10 Secrets Most People Don’t Know About Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village

Imagine waking up one morning in a cozy bed sitting in a luxurious room covered in whimsical, African-inspired decor. You get up and walk to the window, where a giraffe is having his breakfast just a few yards away. Turn this dream into a reality by booking a room at Kidani Village on your next trip to Disney World! Below are just a few insider tips to consider when planning your trip!

10. Sunset Savanna has the best views of the animals.

If you are all about the giraffes and zebras, request a room that faces Sunset Savanna. This is the same view you have in the lobby, and it is arguably the most picturesque. However, if you are a fan of the Okapi, the Pembe Savanna is for you. Pembe is home to this relative of the giraffe and this area is available only to guests at Kidani Village.

9. Mickey Check Meals can be found poolside at Maji Pool Bar!

Mickey Check Meals are formulated to be a healthy choice for children, with limited calories, and good-for-you sides like fruit and applesauce. But there are also options that will make mom and dad happy, like a full menu of tropical drinks, beer and wine!

8. Dine at Sanaa… with an Animal Expert!

What better way to learn about the animals roaming the savanna than over a four-course lunch? Sanaa faces the Sunset Savanna where you can see some of the 200 hoofed animals and birds that roam the four savannas of the Animal Kingdom Lodge and Villas. At your private table, you will learn all about the animals passing your window and you can even get answers to some of your animal questions. When your meal is over, you will get to meet one of the most endangered animals at the Animal Kingdom Lodge – the radiated tortoise!

7. Jambo House is only a 10 minute walk away, if you want a bit more variety.

For a few more restaurants, take a leisurely walk to Jambo House. On Wednesdays, you can sample some of South Africa’s finest wines with a delightful cheese pairing at Jiko – The Cooking Place. If you want an extra special dining experience, stay at Jiko for dinner, as well. Check out their dress code and make a reservation in advance! For quick and casual, check out The Mara. This is also a great spot, if you or someone in your party isn’t really digging the African cuisine.

6. The Wanyama Safari is exclusively available to guests staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge and Villas!

During this amazing adventure, you will have a pre-safari reception at Jiko with a cultural representative and the Jiko chefs. Then you will board a safari vehicle for an hour and a half of amazing sights and sounds! Some of the animals you may see include giraffes, okapis, zebras and antelopes! After your tour, you will have a multicourse meal at Jiko. What a way to spend the day!

5. You are the first ones on and off the bus to and from the theme park.

Even though Kidani is a bit farther from the park than some of the other Disney Resort properties, you are still in a pretty convenient location. Being the first stop at the Animal Kingdom Resort and Villas means you probably won’t have to fight for a seat on the bus, AND you are the first stop after a long day at the park! This just means you are five minutes closer to being in the pool, and I’d definitely call that a win.

4. Use night vision goggles to get a better look at the wildlife!

This opportunity is offered by the fire pit on the Sunset Savanna Overlook. They even have a Cast Member there to answer your questions and teach you even more about the beautiful wildlife that calls Kidani Village home. Check the recreation calendar to see when this is offered!

3. Did you know that you can buy groceries ahead of time, if you’re a Disney Vacation Club member?

If you go to the DVC website, you can order groceries through their “Pre-Arrival Checklist”! How convenient is that? If you will only require basic groceries, Johari Treasures should suffice.

2. Take a Starlight Safari!

For an extra cost, you can take an afternoon game drive through the savannas with an Animal Programs Cast Member! You will even be given a pair of night vision goggles to make sure you don’t miss a single creature. A portion of your ticket price actually goes to the Disney Conservation Fund!

1. From cake decorating to African drum playing, learn something new at Kidani Village!

Be sure to consult their recreation calendar that is full of opportunities to experience a new adventure! At certain times of the day, you can even learn how scientists track animals in the wild!

With so much to see and do, Kidani Village truly offers an experience like no other! Enjoy!