Hi Beverly!
You’ll be staying at one of my family’s favorite resorts!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village is one of our
Disney Vacation Club Home Resorts, and we always look forward to a stay there. It is unlike any other resort! We love the warm colors, exotic yet elegant decor, and where else can you enjoy your morning coffee while watching the zebra and giraffe have their breakfast too? A stay here makes us feel as if we have escaped to a far off land, and we can truly forget our everyday worries. Hakuna Matata!
Currently, things are really in a constant state of change. February is still a long way off, so it is a little tough to give any guarantees as to what will be available during your stay. But I can give you some general ideas and my expert Disney opinion. Right now, the cultural representatives that Disney typically brings over from a variety of countries in Africa are not available. With many international borders still closed, I would not anticipate these Cast Members being available during your stay. Guests from the United Kingdom can’t even get to the United States, and that country has a high vaccination rate. I would imagine it would be even longer before the borders to open with African nations. Even after the borders reopen, there would need to be adequate time for Disney to recruit and train those Cast Members. There are some limited activities being led by the Recreation Cast Members, but not everything has returned.
While there may not be face painting at the resort, there are face painting stations open inside the theme parks. If you have a little one who wants to be turned into a butterfly or tiger, you’ll find a variety of magical options in all four parks and at Disney Springs!
At this time, merchandise delivery to the resorts has not resumed. For shipping fees, however, you can have souvenirs shipped directly to your home. No need to find a place to stuff them in an overpacked suitcase! Only Mickey knows when this service will return, but I would recommend you continue to check the
Merchandise Pickup webpage for updates closer to your trip.
I do have some good news! You will be happy to know that pool parties are happening at resorts! My kids love these pool parties and my daughter had a great time participating in them this summer. Even I enjoyed relaxing in the cool water on the side of the pool and playing “Name that Disney Tune.” While I didn’t see the typical prizes handed out, my little one still had a great time.
Hopefully, we will continue to see all those details we love so much slowly return. Keep checking back, perhaps closer to January to see what has changed. And please let us know if you have any additional questions before your visit. We are here to help!
Have a Magical Day!
- Kate