Hi Karen,
My family and I have stayed at
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge many times. It is so unbelievably beautiful. The decor is peaceful, and there is so much to look at - including amazing animals on the savannas!
Personally, I love a savanna view room. I am the person out on my balcony with a cup of coffee first thing in the morning, staring off into the distance. If the distance includes a view of a giraffe serenely munching on leaves, all the better! On our last stay at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, we were in the Kidani Village section and had a view of a savanna on which three Red River Hogs wandered by on a regular basis. My young daughter enjoyed running to the balcony to see if the Red River Hogs were there every time we can back to the room! I do think a savanna view is worth it. I never knew that zebras were so small, or that a giraffe's tongue was so long, until I saw them from my balcony at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. As to when the animals are out, we found them to be out quite frequently. A really good time to see them is first thing in the morning when it is cooler. Also look for the trucks with food such as branches and leaves to come around. When those come around, they tend to attract the animals.
I should let you know that my family spends a tremendous amount of time at the resort. If your family is a family who will wake up and head to a theme park first thing in the morning, and not return until after the fireworks (which is also a great way to vacation!), then a savanna view might not be worth it for you. You can always view the animals on the savannas from the lobby, or go out onto Arusha Rock to see the animals.
I hope that this information helps you with your decision, Karen. Have a great trip, and please do not hesitate to ask if you have any further questions!