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Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park Guide

Guides & Essentials

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park Guide

Published 11 Jun 2024 12 min read

The Complete Guide to Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is unlike anywhere else at Walt Disney World Resort. Opened on Earth Day in 1998, it's the newest of the four Disney theme parks in Florida and the most expansive, blending thrilling attractions with real wildlife encounters, spectacular live shows and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're soaring over Pandora, coming face to face with lions on the African savanna or watching a Broadway-style musical, a day at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is a wildly unforgettable experience. Here's everything you need to know before you visit.

Browse our Walt Disney World Resort tickets to include Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park in your Orlando trip.

What Is Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park?

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is the largest theme park at Walt Disney World Resort, covering over 500 acres and home to more than 1,000 animals from over 200 species. At its heart stands the Tree of Life - a spectacular 145-foot tall, 50-foot wide sculpted tree with over 300 animals carved into its trunk and roots, and a hidden 430-seat theatre inside where guests can watch the 3D show It's Tough to be a Bug!

Six lands radiate out from the central hub of Discovery Island, each with its own unique character, attractions and dining. The park takes a nature-first approach unlike anywhere else at Walt Disney World Resort, with beautifully landscaped environments, a strong conservation message and animal experiences woven throughout the entire day.

What Is Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park?

The Lands of Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is organised into 5 distinct lands, each with its own unique atmosphere, wildlife and adventures to discover. From the bioluminescent world of Pandora—The World of Avatar to the sweeping savannas of Africa and the ancient ruins of Asia, every land feels like a destination in its own right. Here's what to expect from each one.

Pandora — The World of Avatar


Step into another world entirely in Pandora—The World of Avatar. This breathtaking 12-acre land brings James Cameron's vision to life with floating mountains, bioluminescent plants and the sights and sounds of the Na'vi. Pandora—The World of Avatar is stunning at any time of day, but staying until after dark reveals a whole new spectacle as the landscape glows in vivid colour.

Pandora — The World of Avatar

Discovery Island

The central hub of Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Discovery Island is where your adventure begins. Explore the Discovery Island Trails to encounter Asian small-clawed otters, red kangaroos, Galapagos tortoises, ring-tailed lemurs and lesser flamingos, get up close to the incredible animal carvings on the Tree of Life and join Dug and Russell to become a Wilderness Explorer.

Discovery Island

Africa

Set in the fictional east African coastal village of Harambe, Africa is home to some of the most memorable experiences in the whole park. Board an open-sided safari vehicle on Kilimanjaro Safaris, explore the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail and dine with Donald Duck and his Disney pals at Tusker House Restaurant.

Africa Land in Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Asia

Cross the bridge from Africa and arrive in the mythical kingdom of Anandapur, where ancient temples and palace ruins set the scene for some of the park's most thrilling attractions. Climb Walt Disney World Resort's tallest mountain on Expedition Everest—Legend of the Forbidden Mountain, brave the rapids of the Chakranadi River on Kali River Rapids and come face to face with tigers on the Maharajah Jungle Trek.

Asia at Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Coming in 2027: Tropical Americas

An exciting new land is coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Tropical Americas is set to open in 2027, replacing the former DinoLand U.S.A. area with an immersive new world inspired by the landscapes and cultures of Central and South America. Watch this space for more details as they're announced.

Rides and Attractions at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park offers one of the most varied line-ups of attractions at Walt Disney World Resort. From soaring 3D adventures and high-speed roller coasters to immersive jungle treks and wildlife encounters, there's a full day of experiences waiting across all the lands.

Avatar Flight of Passage

The most exhilarating ride in Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park and one of the finest attractions at Walt Disney World Resort. Climb onto the back of a mountain banshee and take flight over Pandora—The World of Avatar in a breathtaking 3D experience. Soar over jungle canopies, through vast open skies and past the iconic floating mountains of the Valley of Mo'ara in a ride that has to be seen — and felt — to be believed.

Ride Type: Thrill Ride | Height: 44"/113cm | Lightning Lane Single Pass

Avatar Flight of Passage at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Expedition Everest—Legend of the Forbidden Mountain

At 199.5 feet tall, Expedition Everest—Legend of the Forbidden Mountain is the tallest roller coaster at any Disney Park in the world. Board a railway car and begin a dramatic ascent towards the summit of Mount Everest, taking in panoramic views of the park before being plunged into darkness. With twisted tracks, sudden reversals and a legendary yeti lurking in the shadows, this is a must-ride for thrill seekers.

Ride Type: Thrill Ride | Height: 44"/113cm | Lightning Lane Multi Pass

Expedition Everest—Legend of the Forbidden Mountain

Kilimanjaro Safaris

One of the most iconic experiences at Walt Disney World Resort, Kilimanjaro Safaris takes you on an open-sided jeep expedition through the 110-acre Harambe Wildlife Reserve — bigger than the whole of Magic Kingdom Park. Lions, giraffes, elephants, rhinos, zebras and more roam freely across the savanna as your guide leads you through this remarkable wildlife preserve. The best times to ride are first thing in the morning or in the evening when the animals are most active.

Ride Type: Safari Jeep Ride | Height: None | Lightning Lane Multi Pass

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Bluey's Wild World at Conservation Station - NEW!

A brand-new experience at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park! Make your way to Conservation Station via the Wildlife Express Train and join Bluey and Bingo for a colourful, laugh-out-loud adventure. Play along with games straight from your favourite episodes — including Keepy Uppy and Magic Asparagus — as the fun unfolds in unpredictable and hilarious ways. Perfect for younger guests and Bluey fans of all ages, this is a brilliant reason to hop on the Wildlife Express Train and explore Conservation Station during your visit.

Ride Type: Interactive Experience | Height: Any | Location: Conservation Station

Bluey's Wild World at Conservation Station

Kali River Rapids

Brave the churning waters of the Chakranadi River on this adventurous 12-passenger circular raft ride. After a 90-foot ascent you'll plunge into gushing geysers and drift under cascading waterfalls through the rainforests of Asia. The signs warning you will get wet are not an exaggeration — pack a poncho or embrace it!

Ride Type: Water Rapids | Height: 38"/97cm | Lightning Lane Multi Pass

Kali River Rapids

Zootopia: Better Zoogether!

Hidden inside the roots of the Tree of Life is the Tree of Life Theater, now home to a brand-new 4D show starring Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. Zoogether Day has arrived in Zootopia, bringing citizens from every biome together for a fur-ocious celebration! From special performances across Zootopia to an epic musical finale, come ready to leap, laugh and let loose. Whether you're visiting as a pack, a pride or a herd, Zootopia: Better Zoogether! is the perfect way to celebrate how we're all better together — a brilliant experience for the whole family.

Ride Type: 4D Show | Height: Any

Zootopia: Better Zoogether!

Character Meet and Greets at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is home to some wonderful character meet and greet opportunities across all six lands. Here's where to find them:

Character

Meet & Greet Location

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse

Adventurers Outpost, Discovery Island

Moana

Character Landing

Kevin (Up)

Roaming on Discovery Island

Chip and Dale

Upper Cretaceous Trail

Donald Duck

Welcome Center

Daisy Duck

Daisy's Design Studio

Goofy and Pluto

Near Chester

Timon and Rafiki

The Oasis

Characters may change seasonally and are not guaranteed.

Shows and Entertainment at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is home to some of the most spectacular live entertainment at Walt Disney World Resort. The shows here are every bit as unmissable as the rides. Here's what's on during your visit.

Festival of the Lion King

One of the best live shows at Walt Disney World Resort, the Festival of the Lion King is a dazzling 30-minute big-as-Broadway spectacular featuring live singers, dancers, gymnasts, stilt-walkers and animatronics. Beloved songs including Hakuna Matata and I Just Can't Wait to be King are performed in a show that's as entertaining for adults as it is for children. Check the Walt Disney World Resort app on the day of your visit for showtimes. Lightning Lane Multi Pass available subject to availability.

Location: Harambe Theatre, Africa

Festival of the Lion King

Finding Nemo: The Big Blue...and Beyond!

This mesmerising Broadway-style musical brings the world of Finding Nemo to life with innovative lighting, stunning theatrical puppets and incredible special effects. Fun fact — the songs in this show were written by Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez, the songwriting duo behind Frozen, Frozen 2 and Coco. Multiple showtimes throughout the day — check the Walt Disney World Resort app for timings. Lightning Lane Multi Pass available subject to availability.

Location: Theater in the Wild

Finding Nemo: The Big Blue...and Beyond!

Dining at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

From African-inspired feasts to fresh Asian street food and Na'vi delicacies straight from Pandora—The World of Avatar, Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park has some of the most creative and varied dining at Walt Disney World Resort.

Snacks and Quick Bites at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is one of the best parks at Walt Disney World Resort for snacking, with a brilliant range of flavours and options dotted throughout all six lands. Highlights include the Colossal Mickey Cinnamon Bun at Creature Comforts, a Starbucks location on Discovery Island; spiced seasoned fries, spring rolls and baked mac and cheese at Eight Spoon Cafe; authentic African-inspired pastries at Kusafiri Coffee Shop and Bakery in Africa; and exotic drinks and snacks from Pandora—The World of Avatar at Pongu Pongu. Mickey pretzels, churros and fresh fruit are available throughout the park too.

Quick-Service Restaurants at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

For a sit-down meal without a long wait, Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park's quick-service options offer some genuinely impressive food. Satu'li Canteen in Pandora—The World of Avatar serves fresh and healthy Na'vi-inspired bowls combining familiar flavours with the culture of the Avatar world. Flame Tree Barbecue on Discovery Island is one of the best quick-service spots at the whole resort, serving barbecue ribs, pulled pork and chicken with spectacular views of Expedition Everest—Legend of the Forbidden Mountain across Discovery River. Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafes in Asia offers quick and delicious fried rice, honey chicken and tempura shrimp.

Dining at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Table Service and Buffet Restaurants at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park's table service restaurants are well worth booking in advance — up to 60 days ahead for Disney Resort hotel guests and up to 30 days for ticket-only guests.

  • Tusker House Restaurant — Join Donald Duck, Mickey Mouse and friends dressed in their safari finest for a buffet feast of African-inspired dishes. One of the most popular character dining experiences at Walt Disney World Resort. Africa

  • Yak & Yeti Restaurant — Dine among authentic Asian artefacts while working your way through an impressive menu of pan-Asian dishes including Lo Mein noodles, sweet and sour chicken and tikka masala. Asia

  • Tiffins Restaurant — The finest dining in Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, with a menu inspired by global travel and the Imagineering story behind the park. Note this restaurant requires 2 dining plan credits. Located in Discovery Island

  • Rainforest Cafe — Breakfast, lunch or dinner in the middle of a lively tropical rainforest, with animated animals and thunderstorm effects adding to the atmosphere. Located near Main Entrance

Most restaurants at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park can accommodate dietary requirements and food allergies — ask to speak with a chef on arrival.

Table Service and Buffet Restaurants at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park Opening Hours and Getting There

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is open daily from 9am, with closing times typically around 7pm depending on the season and any special events. Guests staying at select Disney Resort hotels may benefit from early theme park entry and extended evening hours on certain days.

If you're staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, you can reach Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park by shuttle bus. If you're driving, the park is located to the west of the Walt Disney World Resort at the end of Osceola Parkway off the I-4.

Address: Bay Lake, FL 34747, United States

What to Bring to Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

A camera is a must for a day at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park — between the wildlife, the landscapes and the character moments, you'll want to capture as much as possible. Even better, our Walt Disney World Resort tickets come with Memory Maker included, worth $210, so every photo taken by a Disney PhotoPass photographer is automatically saved to your account and ready to download when you get home.

With so many outdoor attractions and trails, bringing water and sunscreen is highly recommended - the Florida sun is strong year-round and a lot of the experiences here take place outside. Snacks are welcome in the park too, just leave the full picnic at home.

Top Tip: With so much ground to cover across six lands, a good pair of walking shoes will make a bigger difference at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park than at any other park at Walt Disney World Resort.

What to Wear at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

With a large number of outdoor attractions, trails and animal viewing areas, comfortable flat shoes are absolutely essential for a day at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Casual, lightweight clothing will keep you cool in the Florida heat, and a rain poncho is a wise addition to your bag - not only for the unpredictable Florida afternoon showers, but also if you're planning to brave Kali River Rapids.

Adult costumes and full-face masks are not permitted in the park and you could be refused entry if you're wearing one.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park Parking

Standard Parking — $30 per day
Preferred Parking — $45, $50 or $55 per day depending on season
Oversized Vehicle Parking — $30 per day
Parking is complimentary for Disney Resort hotel guests.

Once you've paid for parking at one Walt Disney World Resort park, parking at any of the other parks is free for the rest of that day. The car parks are enormous - make a note of your row and lot number on something waterproof so you don't lose your car at the end of the day.

*Car Parking prices are subject to change. Pricing is seasonal and will vary based on date of visit.

Ready to Visit Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park?

Our Walt Disney World Resort tickets include admission to Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park alongside all four Disney theme parks. Get in touch with our Florida travel experts if you have any questions, or browse our tickets to start planning your trip.

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