TIPS FOR DISNEY'S ANIMAL KINGDOM LODGE

Disney Vacation Club has 134 studio and one-bedroom villas on the fifth and sixth floors of the original building (Jambo House), and Kidani Village has 324 studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas, plus a full-service restaurant, savannas, pool, water play area, and a separate lobby area. Note that it is a 10-minute walk between the buildings, or you can take a bus (but it may take longer).

The Lodge has 44+ acres of savanna, which is distinct from the theme park, and is home to 36 species of mammals and 26 species of birds—more than 330 animals in all. Guests can see zebras, antelopes, giraffes, gazelle, wildebeests, ostriches, cranes, vultures, and storks. Animals may come within 15–30 feet from you, day or night. Each savanna has a few animal species that are unique to it. Each savanna closes daily for cleaning and animal care, but at least 2–3 savannas are always open. Best viewing times are typically early to mid-morning, and at dusk (ask the cultural representatives on hand about night-vision goggles so you can see the animals in the dark).

NOTES FOR DISNEY'S ANIMAL KINGDOM LODGE

African storytelling is held nightly around the firepit or in Sunset Overlook. “Safari guides” are also on hand to educate guests.

Tour the resort’s African art collection on a free-to-anyone self-guided tour or a daily guided tour in the afternoons. Inquire at the front desk.

Four separate savannas (each about 11 acres) can be viewed 24 hours a day. If your room doesn’t have a view of the savanna, watch the animals from the kopje (the large observation area that extends into the savanna), the Sunset Overlook (a delightful room in the Jambo House lobby), the overlook near the Uzima pool, the alcoves along Zebra Trail and Kudu Trail (visit the second floor for outdoor platforms with rocking chairs and binoculars), and the viewing area near Sanaa.

Check-in is 3:00/4:00 pm. Check-out is 11:00 am. No late check-outs.

RATINGS FOR DISNEY'S ANIMAL KINGDOM LODGE

Ratings are explained on page 28.