If you are considering Resort hopping, Animal Kingdom Lodge is a great Disney Resort to check out. Here are 10 reasons to explore Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.
1. Culture
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge has an amazing tie to art. It contains one of the largest collections of African art in the USA. Take a self guided tour and browse artifacts and read plaques, with Disney touches throughout the Resort.
2. Hakuna Matata Playground
Visit the Hakuna Matata Playground on site at Animal Kingdom Lodge. This area provides different structures for play, let little ones get their energy out. The playground is open 24-hours, and overlooks the flamingo area and savanna.
3. Animals
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge contains a total of 4 savannas with over 200 animals and birds from over 30 species that call it home. See African wildlife such as zebras, flamingos, giraffes and more. There are public viewing areas outside as well as many viewing windows in the Resort.
4. Gift Shops
Stop inside Johari Treasures or Zawadi Marketplace for authentic African crafts, African Art, animal and safari inspired souvenirs and more unique finds. There are some great gems inside these shops.
5. Simba Activity Center
Rainy day? Head to the Simba Activity Center for family fun. They have free crafts and paid crafts, games to play and lots more!
6. Indian-style Bread Service
Animal Kingdom Lodge is home to a number of great restaurants such as: Jiko, Boma, Sanaa and more. In particular, Sanna has the famous Indian-style Bread Service with dipping sauces. Pictured above is the Indian-style Bread Service with all Nine Accompaniments. Guests choose their bread: Traditional Naan, Garlic-Ginger Naan, Spiced Naan, Onion Kucha, or Paneer Paratha. Then enjoy all the Accompaniments – Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, Mango Chutney, Tomato-Date Jam, Tamarind Chutney, Coriander Chuntey, Garlic Pickle, Red Chile Sambal, or Spicy Jalapeño-Lime Pickle.
7. Zebra Domes
Another note-worthy dining option is The Mara. In particular, try the Zebra domes. They are delicious and reasonably priced dessert or snack, at 4 for $4.29. Even if you are not staying in the Resort, any guest may dine at the restaurants.
8. Jambo House Campfire Activities
When the sun starts going down enjoy the complimentary Jambo House Campfire Activities (with marshmallow roasting). Immediately following is the complimentary Movies Under The Stars (outdoor Disney film showing). Both occur weather permitting.
9. Free Culinary Tours
There are 2 free culinary tours offered at Animal Kingdom Lodge.
- Sanaa Cultural Tour – (20 minutes) learn more about cultural African pieces and a taste test of their bread service & sauces.
- Culinary Tour – (30 minutes) learn African influences on décor and food, including taste testing from both Boma and Jiko restaurants.
10. Pumbaa’s Fun and Games Arcade
Like many Disney Resorts, they offer an Arcade. Find Pumbaa’s Fun and Games Arcade near The Mara café.
Learn more about the Walt Disney World Resorts and contact Destinations in Florida to help you book your perfect resort.