Your complete guide to Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is where adventure roars to life! Part theme park, part wild safari, it’s the perfect spot to go on a “wild” expedition without needing to renew your passport. From soaring banshees in Pandora to face-to-face encounters with real-life creatures, it’s a jungle out there — but in the best way possible!
Let's get down to business
LET'S START AT THE VERY BEGINNING
Did you know that over 21 million people visit the Magic Kingdom each year?
When to visit Animal Kingdom
DAYS TO AVOID
WEEKENDS
Due to locals and many weekend visitors.
Due to locals and many weekend visitors.
DAYS TO AIM FOR
According to data research, the best days to visit Animal Kingdom are Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Use this free Crowd Calendar to see date specific crowd levels.
Use this free Crowd Calendar to see date specific crowd levels.
DATES TO AVOID
- Major holidays, like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and the 4th of July. New Years Eve is one of the most crowded nights of the year
- Opening day of new attractions
Before you plan your entire day at Magic Kingdom, you first need to decide when to go.
From the awe-inspiring landscapes of Pandora to the wild adventures of Kilimanjaro Safaris, Animal Kingdom is a fan favorite for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Before you plan your entire day at Animal Kingdom, you first need to decide when to go.
Before you plan your entire day at Animal Kingdom, you first need to decide when to go.
Starting your day
STAYING ON PROPERTY
STAYING OFF PROPERTY
How your start your day at Hollywood Studios all depends on where you are staying during your Walt Disney World vacation.
Early Entry
Early Entry is a great perk for those staying on property! This allows you to get into Animal Kingdom 30 minutes before the park opens and ride some of the most popular rides without a long wait. Animal Kingdom does open earlier than the other 3 parks, so if waking super early isn't your jam, then you may want to avoid Early Entry.
You may enter the park up to 1 hour before the park technically opens. After entering the park, guests are usually held at Discovery Island, near the entrances to Pandora – The World of Avatar and Africa. Cast Members will have signs directing Early Entry guests to their designated waiting areas.
You may enter the park up to 1 hour before the park technically opens. After entering the park, guests are usually held at Discovery Island, near the entrances to Pandora – The World of Avatar and Africa. Cast Members will have signs directing Early Entry guests to their designated waiting areas.
Britt's pick
- Avatar Flight of Passage (44")
- Na’vi River Journey
- Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain (44")
- Dinosaur (40")
- TriceraTop Spin
- It’s Tough to Be a Bug!
Your morning timeline
PARK OPENING
The rest of the park opens to all guests.
Early Entry begins for select attractions.
30 MIN BEFORE PARK OPENING
tip!
CHECK THE MY DISNEY EXPERIENCE APP FOR THE OFFICIAL PARK OPENING TIME
Arrive at the park and head to one of the 3 designed check points closest to whichever attraction you are doing during Early Entry.
90 MIN BEFORE PARK OPENING
Transportation to Hollywood Studios start running. Head to your the park from your resort hotel.
60 MIN BEFORE PARK OPENING
Getting to Animal Kingdom
Drive and park at the lot onsite of this park. Give yourself about 15-20 min to walk from the lot to the front gate.
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Uber/lyft/minnie vans
If you decide to use a ride share service, like Uber or Lyft, the driver will still drop you off on the side of where the resort buses drop off near the front entrance.
Minnie Vans may drop you off closer to the front. Ask your driver where they will drop you off.
Minnie Vans may drop you off closer to the front. Ask your driver where they will drop you off.
Your morning timeline
You may enter the park up to 1 hour before the park technically opens. After entering the park, guests are usually held at Discovery Island, near the entrances to Pandora – The World of Avatar and Africa.
90 MIN BEFORE PARK OPENING
Leave your hotel/vacation rental and head to Animal Kingdom
60 MIN BEFORE PARK OPENING
Rope drop your first attraction
PARK OPENING
tip!
CHECK THE MY DISNEY EXPERIENCE APP FOR THE OFFICIAL PARK OPENING TIME
ROPE DROPPING
verb
To enter the park (or part of the park) upon opening. The Cast Member physically holds a rope and drops it to allow entry.
Using Early Entry: Avatar Flight of Passage (44"), Na'vi River Journey
Not Using Early Entry:Expedition Everest (44")
Not Using Early Entry:Expedition Everest (44")
Attractions to Rope Drop
Discovery island
Discovery Island is the heart of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where the iconic Tree of Life stands tall, like nature’s ultimate “branch” manager. With animal encounters, shops, and It’s Tough to Be a Bug!, it’s the perfect spot to “leaf” your worries behind and let your wild side wander.
ANIMAL KINGDOM LANDS: ATTRACTIONS & SHOWS
Animal Kingdom is made up of 7 different areas, or "Lands." Each Land features uniquely designed decor, food, attractions (rides), and shows that reflect the theme of Land. Learn about each land's attractions & shows below ⬇️
Attractions
Entertainment
Discovery Island Trails (Animal Viewing)
Zootopia: Better Zoogether! (Coming Winter 2025)
Pandora – The World of Avatar
Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is where Earthlings go to get their Na’vi-gation on! With floating mountains, glowing forests, and the unforgettable Flight of Passage, it’s like stepping straight into James Cameron’s imagination — just with fewer blue body paint requirements.
HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS LANDS: ATTRACTIONS & SHOWS
Animal Kingdom is made up of 7 different areas, or "Lands." Each Land features uniquely designed decor, food, attractions (rides), and shows that reflect the theme of Land. Learn about each land's attractions & shows below ⬇️
Attractions
Entertainment
- Avatar Flight of Passage (44")
- Na'vi River Journey
Africa
Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom brings the vibrant village of Harambe to life, where the rhythm of the drums and the roar of the savanna create a wildly authentic experience. From embarking on a Kilimanjaro Safari to catching the legendary Festival of the Lion King, it’s the perfect place to hakuna matata your way through the day!
HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS LANDS: ATTRACTIONS & SHOWS
Animal Kingdom is made up of 7 different areas, or "Lands." Each Land features uniquely designed decor, food, attractions (rides), and shows that reflect the theme of Land. Learn about each land's attractions & shows below ⬇️
Attractions
Entertainment
- Kilimanjaro Safaris
- Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
- Wildlife Express Train (to Rafiki’s Planet Watch)
- Festival of the Lion King
- Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe
Rafiki’s Planet Watch
Rafiki’s Planet Watch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is where your inner animal lover gets to go wild! Hop aboard the Wildlife Express Train for a backstage peek at Disney’s animal care, then brush up on your artistic side at the Animation Experience — it’s like a field trip, but with way more fur and feathers.
HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS LANDS: ATTRACTIONS & SHOWS
Animal Kingdom is made up of 7 different areas, or "Lands." Each Land features uniquely designed decor, food, attractions (rides), and shows that reflect the theme of Land. Learn about each land's attractions & shows below ⬇️
Attractions
Entertainment
Affection Section (Petting Zoo)
Animation Experience at Conservation Station
Asia
Asia at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is where ancient ruins meet wild adventures, and the Yeti reigns as king of the mountain. Whether you’re braving the legendary Expedition Everest or taking a splash on Kali River Rapids, it’s a thrilling journey that’s sure to leave you feeling like an explorer-extraordinaire!
HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS LANDS: ATTRACTIONS & SHOWS
Animal Kingdom is made up of 7 different areas, or "Lands." Each Land features uniquely designed decor, food, attractions (rides), and shows that reflect the theme of Land. Learn about each land's attractions & shows below ⬇️
Attractions
Entertainment
- Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain (48")
- Kali River Rapids (38")
- Maharajah Jungle Trek (Animal Viewing)
- Feathered Friends in Flight
DinoLand U.S.A.
DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is where prehistoric fun meets roadside kitsch, and the only thing extinct is your sense of boredom! From time-traveling on DINOSAUR to digging up fun at The Boneyard, it’s a dino-mite adventure that’s practically T-Rexcellent!
HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS LANDS: ATTRACTIONS & SHOWS
Animal Kingdom is made up of 7 different areas, or "Lands." Each Land features uniquely designed decor, food, attractions (rides), and shows that reflect the theme of Land. Learn about each land's attractions & shows below ⬇️
Attractions
Entertainment
- DINOSAUR
- TriceraTop Spin
This land is scheduled to close in phases to make way for a brand new Tropical Americas land.
Take Note:
Oasis
Oasis at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is like nature’s red carpet, welcoming you with lush landscapes and exotic animals before your wild adventure begins. It’s the perfect spot to pause, breathe, and say, “Leaf it to Disney to make even the entrance unforgettable!”
HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS LANDS: ATTRACTIONS & SHOWS
Animal Kingdom is made up of 7 different areas, or "Lands." Each Land features uniquely designed decor, food, attractions (rides), and shows that reflect the theme of Land. Learn about each land's attractions & shows below ⬇️
Attractions
Entertainment
- Oasis Exhibits (Animal Viewing Trails)
AVOIDING THE LONG LINES
Lines at Animal Kingdom can get wildly long—especially for headliners like Flight of Passage and Kilimanjaro Safaris—so skipping them saves time and energy (and keeps the “roar” out of your mood). Plus, less waiting means more exploring, snacking, and animal spotting!
Tips for avoiding long lines:
Stay on property and/or stay at a Deluxe Resort
Staying on property (and some Good Neighbor Hotels) allows you to enter into Animal Kingdom 30 min early, which allows to ride up to 2 attractions before park opening, and lower wait times. Staying at a Deluxe Resort also allows you to visit certain parks on select nights for 2 hours after closing. This should allow you to ride quite a few attractions with lower wait times.
Tips for avoiding long lines:
Buy Lighting Lanes
You can pay extra to enter into the Lightning Lane for most Animal Kingdom attractions. Read more on that below ⬇️
LIGHTNING LANES INFO
Tips for avoiding long lines:
Disability Access Service (DAS)
Certain guests with physical/cognitive disabilities may qualify for the DAS at Disney World. This program allows qualifying guests to enter into the Lightning Lane for certain attractions. See more info here.
Lightning lanes at ANIMAL KINGDOM
I won't go into the all the deets about lightning lanes. Honestly, there's just too much to fit into this guide! You can find an in depth overview in my Lightning Lanes Guide. But to make a long story short...
⚡️ Lightning Lanes are the new "skip the line" program at Disney World.
⚡️ You can purchase SinglePass, MultiPass, and/or PremierPass Lightning Lanes for each park day.
⚡️ I personally feel like you can get away with purchasing MultiPass or PremierPass for Animal Kingdom but I highly recommend SinglePass for Avatar Flight of Passage.
⚡️ You can purchase SinglePass, MultiPass, and/or PremierPass Lightning Lanes for each park day.
⚡️ I personally feel like you can get away with purchasing MultiPass or PremierPass for Animal Kingdom but I highly recommend SinglePass for Avatar Flight of Passage.
See the Lightning Lanes guide for the most accurate and up to date info on Lightning Lanes at Animal Kingdom!
DINING IN ANIMAL KINGDOM
Coronado Springs
Animal Kingdom Lodge
Nearby resorts
Animal Kingdom has several resorts nearby that have also have incredible dining options. Each resort has snack stands, quick service, and table service places that match the theming and vibes of the resort. There's no admission fee to visit or dine at resorts, so I highly recommend you making them part of your visit, if possible!
Animal Kingdom Lodge
🐭 Character Dining
🍽️ Advance dining reservations recommended
📱 Mobile Ordering available
💖My fave!
- Jiko – The Cooking Place 🍽️ 💖
- Boma – Flavors of Africa 🍽️ 💖
- The Mara 📱
- Victoria Falls Lounge
- Cape Town Lounge and Wine Bar
Take a short bus ride to this safari-themed resort. With rich African-inspired architecture, immersive theming, and some of the best dining on property, it’s like taking a trip to the savanna—no passport required!
- Sanaa 🍽️ 📱
- Sanaa Lounge
- Uzima Springs Pool Bar
- Maji Pool Bar
Coronado Springs
🐭 Character Dining
🍽️ Advance dining reservations recommended
📱 Mobile Ordering available
💖My fave!
- Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood 🍽️
- Dahlia Lounge 💖
- Barcelona Lounge
- Three Bridges Bar & Grill 🍽️ 💖
- Maya Grill 🍽️
- Rix Sports Bar & Grill 🍽️
- El Mercado de Coronado
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is a stylish blend of Spanish, Mexican, and Southwestern American influences, offering both elegance and affordability. Just a short bus ride from Animal Kingdom, it’s the perfect retreat with beautiful lakeside views, top-notch dining, and a splash of modern magic.
- Café Rix
- Siestas Cantina
- Laguna Bar
DINING TIPS
Mobile Ordering
Save time by placing a Mobile Order for select restaurants on the My Disney Experience app.
MORE TIPS
DINING TIPS
Advance Reservatinos
Most sit-down restaurants recommend advance dining reservations. Some may have walk-up lists that become available, but it is always best to try to reserve your dining ahead of time.
If you are staying on property, you may book dining up to 60 days before your checkin date. If you are staying off-property, you may book up to 60 days before the date you want to dine.
If you are staying on property, you may book dining up to 60 days before your checkin date. If you are staying off-property, you may book up to 60 days before the date you want to dine.
MORE TIPS
DINING TIPS
Dining Plan
If you have the Disney Dining Plan, the majority table services restaurants take 1 table service credit. The only exception is Tiffins , which will take 2 Table Service credits.
MORE TIPS
DINING TIPS
My Favorites
- Quick Service Restaurant: Flame Tree BBQ
- Table Service Restaurant: Yak & Yeti
- Snack: Chicken Potstickers from Mr. Kamal’s
- Sweet Treat: Night Blossom from Pongu Pongu
MORE TIPS
ANIMAL KINGDOM WITH LITTLES
Top Attractions
- Festival of the Lion King
- Finding Nemo: The Big Blue... and Beyond!
- Na’vi River Journey
- Kilimanjaro Safaris
- Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch
- Affection Section at Rafiki's Planet Watch
- Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
- Maharajah Jungle Trek
- Discovery Island Trails
Rider Switch
If your child is not tall enough to ride an attraction that you want to ride, Disney has a FREE program, called Rider Switch, available to use. Here's how it works:
- Go to the front of the attraction with the entire party (including the ones that can't ride)
- Determine with your party who will be riding during the first round and who will be riding in the 2nd round
- The Cast Member at the attraction will scan the ticket or Magic Band of the non-riding adult and issue a Ride Switch entitlement.
- The first round of riders will enter the attraction through the Lightning Lane to ride, while the non-riders wait outside of the attraction
- Now, the riders switch (get it?) The adult that just rode will stay behind with the non-riders, while the adult that didn't ride in the first round (and another rider) enter in through the Lightning Lane to ride the attraction.
Finding Characters
One of my daughter's favorite thing to do in Animal Kingdom is to find characters and get their autographs! You can easily find character locations and meet and greet times in the MDE App.
Map > Category Drop down at the top of the page > Characters
Map > Category Drop down at the top of the page > Characters
Baby Care Center
The Baby Care Center is located directly next to Creature Comforts (Starbucks). It is the perfect, air conditioned spot for all your baby necessities. Not only is it a great spot to feed or change your baby, but they also have last minute items available for purchase, including but not limited to diapers, wipes, formula, and snacks!
Wilderness Explorers
Wilderness Explorers is a free, interactive scavenger hunt-style adventure where kids (and kids at heart) earn over 25 badges by completing fun, educational challenges throughout the park. It’s like becoming a real-life Russell from Up — minus the talking dog, but just as much spirit of adventure!
Strollers 101
Even if your child doesn't use a stroller at home, I recommend any child under the age of 7 be in one for Disney World (did you know it's A LOT of walking?!)
STROLLER TIPS
Your stroller cannot exceed 31” (79cm) wide and 52” (132cm) long, and wagons/stroller wagons are not allowed.
You will need to park your stroller before entering attractions. There is usually stroller parking near most entrances.
Bring a stroller cover (or rent one from ScooterBug) to ensure you don't come back to a soggy stroller (yuck!)
Be prepared to collapse your stroller before boarding a Disney bus or boat. You can usually keep it upright in the Monorail and Skyliner.
Bring something, like a ribbon or sign, to distinguish your stroller from a sea of black strollers
PARK RENTALS
KINGDOM STROLLERS
RENTING A STROLLER
Renting strollers is great for those that want to travel lightly! There are a couple different options for stroller rentals:
PARK RENTALS
KINGDOM STROLLERS
RENTING A STROLLER
Renting strollers is great for those that want to travel lightly! There are a couple different options for stroller rentals:
You can rent strollers directly in the parks. These come in both a single and double stroller option and can carry up to 100 pounds. You can rent them for the entire day, but you cannot take them out of the park. They don’t have a ton of storage— just some storage pockets on the back.
PARK RENTALS
KINGDOM STROLLERS
RENTING A STROLLER
Renting strollers is great for those that want to travel lightly! There are a couple different options for stroller rentals:
The next option is to rent from a stroller rental company. My personal recommendation is Kingdom Stroller rentals. They do have a partnership with Disney, so they will actually deliver and pick up the stroller at your Disney World hotel, which is super convenient. They also have tons of different stroller options, and pricing varies on whichever option you rent.
GET 15% OFF HERE!
Ride Priority Guide
Use the following to help you decide which attractions and Character Meet & Greets to prioritize:
HIGH PRIORITY
- Avatar Flight of Passage (44")
- Expedition Everest (44")
- Kilimanjaro Safaris*
- A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King*
- Kali River Rapids (38")
- Na'vi River Journey*
* Indicates a higer priority for small children
MEDIUM PRIORITY
LOWER PRIORITY
- Finding Nemo: The Big Blue...and Beyond!*
- Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail*
- Affection Section*
- Maharajah Jungle Trek*
- The Boneyard*
- Discovery Island Trails*
- Feathered Friends in Flight*
CHARACTER MEET & GREETS
- Moana, across from Isle of Java
- Pocahontas at Discovery Island Trails
- Kevin from Up, roams around Discovery Island
- Russell from Up, at the Wilderness Explorer's Club House
- Mickey & Minnie at Adventures Outpost
- Donald, Goofy, and Pluto in DinoLand
- Daisy at Daisy's Design Studio
Note: Not all characters have designated locations or times. Use the MDE app to see other characters that can be found randomly throughout the park. Go to the map > top drop down > characters
IMPORTANT INFO and Examples
Safari Tips
My two favorite times to do Kilimanjaro Safari are:
- First thing in the morning (because this is when the animals are most active)
- About 30-45 before sunset (because the animals will still be active, and you get a killer sunset view)
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Stroller parking all depends on which entrance you are using to enter the attraction:
- Standby Queue (Regular) Entrance: You're able to bring your stroller with you until about halfway through the queue. From there, a Cast Member will park it for you
- Lightning Lane Entrance: Park at the designated stroller parking area outside of the attraction
For the Whole Family
MultiPass Pre-Booked Attractions
- Kilimanjaro Safari 9:40 am
- Expedition Everest (44") 12:20 pm
- Festival of the Lion King 10 am
SinglePass Pre-Booked Attraction
- Flight of Passage (44") 8:50 am
6:45 am - Leave your hotel and head towards Animal Kingdom
7:15 am - Arrive Animal Kingdom; Immediately head towards Pandora to get in line for Na'vi River Journey
7:30 am - Na'vi River Journey
8 am - Breakfast
8:50 am - Flight of Passage (44") LL (accounts for riding twice, if using Rider Switch)
9:40 am - Kilimanjaro Safari LL
10 am - Festival of the Lion King LL
11 am - Gorilla Falls Exploration Trails
11:45 am - Maharajah Jungle Trek
12:20 pm - Expedition Everest(44") LL (accounts for riding twice, if using Rider Switch)
1:10 pm - Lunch at Yak & Yeti
2:50 pm: Wildlife Express (Africa Station) to Rafiki's Planet Watch
3:20 pm: Affection Station and explore Rafiki's Planet Watch
4 pm - Wildlife Express back to Africa Station
4:15 pm - Discovery Island Trails
- Staying at a Disney World Resort Hotel or Good Neighbor Hotel
- Using Early Entry
- Purchasing SinglePass and MultiPass Lightning Lanes
- A mix of adults, teens, and young kids
This Park Plan is for guests that are:
Sample Park Plans
For Littles
MultiPass Pre-Booked Attractions
7:30 am - Leave your hotel and head towards Animal Kingdom
8 am - Arrive Animal Kingdom
8:20 am - Kilimanjaro Safari LL
9 am - Get set up with Wildnerness Explorers and meet characters near Discovery Island
9:50 am - Na'vi River Journey LL
10:30 am - The Boneyard
11:15 am - Gorilla Falls Exploration Trails
12-1 pm - Lunch Break
1-2 pm - Take the Wildlife Express to Rafiki's Planet Watch and enjoy the Affection Station
2 pm - Festival of the Lion King
3 pm - Character meet and greets
4 pm - Maharajah Jungle Trek
- Kilimanjaro Safari – 8:20 AM
- Na'vi River Journey – 9:50 AM
- Festival of the Lion King – 2:00 PM
7:30 am - Leave your hotel and head towards Animal Kingdom
8 am - Arrive Animal Kingdom
8:20 am - Kilimanjaro Safari LL
9 am - Get set up with Wildnerness Explorers and meet characters near Discovery Island
9:50 am - Na'vi River Journey LL
10:30 am - The Boneyard
11:15 am - Gorilla Falls Exploration Trails
12-1 pm - Lunch Break
1-2 pm - Take the Wildlife Express to Rafiki's Planet Watch and enjoy the Affection Station
2 pm - Festival of the Lion King
3 pm - Character meet and greets
4 pm - Maharajah Jungle Trek
- Staying at a Disney World Resort Hotel or Good Neighbor Hotel
- Purchasing SinglePass and MultiPass Lightning Lanes
- Mainly little kids
This Park Plan is for guests that are:
Sample Park Plans
No Lightning Lanes
6:45 am - Leave your hotel and head towards Animal Kingdom
7:15 am - Arrive Animal Kingdom; Immediately head towards Pandora to get in line for Flight of Passage (44") during Early Entry
7:30 am - Flight of Passage (accounts for riding twice, if using Rider Switch)
8:30 am - Na'vi River Journey
9:15 am – Kilimanjaro Safari
10:30 am – Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
11:30 am – Expedition Everest (44") (accounts for riding twice, if using Rider Switch)
12:30 pm - Lunch Break
1:45 pm - Take the Wildlife Express to Rafiki's Planet Watch and enjoy the Affection Station
3:15 pm - Festival of the Lion King
4:15 pm - Maharajah Jungle Trek
5:15 pm - Discovery Island Trails
7:15 am - Arrive Animal Kingdom; Immediately head towards Pandora to get in line for Flight of Passage (44") during Early Entry
7:30 am - Flight of Passage (accounts for riding twice, if using Rider Switch)
8:30 am - Na'vi River Journey
9:15 am – Kilimanjaro Safari
10:30 am – Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
11:30 am – Expedition Everest (44") (accounts for riding twice, if using Rider Switch)
12:30 pm - Lunch Break
1:45 pm - Take the Wildlife Express to Rafiki's Planet Watch and enjoy the Affection Station
3:15 pm - Festival of the Lion King
4:15 pm - Maharajah Jungle Trek
5:15 pm - Discovery Island Trails
- Staying at a Disney World Resort Hotel or Good Neighbor Hotel
- Using Early Entry
- Not purchasing SinglePass and MultiPass Lightning Lanes
- A mix of adults, teens, and kids
This Park Plan is for guests that are:
Sample Park Plans
No Early Entry
MultiPass Pre-Booked Attractions
- Kilimanjaro Safari 9:40 am
- Expedition Everest (44") 12:20 pm
- Festival of the Lion King 10 am
SinglePass Pre-Booked Attraction
- Flight of Passage (44") 8:50 am
7 am - Leave your hotel and head towards Animal Kingdom
7:30 am - Arrive Animal Kingdom; Immediately head towards Pandora to get in line for Na'vi River Journey
8 am - Na'vi River Journey
8:50 am - Flight of Passage (44") LL (accounts for riding twice, if using Rider Switch)
9:40 am - Kilimanjaro Safari LL
10 am - Festival of the Lion King LL
11 am - Gorilla Falls Exploration Trails
11:45 am - Maharajah Jungle Trek
12:20 pm - Expedition Everest LL (44") (accounts for riding twice, if using Rider Switch)
1:10 pm - Lunch at Yak & Yeti
2:50 pm: Wildlife Express (Africa Station) to Rafiki's Planet Watch
3:20 pm: Affection Station and explore Rafiki's Planet Watch
4 pm - Wildlife Express back to Africa Station
4:15 pm - Discovery Island Trails
- Staying off property
- Not using Early Entry
- Purchasing SinglePass and MultiPass Lightning Lanes
- A mix of adults, teens, and young kids
This Park Plan is for guests that are:
Sample Park Plans
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT ANIMAL KINGDOM TO AVOID CROWDS?
Mid Jan-Mid Feb, Late April-Early May, Late Aug-Mid Sep (except Labor Day Weekend)
WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO EAT IN ANIMAL KINGDOM?
Tiffins, Flame Tree BBQ, and Satu'li Canteen
WILL MY LITTLES ENJOY ANIMAL KINGDOM?
Little kids will love Animal Kingdom for its perfect mix of real animals, gentle rides, and colorful, interactive fun—from spotting giraffes on safari to digging up dino bones in The Boneyard. With familiar characters, playful trails, and musical shows, it’s a wild adventure that feels made just for them!
WHICH CHARACTERS CAN I MEET IN ANIMAL KINGDOM?
See the Ride Priority Guide for a list of high priority meet & greets.
DOES ANIMAL KINGDOM HAVE FIREWORKs?
No, because Animal Kingdom closes early to prioritize the animals' needs, there are no night time shows.
CAN YOU BRING OUTSIDE FOOD & DRINK INTO ANIMAL KINGDOM?
Yes! Just make sure you don't include any alcohol, dry/loose ice, and your food can't be in glass containers.
WHAT'S THE BEST STRATEGY TO ENJOY ANIMAL KINGDOM?
Start early (use early entry/rope drop) and try to hit a popular attraction first (Ex. Expedition Everest). You will for sure want to purchase a Single Pass Lightning Lane for Avatar Flight of Passage, but MultiPass or PremierPass will most likely not be needed. After that, work your way around the park clockwise through Africa, Asia, and DinoLand, catching big attractions in the morning and saving animal trails, Wilderness Explorers, and shows like Festival of the Lion King or Finding Nemo for midday when crowds and heat peak.
WHAT AFTER-HOUR EVENTS ARE AVAILABLE AT ANIMAL KINGDOM?
The only "after hours events" at Animal Kingdom are for Deluxe Resort Hotel guests. Dates vary, and can be found here.
Is Animal kingdom a FULL day park?
Although Animal Kingdom is technically the largest of all 4 Disney World parks, it doesn't have a ton of rides. If you start early, you could most likely be done with everything around 2-3 PM.
how much time should i allot to get into ANIMAL kingdom?
If you are using Disney transportation, plan to leave at least 30 min before you plan to arrive.
If you are staying off property, plan to leave at least 45 min (1 hour, if possible) before you plan to arrive.
Once you have arrived, you can expect to spend at least an additional 20 minutes to get through Security and through the gate.
If you are staying off property, plan to leave at least 45 min (1 hour, if possible) before you plan to arrive.
Once you have arrived, you can expect to spend at least an additional 20 minutes to get through Security and through the gate.
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I'm brittany
Hiya, Pal!
Your Disney Planner BFF
but you can call me Britt
I'm a self-taught graphic designer, wife & mama, born-and-raised FL girl, and your new official Disney Planner BFF.
I have loved Disney as long as I can remember. I was the girl that was Princess Jasmine for Halloween 3 years in a row because I was literally that obsessed. I also rewatched Beauty and the Beast on VHS so often that I eventually broke the tape. (90's kids, iykyk.)
I went to Disney World for the first time at 4 years old, but didn't get to go again until my late 20's. Even though I live almost 7 hours away, my little family & I try to go as often as we can. My daughter (who may be more obsessed with Disney Princesses than I am) says that Magic Kingdom is her favorite place in the world. I can't disagree with her.
My love for Disney World, plus me being a text-book Enneagram 2w3, led me down the path of Disney travel planning. I love using my Disney knowledge to help others have a relaxing and memory-filled family vacation.
