Animal Kingdom Lodge & Kidani Village
Animal Kingdom Lodge, nestled in the heart of Disney's expansive property, is a breathtaking oasis that immerses visitors in the rich beauty of Africa. As you approach the lodge, the stunning thatched-roof architecture and intricately carved wooden details evoke the warmth and charm of an African village.
Inside, the grand lobby boasts a dramatic, open-air design with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame sweeping views of the surrounding savanna.
The lodge's unique setting allows guests to gaze upon herds of exotic animals, including giraffes and zebras, from the comfort of their rooms or the observation areas. The lush, tropical landscaping, complemented by authentic African art and decor, creates a serene and enchanting atmosphere, making Animal Kingdom Lodge a true haven of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Kidani Village and Jambo House, though both part of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, offer distinct experiences with their own unique characteristics. Kidani Village, which is the newer of the two, emphasizes a more intimate, secluded atmosphere with a focus on the immersive African village theme. The resort includes the highly praised Sanaa restaurant and a beautifully designed pool area, catering to families and those interested in a more tranquil experience.
In contrast, Jambo House, the original section of the lodge, boasts a grander, more expansive lobby and a larger range of dining options, including the popular Boma – Flavors of Africa buffet and Jiko – The Cooking Place, known for its fine dining. Jambo House often feels more bustling due to its size and the central location of its amenities, providing a vibrant, lively atmosphere. Both areas share access to the savanna and its incredible wildlife, but Kidani Village’s more secluded feel and intimate setting contrast with Jambo House's larger, more busier environment.
The day we visited Animal Kingdom Lodge we were unaware of the character meet and greet going on. We were incredibly lucky because we weren’t even planning on going there that day. We had planned to go to Art of Animation but the bus for Animal Kingdom Lodge pulled up. We got on that bus because it was so hot and we didn’t want to wait for the other one to come.
Upon entering the lobby We were greeted by a lovely lady wearing her beautiful African themed uniform. She pointed in the other direction letting us know that there was a meet and greet happening.
As we walked further into the lobby we saw Chip ‘n Dale. I wish I had a video of our faces because we were all smiling ear to ear. Later on Daisy joined the two. It was a fun experience to see the characters. My sister and my mom were able to get pictures with them. My mom has never been to Disney or anything of the sort so she was a little kid again. It definitely made her day.
