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Animals in the Savannah at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge; giraffe
  • On Jul 20, 2024
    Joshua from TX Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    We're visiting Animal Kingdom Lodge in November and would love to do a resort deep dive. What are some of the must-dos for AKL?

    Welcome back to planDisney, Joshua!

    The countdown to your Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas stay is getting closer, you must be looking forward to seeing the animals on the Savanna. I remember my first visit when my family entered the lobby just in time to see two giraffes walking by - what a welcome to our Home Resort!

    Every visit to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas brings new discoveries at the resort and it’s my daughters’ favorite place to stay and do a non-theme park day. Whether you’re young or young-at-heart, there is so much to enjoy! Here are a few of our must-do’s:

    • Animal Programs - these complimentary activities are a fantastic way to learn about Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge’s residents of the Savanna. The programs vary and offer education on things like foods and animal tracking. 
    • Cultural activities - this is a great opportunity to chat with cultural representatives who share information about their countries and links to the animals and culture found there. 
    • African Drumming - my daughters were so curious when they heard drumming and were so pleased when they were invited to give it a try! This experience is offered at both Jambo House and Kidani Village.  
    • Scavenger Hunt - on our last stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, my daughter noticed a sign for a Scavenger Hunt. The Cast Member assisting us encouraged us to give it a try. We explored the resort to find the answers and received a sticker when completed. 

    • Poolside fun - Cast Members create a welcoming and engaging environment around both the Uzima Springs Pool and Samawati Springs Pool. There’s music and games, trivia and relays that are sure to get everyone in the mood for a pool party! Be sure to try the water slides at each - Uzima Springs Pool has a slower slide and the Samawati Springs Pool slide is right at the top of my family’s favorite slide list!

    • Campfire - Every night, Guests can enjoy roasting marshmallows over a campfire. My kids like bringing cookies and chocolate so they can make s’mores!
    • Movies Under the Stars - On Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays, head over to the Hakuna Matata playground for an 8:30pm complimentary movie screening in the open air. The playbill changes often so be sure to check in at the Front Desk to see what’s playing. 

    As you can see, Joshua, there is plenty to do while visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. If you’re feeling hungry and would like a quick bite, I recommend heading to The Mara at Jambo House. They have a great selection of food choices and if you’re looking to try the delicious Zebra Domes, this is the place to go! I hope you have a wonderful stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Be sure to sit and relax by the giant Christmas tree that you can’t miss in the Jambo House lobby. (My daughters love to look at the ornaments from different floors so they can get a different point of view). 

    Kwaheri,
    Candace

thumbnail image for Candace

Meet the Panelist: Candace, Ontario

Bonjour! I'm Candace, mom to four daughters, wife and Early French Immersion teacher from Ottawa, ON, Canada. We're a family of explorers who are full of curiosity and seek to find the magic in the smallest moments of the day. The Disney Vacation Club allows us to explore many Disney Destinations with the flexibility to choose a Resort that fits our travel party whether traveling with family or friends. I can't wait to help you plan an adventure of your own! Learn More About Candace

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