Disney World offers all kinds of places to explore with your family and friends. As you wander through the parks, don’t miss out on the fun adventures found only at the Animal Kingdom.
You’ll want to have a roaring good time, but with so much to do, how do you allocate your time? Follow these tips and tricks for navigating the Animal Kingdom like a pro.
Arrive Early To Maximize Your Day
The Animal Kingdom is full of incredible attractions that will keep you and your family entertained, so starting early gives you the chance to experience more without long wait times. Prepare for a day full of fun by discussing your planned stops with your family and friends. Make a list of which rides you’ll prioritize during your time at the Animal Kingdom.
If it's your first time at Disney World, consider beginning your day with Pandora – The World of Avatar. Avatar Flight of Passage and the Na’vi River Journey are some of the park’s most popular rides, and the lines fill up quickly.
Use Lightning Lanes
For quicker access to your top must-see attractions, invest in Lightning Lanes for major Animal Kingdom rides like Expedition Everest. Using these services helps you fit in more activities and rides without spending hours in line. You can see all the attractions you want.
Know When to Tackle Popular Attractions
While you may want to head to your favorite rides as soon as you arrive, keep in mind that there will be other people who have the same plan. To avoid massive crowds, prioritize popular rides strategically.
For example, save the safari for later. Many visitors rush to Kilimanjaro Safaris in the morning. Instead, head here in the late afternoon. Not only is the wait time shorter, but many animals are also more active during the cooler parts of the day.
To save yourself the wait time, plan to ride water attractions like the Kali River Rapids later in the day when the sun is high in the sky. The water will cool you off fast. You can always bring extra clothes or a Disney towel to dry off before you head to your next ride!
Strategically Plan Your Meals
Don’t forget to leave room for food and water breaks. Make dining reservations at popular spots like Tiffins Restaurant or Tusker House Restaurant. These dining experiences often come with delicious food and refreshing drinks that will keep your family satisfied for the rest of the day, but spots can fill up fast.
If you need something quicker, the Animal Kingdom offers all kinds of stalls that feature unique snacks. Head to Pongu Pongu for a refreshing drink, with the Night Blossom highly recommended (it’s nonalcoholic). These quick treats keep you energized for the rest of your adventures without slowing you down.
Don’t Miss the Shows and Performances
Disney loves to captivate their audience with immersive storytelling performances featuring eye-catching designs. While you’re in the Animal Kingdom, check out one of the live performances featuring all kinds of magic and wildlife.
For instance, Festival of the Lion King is a Broadway-style show that combines music, dancing, and colorful costumes to bring Simba’s story to life. Arrive early for the best seats, then get ready to enjoy the magic of this fan-favorite performance.
For a chance to get in touch with nature, don’t miss the hourly shows called Feathered Friends in Flight. Bird lovers will want to check out this delightful show featuring exotic avian species and their talented trainers.
Explore the Walking Trails
The Animal Kingdom is all about celebrating the beauty of the natural world. If you want to sightsee with your family, take the time to explore the incredible animal exhibits and scenic trails found in this Disney park.
Located near Kilimanjaro Safaris, the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail offers a close-up look at gorillas, hippos, and exotic birds. After getting your blood pumping on the thrill rides nearby, you and your family can take a break at this great spot and relax while admiring wildlife.
Stroll through the immersive Maharajah Jungle Trek to see tigers, Komodo dragons, and flying foxes in a beautifully themed Southeast Asian environment. This self-guided tour gives you the chance to explore all the twists and turns around paths for wildlife photos and observation.
Leverage Your Disney App
Here’s another tip for navigating the Animal Kingdom like a pro: stay up to date with events by using the My Disney Experience app! Keep your phone charged using a battery pack to take advantage of the useful information and reservation resources available through the app.
For instance, the My Disney Experience app lets you see up-to-date wait times for all rides and attractions. The app can also notify you when rides undergo maintenance or if there are changes with character meet-and-greets.
Many quick-service restaurants also allow you to order ahead via the app. You can save time waiting in line and pick up your food conveniently.
Wrap Up Your Visit With Unforgettable Memories
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is all about exploration, excitement, and discovery. Once you stop by all your favorite rides and dine at the delicious restaurants, end the day with a bang!
Don’t miss the Tree of Life Nighttime Awakenings or the night show. These beautifully choreographed experiences offer the perfect end to your day. No need to worry if you’ll miss the show, as it starts right when the sun sets and continues until the park closes.
Also, before leaving, browse the shops for unique Animal Kingdom merchandise. From exclusive clothes to soft plushies, these souvenirs are great keepsakes and gifts.
Once you wrap up your Animal Kingdom adventure, stop by the other parks around Disney World. With so many places to explore in the Animal Kingdom, you and your family will have enough time to see and experience it all by following these tips.