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3 Must-Include Activities for Your Perfect Day at Animal Kingdom in Disney World

Our 3 Favorite Activities in Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom, one of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and families alike. With its immersive theming, thrilling rides, and close-up encounters with exotic wildlife, Animal Kingdom offers a unique and unforgettable experience. To make the most of your trip to Animal Kingdom, here are the three things you must include in your itinerary.

  1. Visiting Kilimanjaro Safaris in the Morning

Animal Kingdom Kilimanjaro Safari Ride
Animal Kingdom Kilimanjaro Safari Ride

The Kilimanjaro Safaris is a 110-acre wildlife reserve that takes you on a thrilling safari adventure through the African savannah. You’ll see herds of elephants, zebras, giraffes, lions, and other African animals roaming freely in their natural habitats. The best time to visit Kilimanjaro Safaris is in the morning when the animals are most active, and the weather is still relatively cool.

To experience the safari at its best, make sure to arrive at the park early and head straight to Kilimanjaro Safaris. If you can, try to get a seat in the front row of the open-air safari vehicle for the best views and photo opportunities. The ride lasts about 18 minutes, and you’ll learn about the animals from a knowledgeable guide.

One of the unique aspects of the Kilimanjaro Safaris is that no two rides are the same. The animals’ behavior varies depending on the time of day, weather, and season. So, even if you’ve been on the safari before, you’re likely to see something new each time.

  1. After Lunch Show of Lion King Festival of Life

Festival of Lion King in Animal Kingdom

After a thrilling morning at Kilimanjaro Safaris, it’s time to take a break and rest your feet. One of the best ways to do this is by catching the Lion King Festival of Life show. This Broadway-style production celebrates the classic Disney movie and features an incredible cast of singers, dancers, acrobats, and puppeteers.

The show takes place in an outdoor theater in the heart of the park’s Africa section. You’ll be transported to the Pride Lands as you watch Simba, Timon, and Pumbaa come to life on stage. The music, costumes, and choreography are all top-notch, and the performers’ energy and enthusiasm are contagious.

The Lion King Festival of Life runs several times a day, and the seating is first-come, first-served. So, make sure to get to the theater early to secure a good spot. You’ll want to sit in the shade if possible, as the Florida sun can be intense even in the afternoon.

  1. Take Time to See the Park

Disney World Animal Kingdom Tree of Life

Animal Kingdom is a vast and sprawling park with a lot to see and do. From the towering Tree of Life to the mystical world of Pandora, every corner of the park is filled with sights and sounds that will transport you to another world. So, take your time and explore the park at your own pace.

One of the best ways to do this is by taking a leisurely stroll through each land. You’ll find themed areas like Discovery Island, Africa, Asia, and Dinoland USA, each with its unique attractions, shops, and restaurants. Take time to appreciate the theming, architecture, and landscaping of each land. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a different part of the world.

Of course, no trip to Animal Kingdom is complete without seeing the individual animals up close. The park is home to over 2,000 animals from 300 species, including tigers, gorillas, rhinos, and hippos. You’ll find them in various habitats, from the lush rainforest to the arid savannah.

To get the most out of your animal encounters, use the park map to plan your route