We visited Animal Kingdom with our 8 year old Kidsetter. Upon entering we were transported to Africa with the sound of drumming in the Marketplace. We were instantly drawn to watch the vibrant tribal African dancing. It was enthralling.
Animal Kingdom is separated into 6 area named Oasis, Discovery Island, Pandora – The World of Avatar, Africa, Asia and Dinoland U.S.A. We headed to the Africa area of the theme park.
We climbed into an open-air safari truck to take us on epic journey called Kilimanjaro Safaris.
We explored the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, home to 34 species living in 110 acres of picturesque open plains, shady forest landscapes and rocky wetlands.
Driving across the African-like savanna our expert guide helped point out animals and shared fascinating wildlife facts. We encountered giraffes, elephants, lions and more.
We then boarded a Wildlife Express Train, crossing the African savanna on a rustic locomotive for a behind-the-scenes look at the park’s animals.
After a peaceful 7-minute, 1.2-mile journey we arrived at Rafiki’s Planet Watch, an area dedicated to the preservation and conservation of animals.
Our Kidsetter enjoyed the fascinating educational exhibits.
We had pre-booked lunch at Donald’s Dining Safari at Tusker House Restaurant for a Holiday Character Buffet.
The festive spirit was in full swing as we were greeted by Donald Duck.
Goofy and our Kidsetter had enless fun together mucking around.
Daisy was an absolute delight.
After a delicious African-inspired buffet we were refuelled, ready to head to Dinoland U.S.A to watch Finding Nemo the Musical.
Based on Disney and Pixar’s film ‘Finding Nemo’, this exciting stage show takes you on journey to discover the familiar tale of Nemo and friends from a whole new point of view, as well as including favorite songs such as “In the Big Blue World” and “Go with the Flow.”
Set in the underwater world filled with puppets, singers, animated backdrops and special effects.
We next visited Pandora – The World of Avatar. An awe-inspiring land that celebrates the magnificent power of nature.
We were excited to ride the Avatar Flight of Passage. We climbed atop a winged mountain banshee for a breathtaking 3D flight over Pandora’s otherworldly landscape.
It was truly exhilarating!
Next, we enjoyed walking through the Valley of Mo’ara uncover the valley’s unique sights and sounds.
Our Kidsetter was amazed by the floating mountains, glowing fauna and flora, a native drum circle and many other wonders.
We then took a mystical river ride into Pandora’s glowing bioluminescent rainforest.
This visually stunning and mysterious river is an extraordinary dreamscape of bioluminescent rainforest amongst a series of caves. A feast for your eyes !
Next we walked to Discovery Island to dazzle upon the Tree of Life Awakenings ! We witnessed the majestic centrepiece of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park come to life at night.
Flickering fireflies magically appear to stir to life the animal spirits in the tree’s towering trunk. It’s an epic visual symbol of the diversity, beauty and interconnected nature of Earth’s creatures.
To end a stunning day, we watched Rivers of Light: We Are One.
A beautiful nighttime pageant of lantern floats, grand theatrical imagery all set to a soaring musical score.
A combination of moments from Disneynature and Disney animation in a celebration of the connections we share with animals.
Disney surpassed our expectations again. Simply wow !
