Disney World - Disney's Animal Kingdom

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Africa

Welcome to Africa! More precisely, to Harambe,
the African village that could have literally been
lifted from the other side of the Atlantic, and
gently placed in Florida. They're very clever
Imagineers indeed! Especially when you consider
that this area alone is bigger than the Magic Kingdom!
No wonder it took them seven years to complete.


	Harambe - The name means 'coming together', and that's just what you'll find in the architecture, dining, shopping and entertainment of this contemporary part of East Africa. This is The Animal Kingdom's 'Main Street', not quite as store-laden, but you'll have no problem spending your money here!

	Kilimanjaro Safaris - I guess this is what you really go Disney's Animal Kingdom for. A safari into the bush. Here's what the map says: " Climb aboard your open-air safari vehicle for an exciting expedition to see hundreds of African animals roaming freely through 100 acres of savanna, rivers and rocky hills. But beware, your journey takes an unexpected turn when poachers are spotted in the area" . And that's about right. Being Disney, hundreds of acres and hundreds of animals aren't enough, there has to be story too! Personally, I think you'll find the animals more exciting than the driver's script, however this is no stage show. Every safari trip is genuinely different - you might see hundreds of animals (if you safari early in the morning - which is why the park opens at 8am) or most of the animals might be sleeping (after lunch in the heat of the afternoon for example). But whenever you safari, you are guaranteed a fun, exciting, thrilling and educational experience. However long the queues are, you just have to do it!

	Pangani Forest Exploration Trail - This attraction used to be called " Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail" , but more often than not, the gorillas decided to sleep and found the peering guests entirely boring. The gorillas are still there (and so are the guests), but hey, this is nature, and their appearance is not guaranteed. Hence the change of name. Anyway, whatever it's called, it's a great attraction. You can take this one at your own pace, walking through some forest, some exhibits, and some tropical woody stuff. Among the animals that you are quite likely to see are gorillas (honest!), hippos (a great under-water view!), a fabulous exhibit of the naked mole rat, and some beautifully colored African birds. Highly recommended.

	Wildlife Express to Conservation Station - Take a trip on this great old steam train from the " Disney Magic" of Harambe, over to the Conservation Station - real world stuff which is covered on its own page (you can click here if you'd like to look).

	SHOPS Mombasa Marketplace / Ziwani Traders - African and safari-themed apparel, decor, gifts, and toys. Duka La Filimu - Cleverly sited film and camera/photographic store. You'll need plenty before you safari!

	RESTAURANTS AND REFRESHMENTS Tusker House Restaurant - Spit-roasted prime rib, rotisserie and fried chicken and freshly tossed salads. Lots of seating, counter service, but nice. Kusafari Coffee Shop and Bakery - Fresh-baked treats, cappuccino, espresso. (Just like you find in the middle of a real African Village. NOT!!) Tamu Tamu Refreshments - Frozen yogurt, ice cream and sundaes. More of a 'hole in the wall' than a shop, but a welcome cooling-off break nevertheless. Dawa Bar - Cool off with your favorite cocktails. With live contemporary African music. If you don't want to be a customer here, you can still stop by and watch the musicians (was originally called the " African Lounge" ). Harambe Fruit Market - Fresh fruit, juices and drinks.

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