Tree of Life at Sunset at Disney's Animal Kingdom
  • Mar 29, 2025
    Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    My partner and i are in fla until april 11 and would like to do animal kingdom while here. We want to see the tree of life and Avatar/Pandora in all their glory,which i heard was best at night. Is there a day you could suggest?

    Jambo and welcome to planDisney!

    I'm absolutely delighted that you stopped by to discuss a visit to Disney's Animal Kingdom. It's my very favorite Walt Disney World Resort theme park...but please don't tell the others! 

    I definitely recommend dedicating a full day to explore Disney's Animal Kingdom. There's just so much to see and do while the sun is shining, and if you're lucky enough to be in the park once the sun sets, Pandora — The World of Avatar in all of its nighttime bioluminescent glory is truly a sight to behold. With that said, it's important to keep in mind that Animal Kingdom closes earlier than Walt Disney World's other theme parks so that the wildlife can retire for the evening, and experiencing the park after dark is truly contingent upon current operating hours. 

    Between now and April 11, your best chance to see Pandora aglow will be on April 5 or April 6 when Animal Kingdom is scheduled to remain open until 8 PM and the sun will set around 7:45. Although it won't be completely dark when the theme park closes for the day, Guests who are actively dining or queuing for a ride at closing time are allowed to make that one final magical memory for the day before exiting. For your best chance of a nighttime view of Pandora, I would suggest ending your day by hopping in line for Avatar Flight of Passage or grabbing dinner from Satu'li Canteen. This would likely allow you to stroll through a glowing Pandora and past an illuminated Tree of Life on your way out of the theme park.

    Even if you aren't able to explore Disney's Animal Kingdom after dark, there are so many daytime experiences that warrant a visit! Currently, I can't get enough of Bakso, the Sumatran tiger cub. On most days, he can be found exploring (and making adorable mischief) in his habitat along the Mahrajah Jungle Trek, so I definitely suggest stopping by on your way to, from, or between rides aboard Expedition Everest

    I hope this was helpful and that a wild day at Disney's Animal Kingdom awaits. If you'd like any additional suggestions for your upcoming visit, feel free to send me another question. I'm always happy to help!

    Thinking Happy Thoughts,
    Lizzie



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Meet the Panelist: Lizzie, Georgia

Oh, hi! Lizzie here - a wife, dog mom, and 'Disney adult' perpetually planning my family's next magical vacation. My happy thoughts include Walt Disney World snacks, character hugs, photo ops, and balloons on Main Street, U.S.A. Whether you're planning to visit with friends or with family, for a week or a weekend, to splurge or to save, I'm here to help you embrace your inner hakuna matata as you stroll through The Most Magical Place on Earth with your favorite Mickey-shaped snack in hand!
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