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Mom And Daughter Vero Beach Poolside
  • On Dec 23, 2013
    Kelly from FL 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.

    Planing a trip with family of 5. Price is a concern. Can we experience the benefits of AK lodge/villas without staying there? If we do stay there, is the savanna view really worth the extra $, or can we experience it simply by walking around and exploring?

    Hi Kelly,

    I absolutely love Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village, and Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Jambo House. They all have such rich and beautiful decor. Interacting with the knowledgeable cast members there is wonderful as they can educate you not only about animals, but also about the art at the resort and the culture of Africa. I just returned from a stay at Kidani Village and had a fantastic time.

    I can understand why price is a concern. First, I want to let you know that the rooms in Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge typically can sleep four guests. Since you have a party of five, this would not be an option for you. The exception would be if one of the five is under three years old - that child would not count toward the guest count. If everyone in the party is three years old or older, you will need to look at a one-bedroom villa. The good news is that the one-bedroom villas in Kidani Village and most of them in Jambo House sleep up to five guests.

    As to the experience for guests who are not staying at the resort, you could get a taste of the resort if you are not staying there. I would suggest that you make a reservation at Boma - Flavors of Africa for a meal. This buffet includes delicious African-inspired fare. After your meal, you can head out to see the animals on the savannas from the public areas, such as the lobby and overlooks. A cast member let me know that you can even take advantage of the night-vision goggles offered for nighttime viewing if you are there late. However, many of the other resort activities are reserved for guests of the resort, so you will not be able to take advantage of those, nor will you get the singularly unique experience of drinking your morning cup of coffee on your villa balcony while watching the sun come up as the giraffes eat their breakfast.

    I hope that this is helpful for you Kelly, and please do not hesitate to ask if you have any further questions.
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Meet the Panelist: Mona Leigh, Maryland

I am a wife and mother who works in children's technology design and research. When I'm not at work or with my family, I'm often planning a Walt Disney World trip for my family or friends. I'm a Disney Vacation Club Member, and am excited to help you plan your Disney vacation!  Learn More About Mona Leigh

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