Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

by | May 9, 2024 | Africa, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Walt Disney World | 0 comments

Africa in Disney’s Animal Kingdom is designed to capture the essence of a bustling African village surrounded by natural beauty. The land is anchored by the popular Kilimanjaro Safaris, an expansive wildlife reserve where guests can observe African animals like elephants, lions, and zebras in a setting that closely mimics their natural habitats.

The ride is truly one-of-a-kind, bringing you on a safari that transports you away from a typical theme park atmosphere. Additionally, the area is home to dining options such as the character buffet at Tusker House. Plus, you can enjoy the Festival of the Lion King, a high-energy show celebrating the popular film. We’ll be sharing everything you need to know at Africa in Animal Kingdom.

Africa Attractions and Animal Exhibits

  • Kilimanjaro Safaris: A guided tour in an open-air vehicle through a realistic African savanna, where visitors can see animals like lions, elephants, and giraffes in their natural habitats.
  • Wildlife Express Train: A scenic train ride that transports guests between the Harambe Village and the Conservation Station, showcasing backstage animal care areas.
  • Festival of the Lion King: A vibrant, theatrical performance that combines acrobatics, dance, and puppetry in a celebration of the story of The Lion King.
  • Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail: A walking path where you can spot animal species such as:
    • Western lowland gorilla
    • Angola colobus
    • Okapi
    • Reptiles such as tortoises, Kenyan sand boar, African bulldog, and Angolan python
    • Hippopotamus
    • Grevy’s zebra
    • Meerkat
    • Various bird species

Africa Dining

Africa Table Service Restaurants

  • Tusker House Restaurant: A character dining buffet offering a variety of African flavors alongside American dishes.

Africa Quick-Service Restaurants

  • Harambe Market: Themed to an African street market, with African-inspired dishes and snacks from quick-service counters.

Africa Snack Spots, Carts, and More

  • Dawa Bar: An outdoor bar next to Tusker House serving specialty cocktails, African beer, and wine.
  • Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery: A quick-stop for coffee and freshly baked pastries.
  • Tamu Tamu Refreshments: Pick up delicious frozen DOLE Whip drinks like the Simba Sunset, or small snacks.
  • Zuri’s Sweet Shop: Pick up a selection of homemade sweets and candy.
  • Harambe Fruit Market: Pick up fresh fruits and snacks, including the delicious grilled corn.
  • Mahindi: Pick up popcorn, beer, water, or soda.

Africa Entertainment

  • Festival of the Lion King: A vibrant, theatrical performance that combines acrobatics, dance, and puppetry in a celebration of the story of The Lion King.
  • Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe: A lively group of performers offering rhythmic drum shows.
  • Kora Tinga Tinga: A musical performance featuring traditional African stringed instruments
  • Harambe Village Acrobats: An acrobat troupe performing stunts and dance.

Characters

  • Discovery River Cruise: Spot characters on floatillas such as:
    • Goofy and Pluto
    • Scrooge McDuck and Launchpad McQuack
    • Timon and Rafiki
    • Pocahontas and Meeko

Africa Shopping

  • Ziwani Traders: A shop selling African-themed merchandise, from apparel to handcrafted items.
  • Mombasa Marketplace: Store offering a wide range of African goods and Disney merchandise
  • Africa Hub Cart: Pins and other small souvenirs.

Other Africa Details

What else do you need to know about the land? Here are some of the essentials you’ll want to take note of before visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Restrooms

Restrooms in the land are located at the following locations:

  • Mombasa Marketplace Restrooms (also have Companion Restrooms)
  • Harambe Theatre Restrooms (also have Companion Restrooms)

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Authored by
Morgan Flaherty

Morgan Flaherty, Disney World Expert and Mom | A lifelong Disney World visitor and fan, Morgan has become an expert on all things Disney. After dozens of visits at a Disney Adult, Morgan is now acquainting herself with the parks as a Disney Mom who has learned to navigate the Most Magical Place on Earth with a toddler by her side. If you're planning a Disney vacation with toddlers, she has all of the expert tips you need!