Animal Kingdom Lodge

Guest Rooms

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Is Club Level Worth It?

Club Level can be a fun way to add extra magic to your Disney stay, but whether it’s worth the splurge depends on how you’ll use it. We break down the perks, costs and who it’s really best for in our guide to Club Level at Walt Disney World.

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Dining

Jiko – The Cooking Place

Jiko is the kind of Disney dining experience where you actually want to linger a little longer. With incredible African, Indian and Mediterranean-inspired flavors, a stunning atmosphere and a menu that feels like an adventure, it’s one of our favorite spots for a grown-up Disney night.

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Boma

One of my favorite brunch spots on property, Boma’s breakfast and dinner buffets offer an amazing mix of African-inspired dishes alongside some more familiar favorites. I’ll admit this one took me a minute to appreciate, but it has become one of my Animal Kingdom Lodge must-dos.

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Sanaa

This African and Indian-inspired restaurant tucked inside Kidani Village has become a cult favorite, and yes, the bread service deserves the hype. Enjoy lunch and dinner with savanna views, or stop by for a more casual breakfast or a drink at Sanaa Lounge while soaking in the scenery.

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The Mara

Jambo House’s quick service spot has become a favorite for us, especially when we’re staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge. I mean, Mickey waffles and Zebra Domes. Need I say more?

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Victoria Falls

Located just below the Jambo House lobby, Victoria Falls is a cozy lounge perfect for a South African beer, regional wine or a pre-dinner drink. It’s also a handy spot for grabbing ice when the “nearby” ice machine is apparently not as nearby as Disney says.

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Around the Resort

Take your time exploring the halls, artwork and hidden details throughout the resort, then step outside to discover viewing areas where you can watch animals roam the savanna throughout the day.

From cultural displays and storytelling to Cast Members sharing the traditions behind the art and design, there’s so much to discover beyond the parks. Give yourself permission to wander a little here. The details are half the fun.

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More Magic Tips

A few tips go a long way toward making your Animal Kingdom Lodge adventure even more magical!

• Don’t skip the savanna views. I don’t recommend upgrading every trip because there are usually other ways to add magic without spending more. But if a savanna view room fits comfortably in your budget, this is one upgrade I truly think can be worth it. There are plenty of public viewing areas around the resort, but there’s something pretty unforgettable about opening your balcony door and having a giraffe waiting to say good morning.

• Try the complimentary night vision viewing. Each evening, guests can head to Kidani Village’s Sunset Overlook for complimentary night vision viewing of the savanna. Times can change seasonally, so check the recreation boards around the resort for the most current schedule.

• Get your Zebra Dome fix without a reservation. Love Zebra Domes but don’t want to commit to a full meal at Boma? Don’t know what they are but want to try this fan favorite without the big bill? You can grab these striped treats at The Mara instead. And if you’re staying in a villa, pop those babies in the freezer over night. You’re welcome!

• Give yourself time to explore. Animal Kingdom Lodge is filled with details you’ll miss if you’re rushing through. Wander the halls, check out the artwork, visit the savanna overlooks and take advantage of the cultural experiences happening throughout the resort.

• Let us help make the planning easier. The Lodge has a lot of choices, and we love helping families figure out what will make their Disney trip work best. Our complimentary planning services take the guesswork out of the details so you can focus on the fun part: counting down to your trip.

Our Take on Animal Kingdom Lodge

Animal Kingdom Lodge is truly one of the most unique stays on Walt Disney World property. It’s not just a place to sleep after the parks. The resort itself is part of the experience, and that’s a big reason we keep coming back.

We personally prefer staying here with our own car because, well, we’re a little spoiled like that. Transportation from Animal Kingdom Lodge is bus-only, so if you’re someone who likes the flexibility of hopping around property quickly, you’ll want to plan a little extra time for those adventures away from the resort. That said, don’t let the lack of a vehicle stop you if this one is on your dream list. It’s absolutely worth experiencing.

A few things to keep in mind: standard rooms are on the smaller side and sleep up to four guests, so larger families may find themselves looking at villas, suites or booking multiple rooms, which can add up quickly. But if the immersive atmosphere, incredible dining and one-of-a-kind savanna views are calling your name, Animal Kingdom Lodge is a resort that delivers an experience you won’t find anywhere else.