Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park is a fantastic day out for the whole family. One of the more relaxed Disney Parks, this experience will take you from Orlando to the plains of Africa, the jungles of Asia and even the incredible floating rocks of Pandora – The World of Avatar.
What sets this park apart from your “normal” theme parks are the residents: over 300 different species of animals! From lions and tigers to otters to crocodiles, you will not be disappointed with your animal encounters here.
Oasis
Your visit to Animal Kingdom begins at the Oasis, the first of 6 areas to explore and home to tropical gardens where you will see exotic animal exhibits. You will also be able to visit the Rainforest Cafe in the Oasis.
Discovery Island
At the heart of Animal Kingdom lies Discovery Island, home to the incredible Tree of Life. This 145 foot baobab tree sculpture took 18 months to build and has 325 carvings of animals both extinct and in existence today. Guests can take a walk on the Discovery Island Trails to discover the many animals on the Tree of Life.
At night, the Tree of Life awakens for a spectacular nighttime show: Awakenings. Don’t worry – there isn’t a set show time for this! Awakenings runs every 10 minutes until the park closes. Watch mesmerising projections and lights that tell stories, from a doe to a fox to a hummingbird to a medley of Disney characters inspired by films such as The Lion King.
You will also find the 3D film “It’s Tough to be a Bug” (inspired by Pixar’s Bugs Life) on Discovery Island. Or, if that doesn’t take your fancy, why not become a Wilderness Explorer. Discovery Island has 2 of the 5 Wilderness Explorer starting points where you can complete challenges and earn badges as you travel around the park.
Discovery Island also has a selection of 5 restaurants and 2 shops for you to relax, have a bite to eat and enjoy some retail therapy.
Pandora: World of Avatar
This area is one of the most incredible theme park worlds we have ever seen! Wander under the floating mountains and glowing nature of the Valley of Mo’ara and you will feel like you have been transported to another world. There are two rides in this area: Na’vi River Journey and Avatar Flight of Passage; along with a selection of restaurants and shops to add to your experience.
Simply Orlando 