• On May 17, 2020
    Jaclyn from MA Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    My family & I are planning a stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge (we are DVC) for the first time at the end of this year. What are the must see/do activities/experiences at this resort? We really want to make the most of it! Thank you!

    Jambo Jaclyn!

    Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel. I was super excited to grab your question, as we too own at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village! It was the first Walt Disney World Resort we visited as a married couple, and where we joined Disney Vacation Club. It is still our favorite Resort, and I can’t wait to share all of my “must-dos” with you!

    First off, the animals! They are a delight, and I could spend all day watching them roam the savannas. Usually, our first stop when we arrive at the Resort is Sanaa for lunch. Booking a reservation is highly recommended, and I suggest making it during the daytime so you can see the animals better. Make sure to sample the Bread Service (naan with incredibly delicious dips), and my kiddos ask for the Butter Chicken every time! Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, head to the savanna outlook to learn more about the four-legged Cast Members. Animal Specialists are incredibly knowledgeable, and they even have night-vision goggles for continued viewing into the evening.

    Before we move too far away from food, I want to point out a few other fantastic food-related activities at the Resort. Both Boma - Flavors of Africa and Sanaa offer cookie decorating classes, and Jiko - The Cooking Place has Wine Tasting each week. If your dream is to go behind-the-scenes in a kitchen, there is a fantastic Culinary Tour. Cultural Representatives will navigate the restaurants as they weave art, culture, and cuisine into the history of the African-inspired eateries! If you want an incredible date night, consider the Wanyama Safari. You can combine an early evening private tour of the savanna with a superb meal at Jiko - The Cooking Place.

    In general, look out for the Cultural Representatives across the Resort. Any activity that they are involved with is sure to delight! We love participating in the daily Music of the Savanna, and my kiddos always seem to come home with cool art from their bead-making adventures. Recently I joined an art tour in progress (happens at both Kidani Village and Jambo House), and it was fascinating! Finally, spend an evening in the Sunset Lounge enjoying a Cultural Safari - you will not regret it!

    Jacyln, I’ve barely scratched the surface, and I know you will find plenty of other treasures at your Resort. Have a magical vacation.

    Asante Sana - Rayna
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Meet the Panelist: Rayna, Florida

Hi y'all! I'm Rayna: wife, mom, anesthesiologist, and long-time Disney enthusiast. I've lived all over the country, but these days life has my family of seven in Florida. We're fantastically close to the most magical place on earth, and as Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members we couldn't be happier about it. We've visited almost every Disney Vacation Club resort, so I'm thrilled to be here doing what I do best: Helping plan magical vacations. Learn More About Rayna

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