Theme park · Orlando

Animal Kingdom

Explore the wonders of nature with thrilling attractions, exotic animals, and the floating mountains of Pandora - The World of Avatar.

Best forAnimal lovers, Adventure seekers, Avatar fans, Nature enthusiasts

Live wait times at Animal Kingdom
Opened
1998
Size
580 acres
Typical hours
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Rides and attractions
10
Places to eat
16

Rides and attractions, land by land

Discovery Island

Central hub featuring the Tree of Life and diverse animal exhibits.

Africa

Immersive African village of Harambe with safari adventures.

Asia

Journey through Asian villages with thrilling rides and animal encounters.

Pandora - The World of Avatar

Step into the alien world of Pandora with bioluminescent plants and floating mountains.

Rafiki's Planet Watch

Reached only by the 7-minute Wildlife Express Train from Harambe. Home to Bluey's Wild World (opened May 26, 2026) at Conservation Station, a behind-the-scenes look at the park's animal care program, Jumping Junction (kangaroos and wallabies), and Wilderness Explorer badges. The Affection Section petting zoo is currently closed.

Shows, parades, and fireworks

Where to eat

Park strategy

  • Rope Drop

    Perfect Animal Kingdom Rope Drop

    Rope drop Flight of Passage first - it's the most popular. After Flight, hit Na'vi River Journey or Expedition Everest. You can knock out Pandora before crowds arrive.

  • Touring

    Pandora Touring Strategy

    Do Flight of Passage at rope drop (or buy its Lightning Lane Single Pass), then Na'vi River Journey. Save Pandora dining and shopping for later. Visit after dark to see the land's bioluminescence - it's magical!

  • Touring

    Best Safari Times

    Animals are most active early morning and late afternoon. Ride Kilimanjaro Safaris multiple times - every ride is different.

  • Touring

    Animal Kingdom Closes Early

    Animal Kingdom typically closes earlier than other parks (often 7 PM, sometimes later in peak seasons). Plan accordingly and don't save major attractions for evening. Visit Pandora at dusk before leaving!

  • Dining

    Mobile Order Everything

    Use mobile ordering for all quick service meals. Satu'li Canteen and Flame Tree Barbecue get very busy. Order 30-60 minutes before you want to eat.

  • Hidden Gem

    Don't Skip the Animal Trails

    Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail (Africa) and Maharajah Jungle Trek (Asia) are incredible and often overlooked. See gorillas, hippos, tigers, and exotic birds up close!

  • Touring

    Use Single Rider Line

    Expedition Everest has a single rider line that can save significant time (availability varies by day). Great option if your group doesn't mind splitting up.

  • Skip

    What to Skip if Time is Limited

    If short on time, skip: Wildlife Express Train and Rafiki's Planet Watch (unless you have young Bluey fans), plus the walking trails. Focus on Flight of Passage, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Expedition Everest, and Festival of the Lion King.

Tours, parties, and extras

  • Tour · 3 hr

    Wild Africa Trek

    Privately guided 3-hour VIP trek with a walking path, rope bridge, and safari vehicle ride, plus African-inspired snacks.

    Price: $239-$249 per person, plus tax

  • Tour · 1 hr

    Caring for Giants

    Guided 60-minute experience observing the African elephant herd from about 80-100 feet away and learning how they are cared for.

    Price: $39 per person, plus tax

  • After Hours · 1 hr

    Starlight Safari at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

    Nighttime safari through the savannas at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge (not inside the theme park), using night vision devices to spot zebras, giraffes, and more. Open to all Walt Disney World guests.

    Price: $89-$99 per person, plus tax

  • Tour · 2.5 hr

    Savor the Savanna

    Premium privately guided safari to a secluded viewing area on the savanna, with African-inspired tapas and regional beer and wine.

    Price: $209-$219 per person, plus tax

Getting there and the basics

Hours

Usually 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM.

Early entry: 7:30 AM (resort guests)

Extended evenings: 8:00 PM (Deluxe resort guests on select nights)

Getting there

Bus

Parking

$35 per day, preferred $50-60 per day (varies by season)

Main parking lot - walk to entrance

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