Staying at a Disney Resorts Collection Hotel can immerse you in the magic a number of different ways. Depending on the tier of resort you choose, there are varying levels of amenities. The specific resorts within those tiers and their locations can also provide additional benefits. One of my personal favorite resorts to stay at in Disney World is Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Today, I’m going to explain just one of the many reasons why this resort is a must-see.
Back in January, the MouseHouseNews.net team reviewed this Disney resort. As a refresher, Animal Kingdom Lodge is a deluxe level resort located in the Animal Kingdom resort area of Disney World. Featuring stunning architecture, one of the largest collections of African art in the United States, multiple scrumptious dining options and, best of all, stunning savanna views complete with live animals, this resort takes theming to a whole new level!
View a Savanna from Your Resort Room
Perhaps you have seen the commercials advertising “waking up to a giraffe outside your window”. While the animals don’t actually get quite that close to guests (for the safety of both animals and guests), it is true that certain rooms at this resort overlook one of four savannas and have excellent views of the animal inhabitants. A widely known “secret” at this point is that you don’t even have to book a Savanna View room-type in order to see animals right outside your window. Many Resort View rooms offer partially-obstructed savanna views. This means there may be a pillar or part of a building in your line of sight. However, these rooms still have great views of a savanna without the giant price tag.
Visit the Savanna Overlooks
Even if you’re not staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge, you can visit one of the public savanna overlook areas. Disney states that the resort’s savannas are home to over 200 birds and hoofed animals! Each of the savannas has a different combination of animals, so depending on which overlook you visit, you may see a different species each time. If you want to identify the animals or learn more information, Disney provides a scannable QR code to access a Wildlife Spotting Guide. During select times of day, there will also be Cast Members stationed near the overlooks. Definitely stop by to say hello and ask questions. They are an unparalleled source of knowledge!
Other Viewing Areas
In addition to the savanna overlooks, there are numerous alcoves throughout the resort buildings that offer views of the savannas. These cozy spots also have chairs in which you can relax while taking in the scenery. Some areas are completely outdoors while others are covered. You can comfortably watch the animals even if the weather is less than ideal.
Take a Starlight Safari
Finally, you can get up close and personal with the resort’s animal residents by booking a Starlight Safari experience. This limited capacity experience is offered nightly. You’ll board an open-sided safari vehicle and take a guided tour of the savanna with one of Disney’s animal care experts. You’ll use a night-vision device to view some of the 30 species of animals that call the savanna home. Animals you may be able to see during this experience include giraffes, wildebeest, zebras, and more. I had the pleasure of taking the Starlight Safari a couple of years ago. It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience! I highly recommend trying it sometime, whether you are staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge or not.
In conclusion, you don’t need a ticket to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park to observe freely roaming animals. Whether you’re staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge, visiting for a dining reservation (as always, shoutout to Boma!), or simply resort hopping, you should definitely take some time to enjoy this unique resort amenity. Some of my favorite Disney vacation memories involve sitting on a balcony here and watching the animals. For more unique things to do during your next Disney vacation, stay tuned to MouseHouseNews.net. We’ll see ya real soon!
