One of the favorite attractions at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the Kilimanjaro Safari. Located in the Africa section of the park, the safari is a great way to view lots of African animals which are housed on the 100-acre savanna. The safari is a Fastpass attraction and if the wait time listed is over 30 minutes, I recommend getting a Fastpass and coming back later.
Upon entering the queue you find yourself in the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. The overhead monitors inform you about the reserve and the problems they are having with poachers. About half way through the queue is where the stroller parking is. Please be prepared to leave your stroller behind as you walk the rest of the queue. As you approach the loading dock keep your party together as you decide which side of the dock to load on. As you board your safari vehicle remember that everyone must remain seated at all times, young children can be seated on your laps, and the family photographer should sit at the end of the row. ECVs and motorized scooters are not allowed on the ride vehicle so if you use one of those devices you must transfer. You can stay in your wheelchair but I once rode this ride in a wheelchair and it was VERY uncomfortable due to the bumpy roads. IF you can transfer from your wheelchair, I highly recommend it.
The 22 minute ride takes you through different areas of the preserve including the Savanna, Safi River, African Forest and Red Clay pits. There are several species of animals to be seen including Thompson Gazelles, Okapi, Bongos, Reticulated Giraffe, Crocodile, Lions, Cheetahs and Hippopotami.Each safari is a bit different because the animals are free to roam in their habitat and often the weather plays a part in how active the animals are at any given time.
There used to be a cohesive story line to this attraction about poachers and the elephants Big Red and Little Red but over the years the story has been altered and is currently a bit convoluted. This fall a zebra area is scheduled to open up where Little Red used to be. Hopefully along with this new addition there will be a new, more cohesive script as well.
For us, the Kilimanjaro Safari is a must-ride every time we visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom. What is your favorite part of the safari?
I think I’ve been to a Disney Safari once before as a kid, but I don’t remember it very much anymore. I’d like to be able to visit again some time soon 🙂
I really love Kilimanjaro Safari at Disney’s too! I prefer that over going to a zoo. I think it’s definitely one of the best places in the US to see such a variety of African animals.
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