length of kilimanjaro safari animal kingdom

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Additional menu

The Family Vacation Guide

Kilimanjaro Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: The Ultimate Guide

posted by Charmaine Cortes on December 26, 2022 // last updated on June 12, 2023

Are you planning to visit Kilimanjaro Safari Disney World with your family or loved ones and want to learn more about it? Then you have come to the right place!

In this article, we will provide you with an overview of everything you need to know about Kilimanjaro Safaris. This safari ride at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park will transport you across the globe into an African Wildlife setting.

In this Ultimate Guide, we will cover all the basics from the history of the Safari, how to ride it and some further frequently asked questions about the wildlife park. Read on to find out more!

About Kilimanjaro Safaris

The kilimanjaro safaris ride, kilimanjaro safaris accessibility, interesting facts.

Walt Disney had a lifelong dream of adding live animals to his Jungle Cruise. Back then, this was not possible until the Kilimanjaro Safaris opened its gates in Disney’s Animal Kingdom park in April 1998.

The park in Walt Disney World wanted to differentiate itself from a zoo from the beginning. While it had live animals, it was more focused on conservation and experiencing the animals in their (somewhat) natural habitat.

Since 2016, visitors can enjoy special sunset safaris where they get to enjoy African animals after dark.

You will find Kilimanjaro Safaris located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom park, which is part of Walt Disney World.

Make your way past the Tree of Life to the back of Africa, all the way past Mombasa Marketplace and Dawa Bar. As you cross the bridge, you will get to Kilimanjaro Safaris.

The queue will lead you through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve before you enter your safari vehicle and head out to experience the African Savanna without leaving the States!

The Kilimanjaro Safaris vehicles are open-air trucks that can accommodate up to 35 guests. Each vehicle can seat three to five guests in one row.

The Savanna provides a bumpy ride along a dirt trail and is different from the other smooth theme park rides at Disney. So buckle up.

You will be provided with a game-spotting guide. Be on the lookout, as not all wildlife will be visible at all times.

A Kilimanjaro Safaris ride is approximately 20 to 30 minutes long and leads through 100 acres of Savanna. During this time, you will be able to spot about 34 different species. Among these, you will find famous members of the African Animal Kingdom:

• Hippopotamus
• Sable Antelopes
• Thompson’s Gazelles
• African Wild Dogs
• Termite Mounds

Each expedition through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve is completely unique. The animals are all free roaming and are, therefore, always in a different place or sometimes in hiding.

If you are looking for a specific unique experience, you can visit Kilimanjaro Safaris at night! During those nighttime safaris, you will be able to experience the wildlife in a completely different setting. Some animals tend to be more active during the night, so we recommend trying out both times.

The ride with Kilimanjaro Safaris is longer than some other rides at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, so factor that into your time at the park, so you don’t miss other rides.

Since you will be dealing with real animals, we recommend behavior that suits the setting. No loud noises or erratic behavior as this can scare the wildlife. Small children are to be watched at all times. In general, this might be a better experience for children above the age of six.

Fastpass/ Lightning Lane:  Yes

Time:  20 -30 minutes

Height Restrictions:  None

Age Restrictions:  None

Handicapped Accessibility:

• Kilimanjaro Safaris is Wheelchair Accessible

To access the safari ride, you can wheel up a ramp and ride into the truck itself. Your wheelchair will be tied down and secured, so you do not have to worry about bouncing around during the ride through the wilderness.

• Other guests need to take a small step into the safari vehicle.
• no high blood pressure
• no heart, back, or neck problems
• no motion sickness
• no other severe conditions

Disney does advise against expectant mothers or people that aren’t in good health riding with Kilimanjaro Safaris, as the rides can get bumpy, and there is also no option for an emergency exit while in the safari vehicle.

Service Animals:

Kilimanjaro Safaris allows service animals to be taken into the premises and on rides. However, the park advises visitors to do so with caution. The animals might be completely new to this wildlife experience and might act differently.

 In the beginning, Kilimanjaro Safaris included a lot of information about poaching in their ride and even had a specific section in the park set up to educate about the illegal hunting of wildlife.

These days, Kilimanjaro Safaris is more focused on the educational part of the conservation of the African Savanna and its wildlife.

The ride is designed to be as realistic as possible. Therefore, the roads are quite rough (as mentioned previously in this article). You need to be ready for some rough and rugged terrain during your safari adventure at Kilimanjaro Safaris.

How big is the Kilimanjaro Safari Park?

Including the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, the Kilimanjaro Safaris Park is about 1.5 miles.

While this might not sound too lengthy, keep in mind that you will follow winding roads that are extremely bumpy. On top of that, the Kilimanjaro Safaris area is about 110 acres big. Plus, the safari trucks will drive extremely slow. This is also to ensure you will see enough wildlife.

Can you pet animals at Kilimanjaro Safaris?

This is a clear no. You are dealing with wildlife from the African animal kingdom at Kilimanjaro Safaris. These animals are wild. They are no pets. A direct encounter with lions is to be treated with respect and can end in a dangerous situation should you mistake them for a house cat.

Should you or your children wish to pet animals, we recommend visiting the petting zoo at Rafiki’s Planet Watch.

Are all animals real at Kilimanjaro Safaris?

Yes, the animals are all real. The tour however does include some fake elements, such as:

• Ostrich Eggs
• Moonlight during the safari ride after sunset
• Termite mounds

When Is The Best Time To Ride Kilimanjaro Safaris?

We recommend purchasing your Harambe Wildlife Reserve pass early in the morning and heading straight to the open-air safari experience. The animals tend to be more active during the morning hours as well as after sunset.

During midday, most animals will hide in the shade or be less active because of the heat. It will also be more strenuous on visitors, as this is an open-air vehicle and you might not feel too comfortable in the hot climate.

Does the Weather influence the Safari?

Kilimanjaro Safaris is an open-air safari. So the rides are in some way influenced by the weather. The animals might not be bothered by the rain, but they might be less active in extreme heat. So plan your visit accordingly.

Since this is an open-air safari, we recommend dressing for whatever weather you might encounter. If there is a possibility of rain, dress warm and take a raincoat. Should the weather be pleasant with sunshine, we recommend a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Check your forecast and come with the necessities to make the ride enjoyable.

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

Kilimanjaro Safaris

A Truly Wild Adventure

Explore the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, home to over 30 species living in 110 acres of picturesque open plains, shady forest landscapes and rocky wetlands. Your rugged safari vehicle is driven by an expert guide, who helps point out animals and shares fascinating wildlife facts during this extraordinary 18-minute expedition.

Unique Animal Sightings Spot a lounging hippopotamus nestled in a peaceful pond. Behold a regal lion sunbathing on a rocky perch. Drive past a towering giraffe grazing on the tall trees or a white rhino relaxing in the cool mud. Other amazing animals you may encounter include cheetahs, crocodiles, elephants, painted dogs, zebras—and so many more!

Since animals have minds of their own, every expedition is a unique and unforgettable experience. Be sure to keep your eyes open and have a camera ready—you never know what you’ll see on a Kilimanjaro Safaris outing.

Related Activities

Wild africa trek, disney animals at walt disney world resort, even more magic – as you wish, guests also viewed, safety, accessibility and guest policies, times for kilimanjaro safaris.

Complete Guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom

Board a safari truck and get your cameras ready! Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom gives you the experience of a real-life African safari, but at Walt Disney World.

As you travel through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve you will learn about conservation, the importance of taking care of animals, and, of course, get the chance to see amazing creatures, like elephants, hippos, and giraffes.

Now, let’s explore our guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris .

In this article

Kilimanjaro Safaris Quick Facts

• Location : Animal Kingdom, Africa
• Height Requirement : None
• Suitable for: Everyonest
• Attraction Length: 18 minutes
• Do we recommend? Definitely a high priority attraction you must experience.
• When to Visit : Typically at opening/within the first hour, or later in the day toward park closing.
• Lightning Lane Available: Yes
• Scheduled Refurbishments
• Tip(s) : Visit first thing in the morning at park open. The line gets really long, really fast, and the animals seem to be out more in the morning. The next best time to visit is at sunset for park closing. Crowds level off earlier at Animal Kingdom, wait times may be reduced, and animals can be out feeding.

Description : You board safari vehicles that are driven by guides who really do drive (no tracks) and are very knowledgeable about the animals. As you make your way through the savanna, the guides provide lots of information based on what you see along the ride. Sometimes have to stop to wait for animals to clear the path.

No two rides are the same as the animals are free roaming and on their own schedule. We would recommend experiencing the safari twice in your park day, if possible.

Everything You Need To Know About Kilimanjaro Safaris

You can find Kilimanjaro Safaris in the heart of Africa. Here’s the location on the map.

Download the PDF

How to Ride Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris has a Standby Lane and a Lightning Lane. There is no Single Rider Line.

Like most attractions, standby lines typically are the lowest first thing in the morning and at the end of the evening. The middle of the day will see the longest lines.

Even though it’s not listed as an available attraction for Early Theme Park Entry, sometimes Kilimanjaro Safaris is open during the 30-minute early entry.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Standby Lane wait time jumps quickly after park open and can see sustained wait times well over 60 minutes for most of the park day.

Do I need to use Genie+ at Kilimanjaro Safaris?

Kilimanjaro Safaris is available with Genie+ and we highly recommend using it at this attraction for anyone who has purchased Genie+ or if it’s a must-do.

This is a highly popular ride at Animal Kingdom, given that it is a long ride time and suitable for all ages.

Many park guests make it a top priority of their park day. So unless you do this ride first, right at park open, plan to reserve a Genie+ time for Kilimanjaro Safaris.

If you want to try and experience the Safaris twice in one day, we would recommend using the Standby Lane at park open and then using Genie+ to ride it again later in the day.

Make sure you check out our touring strategies for Animal Kingdom for more Genie+ advice.

Rider Switch/Child Swap

You cannot use  Rider Switch  for Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Rider Switch is Disney’s system allowing guests with small children to take turns riding bigger rides, while another person/people wait with the little one.

There also isn’t Single Rider available here.

What to expect when you ride

The Kilimanjaro Safaris queue is outdoors, with part of it shaded. It paints the scene of an African tour company with its straw, thatched roof.

While there isn’t  an interactive queue , the line is themed to the attraction.

You can learn the African Swahili names to your favorite animals on displays as you move through the line. You can even hear the safari trucks driving by as you walk through.

Ride vehicles

Kilimanjaro Safaris ride vehicles can fit a total of 35 individuals. Each row can seat three to five guests, depending.

There is no seatbelt or safety restraint, but there is a door on the right side of each row that closes for security and safety purposes when you’re on the ride.

Motion Sickness

Kilimanjaro Safaris is far from a thrill ride, but it can get rough at times with the trucks bouncing up and down along the paths and bridges.

Sometimes you might even have to brace yourself, so you don’t slide in your seat.

We have a  guide on motion sickness  that’s filled with information and tips, so feel free to check that out.

Accessibility information

Guests in ECVs or power wheelchairs must transfer to a manual wheelchair. There are wheelchair accessible vehicles with built-in ramps.

Those using an ECV who don’t wish to transfer to a vehicle bench, must transfer to a Disney-provided manual wheelchair.

You will be seated in Row 1 right behind the tour guide. A bench is located directly next to the wheelchair space and additional companions will be directed to sit in the rows behind the wheelchair space.

Those using ECVs or wheelchairs can remain in their mobility devices until they reach the accessible boarding and unloading area, which is not long after the stroller drop-off area.

This area is where ECVS and other mobility devices can be parked. They will be waiting in the same space when guests return from their safari.

Keep in mind that each safari vehicle only holds one occupied wheelchair at a time, so anyone needing this type of access could have an additional wait compared to those who transfer to a vehicle bench.

Handheld captioning , assistive listening, and video captioning is available for guests.

Service animals are also permitted, but with caution.

On the Ride

Spoilers ahead! If you want to go in knowing absolutely nothing about Kilimanjaro Safaris, feel free to skip this section.

After walking through the queue you and your party finally make it to the boarding lanes awaiting your safari tour.

You can’t miss the sound of your safari truck approaching. A warm greeting from your tour guide “Jambo,” which is Swahili for “Hello.”

After boarding your safari truck, your group will take off entering the Harambe Wildlife Reserve.

Be alert and have your cameras ready, because these are live, free roaming animals, so you never know what you will see or how close the animals will get.

No tour is ever the same!

You start off in the forest seeing the Okapi, the closet living relative to the giraffe. You’ll next approach a watering hole where you can catch sights of animals like the saddle billed stork, bongo, kudu, and black rhinoceros.

Heading out of the forest your truck will enter a river where you can spot hippopotamus’. The only way to exit the river is by crossing over an old, shaky bridge.

Under the bridge, down low you’ll spot a crowd of Nile crocodiles. But not to fear, you’re with an expert driver and guide! Your truck makes it over the bridge safe and sound.

Exiting the river your safari tour will enter the savanna marked by a big Baobab tree.

As your truck makes its way down the savanna you will spot many animals like zebras, African wild dogs, giraffes, wildebeest, and cattle. Some animals may cross in front of or come right up to the truck. Be sure to look out past the truck under trees and in the shaded areas to spot animals.

Leaving the savanna your guide will spot a couple of fallen down trees. That means the mighty elephants are near! On the way to find the elephants you pass a family of Mandrill monkeys.

Your truck approaches another old shaky, bridge, worse than the last one. Your tour guide crosses successfully with care.

In search of more elephants you enter the red clay pit. Sure enough you may be able to catch sight of the elephants! Females are usually found with their young, while the male elephants stick more to themselves. If there are new babies on the tour, your guide will be sure to point them out.

Driving through the watering area of the red clay pit, you will see a flock of flamingo. Did you know flamingos start off gray in color? Be sure to listen to the tour guide to hear what makes flamingos pink!

Approaching the mud pit you will spy white rhinoceros. Up in the shade you’ll spot a couple of cheetah, the fastest land mammals on earth.

Next up, the highlight of every tour, and sometimes the hardest animal to see, are the lions up on the rock. Since lions are nocturnal animals and sleep most of the day, your best chance to see them awake are on safaris later in the day near park closing.

Are you ready for more? Your tour is still not over! Next up be sure to look out for warthogs, ostrich eggs, and Bontebok antelopes.

Before your safari comes to an end, you’ll see some super adorable Nigerian Dwarf Goats, who are originally from Nigeria and considered to be of high value because of the high protein milk they provide.

You leave the reserve and head back to the village of Harambe. After the vehicle comes to a complete stop the doors on your right side will open, allowing you and your party to exit.

Keep in mind that each time you ride is different, because you never know what animals you’ll see or how they’ll act. This makes the attraction super unique.

Is Kilimanjaro Safaris kid-friendly?

Overall, Kilimanjaro Safaris is kid-friendly. After all, it doesn’t even have a height requirement. It should be fun for most kids to see the different animals. And, don’t worry, there aren’t any dark or scary moments.

That said, the ride can get rough at times thanks to the paths, bridges, and the safari vehicle itself. This could be either fun or upsetting to little ones. But, for the most part, the ride is kid-friendly.

Be sure to check out our full guide on several other  things that might scare little ones at Disney World .

Strollers are not allowed on the Kilimanjaro Safaris vehicles. You’ll need to park your stroller in the designated stroller parking area at the attraction entrance.

If you forget to park your stroller or want to take it into the line, you can, but know you’ll have to park it mid-way. There is an area with Cast Members waiting, who will take your stroller and park it for you.

Kilimanjaro Safaris first opened in 1998, the same year as Animal Kingdom. Actually, both the attraction and the park opened on April 22, aka Earth Day.

Animal Kingdom is the largest of all Disney World theme parks. It spreads out over 500 acres, which also gives the animals plenty of room to roam and live.

The Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction itself spans 110 acres with the Harambe Wildlife Reserve serving as home to 34 species!

Your guide drives around as they gives facts about the animals you encounter along the way during the 18-minute journey.

When the ride initially opened, there was a poachers storyline and even a rickety bridge that threw some excitement into the mix. But, both of these elements were removed and now there’s more of a focus on the actual animals and the importance of conservation.

Former Imagineer Joe Rohde is responsible and to thank for not only breathing life into Kilimanjaro Safaris, but Animal Kingdom as a whole. Without him, this park wouldn’t be is what is today.

There’s no doubt Kilimanjaro Safaris is a fantastic experience and the closest thing many will ever get to experiencing an African safari.

Other Fun Details

• If you want an even more in depth and VIP tour of the savanna, you can sign up for the 3-hour guided Wild Africa Trek tour , where you will embark on some adventurous activities and see animals even more up close. This tour is priced separately and must be booked in advanced.

• For an additional price, Up Close with Rhinos is a 60-minute tour giving you the chance to go backstage at Animal Kingdom to meet and learn more about white rhinos, with help from a guide.

• Take some time to visit the Gorilla Falls Exploration walking trail, located near the exit of Kilimanjaro Safaris. It runs along parts of the driving tour and gives another look at many of the animals you saw on the drive, along with different ones like gorillas and meerkats!

• Pay attention as you drive by the flamingos for a fun Hidden Mickey.

Other Attractions in Africa

• Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
• Festival of the Lion King
• Wildlife Express Train (takes you to Rafiki’s Planet Watch)

Ultimate Guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris (Animal Kingdom)

If you love animals, you are going to love the Disney Animal Kingdom Safari ride.   Kilimanjaro Safaris magically takes you on what feels like a real African Safari in this amazing experience. 

Kilimanjaro Safaris allows guests to explore the Harambe Wildlife Reserve in an open air vehicle.  Disney’s wildlife reserve is 110 acres with over 30 species of real animals.  You’ll drive through wide-open plains, forests, and wetlands. 

Each ride vehicle has an expert guide, who shares tons of interesting facts about the creatures you are seeing.   The bumpy ride is about 20 minutes long, making it the longest ride in the Disney parks.  

Kilimanjaro Safaris is a very engaging ride as you never know what animals you’ll get to see up close and what they will be doing as you pass by.  

Disney provides salt licks along the path to attract animals to points where you can see them.  You’ll also pass by watering hole areas as well as great views of a lot of animals on the African savanna.  

Kilimanjaro Safaris is the closest thing to a real African safari.  We’ve ridden this ride many MANY times and it’s always different.  

Different cast member tour guides share different bits of information, the animals are always on the move, so sometimes you get a great view of an animal up close, sometimes there’s new baby animals to see, and sometimes you get to see your favorite animal eat lunch, etc.  

Regardless, you can count on getting a unique experience every time you ride!

When Should you Ride Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris?

Kilimanjaro Safaris is the main attraction of the Africa section at Animal Kingdom, so the lines can get long at times.  

The best time to ride, in my opinion is late morning or late afternoon.  

It’s a bit tricky because the safari doesn’t always open right away, so you can’t count on rope dropping this one first thing in the morning.  

You also want to avoid riding it in the heat of the day because many times the animals are hidden because they are wanting to cool off.

The best thing to do is to get in line right before it opens (Which varies day to day) OR ride it around late afternoon when the lines have gotten shorter.  

Many people leave this Disney park early to park hop to another one, which eases up some of those long lines!

Ideally, if you have Lightning Lanes, I would schedule a ride around 10:30 am as the lines are likely long, but the animals are active – you can skip that long line with your lightning lane passes.

If you don’t have that Lightning Lane access – save this ride for late afternoon.

What animals are on the safari ride at Animal Kingdom?

Here’s a list of the animals you will see on Kilimanjaro Safaris.

You’ll see:  

• African Wild Dogs
• Ankole Cattle
• Black Rhino
• Common Eland
• Hippopotamus
• Nigerian Dwarf Goat
• Nile Crocodiles
• Pink-Backed Pelican
• Saddle-Billed Stork
• Scimitar Oryx
• Spotted Hyena
• White Rhinos 

 This list does change from time to time, but in general, you can expect to see a LOT of different animals on this amazing ride.

How bumpy is safari ride at Animal Kingdom?

The ride vehicles for Kilimanjaro Safaris are open-sided safari vehicles.  Your tour guide drives his/her big custom made safari truck over fairly rough terrain.  

The safari driver does their best to avoid potholes, but the path is pretty rough and bumpy.  

Disney advises that guests need to be in good health, no high blood pressure, heart, back or neck problems.  

They also say that expectant mothers should not ride as there can be unexpected jolts on the ride.

In addition, Disney warns that this could cause motion sickness.   For what it’s worth, my son and I are prone to motion sickness and neither one of us have ever had a problem on this ride.  

Has the Animal Kingdom Safari Ride Changed over the years?

Kilimanjaro Safaris has definitely changed over the years.  If you remember riding it many years ago, you might remember a Poacher storyline.  

Over time, Disney dropped that storyline in favor of not scaring child with imaginary poachers and instead, giving you more information about the amazing animals on this ride.

General Information

Theme Park: Disney’s  Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Area of the Park:   Africa

Age Range Appeal:  all ages – Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults

Queue Description:   The standby queue for the Disney Animal Kingdom Safari Ride is fairly simple. It can get very hot as it is outdoors. Lines can get long mid-morning and mid-day.  

Queue Length:   This ride often opens up later in the morning, not always at rope drop.  Lines tend to grow mid-morning to mid afternoon.  Then lines tend to drop as early as 3:30pm.

Ride Height Requirements:   No heigh requirement but kids under age 7 must be with a person age 14 years or older.

Pregnant mothers and those with health conditions are advised not to ride due to the bumpy nature of the ride.  

Scary Factor:   Low – it’s a slow ride, but there are unexpected bumps and jolts as you ride along on the rough terrain.

Official URL:   https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/attractions/animal-kingdom/kilimanjaro-safaris/

Kilimanjaro Safaris Video

More Animal Kingdom Information

Want to learn more about Disney’s Animal Kingdom? Be sure to check out our other articles.

You can find all the best rides at Animal Kingdom here. We outline all the details on the must-do rides and of course, the one ride you should avoid.

Eating gluten free? You can find all the best Gluten Free Dining Options at Animal Kingdom here.

You’ll want to learn all about Avatar Flight of Passage here. This is such an incredible ride in the World of Pandora section of Animal Kingdom.

Be sure to check out our handy list of Disney’s Ride Height Requirements . Find out before you go, which rides your kids are able to ride.

Learn all about the Best Souvenirs at Disney World here. So many cool ideas for a memento of your amazing Disney vacation.

If you are in the thick of starting to plan your trip, be sure to read Best Day of the Week to visit Disney World .

And of course, don’t forget to grab our free printable Disney World Packing List . Everything you need to remember to pack for the perfect Disney vacation!

Be sure to pin the image below to save this Disney Animal Kingdom Safari Ride info for later!

Similar Posts

Prince Charming Regal Carrousel

The Prince Charming Regal Carrousel is just that, an ornate classic carrousel ride at Magic Kingdom. The queue is short and covered and after a…

Best Disney Gifts for Mom – Unique Ideas She’ll Love!

Have a Disney-loving mom in your life?  Here’s 25 amazing Disney Gifts for mom. You’ll find ideas for Disney Mother’s Day gifts, birthday gifts and…

Slinky Dog Dash

Slinky Dog Dash is a fun launched roller-coaster for all ages themed after themed after the Toy Story franchise. You enter a winding queue filled…

Peter Pan’s Flight

Peter Pan’s Flight is a slow dark ride based on the original Peter Pan story. During the couple of minute ride you are taken from…

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

Go to infinity and beyond on Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. This moving “shoot-em-up” is game based on Pixar’s Toy Story franchise. The queue immediately…

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin is a simple carnival style ride where you soar in a circle. The queue for this varies from vary short…

Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris – The Ultimate Guide Updated

Sharing is caring!

Want to know more about the Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris?

One of the most immersive of all the Animal Kingdom rides, the Disney Kilimanjaro Safari takes you on a journey through the African planes.

In Orlando Florida.

This highly unique experience is one of the highlights of any trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It truly is an adventure that you cannot find anywhere else in North America.

Discover what you need to know about Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris so that you and your family can get the most out of this immersive attraction.

Disney Kilimanjaro Safari Guide

The Disney Imagineers have successfully created the Harambe Wildlife Reserve in Animal Kingdom park.

Walt Disney himself always wanted to have live animals incorporated into his theme parks.

Whilst in Disneyland this dream was kind of realized in Jungle Cruise (Walt originally wanted real animals for this attraction), Disney’s Animal Kingdom finally achieved that dream.

The area where your Kilimanjaro Safari Bus will take you is vast.

110 acres of vast.

And it is home to 34 different species of animal including lions, hippos, giraffes, and elephants.

What is the Disney Kilimanjaro Safari Ride Like?

The first experience of any Disney ride is the line area!

The advantage of the Kilimanjaro Safari Ride is that the queue is well-shaded.

There are some things to look at along the way, including some videos about conservation. But mostly the best thing about this line is that it is in the shade!

It can get very very hot in Orlando and it can be a challenge to wait in line at the height of the heat. There are a few spots where you can even sit down on a small wall which gives your feet a bit of a rest!

This is one reason not to ride Kilimanjaro Safari in the heat of the day – the queue will be a lot easier to deal with if it is a bit cooler.

A short way into the line you will have to put your stroller in the parking place.

A Cast Member will be there to guide you to the exact spot.

Then by the time you get back, your stroller will have moved of course!

Photo Credit

The Disney Animal Kingdom Safari ride vehicles are custom-built GMC and Ford trucks.

Lots of guests think that Kilimanjaro Safaris is on a track, but it isn’t. Those safari vehicles are true off-roaders controlled by the Cast Members!

Each ride vehicle holds up to 32 guests in 9 rows each seating up to 4. There is no height requirement for this Animal Kingdom ride.

It is very much for families, but as I discuss below, it is very bumpy.

Take notice of the warnings.

If you have a health condition or are pregnant give Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safaris a miss!

Is there a best place to sit on the Disney Kilimanjaro Safari ride?

There really aren’t any bad seats, but the best is the front and the back row.

However, be aware that the further towards the back you get, the bumpier the ride!

If you have small children they should not be at the edge.

In front of you, there are signs which help you recognize which animals you may see on your safari.

The most popular sitings are those of elephants, giraffes, gazelles, rhinos, crocodiles, hippos, and lions.

The safari guides always make sure that they keep you entertained as well as educated. And they will try their best to point out the sometimes very well camouflaged animals.

If you can be organized enough it is a great idea to take some High Powered Binoculars with you.

I went on the safari ride for years before I actually did this. It made a huge difference to what you can see.

There is usually plenty of time to take photos of the animals. Your Cast Member guide will do their best to point out the best photo ops.

Animal Kingdom Safari Ride Fun Facts

Don’t worry. Of course, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has things well designed so that you are not going to get up close and personal with a lion. Big trenches separate humans from the dangerous animals.

Jurassic Park this is not.

Disney has some great tricks to keep the animals visible and happy.

Ever wonder why the lions are always sitting out on the rocks? Yes, they are mimicking what they do in the wild, but what most people don’t know about the rocks is that they are air-conditioned!

The lions originally came from a much cooler park in Oregon, so they needed a little help cooling down in the hot Florida sun. If it ever gets too cold, the rocks can be heated too!

Disney also knows how to get the animals as close as possible to you. How do they do this? The usual incentive for food and water.

They place food, watering holes, and salt licks close to the vehicle paths.

The emphasis is on safety both for humans and animals.

You might think you can reach out and touch that giraffe but there is a large system of trenches, bridges and fences on all the savannas to keep humans from the animals and to keep the animals from predators.

Many years ago there was a story about poachers with a graphic illustration of the fate of Little Red, a baby elephant. This storyline has not been seen for almost a decade as many considered it too upsetting for a Disney attraction.

Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris Best Time To Ride

What is the best time to ride the Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris? This Animal Kingdom ride is popular. And popular means lines.

The best tactic for the best time to ride Disney Kilimanjaro’s Safari? Arrive early. I know that’s always the advice, but it works.

If you can arrive at the Animal Kingdom at rope drop and then go straight to Kilimanjaro Safaris you will most likely be beating the crowds. Even better is if you have Early Entry at 8 am. You can really get ahead of the crowds.

The attraction is right at the back of the park. If you plan to be there early look at a map of Animal Kingdom so you get your bearings as to where you are going.

There are plenty of signs in the park, but it is always good to have an overall view.

There is another great reason to ride Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safari as early as possible. The animals are much more active in the morning.

You are more likely to see a greater selection of active animals than in the afternoon when it is hotter.

 Kilimanjaro Safaris Wait Time

The Disney Kilimanjaro Safari wait times will vary from anywhere between 10 minutes to 120 minutes, This depends on the time of day as well as whether it is peak season or not.

As we have said, the lowest wait time will be as soon as the park opens.

If you leave it until 11 am you are likely to hit the peak wait times of at least 70 to 90 minutes.

Really try and avoid that time of day as it is likely to be the worst.

If you don’t get to the attraction early in the day, the next best time to ride Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris is usually around 3 pm onwards.

A lot of people head for the attraction earlier in the day and have cleared that area by mid-afternoon.

The wait times for this Animal Kingdom attraction are somewhat better now that Disney’s Animal Kingdom has extended opening hours. It used to only ever be open 9 am until 5 pm.

Now the hours are often extended into the evening so this also gives a chance to experience the safari ride at night.

Kilimanjaro Safaris at Night

Now the hours are often extended into the evening so this also gives a chance to experience the Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris at night.

This is a very different experience from touring during the day.

If possible you should try and ride once in the early morning and then go back late in the evening.

The least busy times will be just before the park closes.

Adapting the experience for nighttime was not an easy task. Disney had to spend more than a year preparing the animals and the environment for the nighttime Kilimanjaro Safaris.

They introduced some new animals, such as the nocturnal hyenas, to be better suited to the nighttime experience.

They also added a huge wall of graphic displays to enhance the Kilimanjaro Safaris at night. This is so that guests can actually have enough light to see the animals.

The graphics cleverly mimic a gradually setting sun over an extended period of time.

This is so that the animals can adjust to the environment and the guests can actually still see the animals which are up and about in the evening.

The Kilimanjaro Safaris at Night is definitely a different experience than during the day. Ideally, you should do both. If you have to choose just one though, I would say go in the morning. You are likely to see more active animals.

Disney Kilimanjaro Safaris For Pregnant Ladies

I visited Disney World many times while pregnant. It’s a very pregnant lady-friendly place!

However, there are some Disney World rides that recommend that if you are pregnant you should not ride.

Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safari Ride very clearly states that pregnant ladies should not ride.

This is going to be very much an individual decision. There are some rides at Disney World where it is very obvious that a pregnant woman should not ride.

You probably aren’t going to want to sign up to ride Space Mountain, Expedition Everest, or Rock N Roller Coaster when you are pregnant.

That’s obvious.

But Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of those Disney World rides where you are thinking shall I or shan’t I?

My personal experience is that when I was pregnant with my youngest son I did go on the Kilimanjaro Safari Ride. After about 10 seconds I realized that for me, it was the wrong decision. Kilimanjaro Safari is bumpy!

I remember just wanting it to end almost as soon as it started.

I am fortunate and have experienced the Animal Kingdom Safari Ride many times. However, at that time I really wished I hadn’t. It’s fine normally to speed through the African planes in your safari vehicle over all the bumps, but when pregnant I just wanted to be somewhere else!

Will you be experiencing Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safaris on your next visit to the Animal Kingdom?

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

Disney Animal Kingdom Rides - EverythingMouse Guide To Disney

Saturday 17th of August 2019

[…] […]

• Attractions
• Where to Stay

ATTRACTION EXPERIENCE:

Bookmark with:.

• StumbleUpon

What are these?

• Animal Kingdom
• Disney's Boardwalk
• Disney's Hollywood Studios
• Downtown Disney
• Magic Kingdom
• Camp Minnie-Mickey
• Dinoland USA
• Discovery Island
• Rafiki's Planet Watch
• Africa Kids Discovery Club
• Harambe School
• Kilimanjaro Safaris
• Pangani Forest Exploration Trail
• Harambe Fruit Market
• Harambe Popcorn
• Kusafiri Coffee Shop
• Tamu Tamu Refreshments
• Tusker House Restaurant and Bakery
• Duka La Filimu
• Mombasa Marketplace
• Ziwani Traders
• Africa Character Greet
• Advertising
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Acknowledgments
• Windsor Hills, Kissimmee
• Windsor Hills Premium, Kissimmee
• Emerald Island, Orlando

Accommodations

Theme parks, disney cruise line – what you need to know, cruise line ships, recent walt disney world, recent disneyland, all reviews, recent reviews, allears style, newsletter home, kilimanjaro safaris africa animal kingdom, {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org","@type":"breadcrumblist","itemlistelement":[{"@type":"listitem","position":1,"item":{"@id":"https:\/\/allears.net\/attraction\/","name":"attractions"}},{"@type":"listitem","position":2,"item":{"@id":"https:\/\/allears.net\/attraction\/search\/walt-disney-world\/all\/all\/all\/","name":"walt disney world"}},{"@type":"listitem","position":3,"item":{"@id":"https:\/\/allears.net\/attraction\/search\/animal-kingdom\/all\/all\/all\/","name":"disney\\'s animal kingdom"}},{"@type":"listitem","position":4,"item":{"@id":"https:\/\/allears.net\/attraction\/search\/africa\/all\/all\/all\/","name":"africa"}},{"@type":"listitem","position":5,"item":{"@id":"https:\/\/allears.net\/animal-kingdom\/kilimanjaro-safaris-africa-animal-kingdom\/","name":"kilimanjaro safaris"}}]} attractions > walt disney world > disney's animal kingdom > africa > kilimanjaro safaris, recommended by, ride length, motion level, individual attraction selection, ride seating photos & advice, kilimanjaro safaris highlights:.

• Disney Genie+ Attraction
• Animal Kingdom’s flagship attraction — no height requirement!
• 20+ minute safari adventure with real elephants, lions, giraffes, and more!

Introduction | Attraction | Ride Logistics  | Shopping | Interesting Facts

Introduction.

Feel transported halfway around the world to a 100-acre African savanna as you board Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safaris trucks. This 20+ minute attraction takes you on a tour of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve as you spot real African animals such as elephants, lions, giraffes, rhinos, gazelle, crocodiles, and more!

Kilimanjaro Safaris is located in the back of Africa, past the Dawa bar and Mombasa Marketplace.

Walking through the queue area you find yourself in the Harambe Reserve .

Soon you arrive at the boarding platform, enter your truck , and head into the animal reserve. Off you go down the bumpy dirt trail and into the reserve!

Your driver will point out the various wildlife for you. Not all the animals are visible all the time. There is a game spotting guide above your heads in the truck that can help you identify the animals you see.

The first section of the reserve is called the Little Ituri Forest.  Bongos are often hiding around the first bend – look quickly or you might miss these shy creatures. Passing the local watering hole you might see the Black Rhino . On the right, the rare Okapi   which is an animal who appears to be wearing zebra pants, but he’s actually related to the giraffe. 

As you continue, you’ll pass through a watering hole where Hippos may be at the base of cascading waterfalls, and you’ll cross a creaky bridge over a group of Nile Crocodiles . 

The Vehicle emerges from thick vegetation into the vast savannah grasslands. In this area you might see Giraffes , Sable Antelope, Thompson’s Gazelles, Ankole-Watusi Cattle, Wildebeest, and more!  To the left, you’ll pass a rocky area where Hyenas or African Wild Dogs may be spotted. The land is very different here and is accented by termite mounds up to 20 feet high.

On the left is a huge rock formation where a Mandrill Baboon family lives (they can be harder to see!).  The ancient baobab trees can be found in this area.

Around the next bend are the Elephants . Greater Flamingoes inhabit a tiny island that’s in the form of a “Hidden Mickey”.

More watering holes, you might see the white rhinos wallowing in the mud. There are other hoofed animals: the kudu , scimitar-horned oryx and the long-horned eland along with sharp-eyed cheetahs up there among the rocks. 

Coming around the next bend, your attention will quickly be drawn to the high rock formation on your left, where the King and Queen of the Savanaah reside…the  Lions!  Lions do spend the majority of their day sleeping; so don’t expect to see much movement.

Past the lion, you’ll see  warthog burrows (and possibly their residents!) to your left. Keep an eye out for the Ostriches as well! 

This is when your safari comes to an end, as the vehicle rejoins the main roads and the Park Ranger Station comes into view.

To take a ride on Kilimanjaro Safaris, check out this AllEars TV Video:

RIDE LOGISTICS

Lightning Lane  access for  Kilimanjaro Safaris  is available  with the purchase of Genie+ . If you choose not to purchase Genie+, going first thing in the morning will likely provide you with a lower wait time. 

Time:   The safari lasts 20-30 minutes. The drivers are not allowed to go off the track, so you could experience short delays as animals cross the safari trucks’ path.

Warnings:  For safety, you should be in good health and free from high blood pressure, heart, back or neck problems, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure. Expectant mothers should not ride.

The ride vehicle is 8 feet off the ground enabling you to wind your way through the grasslands and waterways of the savanna. 32 passengers fit in this all-terrain truck with a driver for your guide. There is some padding on the seat bottoms and tops .

Taller or larger guests may find the seating cramped with confined leg room.

If you want a less bumpy ride, ask to sit in the front of the truck. The ride feels bumpiest in the back. 

Accessibility:  Must transfer to wheelchair. Guests in wheelchairs should follow the signs to head to the special boarding area. You will need to either transfer from your wheelchair to a seat, or transfer to a standard wheelchair.

Video Captioning, Assistive Listening , and Language Translation Devices are available.

Due to the nature of the experience, those with service animals should check with a cast member at the attraction for boarding information.

The drivers are trained to spot the animals along the Safari and point them out to you. Photography, however, is a challenge — if possible the driver will briefly stop for your photo op.

If you have questions about the animals, ASK. Though there is an assigned script, every safari really is different depending on where the animals are and who your driver is.

In general, the best times to ride are morning or at sunset, when it’s cooler. The animals are often out in the rain as well.

When Animal Kingdom is open after dark you can journey through the African savanna amid the “magically extended orange glow” of the setting sun. This is best seen at dusk. Once the sun sets, the savanna is dark, making it difficult to see animals.

REMAIN SEATED AT ALL TIMES!   Because the drivers are not allowed to stop on the ride path, the truck is always moving (the trucks are governed so the maximum speed is only 10 mph, though it feels faster). Animals can move in front of the vehicle at any time causing the driver to slam on the brakes and causing you to go flying. There are many mirrors on the trucks for the drivers, so just because you can’t see an animal doesn’t mean the driver can’t.

If you want to take good pictures sit on the end of the rows, you get better shots. You can also get better shots if you sit in the back row, where you can carefully turn around for photos.

The Mombasa Marketplace is located just before the main entrance of Kilimanjaro Safaris. Here you’ll find unique African goods, as well as Animal Kingdom and The Lion King specific merchandise.

INTERESTING FACTS

You won’t see any visible walls or fences here. Disney has done a remarkable job of hiding all the barriers that keep you and the animals safe.

When building the savanna, landscapers asked that the plants and trees be in place for two years before moving in the animals.

The details of the savanna were carefully crafted to give the illusion that it had “always been there”, right down to the ruts in the road that make the truck jolt and bump!

The hippos are actually the same ones you will sometimes see on the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail. The hippo barn resides in between Pangani Forest Exploration Trail and the savanna river.

The original version of Kilimanjaro Safaris included a heavy-handed anti-poaching storyline, but it was slowly faded out and by 2012 was gone completely. 

Here are some animals you may see on Kilimanjaro Safaris:

AFRICAN FOREST Black Rhinoceros Bongo Egyptian Goose Helmeted Guineafowl Northern Pintail Nyala Okapi Pink-backed Pelican Saddle-billed Stork Yellow-backed Duiker Yellow-billed Stork

SAVANNAH WEST Hyenas Wild Painted Dogs Grant’s Zebra Greater Kudu Greater Flamingo Impala Mandrill Mhorr’s Gazelle Nile Crocodile Nile Hippopotamus Reticulated Giraffe Sable Antelope White-bearded Wildebeest

SAVANNAH EAST African Elephant African Lion Cheetah Eland Ostrich Scimitar-horned Oryx Warthog White Rhinoceros

How long is Kilimanjaro Safaris?

The ride takes 20 Minutes Find all the attractions by their length

Will Kilimanjaro Safaris make me motion sick?

The motion level is Low. Jeep ride through the animal savannas. You will be jostled on the ride. Near the end, there are some sharp quick turns. Details on handling motion sensitivity on your visit

Is Individual Attraction Selection available for Kilimanjaro Safaris?

No Kilimanjaro Safaris is not eligible for Individual Attraction Selection Find Individual Attraction Selection attractions

Is Kilimanjaro Safaris included in Genie+?

Yes Kilimanjaro Safaris is included in Genie+ Find more Genie+ attractions using our search

Follow us on Social!

Trending now.

We found your perfect Hollywood Studios tee.

There's a NEW roller coaster coming to Epic Universe in Universal Orlando, and we've got...

From time to time, rides and attractions are taken out of production temporarily for various...

This Disney Loungefly is a little late to the party...bur nevertheless you can snag it...

Let's talk about some Criminally Underrated EPCOT hotels!

A Hollywood Studios attraction is closing for refurbishment in one week!

These Disney World restaurants needs some TLC.

We're about to get MORE of a popular Disney World parade!

The dates for EPCOT's Food & Wine Festival are HERE!

It's alright to admit when things just aren't that great at Disney World, especially when...

No one will tell you this about your first day at Disney World, but WE...

If you thought we were done with spring break crowds at Disney World... prepare yourself.

Dark Universe seems like a prime candidate for Halloween Horror Nights, but will it happen?

Here are all the attraction closures you need to be aware of in Disney World...

With the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival right around the corner, make sure you...

Is it possible to have the PERFECT morning in Magic Kingdom in only FOUR hours??...

We have a big Smellephants on Parade update in Magic Kingdom!

Catch up on the newest Disney menu updates all in one place!

I write about Disney World nearly every single day, and my coworkers are there EVERY...

A rundown of some of the most beloved extinct attractions in the long history of...

Shop the Disney Store | AllEars® Merchandise | Shop Amazon | Press Room | Contact Us

Read more About us or Advertise with us . We respect your right to privacy. Please take a moment to review our privacy policy and terms of use .

Copyright ©1996-2024 AllEarsNet, LLC, All Rights Reserved. AllEars.Net, AllEars® Newsletter and any other properties owned by AllEarsNet, LLC are not affiliated with, authorized or endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with, The Walt Disney Company, Disney Enterprises, Inc., or any of their affiliates. All Disney artwork, copyrights, trademarks, service marks, and trade names are proprietary to Disney Enterprises, Inc. or, its subsidiary, affiliated and related companies. For official Disney information, visit http://www.disneyworld.com

Five Things to Know About Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris is an open-air safari through 110 acres called the Harambe Wildlife Preserve. Think of your trip as more of a photo safari during which you have an opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife roaming “freely” through forests, grasslands, and savannas.

The wonderful (and sometimes frustrating) aspect of Kilimanjaro Safaris is that no two journeys are alike. You may see a lot of animals, or sometimes only a few! Here are the five things to know before you head for the savannah.

(If you’re in a hurry and just want details like where it is and how long the ride lasts, click here to jump straight to the Nuts and Bolts section.)

1. It Really Looks Like a Safari

What I have learned from the animal world, and what anyone will learn who studies it, is a renewed sense of kinship with the earth and all its inhabitants. – Walt Disney

Long before the Animal Kingdom existed, Walt wanted to create a ride featuring live animals at Disneyland. He originally proposed the idea while Disneyland’s Jungle Cruise was being designed. The impracticality of using animals soon became apparent and was shelved in favor of using animatronics.

Later, Disney World would offer something Disneyland couldn’t. Walt said, “Here in Florida, we have something special we never enjoyed at Disneyland… the blessing of size. There’s enough land here to hold all the ideas and plans we can possibly imagine.” So, in a sense, Walt’s dream of a ride featuring live animals came true when Kilimanjaro Safaris opened with Animal Kingdom on April 22, 1998.

Animal Kingdom, headed by lead designer Joe Rohde, was revolutionary in that this park was alive – but it didn’t feel like a zoo. Incredible care was taken to ensure it looked like an actual African reserve. Equally important was that the animals be afforded an environment in which they could thrive. This attention to detail and respect for the animals that you see on Kilimanjaro Safaris is a big part of what makes this park different.

An overhead sign in the queue puts it best: “These lands preserve a portion of Africa’s vanishing wildlife. Please show respect to all animals you meet. Your care will ensure their survival. Asante Sana – Thank You.”

2. Looks are Deceiving

“You can’t just let nature run wild.” – Walt Disney

All the animals appear to be roaming freely. Which is true, to a degree. The Imagineers have strategically placed camouflaged barriers built into the savanna, woodland, and rocky hills. This is done to prevent predators like lions, or potentially dangerous animals like hippos, from wandering where they shouldn’t. (It keeps guests safe, too!)

But don’t worry – your ride experience will still be more than a tame drive through the woods. You’ll see a wide variety of landscapes and different terrains, all designed as homes for African animals. Since animal behavior is unpredictable, you never know which animals you’ll see on your safari. This makes it a different experience each time you take the journey!

For the list-makers, some of the 34 species roaming about include giraffes, hippos, wildebeests, elephants, antelope, impalas, gazelles, crocodiles, lions, rhinos, and cheetahs! Your guide will point out which animals are visible as you drive through and provide facts about them. Like the Jungle Cruise, this ride is different every time as your guide’s information is unique to your trip.

To maximize the number of species you may be able to spot on your safari, the Imagineers have taken a few steps to encourage them to appear. Water holes, forage areas, and salt licks are placed in spots that “tempt” animals to be in sight near your path when your safari truck passes along.

Bonus fact: the rocks in the preserve can provide the animals with air conditioning during extreme heat. They can also be heated when it gets colder than it should be for the animals.

3. It’s Real, Which Means It’s Not Perfect

“I don’t want the public to see the world they live in while they’re in the park. I want them to feel they’re in another world.” – Walt Disney

Kilimanjaro Safaris is intended to be as realistic as possible to an actual safari. The entire experience is designed to help you feel as if you’re on the real thing. Truth be told, it accomplishes this goal very nicely.

However, as a consequence of the devotion to making the experience as real as possible, the roads are bumpy! As you travel through the preserve, you can be guaranteed that you’ll hit some potholes and bumps in the path that will cause your safari truck to bounce and lurch around.

Bonus fact: The ride vehicles for Kilimanjaro Safaris are custom-built trucks. They aren’t attached to a track or predetermined route of any sort. Your guide is actually driving the truck over the rough terrain. They do their best to miss any really bad dips and divots in the road, but there’s only so much room to maneuver on the paths.

As you attempt to take photos, it’s important for you to know that the vehicle isn’t guaranteed to stop at any given location. Drivers will try to accommodate guests and stop the truck when animals are visible from the path, but be prepared to click your shutter without having time to frame the perfect shot. I have a whole roll of film (yeah, it was a while ago) of blurry images as we tried our best to take pictures of wildebeests or lions to no avail.

For the best possible pictures, sit toward the outside of the seats (and Cast Members will probably recommend that little ones be seated on the inside). Even though both sides offer views of the animals, the left side is considered the best by some.

4. The Queue is a Sharp Contrast

“Whenever I go on a ride, I’m always thinking of what’s wrong with the thing and how it can be improved.” – Walt Disney

I’m totally guessing that Walt would have suggestions to improve the queue area for Kilimanjaro Safaris. To be honest, there’s not a lot to see as you wait in what is a really long queue. At one point, you pass through the “booking office.” It made me think about the plethora of details in the Jungle Cruise queue area “office.” I wished that something with similar interest and fun had been done here at the very least.

In the final stretch of your line, overhead screens show clips about the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. Frankly, there’s not a lot else to see as you wait. And because it’s an open-air queue, it’s not all that comfortable on a hot, humid Florida day despite the overhead fans.

One improvement has been made to the attraction, at least in my opinion. The earliest script for the safari included a plotline about poachers. The experience could be a little intense – even a bit scary – at times. I remember in particular one part that involved crossing a rickety bridge that appeared to almost collapse while we were on it. Honestly, I didn’t mind when either of these parts of the story were removed.

5. The Nuts and Bolts

Kilimanjaro Safaris is located at the rear of the Africa section in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. The ride lasts 20 minutes, plus or minus. Bonus fact: It’s the longest ride in the parks that’s not a movie or show.

The safari trucks are open-air vehicles, providing you with the widest possible range of vision. Each can hold 35 guests with 3-5 guests in a row. As you might expect, the seats aren’t easy chairs and consist of a slightly padded bench with a back.

To board, you have to take a small step up into the vehicle. There are no height restrictions for Kilimanjaro Safaris. Guests in an ECV must transfer to a standard wheelchair.

There are some significant health advisories for Kilimanjaro Safaris. Disney advises that for safety, you should be in good health and free from high blood pressure, heart, back, or neck problems, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure. Expectant mothers should not ride. The reason for all of these is the previously discussed bumpy terrain.

Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of Animal Kingdom’s busiest attractions, along with Expedition Everest and the two Pandora attractions. Waits diminish in the late afternoon, sometimes as early as 3:30 p.m. The ride does operate when it’s raining, if possible, but it may close if the weather takes a turn for the worse.

To make the safari accessible to as many as possible, the following aids are available from Guest Services with a refundable deposit: Handheld Captioning , Video Captioning , Assistive Listening Devices, and Audio Description Devices .

Lastly, Lightning Lane via Genie+ is available.

The Bottom Line

Walt said, “You can design and create, and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it takes people to make the dream a reality.”

We think the Imagineers totally succeeded here. Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World author, Bob Sehlinger, agrees, saying: “Having traveled in Kenya and Tanzania, I can tell you that Disney has done an amazing job of replicating the sub-Saharan east-African landscape. As on a real African safari, what animals you see, and how many, is pretty much a matter of luck. We’ve experienced Kilimanjaro Safaris more than 100 times and had a different experience on each trip.”

How many times have you taken the safari? Which animals were you most excited to see? Let us know in the comments below. Asante!

You May Also Like...

One of the most ambitious and beloved attractions at Animal Kingdom is Kilimanjaro Safaris. Chances are when you board the safari…

In honor of the upcoming 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World, which opened on October 1, 1971, we are highlighting the…

All the Walt Disney World resort hotels have pools for use by the entire family. However, there are a few resorts…

Pizza is a serious business; and if the Boardwalk Pizza Window has taught us anything, it's that not all pizzas are…

• Getting to Know the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
• Photos: Reimagined Mickey’s Toontown Opens at Disneyland

Bob Jacobs lives in Wisconsin where he retired as Editorial Director for a well-known catalog company. He and his wife Cristie have four children, seven grandchildren and a cocker spaniel named Penny the Dog. They’ve visited Walt Disney World regularly since 1992.

2 thoughts on “ Five Things to Know About Kilimanjaro Safaris ”

This will be my frist time on the safari at Disney world I’m so excited about the ride and I can’t wait to ride it and I love the African aminals because I’m part African

If you enjoy the Safari, I would also recommend doing the Wild Africa Trek to anyone that has a chance to do so! This experience was fantastic and goes into places that the Safari doesn’t and is a much more “up close and personal” tour of the area.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

9 Awesome Facts & Secrets About Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of our all time favourite attractions at Walt Disney World. We love it so much we rated it 5/5 in our Animal Kingdom attractions guide . With that in mind, here are 9 awesome facts about one of Disney’ most beloved and ambitious rides.

#1 Walt Disney Inspired Kilimanjaro Safaris

While it might seem incredibly unlikely, Walt Disney himself actually played a part in the creation of Kilimanjaro Safaris.

The first plans for the Jungle Cruise actually included real animals but it was quickly discovered that they would be far too unpredictable for the kind of attraction Disney wanted to deliver to park guests.

Fast forward to when Disney’s Imagineers were planning Animal Kingdom and Walt’s original dream became a reality.

#2 That’s One Big Attraction

Kilimanjaro Safaris is the biggest Disney park attraction in the world. Don’t believe us? You could fit the entire Magic Kingdom park in Kilimanjaro Safaris quite comfortably!

Kilimanjaro Safaris is 110 acres whereas the entire Magic Kingdom park comes in at 107 acres. Disney were not messing about with animal welfare when it came to designing this attraction.

The attraction itself makes up 20% of the entire Animal Kingdom park.

#3 The Lion Feels the Breeze Tonight

Though they aren’t always completely visible, the Lions in Kilimanjaro Safaris would be even less visible if it wasn’t for a bit of clever engineering from Disney.

The rocks in which the Lions hang around on for much of the day are actually air conditioned! The Lions originally came from a much cooler zoo in Oregon so Disney had to install air-con into the rock formation. Better yet, if it gets cold they can heat up so the lions can be comfortable all year round!

#4 Every Animal Needs to Rest

At the end of every day, animals throughout the attraction are called in to rest in their enclosures for the night. Each animal has been specially trained to respond to a different sound.

A few examples of this include crocodiles responding to a metal bar being hit underwater, elephants come in to the beat of a drum, giraffes for a cowbell and a duck call is used for the Thompson’s Gazelle.

#5 Free Roaming Animals

While every animal has set space to walk around in (you wouldn’t want the Lions in with the gazelles!), within their space they are free to walk wherever they wish.

That means that they have right of way, even to the Safari trucks that form part of the attraction. If an animal chooses to walk in front of a truck (has happened to us many times) then be thankful as it means you will be able to get up close with those cameras!

Spaces are controlled through a combination of chains in the ground (to stop animals crossing into another area), walls and even deep pits in the case of the lions.

#6 Fake Plastic Baobab Trees

Okay, not plastic but we wanted to sneak in a Radiohead reference… The famous Baobab trees that are scattered around Kilimanjaro Safaris are actually all fake and made of concrete. The real tree has a thick trunk and is very good at storing water during periods of drought.

There was a single real Baobab tree in Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Harambe Village but sadly it died during a cold winter a few years ago.

#7 Animals Are Kept Close to Park Guests

Though it would be almost impossible to see on the first few experiences of Kilimanjaro Safaris, Disney actually does a lot to make sure the animals wander as close to guests as possible.

In addition to the air-conditioned rocks we already covered, Disney tactically place hay, grass, salt licks and drinking water close to the roads in which the safari trucks travel. Some of these placements are obvious when you know to keep an eye out but others are really well hidden, how many can you spot on your next safari?

#8 Real Safari Trucks

A lot of guests simply assume that the cast members aboard the great big safari trucks are simply onboard for guest safety and that the attraction is all on a track. This is completely false.

Cast Members go through rigorous training to land the role on Kilimanjaro Safaris and all of the custom built GMC and Ford trucks are free roaming. It is essential that this is the case as on many occasions cast members have had to swerve off course to go round an animal that has decided to settle on the road.

Each night the safari trucks are driven off the road and into a lot where they can be assessed and serviced ready for the next day.

#9 Timing is Everything

Though it is fair to say animals can be seen no matter what time of day Kilimanjaro Safaris is ridden, there are times of day where the animals are most active.

Early in the mornings, just after Disney’s Animal Kingdom has opened, can be a great time to experience the safari due to the cooler temperatures. In addition to this, the animals are all grazing on their breakfasts!

Disney introduced nighttime safaris in 2016 and this also offers a great time to see some of the animals who prefer to be active during the evening. These include Warthog, Hippo, Hyena and African Wild Dog.

Of course every safari is different and we can never guarantee that you will see great views of the animals on every trip.

Want more on Disney’s Animal Kingdom? Be sure to check out the rest of our Animal Kingdom guides .

Ryan has been attending theme parks since as long as he can remember and his first proper memory comes from when he was just three years old sitting in Main Street USA drinking a Nesquik milkshake from a carton while the piano was being played outside Casey’s Corner.

© 2024. ThemeParkTrader.com

• How to buy discount tickets for Disney World
• The five best travel agencies for Disney World
• Disney World Pocket Planner – Free PDF
• Our Go-To Disney World Planning Resources
• How early can you make Disney World dining reservations?
• Easy WDW Dining Reservations
• Hardest to get WDW Dining Reservations
• Guide 2 Disney World Dining Reservations
• The Ultimate Disney World Packing Guide for 2023
• Toddler Packing Guide
• Items To Beat the Heat
• The Best Shoes for WDW
• The Best Weeks to Visit Disney World
• The Best Days to Visit Magic Kingdom
• The Best Days to Visit EPCOT
• The Best Days to Visit Hollywood Studios
• The Best Days to Visit Animal Kingdom
• The Best Magic Kingdom Rides
• Magic Kingdom Motion Sickness Guide
• Magic Kingdom Toddler Guide
• Magic Kingdom Dining Guide
• Magic Kingdom Table Service Restaurants Ranked
• Magic Kingdom Menus
• Magic Kingdom Tips
• Magic Kingdom Lightning Lane Guide
• Tron Virtual Queue Guide
• The Best EPCOT Rides and Attractions
• EPCOT Toddler Guide
• EPCOT Motion Sickness Guide
• EPCOT Dining Guide
• Epcot Restaurants and Menus
• 2023 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Guide
• 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival Guide
• 2023 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Guide
• 2023 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Guide
• Guide 2 EPCOT Festivals
• Epcot Lightning Lane Guide
• The Best Hollywood Studios Rides & Attractions
• Hollywood Studios Motion Sickness Guide
• Hollywood Studios Toddler Guide
• Hollywood Studios Dining Guide – Best Restaurants, Snacks, and Desserts
• Hollywood Studios Restaurants and Menus
• Hollywood Studios Lightning Lane Guide
• Hollywood Studios Tips
• The Best Animal Kingdom Rides & Attractions
• Animal Kingdom Toddler Guide
• Animal Kindgom Motion Sickness Guide
• Animal Kingdom Restaurants and Menus
• Animal Kingdom Tips & Tricks
• Animal Kingdom Lightning Lane Guide
• 52 Magic Kingdom Tips for 2024
• 53 EPCOT Tips for 2024
• 35 Hollywood Studios Tips for 2024
• 28 Animal Kingdom Tips & Tricks for 2024
• The 175 Best Disney World Tips for 2024
• Disney World Dining Tips & Tricks
• Time Saving Tips at Disney World
• Tips for Taking Kids to Disney World
• The Guide 2 Disney Genie
• Genie+ and Lightning Lane, Explained
• How to Maximize Genie+ Lightning Lane Reservations
• Free Vacation Planning
• Kilimanjaro Safaris
• Animal Kingdom
• Animal Kingdom Rides & Attractions

Attraction Stats

Type: Guided Tram Tour

Length: 20 minutes

Audience: All Ages

Open since April 22, 1998

One of the Best Attractions in Disney World

Travel on trucks through a Disney-made safari to get a close look at monkeys, elephants, lions, antelopes, and more animals you might only find on an African safari. Each safari ride is led by a guide, who will tell you about each of the different animals that may be out at that time. This ride is unique every time you ride it because different animals are visible each time. Don’t be too late as this ride typically closes at dark. This attraction is amazing, and it is like no other at Walt Disney World. No trip to the Animal Kingdom is complete without a visit to the Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Some of the animals residing at Kilimanjaro Safaris are:

• and many more!

Tips and Trivia

• Kilimanjaro Safaris closes around dark. Our experience has been that the last tours go out around 5 PM or so. Be sure to not be too late for this amazing Animal Kingdom attraction. Grab a FastPass to ensure you’ll get on this ride.
• While you don’t want to be too late, some of the best tours happen later in the day. This is when most of the animals are awake and more lively than early morning safaris.
• Bring your camera! You’ll probably be able to get a few amazing shots of the animals, especially if you have a good zoom lens.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Images

Be Sure to Also Check Out

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

The Trolley Car Cafe

runDisney at Disney World

Disney world sites and resources.

Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade

Prince Charming Regal Carrousel

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Festival of the Lion King

Golden Oak Outpost

Restaurant Marrakesh

Privacy preference center, privacy preferences.

Join Our Mailing List

• Date Calculator
• Annual Events
• Vacation Planning
• Vacation Packages
• Money Saving Tips
• Disney Genie
• Magic Kingdom
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom
• Blizzard Beach
• Typhoon Lagoon
• Disney Springs
• Restaurants
• Dining Packages
• Dining Tips
• Resort Guides
• Resort Tips
• Planning Tips
• Ship Guides
• Things to Do
• Cruise destinations
• Dining Options
• Disneyland Park
• Disney California Adventure
• Downtown Disney
• Universal Studios
• Islands of Adventure
• Volcano Bay
• Theme Parks

Kilimanjaro Safaris Guide

On Kilimanjaro Safaris, guests will embark on an African safari in one of the most ambitious attractions ever developed by Walt Disney Imagineering.

Ride Information   Restrictions   Accessibility   Location   Fun Facts   Top 5 Tips

Ride Information

Opening Day: April 22, 1998

Type of Ride: African safari

Age Recommendation: All ages

Duration of Ride: About 20 minutes

Typical Queue Time: Long; often peaks at over one hour

Single Rider Line: No

Chicken Exit Available: Yes

Baby Swap Available: No

Type of Vehicle: Safari truck

Type of Restraint: None

Attraction Open During Early Theme Park Entry: Yes. See our Early Theme Park Entry page for more information.

Ride Photo Available For Purchase: No

Ride Restrictions

Height Requirements: None

Flash Photography or Video Allowed: Yes

Safety, Accessibility, and Guest Policies

Accessibility: 

• Guests must transfer from wheelchairs
• Video Captioning
• Assistive Listening
• Handheld captioning
• Service animals permitted with caution

Guest Policies: Children under age 7 years must be accompanied by a person age 14 years or older.

Shopping: Near Kilimanjaro Safaris in the Animal Kingdom’s Africa section, guests can purchase apparel, plush dolls, and collectible ostrich eggs at “Ziwani Traders”; and African wines, art, crafts, and instruments at “Mombasa Marketplace.”

Dining/Refreshment: Dining options abound near Kilimanjaro Safaris. Guests wanting a counter service lunch or dinner can enjoy chicken skewers, vegetable stacks, gyros, fried sausages, and ribs at Harambe Market . Those preferring a sit-down meal should make ADRs for a buffet breakfast, lunch, or dinner at Tusker House . At Tusker House guests can choose between a variety of American and African dishes served amidst entertainment from Donald Duck.

Restroom: Find facilities convenient to Kilimanjaro Safaris at Mombasa Marketplace.

Smoking Location: Smoking is permitted in designated smoking areas only. Disney parks are smoke-free.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Fun Facts

Did you know.

• Guests can encounter more than 34 African animal species on Kilimanjaro Safaris, including antelopes, baboons, cheetahs, crocodiles, elephants, flamingos, gazelles, giraffes, hippos, hyenas, impalas, lions, ostriches, rhinos, warthogs, wild dogs, and zebras. Each safari vehicle is equipped with pictorial guides of all the animals you might encounter during your wildlife adventure.
• The fictitious African village, Harambe, where Kilimanjaro Safaris is located is a homage to real African villages that sit adjacent to vast preserves. Harambe is Swahili for “working together.”
• Kilimanjaro Safaris’ savannah encompasses 110 acres, rendering this single attraction larger than the entire Magic Kingdom park, which only occupies 105 acres.
• Kilimanjaro Safaris’ savannah is called “Harambe Wildlife Reserve.”
• As Kilimanjaro Safaris is located in a theme park, precautionary boundaries, including berms, moats, fences, wires, and chains, are overtly or covertly implanted throughout the savannah to keep the animals in their respective habitats.
• Devices such as air-conditioned rocks, cool breezes, salt licks, cooling or warming waters, and food help guide the animals toward the vehicle routes.
• Guests experience Kilimanjaro Safaris in 10-ton, open-sided GMC trucks, with a camouflage exterior, and seats up to 32 passengers. Cast Members actually drive each vehicle and provide educational commentary throughout the safari.
• The attraction replaces its plants daily to account for the animals’ consumption.
• Guests can experience two related tours, Wild Africa Trek and “Starlight Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge,” for an additional cost. The latter experience begins at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge , not the Animal Kingdom Park.

• Kilimanjaro Safaris’ 1998 debut marked the realization of Walt Disney’s idea to utilize live animals in an adventure attraction. Disneyland ’s Jungle Cruise originally intended to fill this role in the late 1950s. Animatronic animals replaced the live animals in the version of Jungle Cruise that guests enjoy today.
• Kilimanjaro Safaris’ development entailed much research. In 1990, Imagineer Joe Rhode ventured to Kenya and Tanzania to view animals and experience authentic East African safari tours.
• Kilimanjaro Safaris toned down and then eliminated an overt poaching plotline. First, during the Cast Member previews in 1998, complaints arose over the grotesque depiction of a fake elephant named “Big Red,” who was killed by poachers. Imagineers immediately wrote Big Red out of the attraction. The attraction debuted with a tamer plotline, where poachers kidnap an animatronic baby elephant called “Little Red” and, subsequently, get apprehended. Then, in 2007, this version was altered to limit the dialogue related to poaching between the safari driver and a naturalist named Ms. Jobson. In 2012, the entire poacher storyline, including the related props, were eliminated from the attraction. A zebra habitat replaced the space that the props originally took up. In early 2013 the addax antelope replaced the zebra in this space to allow for better viewing.
• Save for a trial during the 1998 holiday season, Kilimanjaro Safaris ended its tours at sunset, regardless of park closing time, until 2016 because of lighting and animal sleeping issues. Beginning in the summer of 2016, with the debut of nighttime entertainment at the Animal Kingdom, Kilimanjaro Safaris will commence extended hours.

Hidden Mickeys:

Top 5 Tips for Kilimanjaro Safaris

• Consider experiencing Kilimanjaro Safaris multiple times as the live animals render each journey different.
• Guests wanting to view the Lions should ride either in the morning or closer to park close when the sun is not as intense.
• Take photos of the savannah and the animals.
• Hang onto your belongings. Anything dropped from the vehicle cannot be retrieved.
• Following Kilimanjaro Safaris, guests can view more African animals, such as gorillas, hippos, naked mole rats, and birds, by walking the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail .

Walt Disney World Resort Free Quote

Start planning your Walt Disney World Resort Vacation with The Magic For Less Travel . Use the form below to request a free no-obligation quote, and one of their counselors will get in touch with you to begin planning. The Mouse For Less recommends the Walt Disney World vacation planning services provided by our sponsor, The Magic For Less Travel. Their expert planning advice will help you make the most of your vacation time and money. The Magic For Less Travel is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and provides service free of charge.

Privacy Overview

How Long is the Safari in Animal Kingdom?

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is renowned for its immersive and authentic safari experience, known as the Kilimanjaro Safaris. This remarkable attraction takes visitors on a thrilling journey through the African savannah, offering unique wildlife encounters and stunning scenery. But how long does this safari adventure in Animal Kingdom last? Let’s dive into the details to give you a comprehensive understanding of what to expect.

The safari in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, known as the Kilimanjaro Safaris, typically lasts between 18 and 22 minutes. However, the exact duration can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as animal activity on the safari route. In some cases, the safari can extend up to 30-40 minutes.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Duration

The Kilimanjaro Safaris, known as the crown jewel of Animal Kingdom, typically lasts between 18 and 22 minutes. However, the exact duration can fluctuate depending on a variety of factors. For instance, if an animal decides to take a leisurely stroll on the safari route, it can extend the safari duration up to 30-40 minutes. Despite these occasional delays, the safari guides are expertly trained to navigate the open-air vehicles through the terrain, ensuring a smooth and engaging journey throughout.

Other Safari Tours in Animal Kingdom

Apart from Kilimanjaro Safaris, Animal Kingdom offers other safari experiences with varying durations:

• Wild Africa Trek : This is a privately guided VIP tour that lasts approximately 3 hours. It provides an in-depth exploration of the park’s wildlife and habitats.
• Backstage Safari Tour : This behind-the-scenes tour takes you through the regular Safari ride and then moves on to the backstage area to see barns, animals, and caretakers. The duration of this tour may vary depending on the experience.

What to Expect During the Safari Tour

The main attractions during the Kilimanjaro Safaris include a guided tour of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, where you can encounter real African animals such as elephants, lions, giraffes, rhinos, gazelles, crocodiles, and more. The safari takes you through various landscapes and environments, providing a diverse and immersive experience.

The Best Time for Your Safari Adventure

The best time to experience the Safari tour for maximum enjoyment is either early in the morning or at sundown. During these times, certain animals are more active, and there is enough sunlight for you to comfortably see them. However, there isn’t a “bad” time to enjoy the ride, as the animals are accustomed to people and will often “show off” for the tour.

Making the Most of Your Safari Tour

To maximize your safari experience, consider the following tips:

• Dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather.
• Hydrate and apply sunscreen, especially during peak sun hours.
• Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the experience.
• Ask questions and engage with the safari guides.
• Be patient and enjoy the journey, every safari ride offers a unique experience.

Preparing for Your Safari Tour

The Kilimanjaro Safari tour does not require any special preparations. The ride is suitable for all ages and does not have a height requirement. The safari vehicles can hold up to 36 passengers, with each row seating up to 5 guests. There are no seating restraints. However, the ride may be bumpy due to the simulated rutted mud roads and bridges, so if you have any health concerns, consult with a medical professional before participating.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, the safari in Animal Kingdom is an adventure that lasts approximately 18-22 minutes, but the memories you make will last a lifetime. With a variety of experiences and interactions with wildlife, the safari tour offers a unique opportunity to explore and understand the natural world. So, pack your camera, put on your sun hat, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the wilderness of Animal Kingdom.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the kilimanjaro safaris.

The Kilimanjaro Safaris is included in the general admission ticket to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. There is no additional charge for this attraction.

Is the Kilimanjaro Safaris wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Kilimanjaro Safaris is wheelchair accessible. Disney’s Animal Kingdom provides a range of services for guests with mobility disabilities.

Are there any age restrictions for the Kilimanjaro Safaris?

There is no age restriction for the Kilimanjaro Safaris. It is suitable for all ages.

What happens during bad weather or rain?

The Kilimanjaro Safaris typically operates in light to moderate rain. However, in case of severe weather conditions, the safari may be closed temporarily for the safety of guests and animals.

Can I feed the animals during the safari?

No, guests are not allowed to feed the animals during the safari. This is to ensure the health and safety of the animals.

How many people can go on the safari at once?

The safari vehicles can hold up to 36 passengers at once.

Can I take pictures during the Safari?

Yes, guests are encouraged to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the experience. However, flash photography is not allowed as it can startle the animals.

Related Posts

Which Disney All-Star Resort Is Best?

How To Convince Your Parents To Go to Disney World

What to Eat at Epcot

Where to Meet Buzz Lightyear at Disney World

When Will Disney Fastpass Return?

Where Is Princess Tiana at Disney World?

About the author, leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Leah is an expert on Disney World and Universal Studios, and she loves sharing her tips and tricks for visiting the parks with others. She knows both parks' ins and outs and can help you make the most of your visit.

The Least Popular Attractions in Each Disney Park

How Long Does It Take to Get from Pop Century to Magic Kingdom?

Where Is Be Our Guest in Magic Kingdom?

What Are Disney Vacation Club Points?

What Was the First Roller Coaster at Disney World?

What Places Are in Epcot?

Kilimanjaro Safaris – The African Savannah at Animal Kingdom

Located in Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Kilimanjaro Safaris is a safari in an African Savanna with dozens of animals to see and meet.

On this post

On this guided tour through the African savannah, you'll see a variety of free-living animals spread across the vast expanse.

The attraction opened in 1998 and has been running ever since.

There are more than 800km² filled with animal and plant nature throughout the land.

In this way, it works like a photographic safari, in which you have contact, albeit from afar, with the animals that live there.

The place, called the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, is home to more than 34 species.

There are 110 acres of land and breathtaking landscapes.

Recently, the adventure could also be done at night, after sunset, when you can see the behavior of the animals without being in the morning light. Isn't it amazing?

The Kilimanjaro Safaris tour

The vehicle you are going to ride will have an experienced guide, who will talk a little about the wildlife, as well as show you his knowledge of the animals that inhabit there.

The car is open on the sides, which makes it possible to have a very wide view of the animals.

More or less 30 people will be able to go at a time in each vehicle that is a kind of bus.

The journey lasts, on average, from 18 to 22 minutes, the difference is that vehicles may need to stop for an animal to cross the path and the driver has complete control over the car.

Even so, the whole adventure is made in a slow way, so that it is possible to take many pictures and enchant with the landscape.

That is, there is no need to be afraid, the animals are free, but there is no risk.

It is truly impressive how Disney has managed to reflect the animal life of the African continent inside a theme park.

That's why the park is so well-liked by visitors.

Some animals are very common to be seen on Kilimanjaro Safaris, such as: lions, giraffes, zebras, flamingos, wild boars, hippos, ostriches, rhinos, cheetahs, elephants, crocodiles and many others.

This attraction is highly recommended for children who like animals.

One of the most sought after animals during the tour is, without a doubt, the lion.

A big recommendation, if possible, make the tour have the highest chances of seeing most of the animals awake.

In addition, it is interesting that you arrive early and do the safari as soon as the park opens, as it is a popular attraction and always has moderate to long lines.

Of course, if that is your priority, as the park has more popular attractions than this one, such as the Flight of Passage Avatar and the Yeti roller coaster .

So don't leave this experience to the last minute.

Plan well to get the most out of it.

Recommendations for Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris is for all ages with no minimum height requirement.

There is all necessary security, as well as accessibility for visitors.

The opening hours of the safari are from 8am to 7pm, when the night tour takes place.

To go to the attraction, just arrive at the park and go to the Africa area, which is on the left of the site, in the background.

Check out the Animal Kingdom map to locate.

Depending on the season, queues can exceed the wait of more than an hour.

That is, so that you can go to other attractions in the park – which are many! -, select a day that is not a public holiday and/or weekend as these are usually the busiest days.

In fact, Kilimanjaro Safaris is still one of the main attractions in the park, which is why so many people want to experience the adventure.

However, you can use the Genie+ , the Disney line-cutter, in this attraction.

With it you guarantee shorter times in the queue.

Animals Found On Kilimanjaro Safari

The amount and variety of Animals seen in this Safari is really impressive.

Naturally, it is not possible to easily see all the animals at all times, after all they are living beings, so they eat and sleep at different times of the day.

That said, as soon as you get into the attraction vehicle, you can see all the animals that are part of the ride on a “strip” that runs from the top of your vehicle. In the photo below you can see it well:

But since everything here on the blog is made to help you, dear travelers, here's a brief list of some of the animals you can find there!

• White rhino
• Black rhino
• Hipoppotamus

The driver of your car is your guide and he will always talk about the animals that are in sight during your journey.

Of course, it is necessary to know how to speak English to understand the information given by the driver.

Is it worth doing the Kilimanjaro Safari?

Quite directly, yes!

It's one of the attractions we love to do at Animal Kingdom.

We know that many people have issues with animals in captivity as if it were a zoo, however, all Disney animals receive extreme care and many of them are rescue animals that cannot be released into the wild.

There's even a really cool series on Disney+ that shows how the vets and caregivers of these animals interact with them, her name is " Animal Kingdom Disney Magic “.

It is an incredible attraction especially for those who love animals and for children.

Every time we do Kilimanjaro Safaris we see super happy and excited children throughout the journey seeing some animals they had never seen in person.

Of course, it's not every day that you have the opportunity to see animals so close up, the Giraffes for example sometimes stop in the middle of the way and you'll have to wait for them to leave to be able to pass and the car passes very close to them!

Technical information

• Location:   Animal Kingdom? Africa
• Minimum Height:   There is not
• Attraction duration:   18 minutes
• Recommended for:   All ages
• Do you accept Genie+?:  Yes

We have already made a one-day itinerary at Animal Kingdom and we are sure it will help you when putting together your travel plan.

So, how about checking it out? Click on here to see our tips and have a more than fantastic experience.

Finally, be sure to enjoy the attraction and have fun in the park!

I hope again that this post helped you in your research for your trip to Disney or Orlando.

As a way to help us keep the blog going, we just ask you to help us by sharing this publication and subscribing to our social networks as Facebook , Instagram or Youtube channel. In addition to helping us, we are sure that there you will find hundreds of useful posts for your trip!

About the Author Carlos Braga:

Unparalleled experience in Orlando and Disney! As a former Universal Orlando team member and a passionate devotee of the magic of Disney, I have become a true Orlando travel expert. Before becoming a renowned travel consultant dedicated to Orlando, I had already made hundreds of visits to the parks, cultivating my knowledge and passion mainly over the last 7 years as a consultant and specialist in Disney travel.

My journey into this enchanted world began in 1995, when I took my first trip to Orlando. Since then, my love for Disney and the city has only grown. In 2023, we celebrate the sixth anniversary of 'Partiu Disney Parks', consolidating our role as one of the main sources of information about Disney and Orlando Parks.

During these six years of existence, we have continued to offer quality and updated content, being the reliable source for all those looking for essential information to plan their trip to Disney and Orlando. With my vast experience and passion for this magical destination, I am here to guide you every step of the way towards the most incredible Orlando and Disney experience!

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures in Florida

Publix Orlando – Incredible Supermarket

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Get in touch if you want to sponsor us

We work to bring the best travel content to Orlando and about Disney and Universal Parks to our readers.

© 2024 PartiuDisneyParks

Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom (With Lots of Photos)

In this article, we visit Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This article includes photos of the safari including the wildlife you’ll encounter.

“Come see nature in its wildlife on the Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.” That sounds like one of the quotes you might find in the Harambe area of the park.

Unfortunately, most of us haven’t had a chance to take a “real life” safari. For many, Kilimanjaro Safaris is the closest opportunity we’ll ever have to enjoy such an experience.

This attraction represents everything I love about Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Imagineers took an exotic real-life experience, scaled it down, and made it available for people like you and I to experience when we visit the park.

I’m willing to bet this popular attraction has inspired more than a few guests to bite the bullet and plan a trip to Africa. There’s truly nothing like it. Well, not in Florida anyway.

Here are a few quick reference details for the safari ride at Animal Kingdom.

Kilimanjaro Safaris Review

Kilimanjaro Safaris is located in the Africa section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. After you cross the bridge between Discovery Island and Africa, you’ll continue straight toward the back of the park.

Shortly after, you’ll run into the entrance for stand-by passengers. On this afternoon, the wait for Safaris was only 20 minutes.

Anseparate Lightning Lane entrance sits to the right. Those who purchase Genie+ can elect to use one of their experiences here.

A few photography tips are posted in the queue:

• It is not possible to stop the vehicle for photographs.
• Have your camera ready, animals might appear at any moment.
• Please be considerate and do not block the view of others whilst snapping photographs.

Additionally, there are a few other tips your safari driver will likely share.

• For best results, have your camera set to a sports mode setting or comparable.
• If you have a zoom lens, consider using it for long-range shots.m.

Here is a look at the loading area for Kilimanjaro Safaris.

At least 34 species of animals call the Harambe Wildlife Reserve home. When you board the safari vehicle and take your seat, you might notice a sign above.

This sign will help identify some of the animals you might encounter. Below we see a safari vehicle entering the reserve ahead of us.

After entering the reserve, one of the first animals you’ll usually see is an Okapi. An Okapi is a beautiful animal that appears to resemble a zebra at first glance.

However, the Okapi is part of the giraffe family. For a closer look at an Okapi, make sure to visit Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail after you finish the safari or at some point in your day.

Gorilla Fall’s entrance is on the immediate right when you exit the vehicle at the end of Kilimajaro Safaris. It’s a gorgeous trail full of animal encounters and unique scenery. Obviously, gorillas are involved.

After passing the Okapi, the Bongo is one of the first animals you will likely see on Kilimanjaro Safaris. Here is a look at one that was close to our vehicle.

Black Rhinoceros are usually out toward the beginning of the attraction.

These rhinoceros are on the endangered species list. Unfortunately, they are hunted and poached for their horns.

The most distinguishable difference between the black and the white rhino is their hooked lips. After passing the rhinoceros, you’ll enter into the waters of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. Hopefully, you’ll get to see a bloat, which is a group of hippos.

Additionally, you might see a few vultures in this area. They are probably sunbathing if you see them like this with their wings spread out. That helps keep their feathers healthy.

However, don’t get too distracted with the vultures. There might be a hippopatamus doing a little sunbathing too.

From time to time, baby animals are born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to see several.

Below is a picture of a baby hippo named Augustus. He was born a few years back and when old enough he was moved to another zoo.

Right past the hippo area, there’s an area on the left-hand side where you can look down and see Nile crocodiles. They are pretty large, and it is rare to see them moving.

Next, you’ll pass a Baobob tree and the driver will provide a spiel about how it grows upside down. While this is happening, you’ll come out into a large, open savanna.

Here you will find a variety of animals grazing the plains, including giraffes. Often the views are stunning.

Below is the Springbok, my favorite animal on the safari! These little guys are adorable, but don’t let their genteel looks deceive you.

Springboks can reach speeds up to 55 miles per hour. Not only that, they do this thing called pronking.

I’ve only seen them in action once on the safari, and it was amazing. Everyone, including our driver, was blown away.

Kilimanjaro Safaris is home to so many different animals.

Make sure to look all around. Some animals are easy to see, while others are hiding in plain sight.

Check out the massive horns on these Ankole cattle. Fortunately, they aren’t as heavy as they look. Per the safari driver, their similar to honey combs.

When you reach the savanaa, one of the first things you’ll see in an enclosure on the left-hand side. Sometimes hyenas are out in the area.

However, most of the time we see African Painted Dogs. They are usually napping in their den.

Occasionally, you might see a few awake. But from my experience, those times are few and far between.

As you curve your way around the savanna, you’ll see various animals coexisting. When a good number of animals are present, these are some of the best views you’ll see.

Lately, there have been quite a few zebra.

At Kilimanjaro Safaris, the giraffes are Masai giraffes. Several babies were born over the past few months. Did you know that they are up and walking within minutes?

If you would like to see Reticulated Giraffes, you might visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. They have both Masai and Reticulated Giraffes on the resort’s savannas.

Related: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Review

Giraffes are known for taking care of each other. It is not uncommon to see them form a group. These groups are called towers.

Here is one of the babies looking out onto the savanna.

Sometimes, they walk right up to your vehicle.

If you don’t see any on the main portion of the savanna, don’t worry. Often, they are all grouped together in this area ahead on the left.

After passing the main giraffe area, you will likely see a lone male elephant.

Male elephants tend to hang out alone, separately from the rest of the herd.

Across the way, you might catch a glimpse of the Mandrills at play. They are on the left-hand side and can be challenging to spot. For example, there are two in the picture below.

Unfortunately, on the safari’s I’ve been on lately, the drivers rarely mention them. Meanwhile, I’m breaking my neck to see if they’re out so I can yell, “Hey, is that a Mandrill?”

Nobody puts the Mandrills in a corner.

Up ahead, you’ll catch up with the rest of the elephant herd.

Usually, there are 4-5 elephants around the water. Below, you can see Stella, the youngest of the herd.

Having the opportunity to visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom so often has been a special blessing in my life. I know so many of the babies and have watched them begin to grow up over the past few years.

One of the things that’s not always mentioned on the safari ride is that most of the animals have formal names. I understand how it would be tough to keep them straight. But knowing a few of them and being able to recognize them on the safari feels kind of surreal sometimes.

As you pass the elephants, you will see a watering hole of sorts for the flamingoes. Look closely and you might notice the island is a hidden Mickey.

From time to time, you might see a few newborn flamingoes at the watering hole. You can tell which ones they are because they are covered in grey feathers. When I took these photos, these babies were less than a week old.

After passing the Mickey-shaped island, there are usually some rhinoceros roaming.

One day, a pair of them walked alonside side our vehicle. They were so close, it felt like I could have reached out and touched them.

But of course, that would be very dangerous, and they are so large I couldn’t imagine!

Sometimes when it’s been raining, you might see them wallowing in the mud. Seriously who doesn’t enjoy a little time at the spa?

Next, you’ll come across a large fenced area in the trees. This is where the cheetah’s are located. They are, in my opinion, the most difficult animal to see on Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Usually, the cheetahs are lying around in the shade. So look for a pile of spotted fur.

From time to time, you might see one walking around. This would be a good opportunity to use that zoom lens. So far this is the best photo I’ve taken of a cheetah.

After the cheetahs, you’ll approach the lions den, where you’ll get to see–lions. Unfortunately, they’ll probably be sleeping. It’s what they do.

Sometimes you might see a lioness perched high on her rock overlooking the kingdom.

But most of the time, you will see them sleeping. Lions are nocturnal animals. So your best bet for seeing them active is to take a safari later in the day.

Often in the evening, they begin to make a unique noise. So if you have the opportunity and the safari is open later, I’d ride it once during the day and then again before dark.

Here’s the one time I took my zoom lens. I know it’s worth it, but it’s so heavy.

After you pass the lions, there are a few more small encounters. You might see a family of warthogs or more grazing animals. Often, you’ll see rhinoceros and zebra in the area.

A couple of ostriches are usually out and about.

Like this one.

At the very end of Kilimanjaro Safaris, you might see one of the newer animals, Nigerian Dwarf Goats.

Okay, I use the words “usually” and “might” a lot in this article. But the truth is these particular animals are usually in these areas. However, don’t expect to see every one of them on one go around.

For example, I’ve passed the lions den many times without seeing any lions at all. Most of the photos used in this article were take over hundreds of rides.

Here are a few commonly asked questions about this attraction.

How long is Kilimanjaro Safaris?

Disney’s website notes that a safari ride is approximately 18 minutes. That timing is a pretty accurate average with a few exceptions.

Those exceptions are the activity of the wild animals on your safari. For instance, you will stop and wait if an animal walks out in the road.

There have been times I’ve been on a safari that lasted as long as 30 minutes due to animals blocking the road. This is their habitat, and we are only visitors. So the safari drivers will wait on the animals to naturally move out of the way.

What is the best time to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris? 

I’m not too fond of this question because I know the popular answer is early in the morning or later in the evening when it cools off a bit. So yes, animals might typically be more active at these times.

My answer, though, is anytime! These animals are not getting paid to put on a show. They aren’t slacking off in the heat of the day. Every single safari experience is unique and different.

The saying “No two safaris are alike!” is true.

Additionally, one of my favorite times to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris is during a light rain shower. Waits drop and some of the animals are a little more active than normal.

Should we ride Kilimanjaro Safaris at night? 

When and if Kilimanjaro Safaris is available in the evening, I would definitely take advantage of it. As mentioned above, the evening is one of the best times to see the lions active.

However, I would always ride the safari at least once during the daytime. Then ride it a second time in the evening.

You aren’t going to see near as much the darker it gets. However, there is staging with the lighting in areas to help. It’s a completely different and unique experience.

Should you use Lightning Lane to ride Kilimanjaros Safaris?

Yes and no! It depends on what time you plan to ride the safari and how crowded the park is on the day of your visit.

If you’re there during a high crowd time, you’ll definitely want to take advantage of Genie+ and use Lightning Lane for Kilimanjaro Safaris.

However, if you don’t purchase the Genie+ upgrade, I recommend riding the safari as early as possible. Then get in line again later in the day when wait times tend to drop.

When it rains, the wait times for Kilimanjaro Safaris drop significantly. However, during inclement weather, the attraction and queue close.

Additional Animal Experiences at Kilimanjaro Safaris

In addition to Kilimanjaro Safaris there are a few other animal experiences related to the safari. These options are all an extra-cost.

• Caring For Giants provides a more up-close experiences with the elephants. Disney has more details for this tour here on their site.
• Up Close with Rhinos is a similar experience, only with rhinos.
• If you want to go all out and spend a couple of hours on safari, you might elect to book the Wild Africa Trek here .

Whatever you decide, I’m sure you will have an excellent day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Have fun on Kilimanjaro Safaris!

For more planning articles, try the list of attractions at Animal Kingdom . Some of our favorites include:

• Na’vi River Journey in Pandora
• Expedition Everest Roller-Coaster
• Adventurer’s Outpost (Meet Disney Pals)
• Finding Nemo Musical at Animal Kingdom

Additionally, if you’re planning a stay at the Walt Disney World Resort, you might enjoy browsing our Disney World Resort Reviews . For resorts near the Animal Kingdom, try these:

• Disney’s Kidani Village Review
• Coronado Springs Resort Review
• Gran Destino Tower Review
• Disney’s All-Star Sports Review

Off-property options nearby include:

• Orange Lake Resort Review (Kissimmee)
• Fairfield Inn and Suites at Flamingo Crossings
• Residence Inn by Marriott Flamingo Crossings

In the comments:

Have you ridden Kilimanjaro Safaris before? What animal do you hope to see? Share your thoughts about this attraction below in the comments.

Hi, I'm Amber the owner of Resorts Gal . We have stayed at every single Disney Resort Hotel. Our philosophy? We believe you can have an incredible time at the resorts without ever setting foot in a theme park. We live near the parks and visit weekly and would love for you to follow along.

How is social distancing being handled on the vehicles?

Hi, One row per group and there are plastic dividers hanging between each open air row.

Excellent article too.✌❤😷

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.