Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the fourth theme park at Walt Disney World Resort, offers a unique experience unlike any other. Opened on Earth Day in 1998, Animal Kingdom spans an impressive 500 acres and ranks as the seventh most-visited theme park globally. Despite some guests labeling it a “half-day” park, this expansive space offers endless opportunities for exploration, adventure, and discovery. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent guest, Animal Kingdom never fails to amaze with its combination of thrilling attractions, beautiful landscapes, and animal encounters.
As Disney continues to expand and improve Animal Kingdom with the introduction of Pandora – The World of Avatar and other new features, it’s exciting to think about the park’s future. But as the park evolves, there are certain classic attractions we hope will remain permanent fixtures for years to come. Here are seven must-see attractions and shows at Animal Kingdom that we never want to disappear:
1. Maharajah Jungle Trek & Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail: Animal Kingdom’s Natural Wonders
When visiting Animal Kingdom, one of the best ways to experience the park’s true spirit is by walking through the Maharajah Jungle Trek and the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. These walking trails offer immersive encounters with a variety of exotic animals in beautifully themed environments.
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Maharajah Jungle Trek: Explore an ancient palace hidden in the jungles of Asia. Spot tigers, bats, and Komodo dragons while strolling through lush foliage and mysterious ruins.
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Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail: Journey through Africa’s wildlife, where you’ll encounter gorillas, hippos, flamingos, and more. The lush, immersive setting gives guests a chance to observe animals up close in a naturalistic environment.
What makes these trails even more magical is that they’re self-guided, meaning you can take your time and explore at your own pace. Whether you’re an animal lover or just seeking tranquility away from the crowds, these trails offer a peaceful, yet fascinating experience.
2. Festival of the Lion King: A Celebration of Disney’s Timeless Classic
The Festival of the Lion King is an exuberant live stage show that brings Disney’s beloved film to life with vibrant costumes, acrobatic performances, and unforgettable music. Performed in an open-air theater, this show features a talented cast of singers and performers who deliver iconic songs from The Lion King in new and exciting ways.
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The show includes:
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Tumble monkeys performing acrobatic tricks to “Hakuna Matata”
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Aerialists dancing to “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”
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A fire dancer performing to “Be Prepared”
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With its breathtaking visuals, catchy tunes, and heartwarming performances, the Festival of the Lion King is a must-see for families visiting Animal Kingdom. This vibrant celebration of life, love, and hakuna matata isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, and we couldn’t be more thrilled!
3. Kali River Rapids: The Ultimate Water Adventure
No trip to Animal Kingdom is complete without a visit to Kali River Rapids, one of the park’s most popular attractions. This thrilling water ride takes you through the jungles of Asia, offering both a calm ride and a surprising rush of adventure.
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The ride begins slowly as you drift past scenic landscapes and ancient temples, but hold on tight—when you least expect it, a geyser erupts, sending you and your fellow riders plunging down a fast-moving river.
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The highlight? The chance to get absolutely soaked, especially as the ride’s final splash soaks you to the bone. Will you be the one person who stays dry? Probably not!
This fun-filled water adventure is a welcome way to cool off in the Florida heat, and with its combination of gentle rapids and adrenaline-pumping moments, Kali River Rapids remains a fan favorite.
4. Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!: A Heartfelt Musical Journey
Though Animal Kingdom is best known for its animal encounters, it also offers some of Disney’s most emotional and engaging theatrical performances. One such show is Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!, a reimagined version of the beloved musical that originally debuted at the park in 2007.
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This 40-minute show combines acting, puppetry, and original music to bring Marlin and Nemo’s underwater adventure to life in a whole new way.
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The production features stunning performances from the cast, who sing, dance, and bring the ocean to life with elaborate puppet designs.
With songs like “In the Big Blue World” and “Just Keep Swimming,” the show’s themes of family, love, and perseverance resonate deeply with audiences of all ages. It’s a perfect balance of fun and sentiment, making it a must-see for Disney fans.
5. Kilimanjaro Safaris: A Wild Adventure Through the African Savannah
One of Animal Kingdom’s hallmark experiences is the Kilimanjaro Safaris, where guests embark on an exciting 20-minute safari ride through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. This attraction allows you to encounter over 40 species of animals, from giraffes to elephants, in their natural habitats.
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The highlight of the experience is the opportunity to spot majestic animals like lions, zebras, rhinos, and cheetahs.
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The safari is guided by a friendly Cast Member who shares fascinating facts about the animals and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a leisurely ride through Africa’s stunning landscapes, Kilimanjaro Safaris offers an unforgettable journey. It’s a one-of-a-kind attraction that beautifully blends education with adventure, and it’s something we hope will always be part of Animal Kingdom.
6. Na’vi River Journey: A Serene Voyage Through Pandora
Na’vi River Journey offers a tranquil and visually stunning experience within Pandora – The World of Avatar.
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Attraction Type: Boat ride
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Location: Pandora – The World of Avatar
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Opened: May 27, 2017
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Duration: Approximately 5 minutes
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Highlights: Guests embark on a serene boat journey through the bioluminescent rainforest of Pandora, encountering exotic creatures and the awe-inspiring Shaman of Songs animatronic.
The Na’vi River Journey is celebrated for its immersive environment and the groundbreaking Shaman of Songs animatronic, which showcases Disney’s advancements in audio-visual technology. This attraction provides a peaceful contrast to the park’s more thrilling rides, making it a must-see for visitors seeking a calming experience amidst the excitement.
7. Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain: A Thrilling Coaster Experience
After six years of planning and a $100 million investment, Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain opened in 2006 and immediately became one of the park’s signature attractions. This high-speed roller coaster takes riders on a journey through the Himalayas in search of the legendary Yeti.
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The ride offers an intense mix of forward and backward tracks, sharp drops, and thrilling G-forces.
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The backdrop of the majestic Mount Everest, paired with the legend of the Yeti, adds to the excitement and adventure of the experience.
Expedition Everest is a must-do for adrenaline junkies, and with its detailed theming and exhilarating ride experience, it’s an attraction that should remain part of Animal Kingdom for years to come.
Looking Forward to the Future of Animal Kingdom
As Animal Kingdom continues to expand, it’s clear that the park’s future is filled with exciting possibilities. With new additions like Tropical Americas, Animal Kingdom is evolving to provide even more incredible experiences for guests. However, it’s the classic attractions—like those mentioned above—that help define the park and make it such a unique destination.
We hope Disney continues to invest in these beloved attractions while introducing fresh, exciting additions. Whether you’re exploring the jungles, watching a live show, or taking a thrilling ride, Animal Kingdom is a park where adventure awaits around every corner.
Which of these attractions is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
