
A new update is now rolling out in Disney World’s Avatar land.
Disney recently began significant upgrades to the walkways in Pandora—The World of Avatar, aiming to revitalize this iconic theme park land. The enhancements have focused primarily on the glowing pavement that characterizes Pandora’s nighttime ambiance. This pavement, embedded with small glow-in-the-dark pebbles, creates a mesmerizing visual effect after sunset. These pebbles, while beautiful, do experience wear and tear through regular use, necessitating periodic refreshes to maintain the enchantment.
As guests wander through this immersive space, they may notice certain sections cordoned off as these updates take place, particularly in front of the land’s striking floating rockwork. This is part of an ongoing effort by Disney to keep Pandora visually captivating while ensuring the safety and accessibility of its walkways. Past refreshes occurred in early 2024 near the Na’vi River Journey, highlighting Disney’s commitment to keeping this enchanting environment in top condition for all visitors.
Details matter. In Pandora—the World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, manhole covers are a practical necessity for operating the theme park. But on the Canteen side of the land, the manhole covers on the ground bear the industrial stamp of the RDA, the fictitious corporation… pic.twitter.com/x5qXQtQBxV
— Parkeology (@Parkeology) January 24, 2025
The bioluminescent features are not just decorative; they play a crucial role in creating the otherworldly atmosphere that Pandora is renowned for.
After dark, the glowing pathways transform the area into a surreal experience, underscoring the connection to the natural world and the fantastical elements of the Avatar franchise. These lighting effects serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, guiding guests safely through the land while immersing them in a vibrant exploration of Pandora’s unique ecosystem.
Related: Ryan Reynolds and The Rock Lead New Shared Universe Featuring Classic Franchises
The upgrades primarily impact the heavily trafficked pathways that guide guests to key attractions. Areas near the central floating rock formations are particularly under renovation. By focusing on these high-traffic zones, Disney ensures that visitors can navigate the park with ease while continuing to appreciate the captivating details that define Pandora.
Additionally, the park aims to minimize disruptions to guest experiences, making alterations during less busy times whenever possible.
Pandora—The World of Avatar holds a significant place within Disney’s Animal Kingdom, embodying the park’s overarching themes of conservation and connection between humanity and nature. This land encourages guests to reflect on environmental responsibility and the delicate balance necessary to sustain ecosystems. Through its immersive attractions, Pandora enhances visitors’ understanding of these themes, creating lasting memories that go beyond mere entertainment.
Since its opening, Pandora has transformed the atmosphere of Animal Kingdom. Its stunning visuals and immersive storytelling provide a stark contrast to other areas of the park, creating an attraction that feels both fresh and timeless. This unique blend of the imaginative world of Avatar with Disney’s inherent commitment to nature allows guests to step into a space that celebrates both fantasy and ecological awareness.
As a result, Pandora stands out as a beloved destination within the Walt Disney World Resort.
Related: The Fall of Disney’s Fan-Favorite ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ Ride
The popularity of attractions like Avatar Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey contributes significantly to Pandora’s status as a must-visit area in Animal Kingdom. Both rides often feature long wait times, a testament to their allure and the satisfaction experienced by guests. This popularity not only enhances the park’s visitor numbers but also solidifies Pandora’s reputation as one of Disney’s most successful expansions.
Visitors to Pandora consistently express excitement about the updates and renovations taking place. Many guests share their anticipation for the enhancements and the continued evolution of the land. Positive feedback highlights the immersive experiences provided by the existing attractions, with visitors often noting the incredible attention to detail that creates a truly captivating atmosphere.