines, but it’s all part of the charm. 

The Jungle Cruise is a delightful ride for the ages of 1 to 100. 

Disney has created a fully immersive experience where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. 

They have taken careful measures to create a living jungle, keep the ride up-to-date, make it appealing to all– and have even hired slapstick skippers to keep you laughing! 

Whether it’s your first or hundredth time on Jungle Cruise, it’s always worth a visit. 

There’s no shortage of things to do when visiting the Magic Kingdom, so maybe it’s time to explore Jungle Cruise and all the other rides, entertainment, and food that Disney World offers!

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

Complete Guide to Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom

Grab your suitcase and get ready to set sail on an adventure-filled river tour. Jungle Cruise is one of several fan-favorite classic attractions remaining at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World.

This water safari is led by experienced Skippers, who navigate your boat through the rivers of Asia, Africa, and South America. Your pun-filled guides will not only make you laugh ’till you cry, but will also make sure you get up close and personal with the eighth wonder of the world — the backside of water!

Now let’s sail into our Jungle Cruise guide .

Before we get too far into it, make sure you check out our guide on the Best Rides at Magic Kingdom for information on every attraction and show at Magic Kingdom.

In this article

Jungle Cruise Quick Facts

• Location : Magic Kingdom, Adventureland
• Height Requirement : Any height
• Suitable for: All ages
• Attraction Length: 10 minutes
• Do We Recommend : Yes. It’s an original opening day attraction and a must-do ride.
• When to Visit : Typically at opening/within the first hour or closer toward park close
• Scheduled Refurbishments
• Tip(s): Ride at night for a unique experience and shorter lines; Holiday season the ride is themed with an overlay called “Jingle Cruise.”

Description: Jungle Cruise is a river boat ride where animatronic animals and dad jokes abound. Every Jungle Cruise Skipper has their own unique “routine”, so every ride is a little bit different. Kids who are easily scared should be told ahead of time the animals they are about to see are not real.

You can find Jungle Cruise in Adventureland across from Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room and The Magic Carpets of Aladdin . Here’s the location on the map:

Download the PDF

How to Ride Jungle Cruise

Jungle Cruise has a Standby Line and Lightning Lane. There is no  Single Rider Line .

The Standby Line for Jungle Cruise is typically the lowest first thing in the morning and at the end of the evening. The middle of the day will see the longest lines with sustained wait times of over 60 minutes.

Jungle Cruise is not available during Early Theme Park Entry or Extended Evening Hours . So, if this ride is a priority for you, planning accordingly is a must.

D o I need to use Genie+ at Jungle Cruise?

Jungle Cruise is available with Genie+  and we highly recommend using it at this attraction.

Aside from Peter Pan’s Flight , the Jungle Cruise is the second most booked ride on Genie+ at the Magic Kingdom. It’s a highly-popular ride that many park guests make a must-do during their park day. Unless you hop on this ride first thing, you should plan to reserve a Genie+ time for later in the day.

Make sure you check out our  touring plans for Magic Kingdom  for more Genie+ advice.

Rider Switch/Child Swap

Jungle Cruise is for all ages and heights. Therefore, Rider Switch , the system that allows guests with small children to take turns riding bigger rides, while another person/people wait with the little one, is not offered for Jungle Cruise.

What to Expect When You Ride

The Jungle Cruise queue is completely outdoors, with most of the line covered from the sun. While the ride doesn’t have an interactive queue like many other attractions, there are plenty of sights and sounds to enjoy.

You will find the queue decorated with prior passenger cruise logs and journals to read over. Also as you get closer to the loading station you can watch the tour boats pulling into and leaving the loading dock.

The music in the queue is also fun, including listening to what the announcer has to say.

Ride Vehicles

The ride vehicles for Jungle Cruise are small river boats. There is seating around the entire interior of the boat for guests to sit. Each boat can accompany approximately 30 guests.

There is a small 6 inch gap you must step over and down into the boat. Most guests are able to board with little to no help. There is a pole to grab on to help stabilize your boarding process in addition to Cast Members who will assist guests as needed.

You will ride in the tour boat with other groups, but your party will always be seated together next to — or at least near to one another.

There are no safety restraints, seat belts or life vests. You simply sit down and ride around inside the boat.

Accessibility Information

Guests may remain in their wheelchair/ECV while on the Jungle Cruise. A select number of boats are wheelchair accessible and have space for a single wheelchair. This includes manual, power, or ECV.

The majority of wheelchair sizes have no problem fitting on the boats. There is a separate wheelchair accessible entrance where your party can wait to board their boat.

You’ll want to speak with a Cast Member at the attraction entrance (at the top of the path that leads to the attraction) for details and directions.

Sign language interpretation and assistive listening are also offered on the Jungle Cruise ride on certain days. To obtain a schedule listing exact days and times, visit Guest Relations in the park.

Motion Sickness

Jungle Cruise’s boats are slow-moving and don’t have any fast turns, so motion sickness seems very unlikely. That said, you are riding in a boat on the water. Feel free to check out our guide on motion sickness  that’s filled with additional information and tips.

On The Ride

Ride spoilers ahead!

Prepare to sail away on an adventure of a lifetime as your cruise boat arrives into the loading dock. After some brief safety guidelines and a clear to go, your Skipper starts the tour sailing your cruise boat away from the dock and into the jungle.

Your first cruise stop in the jungle will be the Amazon rainforest where it rains 365 days a year. Here you will see beautiful butterflies with an impressive wingspan and the rushing waters of Inspiration Falls.

Next the tour will embark to the depths of Africa on the Congo River. You will pass by your Skippers pet python snake and a camp being broken down by Gorillas.

Cruising over to Egypt your Skipper will take you to the infamous Nile River which spans about 4,000 miles. Capture photos of the African bull elephants among the boulders. Long neck cheetahs, zebras, giraffes and lions are seen resting amongst one another. A rhinoceros is seen trying to make his point, chasing a group of explorers up a pole.

Watch out for danger as you enter crocodile country. Sail past the impressive Schweitzer falls which is named after the famous Dr. Albert Falls.

You will enter a hippo pool which will require some expert navigation from your Skipper as you see another tour cruise boat that did not fare so well going through them. A family of chimpanzees is seen taking over another tour cruise boat.

Next up is what everyone came to see, the 8th wonder of the world — the backside of water!

Prepare for dark encounters as your cruise boat enters the Mekong River in the heart of Cambodia. Your Skipper will take you through an Asian jungle shrine where you will pass a 500 pound tiger, several cobra snakes, giant spiders, shiny gold artifacts, and Buddha statues.

As you exit the tunnel you will find yourself in the middle of an Indian elephant bathing pool. Feel free to take as many pictures as you like. Beware — these elephants have been known to spray the boat, so watch out!

There’s no visit to the jungle complete without a stop to see Trader Sam’s gift shop.

As your tour boat approaches the dock again wait on your Skipper to give the word to gather all your belongings and disembark.

Trust us when we say to fully experience this ride, you need to try it yourself because the Skippers add a whole new level to each attraction scene. Their puns and jokes are the point of the cruise.

Is Jungle Cruise Kid-Friendly?

Overall, Jungle Cruise is very kid-friendly, as all ages and heights are permitted to board and ride.

However, keep in mind some of the animals on the cruise are very realistic and may scare little ones. There is also a short scene in which the boat rides through a very dark, almost pitch-black cave with several animatronic snakes and tigers that could be scary for children.

Anyone riding with kids may want to tell them the animals aren’t real prior to riding.

Kids are also required to remain seated completely during the entire tour. There is no exchanging of kids from one parent to another while the ride is in motion. Due to the nature of this ride being open and on the water, the Skippers are very strict about this.

We have a full guide on several other things that might scare little ones at Disney World .

Strollers are not permitted on the Jungle Cruise boats. They can be left in the designated area near the attraction entrance or with a non-rider.

Jungle Cruise was one of the original attractions ready in 1971 on Magic Kingdom’s opening day. It was also an opening day attraction at Disneyland Park in California back in 1955.

Ironically, before becoming known for its laughs and silly jokes, the attraction as a whole was initially more of a serious tone with only a few jokes inserted here and there.

The original script for Disneyland’s Jungle Cruise was written by Winston Hibler and inspired by Disney’s True-Life Adventure African Lion film. This gave the ride its more serious and educational tone, but that all changed in the ’60s when Imagineer Marc Davis took over and turned the ride into what many know and love today.

During the holidays, Jungle Cruise receives a holiday overlay and becomes the “Jingle Cruise.” The ride format stays basically the same with the addition of fun holiday-themed jokes and pretty seasonal decorations.

Believe it or not, but the holiday Jingle Cruise actually hasn’t been around that long — only since 2013!

In January 2021, Disney announced that some much-needed changes were coming to the Jungle Cruise on both coasts. Those updates are now complete.

Some of the enhancements included incorporating an animatronic skipper, new characters (like Alberta Falls), adding new jokes (don’t worry, many of the classics remain), and freshening up the story by adding chimpanzees, new explorers being chased up the pole, and making the Skippers more of a focus.

Here was the concept art for these updates that were previously shared by Disney:

Most importantly, the outdated depictions and problematic scenes have been removed .

As Walt Disney Imagineering Creative Portfolio Executive Chris Beatty told D23, “This is not a re-envisioning of the entire attraction. It’s the Jungle Cruise you know and love, with the skippers still leading the way, and at the same time, we’re addressing the negative depictions of ‘natives.'”

This also means the removal of Trader Sam from the final scene of the ride. But he isn’t totally gone; Trader Sam is still part of the attraction in a unique way.

The final scene features a Lost & Found Gift Shop with a sign indicating that it is managed by Trader Sam (in place of the Trader Sam animatronic). As stated by Disney, “But, while he’s out lost and finding some new inventory, it’s the animals that get the last laugh!”

Other Fun Details

• Rumor has it that when you enter the hippo pool, you’ll see the back half of a plane on the right, and, apparently, the front half was used in the Casablanca scene in the now-permanently closed Great Movie Ride.
• The Jungle Cruise is not based on a movie, but it did inspire one. The new live-action Jungle Cruise starring Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt was released on July 30, 2021 giving nod to this classic attraction.
• Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen is a nearby Table Service restaurant themed after the Jungle Cruise. It has a unique menu, serves alcohol, and is just as fun as the attraction. Reservations are recommended.

Other Attractions in Adventureland

• Jungle Cruise
• The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Swiss Family Treehouse
• Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room

Disney Park Nerds

Jungle Cruise at Disney World: An Unforgettable Adventure Awaits

The Jungle Cruise at Disney World is an iconic and immersive boat ride that takes guests on a humorous and thrilling journey through the exotic rivers of Asia, Africa, and South America, featuring animatronic animals, engaging skippers, and special effects.

This attraction has been delighting visitors with its blend of adventure and comedy since its inception, making it a must-see for guests of all ages.

• The Jungle Cruise at Disney World is a beloved boat ride adventure through the rivers of Asia, Africa, and South America, featuring animatronic animals, special effects, and humorous skippers.
• Originating at Disneyland in 1955, the ride has evolved over the years, incorporating updates and cultural sensitivity changes while maintaining its core experience of jungle exploration.
• Offering tips for an enhanced visit, such as planning for morning rides, utilizing Fastpass, engaging with the skippers’ jokes, and capturing photos, ensures guests enjoy this iconic and immersive attraction to the fullest.

The Jungle Cruise Disney World Experience

The Jungle Cruise is a boat ride that takes visitors on a journey through the rivers of Asia, Africa, and South America.

The ride is led by a live skipper who provides a lively and humorous commentary throughout the trip. As the boat navigates the simulated rivers, guests are treated to a variety of scenes and attractions, including a jungle temple, a camp of safari explorers, and a raging waterfall. Along the way, guests will also encounter animatronic animals such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and even a pair of feuding gorillas.

One of the unique features of the Jungle Cruise is its use of special effects. As the boat travels through the rivers, it encounters various obstacles and challenges, such as a herd of stampeding elephants or a sudden rainstorm. These special effects add an element of excitement and surprise to the ride, making it a thrilling and immersive experience.

In addition to the animatronic animals and special effects, the Jungle Cruise is known for its witty and humorous skippers. Each skipper has their own style and personality, and they are trained to deliver clever jokes and puns throughout the ride.

This adds an entertaining and entertaining aspect to the Jungle Cruise, making it a favorite among visitors of all ages.

Jungle Cruise at Disney World vs Disneyland

The Jungle Cruise, a flagship attraction at both Disneyland and Disney World, offers guests a whimsical voyage through exotic landscapes filled with animatronic animals and engaging skippers.

While the essence of adventure and humor remains consistent between the two parks, there are distinctive elements and updates that differentiate the experiences, highlighting the unique charm of each location.

• Location and Landscape : Nestled in the heart of Adventureland, both versions of the Jungle Cruise immerse guests in a lush, tropical setting. However, the surrounding environment and architectural nuances of each park lend a unique backdrop to the rides, influencing the overall ambiance and thematic details.
• Ride Updates and Cultural Sensitivity : Disney World’s Jungle Cruise has received more recent updates, particularly in efforts to enhance cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. These changes include modifications to scenes and narratives to reflect a more respectful portrayal of cultures, alongside the introduction of new scenes and animatronic characters.
• Route and Narration Variations : While the general path of the river journey shares similarities, each version of the Jungle Cruise has its own specific route, with variations in the sequence of scenes and the specifics of the animatronic animal encounters. The skippers’ scripts also vary, offering location-specific jokes and storytelling that add a unique flavor to each ride.
• Historical Significance and Evolution : Disneyland’s Jungle Cruise holds the title of being one of the original attractions since the park’s opening, carrying a rich history and evolution over the years. Disney World’s version, while equally cherished, has its own timeline of updates and enhancements that reflect changing technologies and guest expectations.

History of the Jungle Cruise Disney World

The Jungle Cruise at Disney World, an original attraction since Disneyland’s opening in 1955, embodies the spirit of adventure that Walt Disney himself cherished.

Inspired by the real-life expeditions of early 20th-century explorers, this ride was designed to transport guests into the heart of exotic landscapes filled with animatronic animals and plants.

Despite numerous updates and enhancements over the years to include new scenes, animals, and cutting-edge technology, the core experience of embarking on an exploratory river journey guided by a humorously narrated tour remains unchanged.

• Original Inspiration : The Jungle Cruise was inspired by the expeditions of early 20th-century explorers, aiming to capture the thrill of discovering uncharted territories and exotic wildlife.
• Walt Disney’s Vision : As a keen adventurer, Walt Disney sought to recreate the excitement of exploration for his theme park guests, leading to the creation of this immersive ride.
• Technological Evolution : Over the years, the Jungle Cruise has seen significant updates, including the introduction of new animatronic animals and scenes, as well as the integration of modern technology and special effects to enhance the guest experience.
• Contribution of Marc Davis : The animatronic animals, a hallmark of the ride, were designed by Disney legend Marc Davis, a key figure among Disney’s “Nine Old Men,” whose work elevated the standard for animatronics in theme park attractions.
• Enduring Popularity : Despite being more than 60 years old, the Jungle Cruise continues to be a beloved attraction at Disney World, cherished by both young and old for its nostalgic charm and engaging storytelling, making it a timeless must-see for visitors.

Tips for enjoying the Jungle Cruise Disney World

Planning your visit to Walt Disney World’s Jungle Cruise can transform a great experience into an unforgettable adventure. This iconic ride, known for its humor-filled journey through exotic landscapes, offers a unique blend of entertainment and exploration.

By integrating these tips into your visit, the Jungle Cruise promises to be a highlight of your Disney World adventure, offering laughter, learning, and lasting memories for everyone involved.

To maximize your enjoyment, consider these strategic tips designed to enhance your expedition:

• Optimal Timing : Aim to embark on your Jungle Cruise adventure in the morning or early afternoon. This timing helps you avoid the larger crowds that typically gather later in the day. Additionally, weekdays often see fewer visitors than weekends, providing a smoother experience.
• Fastpass Advantage : Utilize the Fastpass system to bypass the regular queue, significantly reducing wait times. Fastpasses can be obtained at kiosks near the attraction or through the Disney World app, allowing for advanced planning and convenience.
• Engage with Your Guide : The skippers of the Jungle Cruise are renowned for their witty commentary and entertaining facts about the ride’s sights. Listening closely not only enhances the fun but may also enrich your knowledge of the jungle’s inhabitants.
• Capture the Moment : The vivid scenery and animatronic wonders you’ll encounter make perfect photo opportunities. Keep your camera at the ready to preserve your memories of the journey, and don’t hesitate to ask your skipper for brief stops to snap the perfect shot.

Updates and Enhancements to Jungle Cruise at Disney World

The Jungle Cruise attraction at Disney World has seen numerous updates and enhancements over the years, aiming to provide guests with an even more immersive and engaging experience. These updates have introduced new features and made significant changes to enhance cultural sensitivity, ensuring a ride that is both entertaining and respectful.

1. Distinctive Features Between Disney World and Disneyland

Although the Jungle Cruise at Disney World and Disneyland shares many similarities, there are notable differences that set them apart. Disney World’s version has been expanded and updated more extensively, incorporating changes for cultural sensitivity and adding new scenes. The rides at both parks have different routes and narrations, offering guests a unique experience depending on the location.

2. Addressing Cultural Sensitivity

Disney World’s commitment to promoting a more inclusive experience is evident in the modifications made to the Jungle Cruise. The ride has removed outdated stereotypes and insensitive jokes, replaced certain animatronic animals, and introduced new scenes to reflect a more culturally sensitive perspective.

3. Duration and Location of the Ride

The Jungle Cruise ride typically lasts about 10-15 minutes, though this can vary slightly. It’s located in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom, a land designed to immerse guests in the mystique of the jungle, tropical islands, and the allure of piracy.

4. Outdoor Adventure Awaits

As an outdoor attraction, the Jungle Cruise takes guests on a journey through an artificial river landscape, complete with animatronic animals and lush jungle scenery. Certain sections of the ride are covered, providing shade and enhancing the overall experience.

5. A Unique Experience at Night

Experiencing the Jungle Cruise at night offers a different atmosphere compared to the daytime. The nighttime lighting can highlight the jungle’s mystique and enhance the visibility of animals and scenes along the route. While some guests prefer the detailed visibility of daytime rides, others find the night ride uniquely enjoyable, thanks to the added ambiance and the entertaining commentary from the boat captain.

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Jungle Cruise

Adventure Around Every Corner

Embark on a river cruise where dangerous beasts and dry wit abound. Board a canopied tramp steamer piloted by your trusty skipper, who will expertly navigate you through some of the world’s most treacherous waters.

Steam past lush foliage, butterflies and waterfalls on the Amazon in South America. Glimpse an abandoned camp overrun by curious gorillas on the shores of the African Congo.

Watch for angry hippos, hungry lions and “sleeping” zebras along the Nile and be on the lookout for a missing Jungle Cruise vessel and its helpless passengers. As the cruise continues down the Mekong River, you just might learn that the jungle always gets the last laugh.

It’s a 10-minute, 10,000-mile journey that you won't soon forget!

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• Magic Kingdom
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Jungle Cruise Ride

Sharing is caring! Facebook Twitter Embark on a scenic Jungle Cruise through rivers across the world and experience a vast variety of dangerous wildlife. Your…

Embark on a scenic Jungle Cruise through rivers across the world and experience a vast variety of dangerous wildlife. Your Riverboat Captain will guide you through your journey on the Jungle Cruise Ride. 

The Jungle Cruise Ride is the most entertaining and fun riverboat cruise you will ever take. The Riverboat Captains are pure entertainers as they take you on the most hilarious ride through the world’s jungles.

Located in Adventureland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. It is just off the side to the left of The Magic Carpets of Aladdin .

Check Out These Awesome Snack Spots in Adventureland:

Adventureland Spring Roll Cart  –  Adventureland Spring Roll Cart  is located right off the main castle walkway as you head to Adventureland. Enjoy amazing takes on Spring Rolls here at the Spring Roll Wagon.

Aloha Isle  –  Aloha Isle  is the dessert stand in Magic Kingdom that features the most popular and famous dessert at Disney World, the Dole Whip! Try a classic Dole Whip, a Float, or a specialty Dole Whip treat.

Lighting Lane:

Lightning Lane is available for purchase on this ride through Disney’s Genie+. You can purchase it on the Disney My Experience App.

This ride can have wait times up to 120 minutes. It is super popular, and a Lightning Lane is recommended for this ride.

Height And Age:

There is no heigh requirement for this ride. All ages can ride.

Handicapped Accessibility:

This ride is handicap accessible, but riders must be able to transfer to the ride vehicle. DAS is available for this ride as well. Wheelchairs and ECVs can be taken to the ride entrance.

Ride Review:

We love the Jungle Cruise Ride. It is one of the most popular and favorite rides at Magic Kingdom. We never miss it on a visit to Magic Kingdom. The Riverboat Captains are some of the funniest Cast Members in all of Disney. They make the ride enjoyable and you definitely want to ride it again. We highly recommend the Jungle Cruise. Everyone will love it!

Check Out Some Of Our Other Magic Kingdom Attraction Posts:

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin  –  Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin  is Tomorrowland’s Toy Story 2 inspired Space Ranger laser shooter. Become a Junior Space Ranger as you ride across space trying to stop Emperor Zurg.

Peter Pan’s Flight  –  Peter Pan’s Flight  soars through the beloved movie in one of Disney’s most iconic dark rides. Fly in a pirate ship over scenes from Peter Pan.

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train  –  Seven Dwarfs Mine Train  is the thrilling rollercoaster set through Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Ride a mine cart through the Dwarfs’ mine and see Snow White and the Evil Queen at the end of the ride.

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• Cast & crew
• User reviews

Jungle Cruise

Based on Disneyland's theme park ride where a small riverboat takes a group of travelers through a jungle filled with dangerous animals and reptiles but with a supernatural element. Based on Disneyland's theme park ride where a small riverboat takes a group of travelers through a jungle filled with dangerous animals and reptiles but with a supernatural element. Based on Disneyland's theme park ride where a small riverboat takes a group of travelers through a jungle filled with dangerous animals and reptiles but with a supernatural element.

• Jaume Collet-Serra
• Michael Green
• Glenn Ficarra
• Dwayne Johnson
• Emily Blunt
• Edgar Ramírez
• 1.2K User reviews
• 297 Critic reviews
• 50 Metascore
• 5 wins & 9 nominations

• Frank Wolff

• Lily Houghton

• MacGregor Houghton

• Prince Joachim

• (as Quim Gutierrez)

• Sir James Hobbs-Coddington

• Chief's Daughter

• Society Guard

• Society Member

• Society Worker
• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

Dwayne Johnson & Emily Blunt Answer Burning Questions

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Did you know

• Trivia Many of the puns Frank uses are taken directly from the Disney Parks attraction on which the movie is based. These "so bad they're good" jokes are one of the reasons why Jungle Cruise skippers are so important to the ride experience.
• Goofs Prince Joachim knows where the trapped Spanish are located. There was no record of this because only Skipper knew where he trapped them.

Frank Wolff : If you're lucky enough to have one person in this life to care about, then that's world enough for me.

• Crazy credits The bay in the Disney logo is seen to have the water glowing purple, and after the Disney logo fully appears the camera dives into the water and leads to the Tree of Life, which opens the film.
• Connections Featured in AniMat's Crazy Cartoon Cast: D23 Expo 2019 Extravaganza (2019)
• Soundtracks Nothing Else Matters Reimagined by Metallica and James Newton Howard With featured performances by James Hetfield , Lars Ulrich , Kirk Hammett , Robert Trujillo Written by James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich Associate Producer and Engineer Greg Fidelman

User reviews 1.2K

• Oct 14, 2021
• How long is Jungle Cruise? Powered by Alexa
• Will 'Weird Al' Yankovic's song 'Skipper Dan' about Disney's Jungle Cruise ride be featured in this movie?
• July 30, 2021 (United States)
• United States
• Official Facebook
• Thám Hiểm Rừng Xanh
• Kaua'i, Hawaii, USA
• Davis Entertainment
• Flynn Picture Company
• Seven Bucks Productions
• See more company credits at IMDbPro
• $200,000,000 (estimated)
• $116,987,516
• $35,018,731
• Aug 1, 2021
• $220,889,446

Technical specs

• Runtime 2 hours 7 minutes
• Dolby Atmos
• IMAX 6-Track

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The History and Evolution of the Disney’s Jungle Cruise

Since it opened in Disneyland Park in July of 1955, Jungle Cruise has become one of the most iconic attractions in Disney’s theme park catalogue. Everything from the distinctive ride vehicles, comical tableaus, animatronic animals, and even the purposely over-the-top skipper spiel have become iconic elements of the Disney theme park experience, explaining why the Jungle Cruise has been cloned to nearly every Disney resort around the world.

However, despite its beloved stature, the attraction has met its fair share of controversy over the years, which has led to numerous changes, including a major refurbishment in 2021 .

To analyze this attraction’s controversial history, we must first look at its origins, years before Disneyland was constructed.

The origins.

The origins of the Jungle Cruise can be traced back to the late 1940s, when Walt Disney Pictures began production on their True-Life Adventures series. Beginning with Seal Island in 1948, these somewhat staged wildlife documentaries followed various groups of animals in their natural habitats. The series was so successful with movie-goers and critics that it eventually evolved from two-reel shorts to full-length documentary films that quickly became a cornerstone of Walt Disney Studios.  

Guests would view the animals from skipper-guided ride-vehicles modeled after the titular boat from the 1951 hit film The African Queen, while traveling through a jungle designed by Disneyland landscape extraordinaire Bill Evans.  

Welcome to the Jungle

Jungle Cruise opened with the rest of Disneyland on July 17, 1955. However, a modern guest would be hard-pressed to recognize much of the attraction. Sure they would be familiar with Goff’s general concept, and if they squinted they could imagine how the rather light jungle Evans planted would grow into the lush greenery seen today, but many iconic elements of the attraction would be absent. There was no ad-libbed humor from the skippers, who played the entire experience straight. In fact, there was no humor period.  

The Jungle Cruise, like Disneyland overall, was a massive success upon its opening, quickly becoming an integral part of American pop culture. However, as the park’s first decade came to a close, Walt Disney felt his park needed some new blood. According to legend, he once overheard a child ask his mother to ride the Jungle Cruise and was aghast when the mother responded that they’d ridden it last time and didn’t need to again. Whether this story is apocryphal or not, in the early 1960s Walt brought over animator Marc Davis from the Studios to “plus up” some of Disneyland’s attractions.  

One of the first attractions Davis – who would go on to become one of the company’s most influential Imagineers – worked on was Jungle Cruise. A visual comedian by nature, Davis decided to liven up the attraction by adding the playful elephant pool and comical trapped safari sequences.

These comedic elements in-turn influenced the ride’s skipper narration, which became more and more comical over the years. Davis’ changes led to the attraction becoming even more popular.  

Disney World’s Jungle Cruise

The Jungle Cruise’s status as one of Disney’s premier attractions was further solidified when a version of the ride opened with Walt Disney World and Magic Kingdom in 1971.

The Orlando version of the ride was similar to its Anaheim counterpart, though not a direct clone, and served the same purpose as the anchor attraction of the park’s Adventureland section.

Jungle Cruise International

A near-direct clone of the Magic Kingdom version of the attraction opened with Tokyo Disneyland in 1983, but when Disneyland Paris, then known as EuroDisney, opened in 1992, the park became the first “castle park” not to feature a Jungle Cruise on opening day. This was due partially to the cold French climate not being hospitable to water rides and partially because there were several knockoff Jungle Cruises already built at various French amusement parks.

Disneyland Levels Up

While these alternate versions of the Jungle Cruise were being built around the world, the Disneyland original continued to be “plussed” over the years. Throughout the 1960s and 70s, various new animals and show-scenes were added to the attraction. The biggest changes up to that point came in 1994, when the attraction was rerouted and shortened to make room for the then-upcoming Indiana Jones Adventure attraction. In addition, the ride (and the entirety of Adventureland) were rethemed to be set in the 1930s to tie into Indy.  

While these changes were substantial, they were nothing compared to the original plans , which were going to see a portion of the Jungle Cruise take place inside the Indiana Jones show building, as part of a plan to build a massive complex that would house four attractions.  

Holiday Overlays

Following these mid-90s refurbishments, the Jungle Cruise continued to be one of Disney’s marquee attractions. As a testament to said importance, in 2013, both American versions of the attraction were given a holiday overlay and temporarily renamed The Jingle Cruise.

The overlay was so successful that it was greatly expanded for 2014, and remained in both parks through 2016. For reasons unknown, Disneyland dropped The Jingle Cruise from its Holiday offerings in 2017, though the overlay remains a Magic Kingdom staple to this day.  

Controversy in the Jungle

Despite Jungle Cruise’s ongoing popularity, in recent decades the attraction has become controversial due to its purported negative depictions of native people, specifically the “headhunter” party as well as the Trader Sam “head salesman” character.  

In January 2021,  Disney announced that it would be making significant story changes to the Jungle Cruise at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World to alleviate these issues. Carmen Smith, creative development and inclusion strategies executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, explained the changes in a statement to the Los Angeles Times , saying:  

As Imagineers, it is our responsibility to ensure experiences we create and stories we share reflect the voices and perspectives of the world around us. With Jungle Cruise, we’re bringing to life more of what people love – the humor and wit of our incredible skippers — while making needed updates.

Disney Chief Executive Bob Iger added , “The exciting changes we’re making to one of Disney’s most popular classic attractions, Jungle Cruise, reflect our commitment to creating unparalleled experiences that reflect, not only the best in storytelling, but also the values and rich diversity of our world.”

As part of these announcements, Disney made it clear that these changes to the attraction were not going to be related to the upcoming film based on the attraction.

Said film, simply titled Jungle Cruise , was released in July of 2021. The film starred Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, Édgar Ramírez, Jack Whitehall, Jesse Plemons, and Paul Giamatti and was directed by Jaume Collet-Serra. It was such a hit, a sequel is already in the works.

How do you feel about the upcoming changes to the Jungle Cruise? Do you agree that they’ve been years in the making? Beyond that, how do you feel about the attraction overall? Let us know in the comments below.  

Jungle Cruise

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Ranking The Ten Best Attractions in Walt Disney World

W alt Disney World consists of four theme parks – Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Between the four parks, there are over 100 attractions to enjoy, including rides, shows, and character greetings. That’s a lot of things to do. With so much to choose from, is it possible to distill a list of the ten best attractions in the four WDW theme parks? I set out to do precisely that.

How on earth can someone pick only ten best attractions out of so many excellent choices? I put pen to paper (i.e., sat down at my computer) and took a crack at it. To do this, I drew on my own Disney nostalgia, and made sure to include critical components of thrill, family-friendly content, and storytelling achievement. I was quickly able to pick about fifteen “best” attractions, but I had significantly more trouble narrowing that list down to ten. After some depth-defying soul searching, I was able to prune my list down to ten, and I present them here for your consideration.

One note of caution: There are several amazing attractions that did not make this list, which can arguably be “top ten” material. No offense was intended in the direction of your favorite attraction. I even left a couple of my own favorites off the list. But ten is ten, so here we go.

10 – Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – Magic Kingdom

My favorite roller coaster in Magic Kingdom is the only coaster from the park to make this list. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad takes guests on a runaway train ride through the southwestern town of Tumbleweed. The “wildest ride in the wilderness” reaches speeds up to 35 mph, but the sharp curves in and out of the terracotta formations, and through the remains of the small, haunted mining town make it feel a whole lot quicker. Big Thunder is a family-friendly coaster, as most kids can handle it fairly readily. But it offers plenty of thrills to keep the more adventurous guests satisfied. This coaster is a blast during the day, but for a completely fresh experience, ride this train at night. The dimly lit town comes to life when the sun goes down.

9 – Toy Story Mania – Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Load up for the rootinest, tootinest shootin’ game this side of Andy’s backyard. Toy Story Mania is – in the simplest words possible – an absolute joy. The music, the spinning, and those pop-trigger guns make this the most delightful version of a shooting attraction I’ve ever experienced. Guests slide their way through several carnival-looking arcade rooms, including Hamm & Eggs, Buzz Lightyear’s Flying Tossers, and Woody’s Rootin’ Tootin’ Shootin’ Gallery, to name a few. The challenges increase in difficulty, but no worries for smaller guests. Every room includes many easier targets then even the tiniest of hands can hit. Your wrists may feel a little sore after you’ve pulled the pop string several hundred times!

If you are stuck in the attraction queue, fear not. There are tons of nostalgic toy props to tug at the heartstrings of adults, and kids and adults alike will enjoy the riffings of Mr. Potato Head.

8 – Kilimanjaro Safaris – Animal Kingdom

The original signature attraction in Animal Kingdom – Kilimanjaro Safaris is the largest attraction in any Disney resort, covering over 100 acres of ground. In fact, the vast size of the safari alone puts Disney’s Animal Kingdom atop the list of the largest Disney theme parks worldwide.

This simulated African Serengeti tour of the fictional Harambe Wildlife Reserve offers sightings of (and in some cases interactions with) elephants, giraffes, antelopes, crocodiles, hippopotamuses, lions, hyenas, warthogs, flamingos, wildebeests, and many others. The tour guide cheerfully informs guests with interesting facts and fascinating stories of the animals with which we share our planet. Many of the animals are allowed to roam freely throughout the savannah, which can lead to entertaining and often humorous interactions with the tour buses and the guests aboard them. These unpredictable moments are what make the safari such a rich experience, and one that is unique and new with each trip.

Nostalgic fans of Walt Disney know he originally intended the Jungle Cruise to be a tour including real jungle animals. While the Jungle Cruise found its sweet spot with animatronics and humor, Kilimanjaro Safaris fulfilled a wish Walt had all the way back in the 1950s.

7 – Soarin’ – EPCOT

“Soarin’ to tower. We are ready for takeoff.” These words, delivered memorably by the velvety smooth voice of Patrick Warburton , might be the sweetest words you’ll hear when you visit EPCOT . Just don’t forget to store your “ little beauties” (Mickey ears) under your seat before takeoff.

Soarin’ Around the World takes guests exactly where it sounds – on an aerial tour of our world, with breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal, Great Wall of China, Eiffel Tower (albeit a slightly curved version of it), and several other iconic locations. The attraction is a treat for almost all human senses. Bruce Broughton’s score (which adopted much of Jerry Goldsmith’s music from the previous Soarin’ Over California version of the attraction) lifts guests as much as the mechanics of the ride.

Disney “Smellitizers” are working overtime in this attraction, offering aromas of jasmine, fresh grass, and paradise ocean breezes (though I miss the orange grove smell from the Soarin’ Over California). Both iterations of Soarin’ have long been my favorite EPCOT attractions.

Fans of the Animal Kingdom’s Avatar Flight of Passage attraction might be disappointed to see Soarin’ on this list in lieu of its technological successor. While I certainly understand that disappointment, I personally find more emotional value in Soarin’s score, as well as the (mostly) live-action nature of the attraction. The presence of full-on animation in Flight of Passage takes away from the power of the attraction, which is why I didn’t not include it here on this list.

6 – Pirates of the Caribbean – Magic Kingdom

“Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate’s life for me!”

My absolute personal favorite Disney dark ride is the classic Pirates of the Caribbean. Guests feel the (very refreshing) cool dampness in the air while boarding boats for this dark ride masterpiece. Once the boat departs, guests wade through a series of classic pirate scenes, experiencing the tales of the pirate days of old. A combination of intimate personal moments and larger battle scenes gives guests something new to notice with every ride. Keep an eye out for Captain Jack Sparrow – the rum-swilling buccaneer joined the attraction in 2006.

The Disneyland version of this attraction has the distinction of being the last attraction to which Walt directly contributed, although it opened after his death. The nostalgia of Pirates lands this attraction easily in the top ten.

5 – The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror – Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Located at the very end of Sunset Boulevard, The Hollywood Tower Hotel harkens back to Tinsel Town’s golden days of the 1930s. But this is no ordinary hotel. It is haunted and possessed, and unlucky guests traveling to the thirteenth floor are in for more than they bargained for. The creepy feel inspired by The Twilight Zone , including the ominous voice of Rod Serling himself, adds a level of depth and danger to the attraction’s story, making it one of Disney Imagineering’s crowning achievements in storytelling and engineering. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is widely considered one of the best theme park attractions worldwide.

A Little Friendly Advice: When the bellhop tells you to store your items under your seat, take their word for it. I once left a sweatshirt on my lap, and upon our descent, I found it “floating” in front of my face!

4 – Expedition Everest – Disney’s Animal Kingdom

True to its name, Expedition Everest holds the distinction of being the tallest mountain (in fact, the tallest attraction) at Walt Disney World .

Upon first arrival, you’ll first visit the “Himalayan Escapes” travel agency, where you’ll have the opportunity to board a train to head to Mount Everest. On your way up and around, you’ll pass the ruins of a temple that has been claimed by the legendary Yeti snow monster. As you reach near the top of the mountain, you encounter more evidence of the Yeti’s handiwork, in the form of a torn rail track.

Watch out for the Yeti! Here’s where your ride literally spirals out of control. Your train will roll backwards and around the inside of the mountain, then rock forward again, where you’ll encounter the Yeti himself.  Thankfully, the train is moving so fast you’ll slide by the Yeti en route to the base of the mountain and back to the tourism office. Phew, that was a close one! You’d think the Himalayan Escapes travel agency might consider refunding your money.

This runaway train makes Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad look like child’s play. Guests fleeing from the ominous snow monster will reach speeds of up to 50 mph! This is an amazingly-themed coaster, but it’s not the top coaster on this list…

3 – Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance – Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney’s most technologically advanced ride experience to date puts riders in the middle of the war between the Resistance and the First Order. Members of the Resistance base are forced to flee from an oncoming First Order invasion. However, the escape pod gets intercepted by a First Order Star Destroyer. Resistance hero Finn leads a rescue charge. Through a series of encounters with First Order stormtroopers, vehicles, and Supreme Leader Kylo Ren himself, the guests are finally rescued and transported to a safe haven.

This attraction is a perfect combination of dark ride elements and story immersion, with a little bit of thrill thrown in. The way the experience unfolds – guests don’t even realize they are moving through a pre-show and loading queue – it’s that immersive. 

Due to this ride’s immense popularity, securing passage on the attraction takes some work. If you don’t win the opening siren boarding group contest, then you may need to put up some “credits” ( Star Wars -speak for money) to pay for Lightning Lane access to insure yourself a spot in this top-level ride experience. But the magnitude of this attraction’s interior scenes, combined with the frantic pace of the breathtaking escape sequence, make this attraction worth every ounce of energy it takes to secure a spot on the transport.

2 – Haunted Mansion – Magic Kingdom

“We have 999 happy haunts here, but there’s room for a thousand.”

The Haunted Mansion is perhaps the most iconic attraction in all of the Disney Parks. Guests board “Doom Buggies” to experience an unearthly blend of humor and horror that only a Disney haunted house can offer. This attraction is classic Disney storytelling and Imagineering at their best, as many Disney Legends contributed story ideas and mechanical savviness to its creation.

Don’t just race to the attraction using Genie+ . The queue winding through the graveyard is one of the very special things about the Haunted Mansion. Many Disney Legends are cleverly recognized in the tombstones and other memorials on display. After the attraction, you may even notice a pet cemetery, in which resides a certain famous toad in particular .

1 – Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind – EPCOT

Atop the list of the best attractions in Walt Disney World in one of the newest and most exciting. When Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind opened to guests in 2022, it changed the face of rollercoasters as we know them. This completely indoor coaster treats riders to indoor lighted entertainment , swiveling coaster cars, and a sweet selection of music to jam out to while riding (if you can hear it over the joyful scream of everyone on-board). Did I mention it takes off backward s???

Cosmic Rewind is a party on wheels (very, very fast wheels). After opening, this coaster immediately became the most popular attraction in all of Walt Disney World. It is currently EPCOT’s only attraction accessible using the Individual Lightning Lane – and it’s worth every penny! With reprogrammable music and supporting imagery, this intensely fun coaster should be making guests laugh and scream for many years to come.

Honorable Mention – Splash Mountain / Tiana’s Bayou Adventure – Magic Kingdom

“Zip-a-dee-doo-dah, zip-a-dee-ay

My, oh, my, what a wonderful day”

If this list of the top ten Walt Disney World attractions was created a year ago, or a few months from now, this attraction would most certainly make the cut. But as fate would have it, we are currently threading the needle between old and new – with Splash Mountain retired forever, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure taking its place, but not yet open for business.

Frontierland’s Splash Mountain was a fan favorite flume ride, operating from 1992 through 2023. Audio Animatronic critters were front and center here as guests toured the deep southern critter country. The story followed the journey of the restless (and reckless) Br’er Rabbit as he gets into trouble with Br’er Fox and Br’er Bear. 

Opening in Summer 2024, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will take guests on a flume log tour of the Louisiana bayou.  As Princess Tiana plans to throw a giant party at the home of her recently established food co-op Tiana’s Foods, she discovers she is missing music – a key ingredient in every New Orleans-area celebration. Guests will join Tiana on a trip through the bayou in search of some musically-inclined critters to help fill the melodious void. I expect this new attraction to be at least as entertaining as its predecessor, and look forward to placing it on this top ten list officially very soon!

There you have it – my take on the (current) ten best attractions at Walt Disney World. As I mentioned at the outset, I’m sure several of my inclusions and omissions will not agree with everyone. But that’s the great thing about opinions – everyone is allowed to have one!

If you’d like a more comprehensive list including more of the best attractions from all four Walt Disney world theme parks, check out my favorite attractions lists for Magic Kingdom , EPCOT , Disney’s Hollywood Studios , and Disney’s Animal Kingdom .

Are you interested in visiting Walt Disney World to experience these attractions for yourself? Facts and Figment Travel Planning can help you score the best discounts Disney has to offer, at Disneyland , Walt Disney World , Disney Cruise Line , Aulani , or Adventures by Disney . Please start here to begin. In addition to contributing to Pirates & Princesses, I also provide travel planning services. I can help you identify the perfect resort hotel, and I can help save you money on it too! My travel planning services are absolutely FREE to you, and I can help you score the best, hardest-to-get deals to make your vacation more affordable.

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8 Endangered Species to See at Disney’s Animal Kingdom 

by Thomas Smith , Editorial Content Director, Disney Experiences

Of the more than  300 different species  at  Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park,  there are eight now listed on the endangered species list. And today, we’re taking a special look at each of these beautiful and fascinating animals and sharing some unique ways you can help protect them in the future. 

1. Painted Dog  

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, we have six painted dogs on the African savannas. Right now, you can spot “The Brothers” (Oswald and Hugo) on Kilimanjaro Safaris and even on “Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom” streaming on Disney+. 

Painted dogs are known for being hierarchical and our pack is no different, as Oswald leads the group. Meanwhile his brother Hugo, who is the most submissive of the group, is known for being a lover. 

If you’d like to help protect the painted dogs population, you’re encouraged to visit local and national parks, AZA accredited zoos and aquariums and adopt an animal supported by a non-profit organization.

2. African Elephant   

For many of you, a favorite part of visiting Kilimanjaro Safaris is seeing the endangered African elephants . If you’ve been to Disney’s Animal Kingdom recently, you may have even gotten a special peek at five-month old Corra and mom Nadirah!

Both Nadirah and Corra were born at Animal Kingdom, making Corra the first second-generation elephant in the Park’s history. Corra has a lot of familiar faces in her herd, as she is joined by her aunts and grandma Donna on the savanna. The adorable five-month-old loves exploring, splashing and discovering new ways to use her trunk.

You can help protect elephants by buying eco-friendly, wildlife-friendly and by joining a conservation group.

3. Western Lowland Gorilla  

At  Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail , you can see two dynamic troops of endangered western lowland gorillas . An Animal Kingdom resident since opening day, 40-year-old Gino leads the troop.

He is joined by nine-year-old half-brothers Corey and Flint. While they may be related and only three weeks apart, these two have unique personalities. Corey is a ball of energy, who loves making rain angels and practicing his sliding skills. And Flint is on the quieter side and loves to snack on green beans.

Gorillas rely heavily on forests for survival. Trees are often cut down to mine for minerals to make electronics. So by recycling electronics, you can help reduce the number of trees that get cut down and preserve the gorillas’ habitats.

4. Komodo Dragon   

When you turn the first corner on  Maharajah Jungle Trek  at Animal Kingdom, you may catch the endangered Komodo dragon, Sheldon. The park’s keeper team is constantly giving Sheldon new enrichment and training challenges, since he figures them out so quickly.

Often misunderstood, Komodo dragons help the ecosystem by keeping their preys’ populations in check. So, make sure to share that with your friends to help out these large reptiles.

5. Okapi   

If you’ve strolled down Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail or taken in the views of Pembe Savanna at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge , you may have seen a rare cousin of the giraffe, the okapi .  Here, you can spot some shy and elusive explorers, like Olivia, or Elijah and his mom Zelda. 

Olivia is a 10-year-old okapi born at Animal Kingdom Lodge. While sweet potatoes are one of her favorite things to eat, she is known for her sweet personality.

To help support the endangered okapi population, you can support a wildlife conservation organization and shop sustainable products that use recycled paper.

6. Giant Galapagos Tortoise  

And the next time you walk around the iconic Tree of Life at the park, you may want to check out the “monsters” of Discovery Island . Dracula, Mummy, Frankenstein and Creature make up our group of hauntingly slow giant Galapagos tortoise s. 

While they are all only 12 years old, making them too young to have their genders identified, they all have distinct personality traits. Dracula might prefer neck scratches and Creature loves food more than anything else. Frankenstein can be seen wiggling its bottom to make sure keepers get the right scratching spot and Mummy has the most attitude despite being the smallest.

You can help out tortoises by planting native plants in your garden. Native plants help keep out invasive plants, which are detrimental to animals like tortoises.

7. Sumatran Tiger   

The most powerful predator in the jungle, the endangered  Sumatran tiger , roams the Maharajah Jungle Trek at Animal Kingdom. 

Sohni the Sumatran tiger is a strong-willed, independent female. She loves to play by dragging around big barrels. And Conrad, a male, loves his enrichment activities in the pool and never misses his mid-day cat naps.

Like other species featured here, tigers live in the forest so you can help by making sure to recycle and print double-sides to help protect their habitats.

8. Vietnam Pheasant   

On Maharajah Jungle Trek at Animal Kingdom, you can find a group of stylish Vietnam pheasants. These colorful endangered birds have bright red skin around their eyes that pop like the sunset.

This beautiful species can help keep small animal populations in check, so limit or reduce the use of pesticides to protect plants and animals like these ones.

Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for more stories like this and updates on how our dedicated veterinarians, animal keepers and teams continue to deliver the best care to the animals in today’s story and to the 5,000 others across the resort. 

Topics: Disney Planet Possible

Tigers and Peafowls are my favorite animals.

When is the Tree of Life Awakenings returns at Disney’s Animal Kingdom? Please added the Disney’s Animal Kingdom night show for summer and for my birthday suprise on September for me thank you.😄😆😊❤️❤️❤️👏👏👏🐅🦚

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Tiana's Bayou Adventure, Splash Mountain replacement, opening soon at Disney World Florida

Almost there, it's almost there. The grand opening date for the new "Tiana's Bayou Adventure" attraction, which replaced the classic Splash Mountain ride, was finally announced Sunday night on "American Idol."

Right after Jenifer Lewis — the voice of Mama Odie from the Disney movie "The Princess and the Frog" — and Terance Blanchard performed a rollicking version of "Dig a Little Deeper" for Disney Songbook Night, with a full New Orleans-style jazz band complete with Louis the alligator on trumpet, host Ryan Seacrest joined them to announce some exciting news.

"The new attraction 'Tiana's Bayou Adventure' will be opening at Walt Disney World in Florida June 28," he said, to applause. "Inspired by 'The Princess and the Frog.' So bring our crew and join Princess Tiana and friends on a thrilling adventure in the bayou where anything can happen."

The attraction also will be opening at Disneyland in California later this year, he said.

What is 'Tiana's Bayou Adventure'?

The new attraction is based on the animated Disney movie "The Princess and the Frog" where a New Orleans girl in the 1920s named Tiana gets caught up in a wild chase of magic, parties, princes and powerful voodoo practitioners when all she wants to do is open a restaurant. The setting takes place after the event of the movie.

"Join Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis on their journey through a shimmering bayou as they prepare for a spirited celebration during Mardi Gras season," Disney's site said about the ride. "Along the way, you’ll see familiar faces and make new friends as you’re brought into the next chapter of Tiana’s inspiring story."

While waiting for the ride, guests will learn about Tiana's efforts to give back to her community through a food co-op as they enjoy the wafting scent of fresh beignets. Then it's off along the bayou to enjoy Zydeco, Rara, and Afro-Cuban music and see some familiar animatronic faces and some new friends as Tiana prepares to throw a big Mardi Gras party.

You must be 40" high or taller to ride the attraction.

Will I get wet on Tiana's Bayou Adventure?

"Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will also feature original music and some familiar tunes from the beloved movie, and so much more … including an incredibly thrilling 50-foot drop!" said Sarah Riles, Magic Kingdom Park Vice President, in a blog post about the attraction .

When is 'Tiana's Bayou Adventure' opening at Disney World?

'Tiana's Bayou Adventure' is opening on Friday, June 28, 2024.

Where is 'Tiana's Bayou Adventure' in Disney World?

'Tiana's Bayou Adventure' is replacing the Splash Mountain log flume ride in Frontierland.

Why did Disney replace Splash Mountain?

Disney announced in 2020 that one of its classic rides, Splash Mountain, was going to be closed and reworked into an attraction based on the entertainment giant's first Black princess, Tiana.

Splash Mountain and its Br'er Rabbit theme was based on the 1946 Disney film "Song of the South," which critics said glorified plantation life and glossed over the horrors of slavery . James Basket, who won an Oscar for his role as Uncle Remus, an elderly Black man who told stories depicted in colorful animations, did not attend the film's Atlanta premiere because Black people were forced to sit separately in the theater's balcony.

Disney has not publicly connected the change to the controversy over the movie, although a Change.org petition that year called for a change. The company just said the move had already been in the works, although when Disney CEO Bob Iger was asked at a shareholders meeting that year if "Song of the South" was going to be added to Disney+ he said, "I've felt, as long as I've been CEO, that 'Song of the South' was – even with a disclaimer – was just not appropriate in today's world." 

"Song of the South" was never released on home video in the U.S. and is not included in Disney+.

In 2021, controversy over the controversy erupted when a loyal Disney fan's guest column in the Orlando Sentinel bemoaned the company's change in values and the alterations to park attractions that have been criticized as racist such as Splash Mountain and the Jungle Cruise , which was criticized for its depictions of indigenous peoples. The column went viral and triggered a nationwide response.

"I love Disney World, but wokeness is ruining the experience," Jonathan VanBoskerck wrote. " The next time I ride Jungle Cruise I will not be thinking about the gloriously entertaining puns of the skippers, I will be thinking about Disney’s political agenda. That’s a mood killer."

VanBoskerck said he also was concerned about Disney's announcement that the company was adding inclusion as one of its core principles , allowing gender-neutral hairstyles and costuming for cast members, and providing adaptive costumes to accommodate employees in wheelchairs.

Reaction to his column was mixed but passionate, with some people supporting him and complaining about wokeness but most criticizing him for wanting to embrace the idealized, mythological antebellum South.

Meanwhile, Disney went on to wage a two-year war with Gov. Ron DeSantis over the then-Disney CEO's public objections to the state's "Parental Rights in Education" bill banning instruction of sexual orientation and gender identity in schools, which critics referred to as the "Don't Say Gay" law. DeSantis lashed out in return, hammering the company as a bastion of wokeness in campaign speeches and moving to strip the company's 55-year-old self-governing status and put it under the control of a DeSantis-appointed board. After months of lawsuits and failed appeals the war was called off and the lawsuits dropped , for now.

Eve Chen, USA TODAY, contributed to this article.

Services for Guests Who Are Neurodivergent

Disney is committed to delivering a wide range of innovative support services aimed at helping our guests with disabilities visiting our theme parks. explore ways and resources for guests with neurodivergent disabilities to use throughout the theme parks and in the resort hotel areas. some tools found on this page may benefit a variety of individuals and are not limited to guests with neurodivergent disabilities., know what to expect at the parks.

For more information, download the Accessibility Planning Guide & Recommendations.

How to Prepare

Plan a visual schedule.

Next, fill in the remaining times with possible attractions and use a question mark or a change card to build flexibility into the schedule. Review the visual schedule with your family member before your visit so they have an idea of what to expect.

By providing a possible timeline, you can help the Guest with a neurodivergent disability understand what to expect—such as crowds, sights, sounds, and smells—and so that they can learn the routine.

For an example of a timeline, please download our Accessibility Planning Guide & Recommendations .

Study Location Maps

Review the maps with the Guest with a neurodivergent disability and try to lay out a plan for the day. We recommend that you consider downloading the My Disney Experience app to have information on your mobile device, including entertainment showtimes. You can even order food and beverages via the My Disney Experience app .

What to Bring

Being prepared for a day at Walt Disney World Resort goes beyond the parks. Plan ahead by bringing along an assortment of items.

Some suggestions include:

• A Safety Bracelet or Nametag
• Ear Plugs or Headphones
• A Favorite Device or Activity
• A Sensory Toy

Practice Waiting in Line

To prepare, practice waiting with the Guest with a neurodivergent disability at home or in lines at places they might already frequent.

Attraction Planning Resources

Sensory experience details.

Review a list of details about Walt Disney World experiences—including details about scents, lighting effects, attraction vehicle speeds and more.

Accessing Attraction Queues

Walt Disney World Resort offers tips and a variety of programs to help Guests with disabilities access attraction queues including Rider Switch, Single Rider, Disability Access Service and more.

At the Parks

Companion restrooms.

Learn more about restrooms

Choose a Meeting Location

Should they get lost, stress the importance to the Guest with a neurodivergent disability of finding a Cast Member who will assist in attempting to reunite you. In addition, there are also designated locations in each park where lost persons can be escorted.

It is recommended that you take a photo of the Guest with a neurodivergent disability on your mobile device or digital camera, especially if they tend to wander off. You may also consider making a nametag that includes their name, as well as your name and mobile phone number.

Take a Break

Some examples include:

Magic Kingdom Park:

• Main Street, U.S.A. – Center Street
• Adventureland – Area near Swiss Family Treehouse; Area next to the Pirates of the Caribbean restrooms
• Frontierland – Miner’s Cove; Area near Tiana’s Bayou Adventure restrooms
• Liberty Square – Area behind Ye Old Christmas Shoppe; Area next to the Hall of Presidents
• Fantasyland – Area near the Wishing Well; Area outside Pete’s Silly Sideshow
• Tomorrowland – Pathway near TRON Lightcycle/Run leading towards Fantasyland; Area between Space Mountain and the Rockettower Plaza Stage; Area near Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress
• World Celebration – Areas throughout
• World Nature – Area between the Seas with Nemo and Friends and the Coral Reef Restaurant; Imagination Pavilion near the restrooms
• World Discovery – Area near Mission: SPACE and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
• Mexico Pavilion – Accessible ramp to right of pavilion
• Norway Pavilion – Corridor between Norway and China
• China Pavilion – Area next to the Temple of Heaven
• Italy Pavilion – Seating nook next to Pizza Al Taglio
• America Pavilion – Corridor between Joffrey’s Coffee and Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue
• Japan Pavilion – Garden seating area
• Morocco Pavilion – Near Restaurant Marrakesh and Lamps of the Wonder
• France Pavilion – Between France and the United Kingdom near the water
• United ­­Kingdom Pavilion – Garden area
• Canada Pavilion – Garden walkway towards Le Cellier Steakhouse

Disney’s Hollywood Studios:

• Sunset Boulevard – Courtyard near Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
• Sunset Boulevard & Hollywood Boulevard – Area next to The Hollywood Brown Derby restaurant
• Animation Courtyard – Near the restrooms
• Pixar Place – End of block near archway
• Toy Story Land – Corridor between Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
• Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – Area next to First Order Cargo; Area between Oga’s Cantina at the Walt Disney World Resort  and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run; Area next to Toydarian Toymaker
• Grand Avenue – Corridor on right just before Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge; Pathway between Muppet Vision 3D and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano
• Echo Lake – Area by Indiana Jones Adventure Outpost to the right of 50’s Prime Time Café

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park:

• Discovery Island: Areas throughout
• DinoLand USA – Area next to theater
• Asia – Maharajah Jungle Trek (locations throughout) and the pathway next to Caravan Road leading to Africa
• Rafiki’s Planet Watch – Locations throughout
• Africa – Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail (locations throughout)

All Parks – First Aid and quick-service restaurant seating areas (during non-peak periods).

Learn more about break areas in the Accessibility Planning Guide & Recommendations.

Dietary Accommodations

View more information about  special dietary requests  throughout the Resort.

Guest Health Care Services Presented by AdventHealth

Dwayne Johnson Slapped With Rejection, Disney Movie Forced Into Cancellation

in Entertainment

Actor and entertainer Dwayne Johnson has established himself as one of the biggest superstars on the planet.

In the vast expanse of Hollywood’s star-studded galaxy, few constellations shine as brightly as Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Emily Blunt . Their on-screen chemistry in Disney’s Jungle Cruise (2021) dazzled audiences, catapulting them to the upper echelons of Hollywood’s elite.

However, amid their collaborations, a shadow of uncertainty looms over them, particularly concerning the fate of a much-anticipated sequel.

Disney’s Jungle Cruise , an adventurous film inspired by the iconic theme park ride , captivated audiences with its swashbuckling escapades and charming leads. Johnson, in his role as the charismatic riverboat captain Frank Wolff, and Blunt, portraying the intrepid scientist Dr. Lily Houghton, navigated treacherous waters and encountered mythical creatures in a quest for a tree with healing powers.

The film’s success fueled speculation about a sequel, with fans eagerly awaiting another installment of high-seas hijinks and heartwarming camaraderie. However, as the tides of fate would have it, those hopes were dashed amidst reports of shelved plans and abandoned projects. While no official statement has been issued regarding the cancellation of the sequel, the shifting sands of Hollywood priorities and creative direction have cast a pall of uncertainty over the franchise’s future.

For Johnson and Blunt, whose on-screen partnership endeared them to audiences worldwide, the news of the sequel’s demise may come as a disappointment. Amid the fallout from the canceled sequel, Johnson remains undeterred, forging ahead with new endeavors and fresh collaborations.

His ongoing partnership with The Walt Disney Company has yielded promising developments , including negotiations for a potential sequel to the animated hit Moana . Reports also suggest that Johnson is set to reprise his role as the demigod Maui in the live-action adaptation, slated for release in 2025.

Meanwhile, Blunt finds herself on the cusp of a new chapter in her cinematic journey, as discussions swirl about her involvement in Johnson’s latest project outside of Disney’s confines. Titled THE SMASHING MACHINE , the A24 drama promises to delve into the tumultuous life of mixed martial arts fighter Mark Kerr, with Johnson in the lead role and acclaimed filmmaker Benny Safdie at the helm.

Kerr’s story, marked by triumphs and tribulations both inside and outside the ring, offers a fertile ground for exploration, with Johnson poised to deliver a performance that transcends mere physicality. Safdie’s distinct directorial vision, coupled with A24’s penchant for thought-provoking narratives, bodes well for THE SMASHING MACHINE ‘s potential to captivate audiences and garner critical acclaim.

Just recently, Dwayne Johnson shared a behind-the-scenes video of his training schedule as he prepares for the upcoming film.

Thanks for all the great questions. Here’s a sense of my training schedule during my training camp for “The Smashing Machine” Thanks for all the support- means a lot to me. Back to work. Have a productive week. 💪🏾👊🏾 #thesmashingmachine pic.twitter.com/1g6QP288t2 — Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) May 7, 2024

As Blunt and Johnson chart their respective courses in the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood, their paths may diverge, but their shared journey remains etched in the annals of cinematic history. Whether as intrepid adventurers navigating treacherous waters or as collaborators embarking on new creative ventures, their partnership exemplifies the magic of storytelling and the enduring power of camaraderie.

Dwayne Johnson hit with rejection by Emily Blunt

Interestingly enough, Blunt was just recently on the Howard Stern Show where she revealed the reason that she didn’t make the trip to WrestleMania 40 to see The Rock wrestle. The Rock, who tag-teamed with Roman Reigns to take on Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins on the first night of WrestleMania, made a ticket available for his co-star.

However, she ultimately made the decision to turn it down.

“I watched it at home, I did not go watch it live. I wanted to but I felt I should… You know because I never, you know, to be honest with you, I never watched him wrestle. ”

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s return to Disney for the two major Moana projects signifies a homecoming of sorts, marking a continuation of his storied collaboration with the entertainment giant.

First and foremost, Johnson is set to reprise his role as the beloved demigod Maui in Moana 2 , slated for release later this year. Fans eagerly anticipate another enchanting journey alongside Johnson’s charismatic portrayal of Maui, as the sequel promises to expand upon the rich mythology and breathtaking visuals of its predecessor.

Johnson’s involvement in the live-action adaptation of Moana adds an exciting dimension to his Disney repertoire, offering audiences a fresh perspective on the beloved tale through the lens of live-action storytelling.

At this time, no other information has been given on what we might see next for Johnson, though there have been numerous rumors that he could replace Johnny Depp and become the next star of Pirates of the Caribbean 6 .