Hi Cara, thanks for bringing your question to us here at planDisney. I've flown into Tampa airport from London (England) before, so when I saw your question, I hoped I could help. It's just under 80 miles between the two destinations, and it took us around an hour and 30 minutes to make the journey.
There are a few transportation options from Tampa Airport to your Disney Resort hotel at
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge (nice resort choice, by the way). Taxis and ride shares, like Uber and Lyft, are available from Tampa Airport. Services such as those provided by Mears Transport from Orlando Airport do not serve Tampa.
My recommendation would be for a car rental. We found it a straightforward drive from the airport to the Walt Disney World Resort. I prefer the flexibility and convenience of having our own car during our stay. Guests at Disney Resort hotel also benefit from
free parking at their resort and in the Parks. Animal Kingdom Lodge is a beautiful resort that feels like an oasis tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Walt Disney World. The complimentary transport option available to and from the Parks to this resort is buses. While Disney buses are my favourite kind of bus, compared with
Disney Skyliner or Monorail, I think my own car would be a happy alternative to bus transport.
I hope my perspective helps you, Cara. I wish you all the best for an incredible adventure at Walt Disney World, from the moment you arrive in Tampa. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us here at planDisney.
Louise