Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

The Resort Overview

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is a Deluxe resort modeled on African "kraal" village architecture, built around three savannas totaling roughly 33 acres and home to around 30 species of free-roaming African animals including giraffes, zebras, and antelope. Most rooms in both Jambo House and Kidani Village offer some form of savanna, pool, or courtyard view.

The lobby is one of the most photographed spaces at Walt Disney World: a soaring thatched-style atrium filled with authentic African art and a curated collection of tribal masks and carvings. Resident animal specialists are stationed near the savanna viewing areas to answer guest questions.

Dining & Amenities

Jiko – The Cooking Place serves African, Indian, and Mediterranean-influenced dinner built around twin wood-burning ovens, one of the more acclaimed table-service restaurants at Walt Disney World. Boma – Flavors of Africa offers a globally-inspired buffet, and Sanaa in Kidani Village serves African-Indian fusion with savanna views from most tables.

Recreation includes Uzima Springs and Samawati Springs pools, both with water slides, plus guided savanna tours. Animals can often be spotted from the lobby without ever leaving the building.

Booking Strategy

• Request a Savanna View room — it's the resort's signature experience and worth the upgrade over standard or pool views for most first-time guests.
• Because it's bus-only to every park, this resort is a weaker fit for guests planning to bounce between parks frequently in a single day.
• A strong fit for guests wanting a quieter, more immersive destination-resort experience; less ideal for families wanting quick park-hopping access.
• Kidani Village tends to be quieter than Jambo House and has its own pool, a good pick for a slightly calmer atmosphere within the same resort.