We all know how exhausting Disney can be, but it can also be really relaxing. Animal Kingdom is full of hidden gems throughout the park where you can slow down the pace and enjoy the animals, scenery, and atmosphere. The Animal Kingdom Park is at its best when you slow down and enjoy its natural beauty.
The Oasis Exhibits
One of the most overlooked hidden gems is The Oasis, located at the park entrance, with lush pathways, waterfalls, and animal habitats. Many people quickly go by this area on their way to the Tree of Life and into the park for the rides. But don’t miss out on this! On the paths, you can encounter wallabies, spoonbills, and other exotic birds, giant anteaters, along with tropical gardens, waterfalls, and streams. It also offers an incredible amount of shade, which helps in the Florida heat.
Discovery Island Trails
Near the Tree of Life, you will find the Discovery Island Trails. There are several quiet pathways that surround the Tree of Life. You can take your time looking at the incredible carvings on the Tree of Life. There are over 300 carvings on the tree. It’s a great place to start to avoid some of the crowds and get some great photographs. In the roots of the Tree of Life, you will find a variety of live animals such as flamingos, tortoises, and lemurs.
Maharajah Jungle Trek
The Maharajah Jungle Trek is a self-guided walking trail in Southeast Asia. You will be able to see a wide variety of animals, including bats, exotic birds, and tigers. Basko is the first tiger born at the Animal Kingdom and will turn two in September. He is raised exclusively by his mom, Sohni. There are also waterfalls, beautiful landscaping, and temple-themed architecture. It’s one of the best themed areas at Disney World. This attraction is meant to be explored at a slower pace to enjoy all the sights.
Kilimanjaro Safaris
Kilimanjaro Safaris is the highlight of the park and sits on 110 acres. Take a leisurely (sometimes bumpy) safari ride through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. Home to over 30 species of animals, including elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, hippos, zebras, and so much more. The ride typically lasts about 20 minutes, but you might hit a traffic jam where the animals rule the road as they roam freely. Each safari ride is a unique and unforgettable experience.
Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is located by the Kilimanjaro Safaris, and most tend to walk through here after getting off the ride. This is another self-guided, immersive trail featuring gorillas, hippos, okapi, birds, and zebras. You will walk through a lush forest environment where you can take your time and observe all the animals.
Conservation Station
Conservation Station is a wildlife care and conservation center. In order to get there, you will want to take the Wildlife Express Train from the Africa section near Kilimanjaro Safaris. The focus of this area (besides the new Bluey show) is real animal care, veterinary medicine, and conservation. There are viewing windows into the treatment and examination areas. You will also see a display of reptiles, amphibians, and other small animals.
Pandora World of Avatar
Many head over to Pandora at park opening to ride the attractions, but the best time to go is when the sun starts to set, and the land comes to life with beautiful sounds, waterfalls, and lighting. The plants and rockwork begin to glow with bioluminescent effects. Slow down and discover the many paths and scenery throughout this land. Some of the best details are the tiny wildlife effects, alien plants moving and the ambient sounds.
A theme park doesn’t always have to be about the thrill rides; it can be about the quiet moments most often missed. If you are ready to explore all that Animal Kingdom has to offer and receive a free, no obligation quote, just send me an email, and I will be happy to price up a package for you.
