Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris Review

A giant Imagineered baobab tree is the starting point for this adventure into the upcountry. Although re-creating an African safari in the United States isn't a new idea, this safari takes great pains to create an authentic environment, allowing you to observe rhinos, hippos, antelopes, wildebeests, giraffes, cheetahs, elephants, lions, and the like. There are illustrated game-spotting guides above the seats in the open-air safari vehicles, and as you lurch and bump over some 100 acres of savanna, forest, rivers, and rocky hills, you'll see most of these animals—sometimes so close you feel that you could reach out and touch them. It's easy to suspend disbelief here because the landscape is so effectively modeled and replenished by Disney horticulturists.

Recent savanna additions include a new zebra habitat and a watering hole for many species. Keep an eye out for animal babies; the park's breeding programs have been extremely successful, with new additions including elephants, white and black rhinos, okapi, giraffes, and several gorillas.

Parents should hang on tightly to their small tykes. The ride is very bumpy and should be avoided by expectant guests or those with heart, back, or neck problems. For people with disabilities: Wheelchair accessible, but ECV users must transfer to standard wheelchairs. Equipped for assisted-listening and video-captioning devices. Guests with service animals should check with a host for boarding information. During the hottest months, come first thing in the morning, using Fastpass if necessary. Otherwise come at day's end when it cools down a bit.