DisneyTips.com Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Animal Kingdom is a wonderful place. It’s filled with all kinds of interesting sights, smells, and sounds. One of our favorite places in this fascinating park is the Africa section. In fact, we could easily spend several hours in this one little area. What do we find so enchanting about Africa in Animal Kingdom? Well, there a number of things that make this place special. Read on to learn more.
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1. The Details
One of the things that makes Disney parks stand out from the rest is their intense attention to detail. The imagineers who put these parks together leave no detail unattended to, making every area unique and as authentic as possible. Of course, this usual attention to detail carries over into the Africa section of Animal Kingdom, and boy, is it amazing. Imagineers actually traveled the continent of Africa in order to find inspiration for this land, meaning everything is authentic as it gets for a theme park. No corner is left without theming, and this really sets the tone for your time spent in this land.
2. Street Performers
We all know that nobody does entertainment quite like Disney. Their top-notch entertainment can be found in all areas of their parks, and Africa is no exception. This corner of Animal Kingdom is always alive with music, as such performers as Burudika and the Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe sing and play traditional instruments. Be sure to take the time to stop and appreciate the talents of these energetic performers. You’ll be glad you did!
3. Dance Parties
Besides the beautiful music made by performers, you will also frequently come across dance parties in the streets of Animal Kingdom’s Africa. These high energy gatherings are great fun, and an exciting way for young children to burn some pent-up energy. If you see a dance party happening, stop for a few minutes and let the kids bust a move (or join in yourself). You’ll feel energized and ready to take on the next adventure after you do.
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4. Kilimanjaro Safaris
Truly one of the best attractions in Animal Kingdom park, Kilimanjaro Safaris takes guests on a bumpy Jeep ride through various places in Africa in search of local wildlife. Riders can expect to see a number of different animals including hippos, giraffes, and wildebeest, to name a few. That said, the animals are free to roam, meaning you never know what you’re going to see and every ride is different. Therefore, we recommend making time for at least two safaris.
5. Festival of the Lion King
As we mentioned before, Disney is king when it comes to creating fantastic entertainment. Therefore, it’ll come as no surprise that their in-park stage shows are amazing. One of the best stage shows in any Disney park is located in Africa in Animal Kingdom. This show, Festival of the Lion King, features incredible singing, dancing, acrobatics, and more. There’s never a dull moment during this performance, and you’re sure to be astounded by the feats of these brave performers.
6. Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
Of course, Animal Kingdom is all about the animals, and that means there are some pretty awesome walking trails that allow guests to view the creatures kept in the park. One of these trails is the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail located in the Africa section of the park. This trail gives guests a glimpse at the incredible gorillas who live in the park, as well as several other awesome and beautiful creatures. Wear your walking shoes, because you’re definitely going to want to walk this trail.
7. Harambe Market
When you get hungry, head over to Harambe Market. Not only do they offer quick service so you can eat as soon as possible, the market also has a variety of food options, meaning there is something for everyone. Once you have your food in hand, head to one of the shaded tables in this open-air market and enjoy the sights and sounds of a bustling park while you eat.
8. Tusker House Restaurant
Looking for a more relaxing place to enjoy your food? Tusker House Restaurant might be more your style. This eatery offers African-inspired eats that nearly everyone loves. On top of that, this eatery also offers character meals, meaning little ones love to eat at Tusker House just as much as the grownups do.
9. Shopping
Nowhere is shopping more fun than at Disney World. Shopping in Africa features all kinds of interesting and unique gift items. African-inspired hats and jewelry line the shelves, and colorful skirts hang from racks in a delightful display akin to a rainbow. Be sure to bring some cash or a credit card because you’re going to want to do some shopping while in Animal Kingdom’s Africa.
10. Cultural Representatives
Perhaps the best part about the Africa section of Animal Kingdom are the cultural representatives. These individuals are African natives who were hired by Disney to represent their culture and their continent. You can find representatives scattered around this section of the park, with one or two always manning Wilderness Explorer stations. This is great because it means they are available to answer the questions of curious young minds.
As you can tell, we adore Africa in Animal Kingdom, and we think you’ll love it just as much. Be sure to give this section plenty of time, as you’re sure to want to explore it well.
