The Animal Kingdom is - in my opinion - the second best theme park in Walt Disney World, coming up closely behind the Magic Kingdom. It has exhilarating rides, lush greenery everywhere you look, privacy and a variety of areas that are appropriate for all ages. Be sure to pick up a map at the entrance and make a beeline for the Fastpass booth at either Expedition Everest, Kilimanjaro Safaris or the Kali River Rapids!
Immediately after entering the park, you will be plunged into the tropical forest that is Discovery Island. One of my favorite sections of the park, I can't emphasize how beautiful and tranquil this area is. Animals and waterfalls are tucked into every corner and the canopy overhead shades you from the sun and rain.
Don't Miss out on these Rides
Expedition Everest - This ride is perfect for those who won't go near the roller coasters at Universal Studios (Me!), but still want a heart pumping ride. Expedition Everest begins at a calm pace until you reach the peak of the mountain. I'll leave what happens at the top a surprise for first time riders, but you do end up flying backwards down the mountain at a tremendous pace! This ride is refreshing on a hot day and a Fastpass is a must. Aside from the Kali River Rapids, the wait for this ride is often the longest in the park and you will be waiting outdoors for most of it! This is one of those instances where a water fan is a life saver. We have braved the 1 hour + standby line on a 35 degree day with the aid of a water fan keeping us cool. The line also winds through some pretty neat scenes, so you'll certainly find ways to stay entertained!
Kilimanjaro Safaris - This is always a difference experience! Venture to Africa and explore the vast expanse of land filled with exotic animals and settings. There are a few surprises and you may end up caught behind a herd of gazelles at some point!
Kali River Rapids - On a hot day, there is no better ride at The Animal Kingdom than the Kali River Rapids. You'll travel through lush lands as you get soaked from head to toe (bring a change of shoes or wear flip flops, as you are not permitted to ride barefoot!) There will be a sealed compartment to protect you belongings, but they still may get wet. (
TIP: Pack zip-lock bags of a few different sizes. They're a fool proof way of ensuring your electronics are always protected, whether you're on a water ride or in the rain!)
Dinosaur - Despite having spent a good deal of time traversing The Animal Kingdom, I did not experience Dinosaur until my trip in May of 2011. This ride throws you into the Jurassic period, on a mission to find an Iguanadon..if only it were that simple! As you drive, you'll be chased by the terrifying larger than life Carnotaurus, as well as a few other dinosaurs. I would not recommend this ride for younger children, unless they love a good scare!
That's all for my quick overview of The Animal Kingdom! Next, I will be writing about one of the two most visited waterparks in the entire world - Typhoon Lagoon.
Thanks for reading!
