Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers an unparalleled experience of a real African safari in the heart of Florida. This 18-minute ride takes visitors through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, where they can see free-roaming animals up close, including zebras, giraffes, elephants, and more. The ride is suitable for all ages and offers a chance to learn about the importance of conservation and taking care of animals.
This attraction is a must-see for anyone visiting Walt Disney World, especially for those who are passionate about wildlife and conservation. Kilimanjaro Safaris provides a unique opportunity to witness animals in their natural habitat, and learn about their behaviors and habitats. With accessibility options for guests using wheelchairs or ECVs, Kilimanjaro Safaris is a kid-friendly attraction that should be at the top of your must-see list at Walt Disney World.
In this article, we’ll explore the experience of Kilimanjaro Safaris, the types of animals one can expect to see, the history of the attraction, and some fun facts that make this ride a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Attraction Information
The attraction of Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom in Walt Disney World offers visitors a unique 18-minute long real-life African safari experience with free-roaming animals.
The ride takes guests through different ecosystems, including the forest, a watering hole, a river with hippos and crocodiles, the savanna with zebras, giraffes, and elephants, and a red clay pit where elephants are often spotted.
The tour guides are knowledgeable about the animals and provide information throughout the ride, making it an educational experience for all ages.
The queue is outdoors and themed to the attraction, with displays of African Swahili names for animals.
In addition, the ride offers accessibility options for guests using ECVs or wheelchairs, including built-in ramps and handheld captioning.
For those looking to reduce wait times and increase animal activity, the best times to ride are early in the morning or at sunset.
Visitors may see different animals on each ride, making it a must-see attraction that should be experienced twice if possible.
The ride vehicles can fit up to 35 individuals, with each row seating three to five guests.
While there is no height requirement or safety restraint, there is a door on the right side of each row that closes for security and safety purposes.
Motion sickness can be an issue due to the bumpy terrain, so visitors should be aware of this before riding.
Overall, Kilimanjaro Safaris is a fascinating and engaging attraction that offers visitors a chance to see African animals up close while also learning about conservation and the importance of taking care of animals.
Ride Experience
Visitors are taken on an 18-minute ride through various habitats, including a forest, a watering hole, a river, the savanna, and a red clay pit.
As the ride progresses, guests get a chance to see free-roaming animals up close, including zebras, giraffes, elephants, and lions.
The tour guides are knowledgeable about the animals and provide information about each species throughout the ride.
Visitors may even see different animals on each ride, making each experience unique and exciting.
The best times to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris are early in the morning or at sunset. This is because animal activity tends to be higher during these times, and wait times are typically reduced.
The ride itself is suitable for all ages and does not have any scary moments.
Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to learn about conservation and the importance of taking care of animals.
With the ride duration being 18 minutes, visitors get to experience a real African safari in the heart of Animal Kingdom.
Animal Sightings
Various species of animals can be spotted on the Kilimanjaro Safaris ride, making it a must-see attraction for animal lovers. The Harambe Wildlife Reserve is home to 34 different species, including some of the most iconic African animals like lions, rhinos, and giraffes.
Visitors can also observe flamingos, cheetahs, warthogs, ostriches, antelopes, and Nigerian Dwarf Goats. The Nigerian Dwarf Goats are highly valued for their high-protein milk, while the flamingos are a beautiful sight that is best observed at the right time of day.
Conservation efforts are a key focus of the Kilimanjaro Safaris ride. The attraction offers a chance to learn about the importance of protecting animals and their habitats. Visitors can witness first-hand how the animals are thriving in their natural habitats and the impact of conservation efforts on their survival.
The best times to ride are early in the morning or at sunset, when wait times are reduced, and animal activity is at its highest, making it an incredible experience for those interested in wildlife and conservation.
History and Fun Facts
Opened in 1998, the Harambe Wildlife Reserve at Walt Disney World’s theme park in Florida spans 110 acres and features Kilimanjaro Safaris, an attraction that was originally designed with a poachers storyline and a rickety bridge, but has since been updated to focus on animal conservation.
Former Imagineer Joe Rohde was responsible for creating Kilimanjaro Safaris and Animal Kingdom as a whole. The attraction is part of the larger Africa section of Animal Kingdom, which also includes the Festival of the Lion King and the Wildlife Express Train. Animal Kingdom opened on April 22, 1998, which is also Earth Day. The park is the largest of all Disney World theme parks, covering 500 acres.
Design inspiration for Kilimanjaro Safaris came from Rohde’s travels to Africa and his appreciation for the continent’s natural beauty and wildlife. The attraction’s updated conservation focus highlights the importance of taking care of animals and their habitats. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is involved in many conservation efforts, including the Disney Conservation Fund, which has supported over 300 wildlife projects across the globe.
Kilimanjaro Safaris offers riders a chance to learn about these efforts and how they can help make a positive impact on the world’s wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any photo opportunities on the ride?
While there are no photo opportunities on the ride, guests can capture the best angles and wildlife shots from their seats. The bumpy terrain and unpredictable animal movements may require quick reflexes and a steady hand.
Can guests bring their own food and drinks on the ride?
Food restrictions prohibit guests from bringing their own food and drinks on the Kilimanjaro Safaris ride. However, there are alternatives available for purchase at nearby locations, including snacks, beverages, and full meals to satisfy hunger and thirst.
Is there a limit to how many times guests can ride Kilimanjaro Safaris in one day?
There is no official limit to how many times guests can ride Kilimanjaro Safaris in one day, but ride availability may vary due to wait times and park capacity. Alternative activities include the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail and other attractions in the Africa section of Animal Kingdom. Unlimited Safaris provide a unique opportunity to experience African wildlife up close.
Can guests interact with the animals in any way?
Animal interactions with the wildlife at Kilimanjaro Safaris are not allowed for safety precautions. Visitors can observe the animals up close and learn about their habitats and behaviors from knowledgeable tour guides.
The gift shop near Kilimanjaro Safaris offers a wide range of souvenirs, memorabilia, and collectibles. Visitors can find African-inspired items, such as clothing, jewelry, and plush toys, to commemorate their experience at the attraction.
