safari animal kingdom animals

Ultimate Guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris (Animal Kingdom)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When Should you Ride Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What animals are on the safari ride at Animal Kingdom?

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

You’ll see:  

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

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

How bumpy is safari ride at Animal Kingdom?

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

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

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

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

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

Has the Animal Kingdom Safari Ride Changed over the years?

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

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

General Information

Theme Park: Disney’s  Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Area of the Park:   Africa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kilimanjaro Safaris Video

More Animal Kingdom Information

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Kilimanjaro Safaris

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Guests Can Be

Age Interest

Thrill Level

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some animals you may encounter during the tour:

• Black rhino
• Hippopotamus
• White rhino

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

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Kilimanjaro Safaris

An Attraction in Animal Kingdom

Last updated: June 7, 2024

At a Glance

Animal Kingdom’s premier zoological attraction, Kilimanjaro Safaris offers an exceptionally realistic, albeit brief, imitation of an actual African photo safari. Thirty-two guests at a time board tall, open vehicles and are dispatched into a simulated African veldt habitat. Animals such as zebras, wildebeests, impalas, Thomson’s gazelles, giraffes, and even rhinos roam apparently free, while predators such as lions, as well as potentially dangerous large animals like hippos, are separated from both prey and guests by all-but-invisible, natural-appearing barriers. Although the animals have more than 100 acres of savanna, woodland, streams, and rocky hills to call home, careful placement of water holes, forage, and salt licks ensures that the critters are hanging out by the road when safari vehicles roll by.

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

Animal Kingdom may offer a nighttime version of Kilimanjaro Safaris. Before the first safari truck rolled into the setting sun, Disney spent more than a year acclimating the existing animals, as well as nocturnal species such as hyenas, to life in a theme park. For the nighttime version, Disney also installed a baseball stadium–size wall of graphics displays at the far end of the attraction’s savanna grasslands.

Turned on late in the day, the displays are programmed to simulate a gradually setting sun for hours on end—providing enough light for guests to see the animals that are still roaming around. It’s hard to predict which ones you’re likely to see, however: On one nighttime tour, we found that the rhinos were noticeably more active at night, while other animals, such as hippos, crocodiles, and elephants, became virtual recluses. A Wilmington, Delaware, man had a different experience, though:

Animal Kingdom at night was the hit of our trip, and Kilimanjaro Safaris was great. We saw more animals in action than we had ever seen in the daytime, and the nighttime added just a hint of danger to the entire proceeding that made it fun.

• Lightning Lane via Genie+
• Physical Considerations
• Handheld Captioning
• Video Captioning
• Assistive Listening
• Audio Description
• Must Transfer to Standard Wheelchair

Touring Tips

Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of Animal Kingdom’s busiest attractions, along with Expedition Everest and the two Pandora attractions. From a touring standpoint, this is a good thing: By distributing guests evenly throughout the park, those other attractions make it unnecessary to run to Kilimanjaro Safaris first thing in the morning.

Waits for Kilimanjaro Safaris diminish around midafternoon, sometimes as early as 3 p.m. but more commonly somewhat later. We recommend taking the nighttime safari after you’ve experienced the daytime version.

If you want to take photos, note that the vehicle isn’t guaranteed to stop at a given location. Drivers try their best to accommodate guests and stop when big animals come into view, but be prepared to snap at any time. As for the ride, it’s not that rough.

Other attractions you might like Users who like Kilimanjaro Safaris, generally also like:

Soarin' Around the World

Animal Kingdom

Avatar Flight of Passage

Hollywood Studios

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Expedition Everest - Legend of the Forbidden Mountain

Here's roughly how many minutes you'll wait for Kilimanjaro Safaris at each Animal Kingdom Crowd Level.

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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

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Awesome Facts and Secrets About Animal Kingdom Safaris

in Walt Disney World

One of the best things about visiting Walt Disney World Resort is the wide range of Parks that Guests can visit and enjoy. Whether you are stepping into the land of fantasy at Magic Kingdom, traveling the world at EPCOT, entering the movies at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or jumping into the animal world at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, each Park has its own immersive qualities.

Related: Disney Removes Jambo House Availability Into 2021

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Guests can truly forget that they are in Central Florida as they enter Africa, Asia, Pandora, and more! Not only is the landscaping at the Park lush, and the attractions are perfectly themed, but Guests can actually go on a safari within the theme park at no extra cost, and it is a jaw-dropping experience.

Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom allows Guests to enter the savannah and see animals of all kinds while having their own personal tour guide show them the way, answering all questions throughout. The animals are roaming free and are not caged, nor are you on a track, so everything that happens here is real.

Today, we will dive keep into all of the safari opportunities available at Animal Kingdom . Of course, you will learn how to find Kilimanjaro Safaris in Disney’s Animal Kingdom; you will discover all safari types at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, as well as find out the cost of a safari ticket at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Let’s hop into our safari vehicle and explore!

How to find Kilimanjaro Safaris in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Where are the Kilimanjaro Safaris located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom?

If you want to experience Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom, you must enter the theme park and head to Africa. The attraction is located in the back of the land and will have yellow signage to indicate its entrance. This means that when you enter the theme park, you will want to make a left at the Tree of Life and follow the pathway all the way back into Africa.

What are other attractions around the Kilimanjaro Safari?

In Africa, Kilimanjaro Safari is the only “attraction” in the area in terms of feeling the closest to a ride. Still, there are plenty of other offerings that are highly interactive and pair nicely with the other offerings in the last. Firstly, A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King is now available for Guest to enjoy, and it is steps away from the attraction.

Related:  Attraction Guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney World

Guests who visit the show will be amazed by the stunning vocals, costumes, acrobatics, and dance numbers. Plus, you will surely be singing along to all your favorite tunes from The Lion King . Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail will allow Guests to walk around on foot and see all of the animals on the trail at their own pace. The animals will be behind glass walls and barricades, unlike the safari option.

At Rafiki’s Planet Watch, Guests can board a train to meet animals up close and personal. The Conservation Station will allow Guests to see animals close up and watch scientists and veterinarians at work. The Animation Experience, which is in the same room, will allow Guests to learn how to draw a Disney character. My personal favorite, the Affection Section, is where Guests can pet animals such as goats and walk around with them.

What food options are near the Kilimanjaro Safari?

If you are hungry in Africa, we have got you covered! Tusker House Restaurant has African-style cuisine, and it is a character meal where Guests can meet Donald, Mickey, and Goofy! Dawa Bar is right outside of Tusker House, and they make excellent cocktails! Tamu Tamu Refreshments is a great place to grab a cold beverage, and at times, a snow cone. Looking for quick service? Harambe Fruit Market and Harambe Market have many options for Guests to choose from.

Safari types at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

What are the different types of safaris that you can go on while visiting disney’s animal kingdom.

If you are looking for an animal-filled day at Animal Kingdom, your day does not need to end after getting off Kilimanjaro Safari. There are more safaris and tours available for Guests to enjoy. The only catch is that although Kilimanjaro Safaris is free, the others are not.

Below is a full list of all the different safaris available to Guests. Please be sure to check the Disney World website to see if the safari or tour you’re interested in attending is available during your stay.

• A Truly Wild Adventure Explore the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, home to 34 species living in 110 acres of picturesque open plains, shady forest landscapes, and rocky wetlands. Your rugged safari vehicle is driven by an expert guide, who helps point out animals and shares fascinating wildlife facts during this extraordinary 18-minute expedition. Unique Animal Encounters Spot a shy hippopotamus nestled in a still pond. Behold a regal lion sunbathing on a rocky perch. Drive past a gentle giraffe grazing on the tall trees or wave hello to a swinging baboon. Other amazing animals you may encounter include rhinos, cheetahs, crocodiles, elephants, hyenas and zebras, and many more! Since animals have minds of their own, every expedition is a unique and unforgettable experience. Be sure to keep your eyes open and have a camera ready—you never know what you’ll see on a Kilimanjaro Safaris outing. Go Wilder at Night Venture onto the savanna for a safari tour after dark—and see the animals in a whole new light. Previously off-limits to visitors after sundown, this unforgettable journey through the reserve allows you to witness rarely seen nocturnal animal behaviors. Strategically placed lighting evokes both the setting sun and rising moon, so you won’t miss a moment. And as always, your friendly safari guide is on hand to share expert knowledge.
• An Experience You’ll Never Forget Delve into the wondrous world of our Park’s largest inhabitants. During this 60-minute experience, you’ll meet with dedicated animal specialists who provide for the care and wellness of our African elephant herd. They’ll give you a glimpse into their day-to-day responsibilities as they provide fascinating facts about the elephants. African cultural representatives will also be on hand to share stories of Disney’s conservation efforts dedicated to preserving wild populations throughout their homeland. Throughout this experience, you’ll be able to observe the elephants from approximately 80 to 100 feet away. So you’ll enjoy a closer encounter with the elephants than you would during other in-park experiences.
• A Unique Encounter Get ready for your close-up with the white rhinoceros—Earth’s second-largest land animal. In this 60-minute guided adventure, the rhinos’ keepers will take you backstage to meet these massive creatures as few people ever do. As your guides introduce you to the Park’s white rhinos, they’ll offer fascinating insights into the species’ behavior and biology and discuss the challenges that threaten populations in the wild.

Please Note: This tour requires a separate admission ticket to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park.

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

Sample Menu

Air-dried beef and prosciutto Smoked salmon roulade with dill Fig cake with Boursin cheese Brie cheese and apricot Berry yogurt and dried cranberries Fresh fruit marinated in mint and ginger Afternoon

What Animal Kingdom safari options work best for children?

If you are traveling with little ones, some safari options are best suited for your group. Kilimanjaro Safari is perfect for kids as there is no walking involved. Caring for Giants and Up Close with Rhinos are both suited for children as well.

Related:  Rhinos Fight At Kilimanjaro Safaris, Bump Into Ride Vehicle

What safari options are best for teens and adults?

Of course, the three I just named are not solely for kids, as they are meant for Guests of all ages. Savor the Savanna: Evening Safari Experience is not meant for kids, so it may be something that teens and adults would enjoy more. Also, it is not a safari, but the Wild Africa Trek is also perfect for adults and teenagers.

Cost of a safari ticket at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

What is the cost range of safari tickets at disney’s animal kingdom.

If you want to do a few of the safari’s available at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, below is a full breakdown of the pricing for each location and tour. This could help you see what is in your price range in terms of add-ons, or, perhaps, will let you decide that Kilimanjaro Safari is all you need!

• Kilimajaro Safaris – Free (included with Park admission)
• Caring for Giants – $30.00 per person
• Up Close with Rhinos – $40.00 per person
• Savor the Savanna: Evening Safari Experience – $169.00 per person
• Wild Africa Trek – $189.00–$249.00 per person

What are some potential additional costs for the Safaris at Animal Kingdom?

If you want to do a safari that costs money at Animal Kingdom, any additional cost will likely be due to added food or drinks on top of your package. Not all tours come with food or drinks, but additional items will be extra for those who do. Please note that all pricing is per person, so the larger your party, the more the tour will cost.

Best time to go on a safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

What is the best time of day to go on an animal kingdom safari.

Because animals have different sleep patterns, different times of the day can be better or worse, depending on the animal you want to see. My safari driver told me in the past that visiting in the early morning is often best as the animals like to come out when the weather is a little cooler. As the temperature rises, some animals may hide or seek shade at times in the day. Sundown is also a great time to check it out, along with when it rains, as well.

That being said, you will always see some form of an animal when you ride Kilimanjaro Safaris!

What is the best time of year to go on a Disney safari?

As we previously, mentioned, when the weather is a little cooler out, you are most likely to see the most animals. June through September is when Florida is at its hottest, so visiting at a time aside from then may be your best bet!

What is the most time-efficient way to see all of Disney’s Animal Kingdom?

If you want to do everything at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, be sure to strategize. Animal Kingdom is a huge Park that takes a lot to walk through and has a lot to offer, so you must be aware of what is available for you to do and know your way around the Park by studying the map.

If you want to catch the shows, be sure to know what showtimes are available, so you know when to watch. It is also best to know what rides are near each other. There is no use jumping from DINOSAUR to Flight of Passage in Pandora, as that will take a lot of walking. Try to ride attractions that are close by to each other.

Some attractions, such as Expedition Everest, will have a long line, but there is a Single Rider queue that you can use to cut down on some time! Make a reservation if you want to guarantee to dine, or be sure you have your Mobile Order ready to go on your phone. Look up menus before arriving so you know where you want to eat.

If there is a massive line, such as Flight of Passage, do it last—no point in wasting Park hours in line when you could be doing other things. As long as you’re in line before Park close, you will get on the attraction!

What are the parking options at or near Disney’s Animal Kingdom?

At Animal Kingdom, Guests can choose between standard theme Park parking or preferred parking, which will be parked closer to the entrance.

So, now you are a safari expert and will be ready to go the next time you visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

Do you have any tips when it comes to Kilimanjaro Safari? Let us know in the comments below. 

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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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Kilimanjaro Safaris

A Truly Wild Adventure

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

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

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

Discover Walt Disney World Theme Park Tickets

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

Animal Kingdom Kilimanjaro Safari Ride

By: Author Kristi

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

Kilimanjaro Safari

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Avoid Lines for Kilimanjaro Safari

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

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

When is Best time to Ride the Kilimanjaro Safari?

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

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

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

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

Semi Private Safari Tours in Animal Kingdom

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

Wild Africa Trek Tour

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

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

Caring for Giants

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

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

Up Close with Rhinos

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

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

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

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Kilimanjaro Safaris – The African Savannah at Animal Kingdom

Located in Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Kilimanjaro Safaris is a safari in an African Savanna with dozens of animals to see and meet.

On this post

On this guided tour through the African savannah, you'll see a variety of free-living animals spread across the vast expanse.

The attraction opened in 1998 and has been running ever since.

There are more than 800km² filled with animal and plant nature throughout the land.

In this way, it works like a photographic safari, in which you have contact, albeit from afar, with the animals that live there.

The place, called the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, is home to more than 34 species.

There are 110 acres of land and breathtaking landscapes.

Recently, the adventure could also be done at night, after sunset, when you can see the behavior of the animals without being in the morning light. Isn't it amazing?

The Kilimanjaro Safaris tour

The vehicle you are going to ride will have an experienced guide, who will talk a little about the wildlife, as well as show you his knowledge of the animals that inhabit there.

The car is open on the sides, which makes it possible to have a very wide view of the animals.

More or less 30 people will be able to go at a time in each vehicle that is a kind of bus.

The journey lasts, on average, from 18 to 22 minutes, the difference is that vehicles may need to stop for an animal to cross the path and the driver has complete control over the car.

Even so, the whole adventure is made in a slow way, so that it is possible to take many pictures and enchant with the landscape.

That is, there is no need to be afraid, the animals are free, but there is no risk.

It is truly impressive how Disney has managed to reflect the animal life of the African continent inside a theme park.

That's why the park is so well-liked by visitors.

Some animals are very common to be seen on Kilimanjaro Safaris, such as: lions, giraffes, zebras, flamingos, wild boars, hippos, ostriches, rhinos, cheetahs, elephants, crocodiles and many others.

This attraction is highly recommended for children who like animals.

One of the most sought after animals during the tour is, without a doubt, the lion.

A big recommendation, if possible, make the tour have the highest chances of seeing most of the animals awake.

In addition, it is interesting that you arrive early and do the safari as soon as the park opens, as it is a popular attraction and always has moderate to long lines.

Of course, if that is your priority, as the park has more popular attractions than this one, such as the Flight of Passage Avatar and the Yeti roller coaster .

So don't leave this experience to the last minute.

Plan well to get the most out of it.

Recommendations for Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris is for all ages with no minimum height requirement.

There is all necessary security, as well as accessibility for visitors.

The opening hours of the safari are from 8am to 7pm, when the night tour takes place.

To go to the attraction, just arrive at the park and go to the Africa area, which is on the left of the site, in the background.

Check out the Animal Kingdom map to locate.

Depending on the season, queues can exceed the wait of more than an hour.

That is, so that you can go to other attractions in the park – which are many! -, select a day that is not a public holiday and/or weekend as these are usually the busiest days.

In fact, Kilimanjaro Safaris is still one of the main attractions in the park, which is why so many people want to experience the adventure.

However, you can use the Genie+ , the Disney line-cutter, in this attraction.

With it you guarantee shorter times in the queue.

Animals Found On Kilimanjaro Safari

The amount and variety of Animals seen in this Safari is really impressive.

Naturally, it is not possible to easily see all the animals at all times, after all they are living beings, so they eat and sleep at different times of the day.

That said, as soon as you get into the attraction vehicle, you can see all the animals that are part of the ride on a “strip” that runs from the top of your vehicle. In the photo below you can see it well:

But since everything here on the blog is made to help you, dear travelers, here's a brief list of some of the animals you can find there!

• White rhino
• Black rhino
• Hipoppotamus

The driver of your car is your guide and he will always talk about the animals that are in sight during your journey.

Of course, it is necessary to know how to speak English to understand the information given by the driver.

Is it worth doing the Kilimanjaro Safari?

Quite directly, yes!

It's one of the attractions we love to do at Animal Kingdom.

We know that many people have issues with animals in captivity as if it were a zoo, however, all Disney animals receive extreme care and many of them are rescue animals that cannot be released into the wild.

There's even a really cool series on Disney+ that shows how the vets and caregivers of these animals interact with them, her name is " Animal Kingdom Disney Magic “.

It is an incredible attraction especially for those who love animals and for children.

Every time we do Kilimanjaro Safaris we see super happy and excited children throughout the journey seeing some animals they had never seen in person.

Of course, it's not every day that you have the opportunity to see animals so close up, the Giraffes for example sometimes stop in the middle of the way and you'll have to wait for them to leave to be able to pass and the car passes very close to them!

Technical information

• Location:   Animal Kingdom? Africa
• Minimum Height:   There is not
• Attraction duration:   18 minutes
• Recommended for:   All ages
• Do you accept Genie+?:  Yes

We have already made a one-day itinerary at Animal Kingdom and we are sure it will help you when putting together your travel plan.

So, how about checking it out? Click on here to see our tips and have a more than fantastic experience.

Finally, be sure to enjoy the attraction and have fun in the park!

I hope again that this post helped you in your research for your trip to Disney or Orlando.

As a way to help us keep the blog going, we just ask you to help us by sharing this publication and subscribing to our social networks as Facebook , Instagram or Youtube channel. In addition to helping us, we are sure that there you will find hundreds of useful posts for your trip!

About the Author Carlos Braga:

Unparalleled experience in Orlando and Disney! As a former Universal Orlando team member and a passionate devotee of the magic of Disney, I have become a true Orlando travel expert. Before becoming a renowned travel consultant dedicated to Orlando, I had already made hundreds of visits to the parks, cultivating my knowledge and passion mainly over the last 7 years as a consultant and specialist in Disney travel.

My journey into this enchanted world began in 1995, when I took my first trip to Orlando. Since then, my love for Disney and the city has only grown. In 2023, we celebrate the sixth anniversary of 'Partiu Disney Parks', consolidating our role as one of the main sources of information about Disney and Orlando Parks.

During these six years of existence, we have continued to offer quality and updated content, being the reliable source for all those looking for essential information to plan their trip to Disney and Orlando. With my vast experience and passion for this magical destination, I am here to guide you every step of the way towards the most incredible Orlando and Disney experience!

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Africa at Animal Kingdom (Kilimanjaro Safaris, Festival of the Lion King)

Animal Kingdom is the youngest park at Walt Disney World. It’s also one of the most unique thanks to its zoo-like atmosphere.

Even though there are a variety of animals to see, including giraffes, zebras, and elephants, it’s far different than a zoo.

Animal Kingdom is known for having some of the best park food on property, thrilling attractions, exciting tours, and much, much more.

As the biggest Disney World theme park, there’s  a lot  to see and do, so why not take a deep dive into each land?

Here we take a closer look into Africa , one of the most vibrant and entertaining lands at Animal Kingdom.

This land celebrates African culture, food, animals, and so much more. From unique merchandise, to phenomenal entertainment, to seeing animals on the savanna, Africa is one land that you certainly shouldn’t overlook.

In this article

Location : Animal Kingdom Restaurants : 8 Quick Service ( Mahindi , Tamu Tamu Refreshments , Harambe Market , Harambe Fruit Market , Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery , Dawa Bar , 2 Snack & Drink Carts); 1 Table Service ( Tusker House ) Shops : Africa Hub Cart, Kilimanjaro Safaris Cart, Zuri’s Sweet Shop, Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders, Mariya’s Souvenirs Entertainment : Kora Tinga Tinga, Tam Tam Drummers, Harambe Village Acrobats, Festival of the Lion King, Dino-Bash Flotilla, Discovery Island Drummers Flotilla, Discovery River Character Cruise, Adventurer’s Flotilla — Disney Ducks, Adventurer’s Flotilla –  Up Animals : Seen on Kilimanjaro Safaris (Bongos, Okapi, Nyala, Bontebak, Black Rhino, Hippos, Nile Crocodiles, Giraffes, Sable Antelope, Gazelles, Ankole-Watusi Cattle, Wildebeest, Hyenas, African Wild Dogs, Mandrill, Elephants, Greater Flamingos, White Rhinos, Greater Kudu, Scimitar-Horned Oryx, Long-Horned Eland, Impala, Cheetahs, Lions, Addax, Warthogs, Ostriches, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Zebras); Seen on Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail (Okapi, Yellow-Backed Duikers, Colobus Monkeys, Naked Mole Rats, Snakes, African Birds, Hippos, Gerenuk, Meerkats, Zebras, Western Lowland Gorillas) Attractions : Kilimanjaro Safaris Tours : Wild Africa Trek, Caring for Giants, Up Close with Rhinos, Savor the Savanna Trails : Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail Characters : None Popular snacks and drinks : Simba Sunset (Tamu Tamu Refreshments), Grilled Corn on the Cob (Harambe Fruit Market), Lost on Safari (Dawa Bar), Ngumu Jungle Juice (Dawa Bar) Not-to-miss : Kilimanjaro Safaris, Festival of the Lion King, Tusker House, Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, Harambe Village Acrobats

• Check out our DinoLand, U.S.A. deep dive

Africa’s Table Service offering is a popular character meal location that has some fantastic food offerings. You can also find great African flavors at the Quick Service restaurants. Plus, Dole Whip .

Quick Service Restaurants

Mahindi is a popcorn stand that you’ll see first thing as soon as you cross the bridge into Africa from Discovery Island. You can also usually purchase seasonal and limited-time popcorn buckets here.

Tamu Tamu Refreshments

Tamu Tamu Refreshments is located in the heart of Africa.

In addition to a range of breakfast options , this is the stand to visit if you’re in need of a cold treat. You can even order pineapple Dole Whip here.

There are also special Dole Whip menu items, including Simba’s Sunset (pineapple Dole Whip with strawberry), Lion’s Lair (pineapple Dole Whip topped with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum and sour apple), and King’s Cooler (pineapple Dole Whip with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum), to name a few.

Next to Tamu Tamu Refreshments, there’s a partially covered seating area.

Harambe Market

The Harambe Market has a wide range of African-inspired dishes . This is a good place to grab a bite if you want something healthier or lighter.

From salads, to a rice and chicken bowl, to a ribs bowl, to a plant-based bowl, there are several options. Plus, kids can choose from a peanut butter and jelly Uncrustable, chicken nuggets, or a chicken bowl.

The market area has a big outdoor section with tables and chairs for guests. You can also place Mobile Orders, which we always recommend taking advantage of to make life easier.

The theming here is on point and you can even find the famous “You Are Most Beautiful Wall” tucked back in the corner.

“You Are Most Beautiful” wall location:

Harambe Fruit Market

The Harambe Fruit Market is a small outdoor stand where you can order snacks, including the ever-so- popular Grilled Corn on the Cob (with or without African spices).

Yes, the corn is messy, but we’ve heard it’s worth having the corn get caught in between your teeth.

There is also fruit, chips, Mickey Pretzels, hot dogs, bottled beverages, and more available here for purchase.

• More about dining at Walt Disney World

Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery

Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery is located across from the Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders.

It’s easy to miss, so keep your eyes peeled, because this stand has some great menu items .

From breakfast options including sausage, egg, and cheese biscuit and a pistachio honey croissant, to flatbreads, to house-made chips, there are some unique offerings here that are usually pretty delicious.

The Dawa Bar is a fun spot to grab a drink, take a rest, and watch the Tam Tam Drummers and Harambe Village Acrobats.

There’s a small list of beer, wine, and cocktails available , including specialty beverages like the Lost on Safari (Starr African Rum and Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum with Pangani Punch) and the Ngumu Jungle Juice (Snow Leopard Vodka, Bols Peach Schnapps and Tusker’s famous Jungle Juice).

There is a spacious covered area with tables and chairs, too.

Snack & Drink Cart

Across from the Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders, there is a snack and drink cart if you want ice cream, chips, or a bottled beverage.

As you walk the path from Africa to Pandora , you’ll come upon a snack and drink cart selling ice cream, snacks, and bottled beverages.

Table Service Restaurant

Tusker house.

Tusker House is the only character meal at Animal Kingdom — and it’s a great one.

In addition to a buffet serving African dishes (with many kid-friendly choices), you get to meet Safari Donald, Mickey, Goofy, and Daisy!

This is one of the best character dining options and is super fun. You can book it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

• Check out the best character meals at Disney World

Seating Areas

Here are the different seating areas you can find around Africa.

Near Tusker House and Dawa Bar:

By the Harambe Fruit Market:

Next to Tamu Tamu Refreshments:

At Harambe Market:

There are several shops that you should definitely take the time to explore while you’re in Africa.

Africa Hub Cart

The Africa Hub Cart is next to Mahindi and across from Tamu Tamu Refreshments. There is a small offering of pins, hats, and other Disney merchandise.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Cart

This cart has different Animal Kingdom and Disney souvenirs, including plushes.

Zuri’s Sweet Shop

Zuri’s Sweet Shop is connected to the Mombasa Marketplace and Ziwani Traders. While you can buy different souvenirs here, you can also pick out Disney desserts from the bakery case.

There are typical Disney treats, like caramel apples and cookies. But, if you want to try something unique, order the Mickey Dark Chocolate with Chili Pepper. You can only find it at Zuri’s.

Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders

Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Tarders is the main gift shop in Africa. There are so many fantastic items available for guests to take home.

Yes, there are shirts, plushes, and even National Geographic souvenirs, but there are special offerings, including jewelry and other items made my artisans from Africa.

You can even visit the wood carver outside, who transforms wood into beautiful one-of-a-kind wooden animals and more.

Mariya’s Souvenirs

Mariya’s Souvenirs is found near the Harambe Theatre, where Festival of the Lion King plays. You can browse hats, plushes, snacks, toys, and more.

There are 4 popular animal-related tours that you can book up to 60 days in advance. You’ll check in for all of these tours at the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk located near Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Here’s a brief breakdown of each tour. Click the link for more information, including pricing.

• Wild Africa Trek : A privately-guided, VIP expedition full of close encounters with exotic African wildlife.
• Caring for Giants : Get a closer look at African elephants and learn what it takes to care for them.
• Up Close with Rhinos : Meet and learn about rhinos in a special viewing area backstage.
• Savor the Savanna : Enjoy the savanna with a private safari, African-inspired tapas, beverages and more.

Attractions

There is only one attraction in Africa, but it is a popular and worthy ride. This is a must-do if you’re visiting Animal Kingdom.

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris is the ride at Animal Kingdom allowing you to see all kinds of African animals.

You board a Safari truck and head out on the Harambe Wildlife Reserve as if you’re going on an actual safari.

The attraction spans 110 acres and is home to 34 species! The ride is also 22 minutes giving you the chance to see elephants, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, lions, and so many more amazing creatures.

There is a Standby Line and a Lightning Lane available.

• Here are best Genie+ choices at Walt Disney World

Entertainment

Africa has some of the best entertainment. The land wouldn’t be the same without the following.

Kora Tinga Tinga

Kora Tinga Tinga plays a hand-crafted African harp with 21 strings, aka the “kora,” outside the Harambe Market. It’s a beautiful performance. Find daily showtimes in the My Disney Experience app.

Tam Tam Drummers

The Tam Tam Drummers play on the stage across from Dawa Bar. You won’t be able to stop dancing to the African rhythms the drummers deliver. Find daily showtimes in the My Disney Experience app.

Harambe Village Acrobats

You don’t want to miss the Harambe Village Acrobats. They either perform by the stage across from Dawa Bar or near the Harambe Market. They are beyond amazing. You won’t believe what the acrobats they’re capable of. Find daily showtimes and location in the My Disney Experience app.

Festival of the Lion King

Festival of the Lion King tells the story of The Lion King with some of the most talented and best performers at Disney.

You’ll hear songs from the film performed, along with standout acts, like a fire dancer, the Tumble Monkeys, and the gorgeous flying blue bird.

You can either wait in the Standby Line or use the Lightning Lane. Regarding the latter, using Genie+ here isn’t totally necessary, because the theater holds a lot of people.

But, you will want to plan accordingly, because this is the most popular show at Animal Kingdom.

Find daily showtimes in the My Disney Experience app.

Note about the following cavalcades: All of the character flotillas can be seen sailing around the Discovery River. They have set showtimes that are posted in the My Disney Experience app and we recommend checking the schedule ahead of time. You usually have to be in the right place at the right time to catch them (crossing a bridge, walking a trail, dining at Nomad Lounge or Flame Tree Barbecue, or taking a break in the Discovery River Amphitheater).

Dino-Bash Flotilla

• Features : Goofy and Pluto

Discovery Island Drummers Flotilla

• Features : Discovery Island Drummers

Discovery River Character Cruise

• Features : Pocahontas and Meeko from  Pocahontas   or  Timon and Rafiki form  The Lion King

Adventurer’s Flotilla — Disney Ducks

• Features : Scrooge McDuck and Launchpad McQuack

Adventurer’s Flotilla –  Up

• Features : Russell and Dug from  Up
• More about characters and cavalcades in Animal Kingdom

There is one trail in Africa and it’s a must. Plus, you get to see a ton of animals and what’s better than that at a park all about animals?

Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail

The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is located next to Kilimanjaro Safaris and gives guests the chance to see and learn about different animals.

Keep reading for more information about the trail and its animals.

You can find a range of animals in Africa when you walk the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail and ride Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Tip : You can also find select animals in the My Disney Experience app under the “attractions” category .  Plus, at the park entrance next to the  park guide map , there should be literature on the animals and their locations.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Animals

Below is a list of the animals you may see when riding Kilimanjaro Safaris.

• Black Rhino
• Nile Crocodiles
• Sable Antelope
• Ankole-Watusi Cattle
• African Wild Dogs
• Greater Flamingos
• White Rhinos
• Greater Kudu
• Scimitar-Horned Oryx
• Long-Horned Eland
• Nigerian Dwarf Goats

Save this map for future reference when you ride Kilimanjaro Safaris:

We say “may see,” because depending on the animal, the time of day, the weather, or the time of year, certain animals might not be out.

What makes Kilimanjaro Safaris so fun is it’s a different ride every time. You never know what animal you’ll see.

Save this map for future reference as you explore the Africa animal trail:

The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is located near Kilimanjaro Safaris and features a range of animals. The star of the trail are the gorillas, of course, but there are also other animals not to be missed.

Note : There are no shortcuts or exits mid-way for this trail. Once you enter, you have to walk through all of it in order to exit. The time it takes to walk through depends on how long you linger and watch the animals. But, overall, it’s not super lengthy.

Here are the main animals you can see as you walk the trail.

Yellow-Backed Duikers

Colobus Monkeys

Naked Mole Rats & More

In the “Research Center,” you’ll find Naked Mole Rats, snakes, mice, and more creatures.

African Birds

Western Lowland Gorillas

There are a few activities in Africa that little ones, especially, will love.

Coin Press Machines

You’ll find one coin press machine in Africa near the Dawa Bar and Tusker House dining areas.

This machines has Animal Kingdom and The Lion King designs. You can purchase 1 for $1.00 or all 3 for $3.00.

This drum area is located across from Tamu Tamu Refreshments and is a great spot for kids.

• Check out other fun things for little ones at Disney World

Disney PhotoPass Photographer

While not officially listed in the My Disney Experience app, you should be able to find a PhotoPass photographer on the bridge leading into Africa.

Don’t forget to ask if they have any fun Magic Shots!

Sometimes your photo may even include Expedition Everest in the background, making for a stunning picture.

Remember : unless you have Memory Maker, Memory Maker Day One, or a PhotoPass entitlement with your Annual Pass, you will have to pay to download or print these photos.

• Read more about PhotoPass and Memory Maker

Near the stage in the center of Africa there are a set of restrooms.

You’ll also find restrooms past the Festival of the Lion King as you take the path from Africa to Pandora.

Africa Checklist

• Download PDF version

*****************

What’s your favorite thing about Africa in Animal Kingdom? Tell us in the comments!

Please review our Terms of Use , which changed on May 24, 2024.

Get to know some of the incredible animals you may encounter across Walt Disney World Resort.

Thursday, June 6, 2024

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park Park Hours

Wildlife at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Look for African animals during a scenic stroll along the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail . Or, ride around sprawling wildlife habitats on Kilimanjaro Safaris .

Animals in Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park:

• African Birds
• African Hogs
• Ankole Cattle

Explore a mystical forest on Maharajah Jungle Trek , where you’ll discover awe-inspiring creatures at every turn.

And visit Anandapur Theater to see Feathered Friends in Flight! You’ll join animal behavior specialists for a behind-the-scenes look at the free-flying birds at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park.

Animals in Asia at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park:

• Asian Birds
• Komodo Dragons

And many more!

Discovery Island 

Take a leisurely stroll along the Discovery Island Trails , featuring tranquil pathways around the Tree of Life .

Animals in Discovery Island at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park:

• Invertebrates

As soon as you enter Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, you’ll find yourself amid The Oasis Exhibits —where fascinating creatures live among lush flora, meandering streams and gentle waterfalls.

Animals in Oasis at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park:

Under the Sea at EPCOT

Aquatic life at seabase.

Discover an underwater world at SeaBase . Located in World Nature, this ocean-themed destination is home to more than 2,000 aquatic animals.

Aquatic Life You May Spot at SeaBase:

• Coral Reef Fish
• Coral Reefs
• Sea Turtles
• Sharks and Rays

Interactive Experiences

Go below the surface with fun experiences inspired by the Disney and Pixar film Finding Nemo :

• Turtle Talk With Crush : Take a seat at Turtle Talk Theater for a candid conversation with Crush the sea turtle. Ask him about marine biology, his favorite foods, his underwater pals and more!
• Bruce’s Shark World : Explore an interactive exhibit filled with fish-friendly fun—and test your undersea expertise with quizzes from Nemo’s teacher, Mr. Ray. 

Care and Conservation

How we care for our animals.

Our animal care experts go above and beyond to make sure that all our animals receive top-notch care—from the smallest butterfly to the largest elephant.

Here’s are a few ways that we take care of our animals at Walt Disney World Resort:

• A Natural Setting : Our animal environments are inspired by the animals’ native habitats with a variety of elements to interact with and explore.
• Enrichment : Many of our animals are encouraged to display natural behaviors like foraging and exploration. Changes to the animals’ environments provide opportunities for these behaviors. For example, a variety of scents are added to a tiger habitat to encourage exploration.
• Veterinary Care : The animals are closely monitored and receive regular wellness exams to ensure that they stay healthy. Many are trained to voluntarily participate in their own health screenings!

The Highest Standards of Care Disney is a recognized leader in animal care and conservation. For example, the following Walt Disney World locations have earned accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA):

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park / Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends at EPCOT

AZA-accredited institutions provide the highest standards in animal care while working to make advancements in education, research and conservation.

Explore Some More Here are a few ways you can learn more about animal care at Walt Disney World Resort:

• Caring for Giants – Get a closer look at the majestic African elephants at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park—and find out what it takes to care for them.
• Conservation Station – Get an inside look at animal habitats around the globe and see the expert veterinary care our animals receive.
• Wildlife Express Train – Cross the African savanna on a rustic locomotive for a behind-the-scenes look at some of the park’s animals.

Our Conservation Efforts

Conservation at Walt Disney World Resort Here are just a few of the conservation efforts in place at Walt Disney World Resort:

• Gardens for Butterflies: Across our theme parks and Disney Resort hotels, you’ll discover special flower gardens designed to attract butterflies —beautiful pollinators who help nature thrive. While at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, take the Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch to see an alluring pollinator garden where butterflies abound—located in the courtyard outside of Conservation Station.
• Habitats for Migratory Birds: Walt Disney set aside one-third of Walt Disney World Resort—over 8,000 acres of wetland and upland habitats—as a protected area. This area is an important corridor for many species of migratory birds . More than 200 bird species live at Walt Disney World Resort, either seasonally or year-round. Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park is home to remarkable non-native migratory birds. Look for bar-headed geese at Maharajah Jungle Trek , white storks at the Tree of Life and other migratory species throughout the treks and trails in Africa and Asia.
• Earth Day Celebration: On select dates in April, join us to celebrate Earth Day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park—and connect with the magic of nature!

Conservation Around the World Disney Conservation  helps to save wildlife and build a diverse global community inspired to protect the magic of nature together. Since 1995, Disney Conservation has directed more than $120 million and the expertise of our dedicated teams to support organizations working with communities to save wildlife, inspire action and protect the planet.

The Disney Conservation Fund is supported by The Walt Disney Company and Guests of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, with 100% of Guest contributions matched by Disney and directed to nonprofit organizations. Additionally, Disney covers all costs of managing the fund. The Disney Conservation Fund is not a charitable organization, and donations are not deductible as charitable contributions for US tax purposes.

Favorite Animals

Set out on a scenic safari to see Earth’s largest land animal.

Trot right over to meet some of the sturdy steeds at Walt Disney World Resort.

See regal lions—the biggest cats in Africa—during a fun safari ride.

Chill out with the slow-moving mammals that may have inspired mermaid legends.

Close Encounters

Wild africa trek.

Embark on a privately-guided, VIP expedition for close encounters with African wildlife!

Affection Section

Interact with adorable animals—including some favorite barnyard pals.

Horseback Riding

Go horseback riding on wooded trails teeming with deer, duck, rabbits and more.

Get Ready for Your Visit

Make park reservations.

To enter a theme park, you must have valid admission and a theme park reservation.

Know Before You Go

Learn about updated experiences at Walt Disney World Resort.

Disney Genie Service

Let us create your best Disney day with this new feature of the My Disney Experience app.

Animals Around The Globe (US)

14 Underrated Safari Animals You Should Know About

Posted: March 12, 2024 | Last updated: March 12, 2024

When we think of safari it’s usually the “classic” safari animals that come to mind – elephants, lions, zebras etc. While these are of course must-sees, let’s not forget about their lesser-known (but by no means less than!) savannah neighbours. Be on the look-out for these underrated safari animals as well!

African Wild Dog

African wild dogs are great team players, living in packs and showcasing some seriously coordinated hunting moves. Sadly, they’re pretty hard to spot these days because of their endangered status.

Pangolins are like the armored knights of the animal kingdom, but are unfortunately facing major threats due to poaching. These shy, nocturnal creatures love ants and termite feasts.

Caracals are the high jumpers of the savanna and have ears that look like they’re wearing fancy feathered hats. They are solitary cats who stick to the shadows of Africa’s woodlands and semi-deserts.

Aardvarks are the oddballs of the African night, snuffling around for ants and termites with their long noses. They’re pretty good at making themselves at home, digging burrows that other animals love to move into.

Servals are tall and elegant with a beautiful spotted coat. But they’re not just good-looking; these cats are skilled hunters and often catch birds mid-flight.

Bat-Eared Fox

With ears that could probably pick up satellite TV, bat-eared foxes are all about listening for their next insect meal. They’re sociable animals, hanging out in family groups and sharing parenting duties in the African savanna.

Bongos bring a bit of color to the forest with their striking coats and spiraled horns. These shy antelopes munch away on leaves in the dense forests of Central Africa .

Okapis are like the unicorns of the animal world, with zebra stripes on their body that almost look like giraffes. They’re elusive creatures that live in Congo’s rainforests.

Genets are the night-time acrobats of the African bush who skilfully climb trees with their sleek, spotted bodies. They live alone and eat a diet of small mammals and insects.

Honey Badger

Honey badgers don’t care-they’re the tough guys of the animal kingdom. They’re completely fearless and always ready to take on snakes and bees. 

African Civet

African civets are the skunks of the savanna, but with a more stylish black and white coat. They’re night owls, foraging for a mixed bag of fruits, insects, and small critters, and they’re known for producing a scent that’s been quite the hit in the perfume world.

Bushbabies are the big-eyed cuties of the night, bouncing between trees like circus performers. They love insects, though they won’t say no to some sweet fruit or tree gum.

African Porcupine

African porcupines are the punk rockers of the rodent world with a coat of sharp quills to protect them. They’re vegetarians, digging around for roots and tubers when they’re not in their burrows.

Marabou Stork

The Marabou Stork might not win any beauty contests with its bald head, but it’s still an unforgettable sight. They’re large birds, standing up to 5 feet tall with a wingspan of over 10 feet.

Underrated Safari Animals: Wrapping Up

The post 14 Underrated Safari Animals You Should Know About appeared first on Animals Around The Globe .

• Watch: A Massive Elephant Charges a Safari Vehicle
• Tourist Turns Into Statue as Cheetah Invades Safari Vehicle
• Watch: Lions Helps Stuck Safari Truck

Thank you for reading this article about these underrated safari animals! For similar reading, take a look at these posts,

While all animals that you might spot on safari are amazing sights, spotting these little guys is perhaps even more special than the more well-knonwn safari animals because of how rare they are. Either way, the first rule of safari is to always keep your eyes peeled – the more you look the more you’ll see.

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