Now this is a zoo. The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is a walk through exhibit of several animals just like a normal zoo. There are all kinds of animals along the trail.
Gorilla Falls Exporation Trail is a short, shady walk through African wildlife. Photo by Laurie Sapp.
Yes, this is a walking exhibit. Some of the animals are the same as you see in locals zoos, but there are a couple of unique species that you won’t see anywhere else.
Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is all about conservation. While it is zoo-like, it is so much more!
Queue and Preshow
This sign gives visitors information on the Black & White Colobus Monkey. Photo by Laurie Sapp.
Since this is a walking trail, there is not a queue of preshow to be seen. Simply walk to the entrance to the trail . . . and walk some more.
Attraction
The gorillas on Gorilla Falls are Western Lowland Gorillas. A group of gorillas is called a troop! Photo by Laurie Sapp.
Hippos, Zebras, and Gorillas. Oh my!
I don’t think that’s how that song goes–but those are some of the animals you will see on Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. While the animals occasionally change, you can also see meerkats, exotic birds, and other creatures in surrounding that make them feel at home.
Even though Walt Disney World feels like home to us, it’s nice that these animals are surrounded by plants and landscapes native to Africa.
Kilimanjaro Safari is back to back with this attraction so some of the animals can wander back and forth.
While walking on the path there are several Disney cast members who are actually research students. They are around to answer any questions you may have. Take advantage of the chance to learn about all the animals you’ll meet.
The final area is home to the Gorilla Research Camp. There is a family of gorillas that live here. The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is a quiet area. There’s a reason for that. Some of the animals (the Gorillas especially) feel threatened by loud noises. They get agitated and will move away from the noise. They move to places where they can’t be seen. If you want to see the animals you need to BE QUIET!!!
Thankfully most of Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is in the shade. It does get hot, and there’s not a lot of air moving around, but the shade is welcome.
Post Show
Visit the aviary along the trail to see a variety of birds native to Africa. Photo by Laurie Sapp.
There is no post-show. Simply exit the trail and walk directly to your favorite Animal Kingdom attraction — no zoo gives you perks like that!
Watch A Video!
Crowds
Gorilla Falls can be a great place to escape the louder, busier parts of Animal Kingdom. Photo by Laurie Sapp.
Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is near the exit to Kilimanjaro Safaris. Sometimes the path can get crowded–but it shouldn’t overwhelm you. Earlier in your day is a great time to visit as the crowds are pretty thin.
FastPass+
Gorila Falls Exploration Trail is located in Africa, near Kilimanjaro Safaris. Photo by Laurie Sapp.
This is a walking trail and Fastpass+ is not available or needed.
Fun Facts
Hippos submerge underwater to stay cool – adult hippos can hold their breath for up to five minutes. Photo by Laurie Sapp.
Here are some interesting tidbits –
- There is a hidden, not Mickey, but, Jafar in a rock formation.
- If you look real hard, you might see an outline of Scar from The Lion King.
- The trail is less than half a mile long.
- Hippos live up to 45 years in the wild and even longer in captivity.
History
Western Lowland Gorillas are herbivores. They eat fruits and plants, but will occasionally snack on termites and ants. Photo by Laurie Sapp.
This attraction was originally called Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. It changed in 1998 to Pangani Forest Exploration Trail and then changed back in 2016.
The Fine Print
A sign reminds visitors of rules to follow while on the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. Photo by Laurie Sapp.
This attraction first opened when Animal Kingdom opened.
Important tip – There are no restrooms on the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. You have to walk all the way through or back through the exhibit to reach the restrooms
Dad’s Bottom Line
While there are many reasons to go to Animal Kingdom, this is a great reason. The animals of Animal Kingdom add an element that is Simple, Fun, and Magic, and really helps you have the perfect vacation!
If you love animals, check out WDW Magazine. The magazine features stunning photography, so you may just catch a glimpse of your favorite animal friend!
