Greetings from the Garden State Sara! You will be at "The Most Magical Place on Earth" in just a couple of days and there isn't a more exciting time. Well other than the trip itself I guess. I start to pack about two weeks ahead of time just so I can whittle away at what I actually need. Because packing light and bringing the 3 pairs of sneakers for our 4-day trip is not the same packing plan.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge has such a majestic feeling when you first enter, the inspirations come straight from African tradition. The layout of the hotel is designed to be like an African "kraal", it is a horse-shoe design and it provides awesome views of the 4 lush savannas. Those savannas are home to over 200 hoofed and feathered friends. Some of those critters you will be able to see right from your Savanna View room each time you look outside. That room will have all the creature comforts you are used to at home. The bathrooms are stocked with hand soap, body soap, shampoo, and conditioner. I would bring lotion and sunscreen as needed. I always recommend waking up a couple of minutes before sunrise and making a cup of coffee in your room. And watch over the animals in your pajamas as if you were Simba standing on "Pride Rock." Listen if it's really early one part I wouldn't recommend is letting out a Simba-worthy roar, but if it happens I totally understand.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park should be on your radar. Guests of any of the
Disney Resorts Collection hotels are eligible for
Early Theme Park Entry which allows you to access the park 30 minutes before park opening. This is the prime time for a ride on
Kilimanjaro Safaris. This bumpy ride takes you on a trip across 110 acres of picturesque open plains. Any of your photographers in the family will want to be ready for possible once-in-a-lifetime shots. The early morning hours are when the residents of the savanna are most active. You may even get that moment with the lion at his rock if you resisted your mighty morning roar. If you have little ones make sure you make your way to Rafiki's Planet Watch, the
Affection Section is a favorite among kids of any age but extra special for animal lovers and those little tikes. You can pet and brush a number of domesticated animals and talk with animal care experts. Be sure to do this one earlier in the day as the last train departs from Harambe Station at 4:30 p.m. to visit this section of the park.
I hope this information is helpful in packing and some of the extra stuff I added helps make your stay a magical one. If you have any other planning questions or needs please do not hesitate to
ask me a question at planDisney.
Have a magical stay,
Jeremy A.