Disney World Brings Back Iconic Animal Kingdom Attraction With New Opening Date

Disney’s Animal Kingdom has officially locked in the return date for one of its wettest, wildest, and most unpredictable attractions. After closing earlier than normal for maintenance, Kali River Rapids is set to reopen on December 12, 2025, giving park guests something extra to look forward to as the holiday season reaches full swing.

This reopening feels a little different from the typical refurbishment cycle. Usually, Kali River Rapids stays open through the end of the year, closes in January, and reemerges sometime in the spring. But this year, the entire pattern shifted when the ride unexpectedly shut down in October. That early closure raised some eyebrows, especially among those who rely on the ride as a go-to way to cool down during warmer fall days.

Now, the timing makes more sense. With DINOSAUR preparing to close permanently in February, Animal Kingdom is entering a transitional phase. Losing a classic ride will certainly affect guest flow, so bringing Kali River Rapids back sooner helps keep the park balanced. It restores another high-capacity attraction to the lineup at a time when Animal Kingdom needs all the help it can get.

Kali River Rapids has always been a bit of an adventure. The attraction guides riders through the lush landscapes of Anandapur before sending them into churning water, spinning currents, and the kind of splashdowns that leave some guests drenched from head to toe. The twenty-foot drop at the end remains one of Animal Kingdom’s signature thrills, and even guests who don’t love getting soaked often admit that riding it at least once is part of the full Disney experience.

Because things can get messy fast, Disney offers lockers right across from the entrance. They’re free for short-term use, and they’ve saved many a phone from an accidental bath. No one wants their vacation photos cut short because a rogue wave hit at the wrong moment.

With the reopening landing smack in the middle of the holiday rush, visitors should expect healthy crowds. But they can also expect the same level of energy and fun that has made the ride a fan favorite for years. Whether you’re heading to Animal Kingdom specifically for the rapids or simply adding it to your day’s lineup, this early return brings a welcome jolt of excitement to a park preparing for big changes.