Not far off the beaten path, a treasure of a Disney resort sits on an “African” savanna at the Animal Kingdom Lodge (AKL).
From the moment you start the journey up the drive to the resort, you are whisked away to the heart of Africa with lush greenery that eventually opens up to four savannas. These savannas are home to more than 200 animals and birds. Based on both these details and its name, you may have guessed that AKL is the Animal Kingdom resort area.
Animal Kingdom Lodge is a Deluxe Resort with a variety of room options, ranging from standard four person rooms, to 2 bedroom suites with club level access, to villas with kitchen and living areas.
Dining at AKL is not something to be missed. Several of the most highly rated restaurants in all of Walt Disney World find their home at AKL. Visit Boma for a buffet inspired by African flavors. Visit Sanaa to experience the flavors of East African (don’t skip the bread service!). Visit Jiko, a signature dining experience, for a special evening with traditional African, Indian, and Mediterranaen cuisines on the menu.
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A stay at AKL is unlike any other you will have at Disney. There is nothing like the experience of waking in the morning with giraffes and zebras grazing outside your balcony. The food options and free activities available to you are outstanding. A few struggles include the length of the bus rides to each of the parks, and depending upon where within the resort your room is, the walk from the bus stop to your bed for the night could be 10 minutes. The bathroom lights are also covered by yellow shade which remind you of the warm tones of Africa, but can also be challenging when getting ready. All that said, my husband has been on notice since the moment I arrived home from my agent training that included a stay at AKL that we will be staying there at some point. It’s not a matter of if, but when.
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