7 Reasons Why You’ll Love Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Now you can stay in the heart of Africa-7 reasons why you’ll love Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up in the heart of Africa with giraffes right outside your window, then a stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is the resort you’re looking for.
With it’s authentic African theming right on down to the smallest of details, to the world class Disney service where you are not guests but part of the family, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a Deluxe property in every sense of the word. I have always dreamed of one day visiting Africa and immersing myself in all that it has to offer, but until then, it was easy to make the decision to extend my pixie-dusted adventure to the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration but coming in a few days early and experience the magic for myself. So why stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge? We have our top 7 reasons why you’ll love Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Stepping Into The Heart Of Africa
The resort is literally set in the “backyard” of Disney’s Animal Kingdom and you immediately are aware that suddenly, you are staying in the heart of the savannah. Surrounded by breathtaking views, there quite frankly, is nothing else comparable to it anywhere.
At this Deluxe Disney resort, you are stepping into the heart of Africa. Inspired by the traditional African kraal, the horseshoe-curved design provides spectacular views of 4 lush savannas that over 200 hoofed animals and birds call home. Delight in dazzling pool areas, exciting animal programs and one of the largest collections of African art in the United States as you experience your own African safari adventure with a touch of Disney magic.
Animal, Animals Everywhere
Whether you’ve stepped out onto the terrace that overlooks the savannah, or relaxing on the porch in a rocking chair taking in the view, or looking out thee window of your room, there is nothing that compares with the feeling that comes over you from these views.
Here you can discover over 30 species of African wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, gazelles, kudu and flamingos. Identify each species with a Wildlife Field Guide which is found in your Guest Room, with extras available from the Lobby Concierge as well as from various Cast Members and have a first hand opportunity to learn more about African animals and ecosystems during fun programs led by Animal Specialists.
Water Fun Abounds
The pools found at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge have to rank within the top three of any of the pools found throughout the Walt Disney World Resort Property and many people rank them as the number one pool and it’s easy to see why. Here you and the family can take a break from the Parks and escape to an 11,000-square-foot pool with an exciting waterslide and gently sloping, zero-depth entry point similar to that of a natural watering hole. Surrounded by large canopy trees and Floridian palms, Uzima Pool includes a children’s wading pool and 2 whirlpool spas.
Over at Kidani Village. The Samawati Springs Pool awaits you, offering a thrilling waterslide, 2 whirlpool spas and Uwanja Camp—an animal observation site-themed water playground with squirting Venus flytraps, a rope bridge, water cannons and more. The only downside, your family will have so much fun at the pools, it may be hard to convince them to leave.
Relax Your Mind and Your Body
In need of some spoiling or want to workout? Look no further than the Zahanati Massage & Fitness Center, which will Service your body, mind, soul and spirit at this workout facility and sauna offering massage and facial treatments. Work out amid the magic thanks to state-of-the-art Life Fitness and Cybex equipment. Cardio machines include treadmills, regular and recumbent bicycles, elliptical trainers and stair climbers for Guests looking to burn some calories while on vacation.
Free weights and weight machines are also on site for those looking to strength train. Strategically placed televisions provide you with a dash of entertainment during your routine. For those seeking complete and total relaxation, take advantage of all the spa has to offer. Here you can unwind with a soothing massage or facial designed to invigorate your body and relax your mind. For additional rejuvenation, a sauna is available on site.
The Club Level Difference
If you truly want to experience what it’s like to be treated like royalty, then make sure you book a Club Level Room.
I quickly discovered that by booking the Club Level accommodations at the Kilimanjaro Club I was going to be spoiled for life.
From my own check-in desk-complete with welcoming refreshments to receive personalized concierge service, a private lounge with continental breakfast, midday snacks and evening wine, hors d’oeuvres, cordials and desserts and more, you can see how after experiencing all of this, it might be hard to go back to a “regular” room but rest assured that every room here is a Deluxe room in every sense of the world.
Every room is spacious with African theming throughout and come with either two queen-size beds, or one queen-size bed and bunk beds, or one king plus come with a separate vanity and shower area, free Wi-Fi, entertainment center, refrigerator and coffee maker and as far as the eye can see. Not sure if the upgrade to the Club Level is right for you?
Club Level Guests can purchase the Sunrise Safari Breakfast at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park – a private, guided safari with an Animal Program Specialist, followed by abountiful breakfast.
Food Like No Other
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge features the best in dining found anywhere featuring award-winning, African-inspired specialties and classic American favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner, amid a lush, wildlife preserve. For those with whose taste buds want to experience the ultimate in a Signature Dining experience, you will find 3 distinctive restaurants to choose from.
Jiko—The Cooking Place – Dinner featuring familiar foods with an African touch: seafood, steak, chicken and vegetarian offerings infused with the vibrant flavors and fragrant spices of Africa
Boma—Flavors of Africa – Breakfast and dinner buffet featuring all-you-care-to-enjoy African-inspired cuisine and vegetarian options.
Sanaa – African cooking with an Indian influence. Guests enjoy familiar foods from our tandoor ovens or slow-cooked specialties with flavorful spices of Africa. With a view of the savanna, this casual family restaurant offers lunch and dinner.
For the more casual fare or a quick bite to eat then there’s The Mara which serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks as well as featuring fresh salads, soups, grilled sandwiches and bakery items. In addition here at Animal Kingdom Resort you’ll be able to find lounges throughout the resort serving appetizers, as well as poolside snack bars and room service.
Family Fun For Everyone
Whether you’re looking for something fun for the kids or activities for the entire family that will introduce to the African cultures and traditions, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge has something for everyone. From Simba’s Clubhouse, which entertains young cubs ages 3-12 with a full spectrum of supervised activities, fun, snacks and more to the Jambo House Campfire Activities to the Hakuna Matata Playground to the Movies Under the Stars at Uzima Pool, you’ll never ne at a lost for something to do.
Whether you choose to stay at the budget friendly Value Resorts, or one of the Moderate or Deluxe category of properties, no matter where you stay, you will still experience all of the Disney experiences that are free of charge and are a part of the magic when you with stay at a Walt Disney World Resort property.
- Complimentary Airport Transportation
- Complimentary Transportation To The Parks & Parking
- Early Access to FastPass+ Planning
- Disney Dining Plans
- Extra Magic Hours
- Complimentary MagicBands
- Online Check-In
- Airline Check-In
- Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services
- Child Care Options
- Proximity To The Parks
Plus the best reason of all is that the Disney Magic starts from the moment you check in and stays with you long after your day at the Park is over. No matter where you choose to stay at the Walt Disney World Resort, rest assured that you will experience the same legendary detail, service and storytelling found in the parks. From unique accommodations to distinctive dining options, themed rooms and more, Disney Resort hotels offer Guests a variety of options that exemplify the Disney Difference. But if your dream has always been to know what it’s like to experience a trip to the heart and majesty of Africa, then Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge will make your stay magical and memorable in every way.
Looking for other Walt Disney World Deluxe Resort properties?
Look no further than Disney’s Polynesian Resort or Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Want to know more about the resorts that are waiting for you that are in the Moderate category?
Then take a look at our stay at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort , Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort or Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.
And if it’s Value that seems to be the perfect fit for your family, then why not try Disney’s All-Star Music or Disney’s Pop Century or Disney’s Art of Animation? It’s all the magic of Walt Disney World Resort yet at an affordable price for any budget. What is your favorite place to stay when visiting the Walt Disney World Resort and what else would you add to our list of 7 reasons why you’ll love Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge?