Rafiki’s Planet Watch

by | Jul 31, 2024 | Disney's Animal Kingdom, Rafiki's Planet Watch, Walt Disney World

Rafiki’s Planet Watch offers a unique experience within Disney’s Animal Kingdom, focusing on animal welfare, conservation, and education. Take the Wildlife Express Train from Africa up to the area, which provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the care and research for the park’s wildlife. The area is home to the Affection Section, which is a petting zoo where guests can meet and interact with a variety of animals.

The Conservation Station showcases various environmental efforts undertaken by Disney’s Animal Programs team. You can learn about their veterinary care, nutrition, and more through exhibits and live demonstrations. Plus, you can take part in the Animation Experience, where you can learn to draw various Disney characters. We’ll take you through everything you can do at Rafiki’s Planet Watch.

Rafiki’s Planet Watch Attractions and Animal Exhibits

  • Affection Section: Meet with animals such as donkeys, llamas, pigs, sheep, and goats.
  • Conservation Station: Learn more about the care and keeping of animals at the park, with sections including:
    • Veterinary Treatment Room
    • Nutrition Center
    • Amphibian, Reptile and Invertebrate Windows
    • Science Center
  • The Animation ExperienceLocated at the Conservation Station, a 25-minute class taught by a Disney animator, where you can learn how to draw your favorite Disney character.
  • Wildlife Express TrainA scenic train ride that transports guests between the Harambe Village and the Conservation Station, showcasing backstage animal care areas.

Other Rafiki’s Planet Watch Details

What else do you need to know about the land? You’ll want to note that the last train for Rafiki’s Planet Watch leaves at 4:30 PM. Additionally, if you are planning on visiting, make sure you leave some time. The train ride each way is about 12 minutes, so you may end up waiting a bit for a train to or back.

Restrooms

Restrooms in the land are located at the following locations:

  • Conservation Station Restrooms (also have Companion Restrooms)

Latest Stories

Could Your Disney Vacation Be Better With a DVC Rental?

If you're like most families planning a Disney World vacation, you've probably spent hours comparing resort prices. Maybe you've looked at Deluxe Resorts like Disney's Polynesian Village Resort or Disney's Beach Club Resort, only to decide they're simply out of your...

The 7 Most Surprising Parts of My First DVC Stay at Disney World

Disney Vacation Club is a timeshare program operating across Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and other destinations across the U.S. Members have access to special perks and experiences that regular park and resort visitors do not, so we went on a mission to find out...

The Best Disney World Rides to Ride When Your Toddler Skips Their Nap

No nap? No problem. Here’s where to go when your toddler’s running on pure Disney magic. I’ve been to Disney Parks enough times with a toddler to know one thing for sure: Even the best-laid plans crumble when nap time doesn’t happen. You can have the perfect park...

The Disney World Holiday Planning Hacks Everyone Overlooks

The holidays are the most magical time to visit Disney World, and also the most crowded and expensive. The good news is that a few overlooked planning tricks can help you skip the worst of both. Planning a trip to Disney World over the holidays can feel daunting. The...

Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge

For a peaceful waterfront retreat with distinctly Disney storytelling, Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge blends the beauty of nature with inspiration from films including Bambi, Pocahontas, Encanto, Brother Bear, and Fantasia. Opening July 1, 2027, on the shores of Bay Lake,...

epcot-clothing_creations-shop_chiu

Authored by
Heather Adams

Heather Adams, Disneyland Expert and Mom | A lifelong Disneyland enthusiast who's familiar with every square inch of the Anaheim theme parks, Heather has spent over 30 years becoming an expert in all things Disney. A Disney Adult turned Disney Mom, she's now quickly becoming a pro at taking her little one to the theme parks and familiarizing herself with navigating crowds with diaper bags, strollers, and plenty of baby gear. If you're planning a Disney vacation with kids under age 3, she's got all of the advice you need.