Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (AKL) was the first resort we ever stayed in as a family. This experience was so memorable and special because of the amazing experiences and amenities on this property.
Nestled within the enchanting realm of Walt Disney World, the Animal Kingdom Lodge stands as a mesmerizing testament to the harmony between the magic of Disney and the allure of Africa’s untamed wilderness. This breathtaking resort transports its guests into an immersive safari experience, allowing them to connect with nature like never before. Join me as I recount my unforgettable stay at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, where adventure and luxury seamlessly intertwine.
- Arrival and Welcome:
As we approached the grand entrance of the Animal Kingdom Lodge, I was immediately captivated by its awe-inspiring architecture, meticulously designed to resemble a traditional African kraal. The warm welcome home greeting from the staff made us immediately feel at ease and like we were right where we were supposed to be.
- Accommodations:
Upon entering the room, we were struck by the level of attention to detail. The African-inspired decor, handcrafted furnishings, and earth-toned palette exuded an ambiance of tranquility and authenticity. We booked a Savannah View room which provided an unparalleled sight – grazing animals against the backdrop of a stunning landscape. The experience of waking up to giraffes and zebras just outside my window was nothing short of magical.
The room we had was a 2-bedroom villa. This room was the perfect setting for our party of six because it had 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a living room, a full kitchen and a washer and dryer. Every amenity we needed to have the most comfortable stay was right there in this room.
- Savory Dining Experiences:
The dining options at the Animal Kingdom Lodge were a delightful adventure for the taste buds. During our stay, the first restaurant we tried was Boma. My oldest fell in love with this restaurant and it was his favorite Disney restaurant for a long time. Boma is a buffet style restaurant that is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We were genuinely impressed with the variety of offerings on the buffet from the French toast bread pudding to the bobatie which is kind of like an African quiche.
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We were also able to try Sanaa during our stay and it is another spectacular dining option. Sanaa is a table service restaurant that is open for all meals. The number one thing to get at Sanaa is the bread service! This dish brings you a variety of pitas and flat breads to try with a series of 8 spreads. This is a must try if you go!
Jiko – The Cooking Place is an upscale dining option at AKL. We did not try this during our stay but have returned and eaten here since then. Jiko is a beautifully themed restaurant and the service is top notch. This is a dining option for those more open minded eaters who aren’t afraid to try new things. The menu offers some very traditional items like a filet to some more unique options like Bobotie Macaroni and Cheese.
- Wildlife Encounters:
One of the highlights of the Animal Kingdom Lodge was the opportunity to explore the savannah through various vantage points. If you have a savannah view room, watching the stunning animals is always at you finger tips but I even if you don’t get the savannah view room, there are tons of opportunities to watch the animals. The lodge lobby opens out onto the Savannah and there are large balconies with seating all along the back of the resort where you can relax and take in the view. The resort also offers a nighttime ride through the Savannah which gives your crew the opportunity for an alternative view of these amazing creatures.
- Cultural Immersion:
The resort goes beyond just showcasing the African wildlife; it also celebrates the rich traditions and customs of the continent’s indigenous cultures. We enjoyed interacting with a team of drummers in the lobby who shared instruments with the kids and taught them how to use them.
- Resort Amenities:
The Animal Kingdom Lodge offers an array of amenities, catering to all ages and interests. We really enjoyed spending time at the pool. The pool area had a water slide, hot tub and splash pad area for little ones making it appealing to all ages. Additionally, the Hakuna Matata Playground and Simba’s Cubhouse ensured that younger guests were kept entertained throughout their stay.
- Location:
Many people will tout location as AKL’s downfall. This resort is obviously closest to Animal Kingdom Park and is a little further away from other parks compared to most resorts. The only transportation from AKL is the Disney bus service where other resorts may offer multiple forms of transportation. We really didn’t find this to be a problem though. To overcome this all you need to do is plan ahead. Just go into your stay knowing that your ride to the park may take 25 min or so and sometimes you will have to wait for the buses.
AKL truly won us over during our stay with its relaxing atmosphere, stunning decor, delicious food options and graceful animals. From the moment we stepped foot into the resort to the time we said farewell to the graceful wildlife, every moment was infused with awe and wonder. The resort’s dedication to authenticity, immersive experiences, and top-notch service made it an unforgettable destination. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply seeking a unique and enchanting getaway, the Animal Kingdom Lodge is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.
Thinking about a stay at AKL? Have questions about what a stay here is really like or is it worth it? Drop a comment below. I would love to help you set up your stay or determine if this is the right resort for your crew.
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