‘The Lion King’ Removed From Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park Location
Two of The Lion King (1994)’s most recognizable faces have been uprooted from their longtime home at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Here’s why.
Timon and Rafiki Have a New Address
Guests arriving at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park this month may have noticed that Timon and Rafiki were no longer where they expected to find them. The duo has been relocated to The Oasis, near the Garden Gate Gifts merchandise location, close to the park’s main entrance.
According to WDWNT, the characters operate on a rotating schedule at the new location, with Timon typically appearing every hour on the 20-minute mark and Rafiki following every hour on the 50-minute mark.
Walt Disney World Resort guests are encouraged to check the My Disney Experience app for the most up-to-date meet-and-greet times.
Why They Moved
Timon and Rafiki previously met guests in front of a Pride Rock backdrop at the Conservation Station Building on Rafiki’s Planet Watch — an area accessible only by boarding the Wildlife Express train. That location was temporarily closed last month to make way for something new: Bluey and Bingo from the hit animated series Bluey are taking over the space, where the Heeler sisters will meet and play with Disney Park guests.
The changes at Rafiki’s Planet Watch go beyond just a character swap. The Affection Section petting zoo, a longtime fixture of the area, has permanently closed. In its place, Australian animals will be featured — a thematic nod to Bluey‘s origins Down Under.
More The Lion King Magic Still in the Park
Fans of the 1994 animated film don’t have to look far for more. Festival of the Lion King, the Broadway-style show in the Africa section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, continues to run its 30-minute performance combining live vocalists, puppetry, and gymnasts for a high-energy, interactive experience that remains one of Walt Disney World Resort’s most beloved live entertainment offerings.
Who is your favorite character to meet at Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park? Let Disney Dining know in the comments!
