From the moment you step into Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and catch your first glimpse of the Tree of Life, you’re surrounded by animals – from hidden habitats along the lush Oasis trails to macaws soaring overhead. And this summer, we’re sharing our favorite tips to help you encounter these animals and spot them throughout your day.
With over 250 species of animals calling Disney’s Animal Kingdom home, you’re sure to encounter a variety of animals around every corner! Kilimanjaro Safaris alone features nearly 30 species of animals including hippos, zebras, giraffes (including our newest baby Ivy), rhinos, African elephants, lions, and more.
See Animals as You Explore the Trails
If you prefer to explore on foot, on Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, guests can see meerkats, invertebrates, a variety of African birds, and, of course, gorillas.
Over on Maharajah Jungle Trek guests can see animals like the Komodo dragon, flying foxes, Sumatran tigers (like young Bakso), and a variety of birds native to Asia. Around the Tree of Life, keep your eyes peeled for otters, flamingos, and fan-favorite Bruce, the paroon shark catfish.
With so many animals to spot, this Disney Parks Blog Summer Safari Guide offers tips to help you make the most out of your visit just in time for Cool KIDS’ SUMMER! Our Animal Care cast members are sharing their favorite tips for animal encounters – and how to spot some of the park’s most incredible animals throughout your day.
Cast Member Tip:
- Want to learn more about the animals you see? Just ask! Cast members are often nearby and happy to share insights about animal care and behavior – look for them along the trails, at Conservation Station, and at Wilderness Explorer locations.
Catch Animal Feedings and Experts in Action
One of the best ways to make your visit unforgettable is by catching our Animal Care experts in action. Throughout the day, you can watch feedings and training sessions and get a closer look at how we care for the animals.
- Flamingo feedings take place at 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. across from Island Mercantile
- Cotton-top tamarin training happens at 10 a.m. across from Creature Comforts
- Galápagos tortoise training takes place at 12:30 p.m. behind the Tree of Life on the path across from Creature Comforts
Get Up Close with Winged Encounters
And if you’re looking for a true “wow” moment, don’t miss Winged Encounters – The Kingdom Takes Flight in front of the Tree of Life. You’ll see macaws glide and swoop right over Discovery Island, an awe-inspiring experience that brings the beauty of nature to life.
Winged Encounters Takes Place at:
- 8:15 a.m.
- 9:15 a.m.
- 10:15 a.m.
- 11:15 a.m.
- 12:15 p.m.
Be sure to check the My Disney Experience app or your times guide for the latest showtimes for these experiences.
Say G’Day to Jumping Junction
Take a trip and say hello to our newest animals (and play with Bluey, too!) Hop aboard the Wildlife Express Train to Conservation Station and visit Jumping Junction, where you can spot animals you might find in Australia, like wallabies and kangaroos – even a few baby joeys!
Guests can go on a guided walk-through experience with a Disney’s Animals, Sciences and Environment (ASE) cast member and hear unique information about these native Australian animals from ASE experts. To join, visit the entrance of Jumping Junction.
While you’re there, you can laugh, dance, and play some of your favorite games – like Keepy Uppy – with Bluey and her little sister Bingo at Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station!
Keep Your Eyes Peeled for Hidden Favorites
Some animals can be a bit harder to find – but searching for them is part of the adventure!
Keep an eye out for Bruce, a paroon shark catfish, who swims near the Tree of Life along the Discovery Island Trails. Or see if you can spot Carly, a Reeve’s muntjac, tucked into the greenery along the Oasis trails.
Cast Member Tip:
- Taking the trail on the right side of the Oasis, see if you can spot her hiding in the brush on the left-hand side!
Look Out for More Animals at Animal Kingdom
Just like us, animals have different routines throughout the day, so you may notice their behavior change depending on when you visit. On Kilimanjaro Safaris, no two journeys are exactly the same, so keep your camera ready the entire time – you never know what you’ll see next.
Be sure to check the My Disney Experience app for trail hours, as they may differ from park hours. And if you don’t spot an animal right away, look closely – many like to rest in shaded areas or blend into their surroundings.
Explore the Park as a Wilderness Explorer
As Russell from Up says, “The wilderness must be explored!” You can join the adventure as Wilderness Explorers, a free, interactive program for all ages where you can complete activities, learn about animals and conservation, and collect badges around the park.
Pick up your handbook near the bridge between the Oasis and Discovery Island, then continue your journey meeting with Troop Leaders in Africa, Asia, Pandora – The World of Avatar, and Conservation Station.
Explore Your Next Trip to Disney World
As you’re planning your wild summer adventure, don’t forget there are several ways for families to save on a Walt Disney World vacation this summer, including free dining plans for kids and savings on Disney Resorts Collection hotels.
Head to DisneyWorld.com/Offers to see all the offers currently available this summer.
