Confirmed: Major Area Returning To Animal Kingdom, With Expected Modifications

There’s a small but meaningful shift happening at Animal Kingdom that many guests didn’t see coming. Harambe Market, the quick-service dining spot tucked into the Africa section of the park, is now set to reopen earlier than originally expected. Instead of waiting until March, guests will be able to grab food there beginning February 5, 2026. For anyone planning a late winter trip, that change could make a noticeable difference when it comes to crowds, convenience, and overall park flow.

Harambe Market closed back in October 2025, and at the time, most people assumed the space would stay behind construction walls for several more months. Disney didn’t make a big announcement about the timeline shift, but operating hours quietly appeared online showing the earlier reopening date. For guests who rely on that area for quick meals or mid-day breaks, the update felt like a welcome surprise.

A Refreshed Space With a Different Direction

During the closure, work crews focused on improving the kitchen and making structural updates that would allow the location to serve a broader range of food. One of the biggest changes involved adding the ability to prepare fried items, which were not previously offered there. That behind-the-scenes upgrade paved the way for a new menu that looks quite different from what longtime visitors may remember.

Harambe Market was once known for its African-inspired dishes that offered something unique compared to other quick-service spots in the park. This time around, the menu leans toward more familiar options that appeal to a wide audience. While the shift may surprise returning guests, it also reflects Disney’s ongoing effort to streamline dining and ensure quicker service during busy periods.

A Menu Built Around Crowd-Pleasers

When Harambe Market reopens, guests will find a lineup centered on burgers, chicken strips, and wraps. Most entrées come with french fries, keeping things simple for families and larger groups looking for fast, filling meals. Pricing falls within the typical range for quick-service locations inside the park, making it accessible for most visitors.

Two Angus burger options anchor the menu, including a version topped with bacon. Chicken strips provide another reliable choice for guests who prefer something straightforward. There is also a harissa chicken wrap featuring chilled rotisserie chicken and a flavorful sauce, offering a slight twist on the otherwise classic selections.

French fries will also be available as a side on their own, giving guests flexibility if they want a lighter snack rather than a full entrée.

Family-Friendly Choices

Families traveling with younger children will appreciate the dedicated kids’ meals, which include chicken strips, a cheeseburger, and a peanut butter and jelly Uncrustable. Each meal comes with two sides and a drink, helping parents quickly find options that work for their group without much debate.

These additions align with Disney’s broader dining strategy, which often focuses on providing simple, recognizable foods for children while still offering a few variations for adults.

Desserts and Drinks Round Out the Experience

The dessert lineup is small but playful. A standout option features a cookie topped with chocolate pieces, chips, and dulce de leche, combining sweet and salty flavors that should appeal to guests looking for something indulgent. Beverage choices include frozen drinks, lemonades, sodas, bottled water, coffee, and hot cocoa.

For those interested in alcoholic options, the menu includes a specialty cocktail along with draft beer selections. These drinks pair nicely with the outdoor seating area, which has remained partially open even during the closure.

Perfect Timing for the Park

The earlier reopening arrives at an important moment for Animal Kingdom. Another nearby quick-service restaurant is preparing to close as part of a larger expansion project, which would have left guests with fewer dining options. By bringing Harambe Market back online sooner than planned, Disney helps balance capacity and prevent long lines at other locations.

Construction walls are still visible in parts of the area, but final preparations appear to be moving quickly. Guests visiting before February may still notice ongoing work, though everything should be ready for full service by reopening day.

Looking Ahead

While the updated menu represents a shift in direction, Harambe Market’s earlier return restores a familiar gathering spot within the park. Guests who enjoyed the location in the past may need a little time to adjust to the changes, but the convenience of having another quick-service option available will likely be appreciated by many.

As February approaches, anticipation continues to build. Whether visitors stop by for a full meal or just a quick snack, Harambe Market’s return adds another layer of flexibility to the Animal Kingdom experience.