Kilimanjaro Safaris
Set off in an open-air vehicle for a guided tour of a lush African savanna and spot real animals roaming free.
Updated: 2026-01-16
Composite Review (4.7 / 5)
Kilimanjaro Safaris is overwhelmingly described as a “must-see” and often the favorite experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Visitors consistently praise the attraction for its incredible authenticity, the close-up views of diverse, real African wildlife, and the knowledgeable, enthusiastic safari guides. The experience is unique among theme park rides because no two safaris are ever the same, as the animals are free-roaming and on their own schedule. It is considered an impressive replication of a sub-Saharan East-African landscape.
The Experience & Wildlife Sightings
The attraction is a 20-30 minute guided journey in a large, open-sided “safari truck” through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve’s 100-acre savanna. Reviewers frequently report seeing a wide variety of animals, including:
- Elephants and rhinos
- Giraffes, zebras, and hippos
- Cheetahs and lions
- Wildebeests and various species of birds
One 5-star reviewer remarked, “If I could give this 10 stars I would… You drive right up to the animals they are so calm and well taken care of. These people take pride in their work and it shows. The Lion gave us a roaring show.” Guests feel truly immersed, and the ride is excellent for both adults and children, often serving as a great break from walking.
Key Visitor Tips & Recommendations
To maximize your experience, visitors shared the following essential tips:
- Go early or go late - Animals are more active when the Florida weather is cooler. Avoid midday, as the heat makes the animals less lively and the wait times longer.
- Sit on the driver’s side (the left side) - Many reviewers noted that a majority of the animals tend to congregate on the driver’s side of the vehicle, offering the best views.
- Be prepared for a bumpy ride - The terrain is deliberately uneven to simulate a real off-road safari, which can be jarring but is part of the experience. The ride is non-thrilling, with no drops, and is considered great for all ages (no height requirement).