Kilimanjaro Safaris; Animal Kingdom; AA
  • On Sep 27, 2013
    Corey from WI 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.

    My son will be 9 on our first trip to disney. I really wanted him to do the dolphin or scuba diving or snorkeling but they all say he's too young. Anything like that for a 9 year old?

    Hi Corey,

    Yes, your son is too young to do Disney Dolphins in Depth (minimum age 13 years old) or Epcot DiveQuest (minimum age 10 years old); however, I do have some options for you that I think your son will enjoy.

    I was recently able to experience the Wild Africa Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Since it seems like you are looking for more in-depth experiences with animals, I think this would be perfect for you and your son. On the Wild Africa Trek, you wear special gear so that you can get closer to the animals than you can on Kilimanjaro Safaris. Experienced guides will lead you on an amazing tour through the savanna. You even get to cross a bridge above hippopotamuses and crocodiles! You get a special ride-through the safari area in a vehicle that will stop so that you can learn about the animals and watch them through binoculars. You even get to have a private picnic on a shelter built on the savanna. I highly recommend this experience. The minimum age is 8 years old, and your son must be 48 inches tall.

    Another experience that your son might enjoy is the Behind the Seeds Tour at Epcot. This is a shorter experience than Wild Africa Trek. On the Behind the Seeds Tour, you get to see behind the scenes at the Land pavilion at Epcot. My 8-year-old daughter really enjoyed this experience. She was even able to release ladybugs in one of the greenhouses (ladybug experience subject to availability). There is no minimum age requirement listed for the Behind the Seeds Tour; however, it does focus mainly on plants, so be sure that this is something that your son is interested in.

    I hope that this gives you a couple of ideas for your trip, Corey! Have a great time planning, 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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