The Most Traumatizing Attractions in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort is one of the world’s most iconic and beloved theme parks. The beautiful scenery, immersive attractions, and incredible wildlife encounters make Disney’s Animal Kingdom an incredibly unique Park. They say you always will remember your first trip to the Animal Kingdom theme Park, but sometimes that might not be for the right reason. With all of the magic the Park brings also comes some traumatic moments from some of the Park’s more “unique” attractions.

The “Scarring” Attractions in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is so immersive, especially as a child. Those who visited the Park as a child will understand that many attractions there are honestly scarring. When it comes down to it, four attractions tend to traumatize children (and adults) in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

#4: DINOSAUR

Children love dinosaurs, so this ride must be perfect for kids… right? The DINOSAUR attraction in Disney’s Animal Kingdom is downright terrifying for children. The loud noises and intense lighting of this ride makes this ride very intense for children. Most of the ride takes place in the dark, so the menacing noises and eerie shadows on the massive dinosaur animatronics is enough to scar a child. The ride is also very bumpy and features some big drops. All of this, in addition to the ride narrator screaming, “we’re not gonna make it!!” while asteroids fly toward your ride vehicle, makes this ride terrifying for a child. Clearly, Disney has heard its fair share 0f complaints from parents because the ride now has a warning on its ride page.

#3: Flight of Passage

Avatar Flight of Passage at the World of Avatar is one of the most incredible attractions at any Disney theme Park. This immersive experience takes you on a flight through the world of Pandora aboard a winged mountain banshee. Flight of Passage is applauded for its incredible realism, but sadly it may be too realistic for your little ones. This ride features intense drops and is very thrilling. The next time you are in the Park with younger children, it may be a good idea to let them skip out on this ride. If you wouldn’t show your child the Avatar movie, then this ride is not a good fit.

Credit: Disney

#2: Expedition Everest

Expedition Everest- Legend of the Forbidden Mountain is one of the most intense and thrilling rides at the Walt Disney World Resort. As described on its ride page, “This attraction features loud noises, fast drops, high speeds, dark places and frightening creature effects.”

Anyone who has ridden Expedition Everest knows that it is not to be underestimated. Of all the attractions in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, this coaster is by far the most intense. Children who don’t do well with more intense rides should definitely stay away from this one. Remember the golden rule: just because your kid is tall enough to ride the ride does not mean they are ready!

Related: VIDEO: Guest Captures Real Life ‘Lion King’ Moment During Animal Kingdom’s Kilimanjaro Safaris

Credit: Disney

#1: It’s Tough to Be a Bug!

The name alone is enough to send a shiver down my spine. It’s Tough to Be a Bug! is an immersive live show and 3D animation experience that shows audiences what it’s like being a bug. This show is definitely not for those who are squeamish around bugs. The show has bugs falling from the ceiling, putrid “stinkbug spray”, and seats that feel like bugs are crawling all over your legs. A child runs out of the theatre crying during nearly every performance! While some kids love this creepy crawly show, many will end up traumatized by it.

Credit: Disney

Disney’s Animal Kingdom has so much to offer as a Park. The wildlife encounters, stunning worlds, and exciting attractions make it a favorite Park of many. If you plan to visit this Disney Park with young children, be sure to skip any of these rides if you think your child isn’t ready to handle them. There are plenty of child-friendly rides and attractions to entertain you and your family all day long.