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Best Things to do at Disney's Animal Kingdom


Animal Kingdom’s massive 500 acres are rich in detail, storytelling, and immersive experiences that celebrate the Earth in big and small ways.

To help you make the most of your Animal Kingdom visit here are some nature-rich, conservation-inspired Must Do’s:
🌳 Tree of Life & Discovery Island Trails
At the heart of the park stands the Tree of Life, an iconic 145-foot sculpture with over 300 animals intricately carved into its trunk. Take time to walk the Discovery Island Trails, where you’ll get closer views of the tree and encounter otters, flamingos, and other animals. It’s a peaceful spot that invites reflection on our planet’s incredible biodiversity.
🌿 Na’vi River Journey
Glide through the bioluminescent rainforest of Pandora on this gentle boat ride. Inspired by the fictional planet from Avatar, the journey is a reminder of how interconnected ecosystems can be, real or imagined. Kids and adults alike will love the glowing plant life and harmonious sounds of nature.

🦒 Kilimanjaro Safaris
No visit is complete without a ride through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve! This open-air safari gets you up close to giraffes, elephants, lions, zebras, and more. Early mornings or near sunset offer the best chances to see active animals. For Earth Day, Cast Members often share extra conservation stories about the animals you see, don’t be shy to ask questions!

💡 Earth Day Tip: Ask a Cast Member about Disney’s animal care efforts, including endangered species protection and breeding programs for animals like the okapi and white rhino.Must-

🧬 Rafiki’s Planet Watch & Conservation Station
This often-overlooked land is the ultimate Earth Day stop! Board the Wildlife Express Train to learn about veterinary care, animal nutrition, and real-world conservation work. You might even catch a live animal check-up! There’s also the Affection Section, a petting zoo where kids can interact with goats, sheep, and pigs.

🎭 Festival of the Lion King
This vibrant Broadway-style show celebrates the circle of life - a fitting message for Earth Day. With music, dance, acrobatics, and audience participation, it’s an energetic reminder of nature’s rhythms and the importance of preserving wildlife and wild spaces.

🧭 Slow Down and Soak It All In
From hidden animal prints in the pavement to authentic gear in Africa and Asia, every corner of Animal Kingdom tells a story rooted in respect for nature and culture. Keep your eyes open for Hidden Mickeys and notice how even the sounds (like distant bird calls) add to the immersive experience.

🚀 Avatar Flight of Passage
This is more than a thrill ride!! it’s a powerful celebration of nature. You’ll bond with a banshee and fly through mountains, oceans, and forests, feeling the wind and smell of Pandora’s untamed wilderness. It’s a breathtaking tribute to our planet’s own beauty and fragility.

🍴 Flame Tree Barbecue
After exploring, grab a bite at this peaceful quick-service spot on Discovery Island. Enjoy a pulled pork sandwich or ribs under a shaded pavilion with views of the Discovery River and Expedition Everest in the distance while surrounded by nature!

🌱 Eco Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle! There are filling stations throughout the park to help reduce plastic waste.

🎢 Expedition Everest
While not nature-focused, this coaster tells the tale of a mythical mountain guardian -the Yeti- and celebrates Himalayan culture. The queue is packed with artifacts, photos, and legends, all inspired by real-life expeditions.

Bonus Earth Day Activities
Every April, Animal Kingdom hosts Earth Week celebrations, with limited-time merchandise, themed snacks, nature-inspired photo ops, and educational exhibits throughout the park. Look for pop-up booths hosted by Disney Conservation Fund partners, and don't miss special appearances from animal care experts and educators.

🌍 Earth Day 2025 at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Date: April 22, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

🐾 Special Character Appearances
Kenai and Koda from Brother Bear: Catch these rare characters cruising along Discovery River on a flotilla.

🎨 Interactive Experiences
The Animation Experience at Conservation Station: Learn to draw Disney characters inspired by real animals.

📸 Photo Opportunities
Earth Day-themed PhotoPass Magic Shots: Capture special moments with unique props and frames.
National Geographic Photo Frame: Pose with this special frame to commemorate Earth Day. ​

🐘 Educational Activities
Animal Care Expert Talks: Meet with experts to learn about animal care, conservation efforts, and participate in enrichment programs.
Animal Feedings and Training Sessions: Observe special demonstrations and learn how keepers care for the animals. ​


🍽️ Special Food and Beverage Offerings
Enjoy unique, limited-time food and beverage options available throughout the park, crafted specifically for Earth Month. ​

🐾 New Additions to the Park
Tucker the Masai Giraffe: Visit the Kilimanjaro Safaris to see Tucker, the first giraffe born at the park since 2021. His birth is significant for conservation efforts.

Bakso the Sumatran Tiger Cub: Explore the Maharajah Jungle Trek to meet Bakso, the first tiger cub born at the park in seven years. ​

These activities are part of the park’s broader Earth Month celebration, running from April 1 to April 30, 2025. 

As you can see, Disney's Animal Kingdom is a par filled with unique experiences.  From thrill rides like Avatar Flight of Passage to educational encounters with exotic animals on Kilimanjaro Safaris, the park offers something for the whole family.  

Planning a Walt Disney World vacation? We are here to help! Contact your Kingdom Konsultant travel professional or submit a request form for a free quote today. Make sure to check out our Planning for Walt Disney World Vacations page for more posts. 


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