Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, nestled adjacent to the Animal Kingdom Theme Park, stands as a distinguished deluxe resort boasting its own savanna! The grandeur of its lobby is an architectural marvel, inviting guests to appreciate its intricate details. Noteworthy is the fact that the same designer who contributed to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge lent their expertise to this captivating space.
Throughout the hotel, meticulous and captivating artwork abounds, complementing the ambiance. The auditory experience is equally captivating, with the possibility of encountering live African drum performances within the lobby
.Jambo House serves as the main building, characterized by its U-shaped structure that offers breathtaking views into the resort’s savanna. Adjacent to it lies Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village, providing larger accommodation suites as part of the Disney Vacation Club.
The savannas at Animal Kingdom Lodge serve as homes to more than 30 species of African wildlife, boasting over 200 animals within the lodge’s reserve. Numerous viewing areas dot the resort, sometimes staffed with knowledgeable cast members eager to share insights about the animals.
Alternatively, guests may relish the opportunity to step out onto their balconies and bask in the panoramic views. Depending on the room’s location and the time of day, an unexpected array of species may come into view.
Accommodations at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge immerse guests in vibrant hues of red, orange, and brown, drawing inspiration from African aesthetics.
Guests may select from standard, water, or savanna view rooms, with the latter two options incurring additional charges. Of note, indulging in a savanna view is often deemed worthwhile!
Standard rooms typically span 344 square feet and cater to a maximum of two adults, offering a choice between king beds or two queen beds. For larger groups, rooms accommodating up to four adults feature either two queen beds or one king bed alongside a day bed.
Club Level rooms present an enhanced experience, replete with personalized service, complimentary refreshments, and access to an exclusive lounge. In-room amenities include a television, a small table with two chairs, a mini-fridge, a coffee maker, a closet, an in-room safe, a hairdryer, and an iron with an ironing board. The presence of a table and mini-fridge facilitates the convenience of enjoying a light breakfast in-room, thus offering both savings and flexibility. The room décor features subtle African influences and nods to “The Lion King,” enhancing the overall thematic experience. The bathrooms boast double sinks and walk-in showers, with sliding doors for added privacy and functionality.
At Kidani Village, guests may indulge in spacious one-, two-, or three-bedroom villas, each replete with a full kitchen, living and dining area, separate bedrooms, and in-room washer and dryer facilities. These villas cater to larger groups, although smaller deluxe studios are also available. Nearly every room offers a balcony overlooking the savanna, thereby affording guests the opportunity to revel in the tranquil vistas.
Transportation at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge : Buses and cars serve as primary modes of transportation around the Walt Disney World Resort, with overnight self-parking offered on a complimentary basis. Moreover, theme park parking is inclusive of the stay, thereby obviating the need for additional fees.
Dining options at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge encompass a diverse array of quick-service, table-service, and lounge establishments, catering to various preferences and budgets. Notable among these is Boma – Flavors of Africa, renowned for its eclectic breakfast buffet and oak-roasted dinner offerings. Sanaa, situated at Kidani Village, offers vibrant flavors with a view of the savanna, serving African-inspired dishes with Indian influences. For a high-end dining experience, Jiko – The Cooking Place presents a fusion of African, Indian, and Mediterranean flavors, complete with a minimum dress code requirement. Other dining options include The Mara, Victoria Falls Lounge, Cape Town Lounge and Wine Bar, Uzima Springs Pool Bar, and Maji Pool Bar, each offering distinct culinary experiences and libations.
Amenities at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge extend beyond dining to encompass leisure and recreational facilities. Guests may unwind at the Uzima Springs pool at Jambo House, one of the largest pools on the property, complete with a 67-foot-long waterslide. Kidani Village boasts the Samawati Springs pool, featuring a 128-foot-long winding waterslide and Uwanja Camp, a water playground catering to all ages. Additionally, Pumbaa’s Fun and Games Arcade and Safari So Good arcade offer classic and video game entertainment, while free activities such as playgrounds, campfire activities, and movies under the stars provide further diversions.
Further amenities include ATM and banking services, a business center, laundry and dry-cleaning services, mail services, complimentary self-parking, Disney Signature Services for Club-level rooms, and a fitness center
Before opting for a stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, guests should consider its African theming and savanna as its primary draws, with quality extending to its accommodations, dining options, and amenities. Ample viewing areas afford guests the opportunity to leisurely observe the incredible animals. While the resort enjoys proximity to Animal Kingdom Theme Park, guests should factor in additional travel time to other areas of the resort, particularly Magic Kingdom.
Those considering an upgrade to a savanna view room may find it worthwhile, especially for non-park days, affording ample opportunities to observe animals at a leisurely pace. Whether from the comfort of the room balcony or the various viewing decks scattered throughout the resort, guests are certain to encounter an array of captivating wildlife.
