People used to think of Animal Kingdom as a half-day park or a big zoo — but that couldn’t be further from the truth! Animal Kingdom is the sixth most popular theme park in the world when you look at attendance. If you’re here, we’re going to assume that you already know that this incredible theme park at Disney World is a magical place that blends nature’s wonder with the magic of Disney.
Kids and adults alike enjoy being able to observe hundreds of animals living side-by-side. Plus, you can experience the exhilaration of rides and attractions all in one magical park. Not to mention, the dining options are (almost) endless.
Ready to start planning your visit to Animal Kingdom in Disney World? We’ve got you covered. Find out about the best rides at Animal Kingdom so you can plan your visit and decide what to do first.
The Seven Themed Areas of Animal Kingdom
With more than 580 acres to explore, Animal Kingdom has the title of the world’s second-largest theme park! There’s so much to experience, so we’ll start with the basics to help you find the attractions and animals you are dreaming to see. There are seven main areas all within Animal Kingdom waiting for you to discover, including:
- Africa
- Asia
- DinoLand U.S.A
- Discovery Island
- Oasis
- Pandora — The World of Avatar
- Rafiki’s Planet Watch
Each of these areas are uniquely themed with rides, attractions, and more. As you walk in, you are greeted by the 145-foot Tree of life, which is an artificial baobab tree — the most iconic feature of Animal Kingdom.
Our Favorite, Must-Do Rides and Attractions at Animal Kingdom
You can find exhilarating rides in just about every section of Animal Kingdom. From thrilling rollercoasters to intriguing safaris, you can find something for everyone. Here are some areas to add to your must-do list.
Exhibition Everest
One of the most thrilling rides for roller coaster lovers is Exhibition Everest. This is one of the most thrilling and best rides at Disney World.
You can find this ride in the Asia area at the base of Mount Everest in the Tibetan Village. Board the ride’s train and go straight up a 200-foot peak. Don’t be surprised if you find a legendary monster inside this mountain.
Avatar Flight of Passage
You can find this ride in Pandora — The World of Avatar area. The entire area is based on the iconic Avatar movie.
One of the most popular Walt Disney World attractions, you get to soar in this 3D, flying simulator ride. You get to feel just like the creatures in the legendary movie Avatar as you fly and dive over the various areas of Pandora.
DINOSAUR
If you like action-packed rides that have stunning effects, you need to check out DINOSAUR in the Dinoland, U.S.A. area. Go back in time and rescue an iguanodon from an asteroid.
This ride is similar to the Indiana Jones Adventure in Disneyland because of the layout of the track and the vehicle. However, even if your little one loves dinosaurs, it may not be good for smaller kids. There are a lot of pretty scary dinos, loud noises, and darkness.
Kilimanjaro Safaris
If you want to put one ride on your must-do list, this is it. You have to see animals when you are at Animal Kingdom, right? In the Africa area, the Kilimanjaro Safaris take you in an open-air vehicle with a guided tour of the majestic savanna. You get up close and personal with live animals as they roam free. Don’t worry, they aren’t close enough to attack.
You get to explore the Harambe Wildlife Reserve which is a 110-acre landscape featuring open plains, wetlands, and forests. Discover nearly 34 species of animals and learn interesting facts from your guide. During your 18-minute ride, you may see animals like zebras, hyenas, elephants, baboons, cheetahs, and more. You will feel like you are in Africa and not in Florida!
Get there early because this is a very popular attraction (and for good reason). You don’t want to miss this one!
Maharajah Jungle Trek
If you love to explore, you can find two exploration trails in the park. The most exciting is Maharajah Jungle Trek. It is not a ride, but you are your own guide as you walk your pace on the path. You can find this one in the Asia section near Kali River Rapids.
On this journey, you will see reptiles, birds, tigers, and more. Have questions? The animal experts are abundant to happily address your questions and help you learn something new.
Be sure you go by early afternoon because this closes a few hours before the park.
Kali River Rapids
Florida is hot, so if you want to cool down, hop on the Kali River Rapids in the Asia area of the park. This raft ride guides you past forests that are burned from deforestation. Then you go over the big falls, and you guessed it, you get wet.
You may want to take a poncho for this ride or consider riding in the afternoon before heading back to your Disney themed vacation home for a change of clothes.
Annual Festival and Events
Disney’s 50th Anniversary is this year. And, it is sure to be a magical event! Starting October 1, Beacons of Magic lights up the Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life with enchanted fireflies.
Disney’s KiteTails also open on October 1st for the celebration as beloved Disney songs fill the air. You will see three-dimensional kites shaped like lovable Disney animals like King Louie, Simba, Baloo, and Zazu as they dance and fly above the Discovery River Amphitheater.
But, that’s only the beginning! Check out more fun and exciting fall events happening at Disney and throughout Orlando.
Insider Tips to Visiting Animal Kingdom
You should get to the park early or stay later. While you can easily stay at the park for the entire day, you can easily see everything in about six to seven hours.
Want to move quickly and can split up? Check out Single Rider Lines. Some of the top attractions, like Expedition Everest, have these lines for a possible shorter wait.
You don’t want to skip the animals. This is the best part of this park. Disney changes these exhibits constantly, and you may see a new baby!
Discover the Best Rides at Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom is not just a zoo. It’s a celebration of nature and Disney. The best rides at Animal Kingdom help you discover animals, get your heart racing, and let you learn about conservation efforts.
Ready to plan your trip? No matter how many times you’ve visited Disney, it’s always nice to have some help planning your next trip. We are an authorized Disney World ticket seller, so when you book through us it’s like having an all inclusive vacation package. Contact us by phone or email anytime — and don’t forget to check out our vacation rentals near the Disney World theme parks!
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