Unlocking Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is by far, one of the most unique resorts we have ever visited. The lush landscape, the beautiful hand- carved furnishings, and warm lighting all bring an immediate sense of calmness (yes, even for Bruce lol).
The resort showcases the wonder and beautiful scenery of Africa which is felt from the moment of arrival. Disney Imagineers actually visited more than 20 African lodges for inspiration and research when designing the resort!
The 46-acre savana around the resort where animals roam freely is of course, another highlight of the resort. There is something so magical that happens when you catch a glimpse of a giraffe or other animal casually roaming through the savanna…
No attention to detail was missed when creating this resort. The Art of the Earth Landscape design actually began -two years prior to the opening. The environment is designed to simulate the landscape of the African continent. Behind the lodge is the signature tree, — Yellow Flame Tree — the canopy tree most recognized as the one on the African plain.
The Lobby
The rich woods, the low lighting and the interesting artwork is so inviting it is like taking a deep relaxing breath.
The Savannah
Features 30 species of African wildlife, including zebras, giraffes and flamingos. We especially love how the resort helps you identify each species with a Wildlife Field Guide.
Authentic Art
The authentic art displays throughout the resort and live art demonstrations transport you to Africa. African artisans demonstrating wood carving is absolutely mesmerizing. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge features approximately 380 museum-quality pieces of authentic art which are featured in public areas throughout the resort, with more than 4,000 handcrafted works in the guestrooms.
ZaWadi MarketPlace:
This 5,300-square-foot marketplace tops our list for best resort shops which features the best and most unique merchandise
The Restaurants
Sanaa:(located in the resort’s Kidani Village, a part of Disney Vacation Club).
Is one of our top picks for the best places to dine in Walt Disney World. This restaurant has it all… ambiance, delicious food (Naan Bread service is legendary) oh and that savanna view…. breathtaking.
Boma-Flavors of Africa: Boma in Swahili is “an open, natural space that provides a safe and sheltered place in the bush.”
designed as an African “marketplace” restaurant featuring an exhibit kitchen with a wood-burning grill and rotisserie.
Jiko: Which is the resort’s fine signature dining and interior Disney inspired by Disney’s “The Lion King”.
Lastly, at the end of the show, we discuss a few of the pros and cons of the resort. That said, it was tough to come up with cons as this resort truly exceeds expectations.
Cons:
- The resort is very large
- Far from the parks (other than Animal Kingdom) which adds to overall travel time.
Pros:
- Rich culture throughout
- Great atmosphere
- Opportunity to learn about different animals
- Excellent food
- Luxurious amenities (deluxe category resort)
- Great lobby (one of our favorites to visit)
- Multiple pools, with great landscape.
Thanks For Listening
Hope you enjoyed this episode!
We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too. If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
Email us your question or suggestions for future episodes:Info@unlockingthemagic.com
Also, come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That’s it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.