Top Pros & Cons for Staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge at Walt Disney World

Exotic adventures await at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, a deluxe resort near Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. This resort offers Guests a one-of-a-kind experience, blending African-inspired architecture, immersive dining, and incredible wildlife encounters. Whether you’re planning your first visit or a return trip, here’s an in-depth look at the benefits and potential drawbacks of staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge.

The Basics: Jambo House and Kidani Village

Animal Kingdom Lodge consists of two distinct sections: Jambo House and Kidani Village. Both areas participate in the Disney Vacation Club (DVC), but you don’t have to be a DVC member to book a stay here. Accommodations range from standard hotel rooms to spacious 3-bedroom villas, making it ideal for couples, families, and large groups.

Step inside the lobby of either Jambo House or Kidani Village, and you’ll be greeted by stunning African-inspired design and artwork, setting the tone for a truly unique Disney experience. But the magic doesn’t stop at first impressions—read on to discover why this resort might be perfect for your next trip.

PRO: Wildlife Encounters Like No Other

Imagine waking up to find a giraffe grazing right outside your window! Animal Kingdom Lodge offers an unparalleled opportunity to view more than 30 species of African animals across its savanna areas. Guests staying in savanna-view rooms can enjoy ever-changing vistas of wildlife from their private balconies.

Even if you’re not staying in a savanna-view room, there are plenty of public viewing areas scattered throughout the resort, complete with informative wildlife guides.

PRO: First-Class Dining Experiences

Animal Kingdom Lodge is a dining destination in its own right, offering a variety of top-notch options:

• Boma – Flavors of Africa: This buffet features an array of African-inspired dishes alongside familiar favorites, making it a hit for adventurous and picky eaters alike.
• Jiko – The Cooking Place: A signature dining experience that combines bold African flavors with a curated wine list.
• Sanaa: Located at Kidani Village, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of the savanna and a menu that blends African and Indian cuisines.
• Lounges: Both Jambo House and Kidani Village feature cozy lounges perfect for pre-dinner cocktails or nightcaps.

Pro Tip: Advanced Dining Reservations are highly recommended for all table-service restaurants at the resort.

PRO: Sparkling Pools and Recreation

Relaxation is easy with two incredible pools at Animal Kingdom Lodge:

• Uzima Springs Pool (Jambo House): A large, zero-entry pool surrounded by lush landscaping. Features include a water slide and poolside activities for kids.
• Samawati Springs Pool (Kidani Village): Another zero-entry pool with a more secluded vibe, complemented by Uwanja Camp, a water play area designed especially for children.

Both pools offer plenty of loungers, and poolside bars are available for refreshing drinks and snacks.

PRO: Unique Activities and Entertainment

Animal Kingdom Lodge is a haven for families looking to enjoy a resort day. Activities include:

• Animal Spotting: Use the Wildlife Field Guide provided in your room to identify animals on the savanna.
• African Crafts and Cooking: Participate in workshops to learn more about African art and cuisine.
• Nighttime Adventures: Try night vision goggles for after-dark animal viewing or enjoy storytelling around a bonfire.
• Cultural Presentations: Daily events hosted by Cast Members from Africa who share their stories and traditions.

CON: Limited Quick-Service Options at Kidani Village

While Jambo House features The Mara, a full-service quick-service restaurant offering a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, Kidani Village lacks a similar dining spot. Guests staying at Kidani Village must rely on Johari Treasures (a small gift shop with limited grab-and-go items) or the Maji Pool Bar (offering salads, flatbreads, and drinks). For more variety, you’ll need to make the trek to Jambo House.

CON: Transportation Challenges

Animal Kingdom Lodge’s proximity to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park is a major perk, but getting to other parks and Disney Springs takes more time. The only available transportation options are buses or driving your own car. Guests used to monorail or Skyliner access may find the bus system less convenient.

CON: Resort Layout and Long Walks

The resort’s semicircular layout ensures plenty of rooms with savanna views, but it also means long walks to the lobby or main amenities for Guests staying in outer sections. After a full day at the parks, these walks can feel exhausting. If mobility is a concern, consider requesting a room closer to the lobby when booking your stay.

CON: Animal Safety Restrictions

To protect the savanna wildlife, certain restrictions are in place at Animal Kingdom Lodge:

• No Balloons: Balloons are not permitted anywhere on the property. If you bring one back from the parks, it will be stored at the front desk until your departure.
• No Plastic Straws: Only paper straws are available for use.
• Balcony Surveillance: Cameras monitor balconies to ensure no objects are thrown into the animal habitats.

While these restrictions are understandable, they might inconvenience some guests who aren’t aware of them ahead of time.

Is Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Right for You?

Choosing the right Disney resort depends on your family’s needs and preferences. Animal Kingdom Lodge stands out for its immersive theming, incredible dining, and unique wildlife experiences. However, transportation limitations and the resort’s layout might not work for everyone. If you’re looking for a relaxing stay with plenty of activities and don’t mind being a bit farther from most parks, this resort is an excellent choice.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re marveling at giraffes from your balcony, savoring African-inspired cuisine, or enjoying a poolside cocktail, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge offers a magical escape unlike any other. If the pros outweigh the cons for your family, this resort is well worth considering for your next Disney adventure.