disney world safari tour

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Guests Can Be

Age Interest

Thrill Level

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some animals you may encounter during the tour:

• Black rhino
• Hippopotamus
• White rhino

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

Accommodations

Theme parks, disney cruise line – what you need to know, cruise line ships, disney private islands, recent walt disney world, recent disneyland, disney world reviews, other park reviews, recent reviews, allears style, newsletter home, kilimanjaro safaris africa animal kingdom, {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org","@type":"breadcrumblist","itemlistelement":[{"@type":"listitem","position":1,"item":{"@id":"https:\/\/allears.net\/attraction\/","name":"attractions"}},{"@type":"listitem","position":2,"item":{"@id":"https:\/\/allears.net\/attraction\/search\/walt-disney-world\/all\/all\/all\/","name":"walt disney world"}},{"@type":"listitem","position":3,"item":{"@id":"https:\/\/allears.net\/attraction\/search\/animal-kingdom\/all\/all\/all\/","name":"disney\\'s animal kingdom"}},{"@type":"listitem","position":4,"item":{"@id":"https:\/\/allears.net\/attraction\/search\/africa\/all\/all\/all\/","name":"africa"}},{"@type":"listitem","position":5,"item":{"@id":"https:\/\/allears.net\/animal-kingdom\/kilimanjaro-safaris-africa-animal-kingdom\/","name":"kilimanjaro safaris"}}]} attractions > walt disney world > disney's animal kingdom > africa > kilimanjaro safaris, recommended by, ride length, motion level, individual attraction selection, ride seating photos & advice, kilimanjaro safaris highlights:.

• Disney Genie+ Attraction
• Animal Kingdom’s flagship attraction — no height requirement!
• 20+ minute safari adventure with real elephants, lions, giraffes, and more!

Introduction | Attraction | Ride Logistics  | Shopping | Interesting Facts

Introduction.

Feel transported halfway around the world to a 100-acre African savanna as you board Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safaris trucks. This 20+ minute attraction takes you on a tour of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve as you spot real African animals such as elephants, lions, giraffes, rhinos, gazelle, crocodiles, and more!

Kilimanjaro Safaris is located in the back of Africa, past the Dawa bar and Mombasa Marketplace.

Walking through the queue area you find yourself in the Harambe Reserve .

Soon you arrive at the boarding platform, enter your truck , and head into the animal reserve. Off you go down the bumpy dirt trail and into the reserve!

Your driver will point out the various wildlife for you. Not all the animals are visible all the time. There is a game spotting guide above your heads in the truck that can help you identify the animals you see.

The first section of the reserve is called the Little Ituri Forest.  Bongos are often hiding around the first bend – look quickly or you might miss these shy creatures. Passing the local watering hole you might see the Black Rhino . On the right, the rare Okapi   which is an animal who appears to be wearing zebra pants, but he’s actually related to the giraffe. 

As you continue, you’ll pass through a watering hole where Hippos may be at the base of cascading waterfalls, and you’ll cross a creaky bridge over a group of Nile Crocodiles . 

The Vehicle emerges from thick vegetation into the vast savannah grasslands. In this area you might see Giraffes , Sable Antelope, Thompson’s Gazelles, Ankole-Watusi Cattle, Wildebeest, and more!  To the left, you’ll pass a rocky area where Hyenas or African Wild Dogs may be spotted. The land is very different here and is accented by termite mounds up to 20 feet high.

On the left is a huge rock formation where a Mandrill Baboon family lives (they can be harder to see!).  The ancient baobab trees can be found in this area.

Around the next bend are the Elephants . Greater Flamingoes inhabit a tiny island that’s in the form of a “Hidden Mickey”.

More watering holes, you might see the white rhinos wallowing in the mud. There are other hoofed animals: the kudu , scimitar-horned oryx and the long-horned eland along with sharp-eyed cheetahs up there among the rocks. 

Coming around the next bend, your attention will quickly be drawn to the high rock formation on your left, where the King and Queen of the Savanaah reside…the  Lions!  Lions do spend the majority of their day sleeping; so don’t expect to see much movement.

Past the lion, you’ll see  warthog burrows (and possibly their residents!) to your left. Keep an eye out for the Ostriches as well! 

This is when your safari comes to an end, as the vehicle rejoins the main roads and the Park Ranger Station comes into view.

To take a ride on Kilimanjaro Safaris, check out this AllEars TV Video:

RIDE LOGISTICS

Lightning Lane  access for  Kilimanjaro Safaris  is available  with the purchase of Genie+ . If you choose not to purchase Genie+, going first thing in the morning will likely provide you with a lower wait time. 

Time:   The safari lasts 20-30 minutes. The drivers are not allowed to go off the track, so you could experience short delays as animals cross the safari trucks’ path.

Warnings:  For safety, you should be in good health and free from high blood pressure, heart, back or neck problems, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure. Expectant mothers should not ride.

The ride vehicle is 8 feet off the ground enabling you to wind your way through the grasslands and waterways of the savanna. 32 passengers fit in this all-terrain truck with a driver for your guide. There is some padding on the seat bottoms and tops .

Taller or larger guests may find the seating cramped with confined leg room.

If you want a less bumpy ride, ask to sit in the front of the truck. The ride feels bumpiest in the back. 

Accessibility:  Must transfer to wheelchair. Guests in wheelchairs should follow the signs to head to the special boarding area. You will need to either transfer from your wheelchair to a seat, or transfer to a standard wheelchair.

Video Captioning, Assistive Listening , and Language Translation Devices are available.

Due to the nature of the experience, those with service animals should check with a cast member at the attraction for boarding information.

The drivers are trained to spot the animals along the Safari and point them out to you. Photography, however, is a challenge — if possible the driver will briefly stop for your photo op.

If you have questions about the animals, ASK. Though there is an assigned script, every safari really is different depending on where the animals are and who your driver is.

In general, the best times to ride are morning or at sunset, when it’s cooler. The animals are often out in the rain as well.

When Animal Kingdom is open after dark you can journey through the African savanna amid the “magically extended orange glow” of the setting sun. This is best seen at dusk. Once the sun sets, the savanna is dark, making it difficult to see animals.

REMAIN SEATED AT ALL TIMES!   Because the drivers are not allowed to stop on the ride path, the truck is always moving (the trucks are governed so the maximum speed is only 10 mph, though it feels faster). Animals can move in front of the vehicle at any time causing the driver to slam on the brakes and causing you to go flying. There are many mirrors on the trucks for the drivers, so just because you can’t see an animal doesn’t mean the driver can’t.

If you want to take good pictures sit on the end of the rows, you get better shots. You can also get better shots if you sit in the back row, where you can carefully turn around for photos.

The Mombasa Marketplace is located just before the main entrance of Kilimanjaro Safaris. Here you’ll find unique African goods, as well as Animal Kingdom and The Lion King specific merchandise.

INTERESTING FACTS

You won’t see any visible walls or fences here. Disney has done a remarkable job of hiding all the barriers that keep you and the animals safe.

When building the savanna, landscapers asked that the plants and trees be in place for two years before moving in the animals.

The details of the savanna were carefully crafted to give the illusion that it had “always been there”, right down to the ruts in the road that make the truck jolt and bump!

The hippos are actually the same ones you will sometimes see on the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail. The hippo barn resides in between Pangani Forest Exploration Trail and the savanna river.

The original version of Kilimanjaro Safaris included a heavy-handed anti-poaching storyline, but it was slowly faded out and by 2012 was gone completely. 

Here are some animals you may see on Kilimanjaro Safaris:

AFRICAN FOREST Black Rhinoceros Bongo Egyptian Goose Helmeted Guineafowl Northern Pintail Nyala Okapi Pink-backed Pelican Saddle-billed Stork Yellow-backed Duiker Yellow-billed Stork

SAVANNAH WEST Hyenas Wild Painted Dogs Grant’s Zebra Greater Kudu Greater Flamingo Impala Mandrill Mhorr’s Gazelle Nile Crocodile Nile Hippopotamus Reticulated Giraffe Sable Antelope White-bearded Wildebeest

SAVANNAH EAST African Elephant African Lion Cheetah Eland Ostrich Scimitar-horned Oryx Warthog White Rhinoceros

How long is Kilimanjaro Safaris?

The ride takes 20 Minutes Find all the attractions by their length

Will Kilimanjaro Safaris make me motion sick?

The motion level is Low. Jeep ride through the animal savannas. You will be jostled on the ride. Near the end, there are some sharp quick turns. Details on handling motion sensitivity on your visit

Is Individual Attraction Selection available for Kilimanjaro Safaris?

No Kilimanjaro Safaris is not eligible for Individual Attraction Selection Find Individual Attraction Selection attractions

Is Kilimanjaro Safaris included in Genie+?

Yes Kilimanjaro Safaris is included in Genie+ Find more Genie+ attractions using our search

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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.

Friday, May 17, 2024

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Attraction Guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney World

in Walt Disney World

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

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

• What is Kilimanjari Safaris?

History of Kilimanjaro Safaris

• FastPass Information
• Your Questions Answered

What is Kilimanjaro Safaris?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FastPass+ Information

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

Your Questions Answered on Kilimanjaro Safaris

How long does kilimanjaro safaris take to experience.

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

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

What are the height requirements?

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

Are the animals in Kilimanjaro Safaris real?

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

What are the ride vehicles like?

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

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

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

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

Does weather affect Kilimanjaro Safaris?

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

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

Does Kilimanjaro Safaris run at night?

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

What is a Nighttime Safari?

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

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

Does Kilimanjaro Safaris cost extra?

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

Can you ride Kilimanjaro Safaris when pregnant?

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

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

What animals are on Kilimanjaro Safaris?

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

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

What is the best time to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Complete Guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom

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

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

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

In this article

Kilimanjaro Safaris Quick Facts

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

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

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

Everything You Need To Know About Kilimanjaro Safaris

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

Download the PDF

How to Ride Kilimanjaro Safaris

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

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

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

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

Do I need to use Genie+ at Kilimanjaro Safaris?

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

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

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

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

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

Rider Switch/Child Swap

You cannot use  Rider Switch  for Kilimanjaro Safaris.

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

There also isn’t Single Rider available here.

What to expect when you ride

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

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

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

Ride vehicles

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

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

Motion Sickness

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

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

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

Accessibility information

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Service animals are also permitted, but with caution.

On the Ride

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

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

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

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

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

No tour is ever the same!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Kilimanjaro Safaris kid-friendly?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Fun Details

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

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

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

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

Other Attractions in Africa

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

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The Family Vacation Guide

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

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

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

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

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

About Kilimanjaro Safaris

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fastpass/ Lightning Lane:  Yes

Time:  20 -30 minutes

Height Restrictions:  None

Age Restrictions:  None

Handicapped Accessibility:

• Kilimanjaro Safaris is Wheelchair Accessible

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

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

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

Service Animals:

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

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

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

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

How big is the Kilimanjaro Safari Park?

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

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

Can you pet animals at Kilimanjaro Safaris?

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

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

Are all animals real at Kilimanjaro Safaris?

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

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

When Is The Best Time To Ride Kilimanjaro Safaris?

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

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

Does the Weather influence the Safari?

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

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

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

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

Wild Africa Trek

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

An Exhilarating Safari Adventure

Be awestruck viewing wild animals in their natural habitat on the 3-hour Wild Africa Trek. On this privately guided tour, discover animals of nearly every variety living in the Safi River Valley—an untamed environment that resembles their home turf in Africa.

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

Work up an appetite during your trek and then enjoy some first-class, African-inspired snacks.

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 00 800 2006 0809 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.

Safety, Accessibility and Guest Policies

Times for wild africa trek.

I paid $185 for a private safari at Disney World. Up-close interactions with wildlife weren't even the best part.

• I paid $185 to go on a private safari tour in Animal Kingdom at Disney World. 
• The ticket included a two-hour safari, African-inspired food, drinks, and a souvenir at the end.
• The experience was top-notch and worth it for the up-close interactions with the animals and guides.

I live 10 minutes away from Disney World and visit the parks frequently, but I'm always learning about new offerings. I recently discovered Savor the Savanna — a two-hour private safari tour at Animal Kingdom.

Although I've experienced the park's 18-minute Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction, I wanted to see what the add-on experience was all about.

Here's what the private safari tour was like.

The Savor the Savanna tickets are limited, so they have to be bought in advance.

There are only 12 tickets available for each Savor the Savanna tour, so they must be booked in advance via the My Disney Experience app or Disney World's website.

The two-hour tour is held at 3:15 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. every day, weather depending.

I booked a ticket two days in advance for the earlier time and paid $174 before tax. The tour ticket doesn't include park admission, which is required to access this event. Fortunately, I didn't need to buy a park ticket because I had an annual pass. 

I checked in at the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk.

I entered Animal Kingdom and made my way over to the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk just in time for the 3 p.m. check-in.

Upon arrival, I was asked to sign a waiver.

I had to sign a waiver before the tour that covered topics including medical treatment, insurance, and assumption of risk.

I received a personalized name tag.

I wasn't expecting to receive a name tag when I checked in for the tour, but I was glad I did as I could keep it as a souvenir .

Our safari vehicle was different from the standard Animal Kingdom attraction.

The Kilimanjaro Safaris ride vehicles have seats in horizontal rows, but our private tour vehicle had wooden benches lining the perimeter.

I enjoyed the seating style because it created a welcoming environment.

The vehicle's seating layout created an intimate atmosphere.

Our tour guide , Emma, was friendly and knowledgeable — she encouraged questions and ensured everyone could capture photos.

I liked that we were all able to face each other throughout the experience. It made the tour more intimate. 

We had extra time to speak with a park employee working with the giraffes.

At the beginning of our tour, we met John, a park employee who works closely with the giraffes in the savanna.

He shared fun facts about the animals and answered questions in great detail.

Since the vehicle was stopped, people could also stand up and take photos of the giraffes and other nearby animals. 

We stopped at the Boma Platform for refreshments and great views of the savanna.

We arrived at the Boma Platform, an enclosure-inspired stop, about 40 minutes into the tour.

Boma is a popular restaurant at Animal Kingdom Lodge, and we were welcomed with a table of similar African-inspired cuisine, including various cheeses , fruits, breads, and salads — the chicken salad was my favorite. 

The stop also offered a raised view of the savanna with binoculars for an even closer look at the animals. 

Various regional wines were also available to sip on.

Although I don't drink, there was a selection of regional wines available for guests 21 and over. 

We could also have complimentary POG juice (pineapple, orange, and guava).

A glass of the fan-favorite POG juice at Disney restaurants can cost upwards of $6, but we were able to have as much as we wanted during the rest stop.

I found the unlimited supply of juice to be a bonus, especially since I don't drink alcohol.

Dessert was my favorite part of the meal.

There were three desserts available at the Boma stop, and the fudge pop was the best dessert I've ever had at Animal Kingdom.

Toward the end of the tour, we had the opportunity to see rhinos up close.

This was my first time seeing a rhino in person, so it was a unique and fun experience .

The tour ended with everyone getting a small souvenir.

In exchange for the lanyard that held my name tag (I could keep the paper part with my name on it), I was gifted a wooden coaster with Savor the Savanna engraved on the front.

Although this tour was pricey, I found it to be worth the value.

Kilimanjaro Safaris is about a 20-minute attraction, but Savor the Savanna is nearly two hours, so I deemed the $185 ticket to be worth it .

I was able to ask many questions and had access to delicious food and unlimited POG juice.

Although the ticket is pretty pricey — especially since it doesn't include park admission — I'd definitely do the tour again for a special occasion.

• Main content

9 Awesome Facts & Secrets About Kilimanjaro Safaris

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

#1 Walt Disney Inspired Kilimanjaro Safaris

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

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

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

#2 That’s One Big Attraction

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

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

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

#3 The Lion Feels the Breeze Tonight

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

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

#4 Every Animal Needs to Rest

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

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

#5 Free Roaming Animals

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

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

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

#6 Fake Plastic Baobab Trees

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

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

#7 Animals Are Kept Close to Park Guests

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

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

#8 Real Safari Trucks

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

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

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

#9 Timing is Everything

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

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

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

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

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

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

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REVIEW: One Of The Most Popular Nighttime Tours In Disney World Is…At A Hotel?

By Shelby Smith 1 Comment

As part of Disney World’s phased reopening, experiences are slowly returning to the parks and hotels (but some still haven’t quite yet!) .

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

You can once again hug your favorite Disney characters, dine at fan-favorite restaurants, and enjoy a FULL parade in Magic Kingdom. But, if you want to take your park visit to the next level you might be considering one of Disney World’s behind-the-scenes tours . Many of these remain suspended to this date , BUT, one of our FAVORITE tours is FINALLY back and we’re taking you along with us!

The Starlight Safari has returned to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and we couldn’t wait to head back out to the savanna and see if it was still worth the cost!

As a quick refresher, the Starlight Safari currently costs $89 per person and takes place two times each night with one tour at 8:30PM and another at 10PM . Disney recommends arriving at least 15 minutes before your tour, so we arrived a bit in advance at the porte-cochere in Animal Kingdom Lodge — Kidani Village to check in. Note that a valid photo ID is required and guests must be at least 8 years old participate.

It’s almost time!

Once everyone had arrived, it was time to load up into the safari vehicle! Before we hopped in, there was a short ribbon-cutting ceremony where the first guest that had checked in for the tour got to do the honors. Cast Members were equally excited to be giving tours once again!

Time to board the vehicle!

Now, what makes this tour so unique is that you get to see the animals at NIGHT when many of them are more active. And, there’s no need to worry about being able to see all the nighttime activities because Disney provides night-vision devices so you can see the animals in the dark. We were given ours once we boarded the truck.

Got our night vision goggles!

Our guide for the safari was Noah, with Emily as our driver. Both are actually what Disney called “Interpretive Keepers,” which means they work directly with the animals AND lead tours — a.k.a. they’re the experts.

Our guide, Noah

Once our safari vehicle set off, it was time for an adventure!

The safari begins!

We were lucky enough to see a TON of animals, including zebras, antelopes, giraffes, and more! As we mentioned before, the animals tend to be more active at night, so you’ll see some enjoying their dinner, roaming the field, and whatever else animals are up to after sunset.

And, while our cameras did a great job at making it look like there was still some light out when we were touring, it was actually totally dark — making us all that much more thankful for our night vision goggles.

Hello, Giraffe!

Now, you can see the animals with night vision goggles at night at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge without paying for the tour . But, what makes this tour so unique (and worth the cost in our opinion) is that you get to see the animals at night up-close PLUS you’ve got a Cast Member who is dedicated to teaching you all about them!

SO many animals to see!

Our tour guide, Noah, was SO knowledgeable, but at the same time, he was also hilarious — he made everything he told us sound so interesting as he spoke about each animal and how Disney takes care of them.

Our tour guide knew EVERYTHING about these animals!

Our tour lasted just a little under an hour (though Disney suggests carving out about an hour and a half for this experience) and we were SO happy to have had the chance to come back! It’s important to keep in mind that this behind-the-scenes tour does entail riding in a rugged safari vehicle over an open savanna (and it gets BUMPY), but if you’re looking for something unique to add to your Disney World vacation, this is a great, affordable option. Plus, you could easily make an event out of the evening for you and your family by spending time at Animal Kingdom Lodge, having a nice dinner at Boma , Sanaa , or even Jiko , and then following it up with the tour.

So, if you’re thinking about giving it a try, reservations can be made online on the Disney World website, or through the My Disney Experience app . And, as always, make sure to keep reading DFB for more reviews — and news — from Disney World!

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Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

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Have you ever been on the Starlight Safari? Let us know in the comments!

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April 26, 2022 at 11:22 pm

I went to high school with Noah! He’s just as fun and hilarious as he is while working!

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5 Pricey Disney World Hotels That Are Worth the Money

Wondering which expensive Disney World hotels are worth the price tag? We’re sharing everything you need to know about the Disney World Deluxe Resorts that are worth the price.

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Disney World hotels are broken down into four categories: Value Resorts , Moderate Resorts , Deluxe Resorts , and Deluxe Villa Resorts (the latter of which are DVC properties). As you may have guessed, the Deluxe Resorts are the most expensive, offering the most amenities, dining options, and often locations. They also offer certain perks, such as Extended Evening Hours available exclusively to guests at Deluxe Resort hotels. But, which are the best to stay at that are worth your money? We’ll be sharing which of these pricey hotels are worth the cost.

Best Expensive Disney World Hotels

Hotel with the best location.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort stands out not just for its iconic A-frame structure but also for its unbeatable location. Situated within walking distance to the Magic Kingdom, you can get yourself from your room to the front gate in no time at all. While it’s not the only hotel offering a walking path to the park (the Grand Floridian has its own as well), the Contemporary’s is by far the closest and most convenient.

Additionally, the resort offers a unique view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks and the nightly Electrical Water Pageant on Bay Lake. Its fun design, delicious dining options , and superior location make it a great choice in the Magic Kingdom Resort area.

Hotel With the Best Dining

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort transports guests to a South Pacific paradise with lush landscaping and a laid-back atmosphere. There’s a lot to love about the hotel: its theming, its proximity to Magic Kingdom and the Transporation and Ticket Center, and the ability to watch the fireworks from the beach are all near the top of the list. But what pushes it over the edge are its dining experiences.

The Polynesian is home to popular restaurants such as ‘Ohana and Kona Cafe, as well as one of the most popular lounges on property, Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. At ‘Ohana, you can enjoy an all-you-care-to-eat family-style meal with ‘Ohana noodles, honey-coriander chicken wings, and pork dumplings. For breakfast, you can enjoy a character dining meal with Mickey and Stitch while being served delicious bites like pineapple-coconut breakfast bread, Hawaiian-style ham, and Mickey-shaped waffles. And Kona Cafe is home to the famous Tonga Toast!

Trader Sam’s is a small, immersive bar with an interactive setting and some truly ambitious drinks (if you’re with a group, grab the Uh-Oa and thank us later). Even if you aren’t able to nab a spot in Grog Grotto, the outdoor Tiki Terrace counterpart is a great option to grab the same drinks!

Hotel With the Best On-Site Experience

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a destination unto itself. This African-themed resort offers views of an expansive savannah, home to over 30 species of wildlife, from zebras to giraffes. If you get a savannah-view room, you can even take in stunning views of the wildlife right from your room!

Photo by Danny Shuster

The hotel is home to some of the best dining in all of Disney World, with Jiko, Sanaa, and Boma. It also offers a truly one-of-a-kind added experience with Starlight Safari, an after-dark safari tour through the savannah where you’ll get to see over 30 species of African wildlife up close. If you are looking to be close to the theme parks, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge likely won’t be your first choice. It  only  offers bus transportation, meaning you won’t be getting to any of the theme parks lightning fast. However, if you are looking to choose a hotel where you plan to spend a good chunk of time, this is a resort where you will find plenty to do throughout your stay.

Hotel You’ll Want to Return to Again and Again

Inspired by the turn-of-the-century National Park lodges, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge features rustic charm infused with luxury. The cozy accommodations and detailed theming lend themselves to a more tranquil retreat, taking you out of the hustle and bustle of the theme parks. It’s one of the many reasons Wilderness Lodge has become a fan-favorite for many Disney World travelers.

The hotel is home to several restaurants , including a Snow White character dining experience with appearances from the titular character, the Evil Queen, and the Dwarfs. While not located on the Monorail loop, you do have the option of taking a relaxing boat ride over to Magic Kingdom, expanding your transportation options. One stay at the Wilderness Lodge and you’ll be hooked, wanting to return time and time again.

Most Luxurious Hotel

While not technically a Disney World-owned and operated resort, the Four Seasons Orlando is the ultimate pick for luxury on Walt Disney World property. Located in the Golden Oaks area of the resort, the Four Seasons Orlando offers the utmost in luxury. The hotel is home to rooms with stunning views, multiple pools, a Tom Fazio-designed golf course, and a rooftop restaurant where guests can view the Magic Kingdom fireworks.

Basically, the hotel combines the magic of Disney with the extravagance of the Four Seasons brand, and you won’t find a more luxurious hotel on the property (and it comes with an expensive price tag to prove it). However, it is  worth noting that guests of the hotel do not get the added Deluxe Resort perk of Extended Evening Hours, which is one major drawback for those looking to spend more time in the parks.

How to Save Money on Expensive Disney World Hotels

So, yes, Disney World Deluxe Resorts and Deluxe Villa Resorts are expensive. But, is there a way to save money off the rack rate pricing (a.k.a. the price you’ll find on the Disney World website)? The answer is yes! David’s Vacation Rentals offers guests the option to rent DVC points , basically allowing you to rent a Deluxe Villa from a Disney Vacation Club member for less.

DVC points can be used at any Disney Vacation Club property, including the following at Walt Disney World:

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Beach Club Villas at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
• BoardWalk Villas at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
• Disney’s Old Key West Resort
• Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
• Disney’s Saratoga Springs
• Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Copper Creek Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness (beginning July 2024)

The cost difference can be significant. For example, if I’m looking to stay at Disney World from July 22 to 26, 2024, I can currently book a 1-bedroom Deluxe Studio With a Theme Park View for $2,520.00 on the Disney World website. This rate includes a significant percentage off with the Stay Longer and Save More on Rooms deal. However, I could save even  more  with  David’s Vacation Club Rentals , which would be $1,932 for the same dates. That’s a savings of $588! Read more about David’s Vacation Club Rentals.

The post 5 Pricey Disney World Hotels That Are Worth the Money appeared first on WDW Magazine .

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 (407) 939-5277.
• 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.

Related Activities

Savor the savanna, safety, accessibility and guest policies, make a reservation, times for starlight safari at disney's animal kingdom lodge.

Savor the Savanna

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

See the Savanna in a New Light

Immerse your senses during a privately guided journey and explore the sights and sounds—and tastes—of Africa. Welcome to Savor the Savanna, a premium tour where you can discover the wonders of the continent’s most amazing creatures… and so much more!

Special Access to the Savanna Your safari begins with a journey deep into the heart of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. You’ll soon find yourself within one of the most secluded and breathtaking private viewing areas the savanna has to offer.

Listen along as your guide tells tales of the unique residents who inhabit the reserve. Don’t hesitate to ask questions as your guide shares insightful information about the wildlife and the special care they’re provided at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park.

Premium Eats, Drinks and More While savoring the savanna scenery, you’re invited to indulge in a sampling of African-inspired cuisine too, paired with a selection of regional beer and wine offerings.

Pricing Prices range from $189 to $199—plus tax. Prices vary by date. Advanced reservations are required. Book your Savor the Savanna experience online today!

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

Know Before You Go

• Savor the Savanna features a ride in a rugged safari vehicle over an open savanna teeming with wildlife.
• 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 must be at least 8 years of age to participate in this experience.
• Guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a participating adult (18 years of age or older).
• This experience requires Guests in ECVs to transfer into an available wheelchair to participate in the tour.
• Please check in 15 minutes prior to start of experience at the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk, located across from the Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction entrance. Late arrivals will not be able to join the experience.
• This 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.
• Guests must be at least 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages. Please keep a valid form of identification on hand at all times to verify your age.

Safety, Accessibility and Guest Policies

Times for savor the savanna.

Disney on Ice announces UK tour with 'magical' road trip adventure

Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures promises to whisk families away on an 'immersive getaway full of magical participatory moments'

• 12:46, 16 MAY 2024

Disney on Ice is returning to the UK for another magical tour this winter. Road Trip Adventures will take those present on a captivating journey filled with stunning ice acrobatics and interactive character encounters.

Fans can look forward to classic and fresh tales interweaved within the show, featuring stories like Moana, Mary Poppins Returns, The Lion King, Toy Story 4, Incredibles 2, Aladdin, and Frozen. The tale speeds from Mary Poppins' London rooftops to the sunny Motunui shores with Moana, through Simbas Pride Lands, and then to a carnival hosted by Woody of Toy Story before climaxing with the dazzling parade of Aladdin.

The UK tour will stop at Birmingham, Nottingham, Newcastle, Belfast, Manchester, Sheffield and London between October 2024 and January 2025.

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A spokesman told BirminghamLive what fans can expect during the show: "We're thrilled to announce that Disney On Ice will be returning to Birmingham again with Disney on Ice presents Road Trip Adventures, debuting a new tour for the first time in Europe. Hit the road with Mickey Mouse and his pals for a high-octane ride.

"Exciting twists and turns await as Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and guests of all ages embark on an interactive and memory-rich adventure to iconic Disney destinations. See the world from the rooftops of London with Mary Poppins and Jack and his band of dancing lamplighters. Travel to the sun-soaked Motunui and help Moana restore the heart of Te Fiti. Set off on a safari and snap unforgettable photos of wild cheetahs and monkeys when guests traverse through the Pride Lands with Simba, Timon and Pumbaa.

"Discover a whole new world and be swept up in Aladdin's princely parade filled with spectacular stunts, magical moments with Genie, and a brand-new song from Jasmine that will render the audience 'Speechless.' Mosey on over to a larger-than-life comedic carnival and team up with Woody and Bo Peep as they search for their new friend Forky. Fans will hit a high note with Mickey and pals while singing along to beloved Disney tunes as they welcome Merida, Belle, Ariel, Mulan and Tiana to the ice."

The production behind the scenes is quite enchanting a team of choreographers and designers create 103 different props and dress characters in 275 unique costumes. All of these get neatly packed into 17 lorry loads and travel from city to city, taking around 14 hours to set up.

Disney on Ice UK tour dates

• Birmingham: October 30 - November 10 2024
• Nottingham: November 14 -17 2024
• Newcastle: November 20-24 2024
• Manchester: December 11-15 2024
• Sheffield: December 18-22 2024
• London: December 26 2024 - January 5 2025

Priority customers can take advantage of the pre-sale from May 17 to get their hands on the best seats by heading to FELD Entertainment Priority Customer to sign up. Tickets then go on general sale on May 24 from Ticketmaster here.

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