Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Villas share the ambience of their neighboring park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Guests at this deluxe resort can watch grazing wildlife on 44+ acres of African savanna from their balconies.

AMBIENCE AT DISNEY'S ANIMAL KINGDOM LODGE

Your trek is rewarded as soon as you step into the lobbies of the two Lodge buildings, Jambo House and Kidani Village, which offer dramatic views of the animal reserves and “kopje” (rock outcrops) beyond. Sunlight pours in through high windows, painting the lobby’s thatched ceiling and carved wooden decorations in a warm, intimate glow. African artwork greets you at every turn. Designed by the architect behind Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, the hotel shares its sister resort’s rustic appeal, but adds a welcome warmth and intimacy. Then, of course, there are the animals, which add a sense of delight unique to this resort.

LAYOUT & ROOMS AT DISNEY'S ANIMAL KINGDOM LODGE

Two horseshoe-shaped buildings, inspired by African Kraal (corral) villages, give most rooms a view of the private wildlife reserve. Rooms feature hand-carved furniture, gauze hangings at the head of the beds, and Kente-inspired fabrics. Standard rooms (344 sq. ft.) have two queen beds; one king bed and a daybed; or one queen bed and bunk beds. See page 43 for more details on the deluxe villas here. All rooms have a balcony, ceiling fan, table and chairs, mini refrigerator, coffeemaker, armoire with TV and drawers, double sinks, in-room safe, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, voice mail, and newspaper delivery.

DINING AT DISNEY'S ANIMAL KINGDOM LODGE RESORT

An upscale restaurant, Jiko, is open for guests who want an elegantly inventive dinner. Boma, which means “place of refuge,” offers an exciting, African-flavored dining adventure with all-you-care-to-eat buffets at breakfast and dinner. The Mara is a quick-service cafe open all day—typical menu items include a croissant sandwich ($6.49), a breakfast platter ($10.49), a kid’s breakfast ($4.99), African stew ($8.49), chicken Caesar salad ($9.69), and pepperoni flatbread ($8.99). Rapid Fill mugs ($17.99) can be purchased at The Mara. Sanaa is a full-service restaurant over at Kidani Village serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Room service is also available. The table-service restaurants are reviewed on page 253.