Resort Spotlight: Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a beautiful African themed resort that is in the deluxe category. This beautifully designed resort sits on 33 acres of lush Savannah land and is home to over 200 animals. You can view these animals from resort balconies or from several viewing points -- including a landscaped rock called the Arusha Rock 24 hours a day. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is located very close to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
Animal Kingdom Lodge is separated into two sections; Jambo House and Kidani Village. Jambo House has both Disney Vacation Club rooms and regular guest rooms. My family recently stayed in a Savannah Bunk Bed Room at Jambo House and it was truly an amazing experience. At any moment we could walk out onto our balcony and view a giraffe or zebra having a snack! There are many different room categories to choose from when staying at AKL; standard rooms, bunk bed rooms, and of course the 1, 2 or 3 bedroom Villas. You are guaranteed to find the room category you desire when staying here.
You will not strike out when it comes to dining at Animal Kingdom Lodge. The Mara is AKL’s Counter Service Restaurant which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Boma is an all-you-can-eat style restaurant with its own African flair. Boma is only open for breakfast and dinner. If you are looking for fine dining, Jiko is the place for you. I am sure that all of the entrees here are magnificent, but, I personally suggest the Spice Crusted Pork Tenderloin. Every Wednesday Jiko offers elegant wine tasting! Guest can explore African Wines and artisanal cheese for $25.00 plus tax and gratuities. Lastly, be sure to head over to Kidani Village and try out Sanaa! Sanaa is an Indian and African inspired restaurant and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sanaa offers a view of the Savannah’s like no other restaurant and on Wednesdays you can Dine with Animal Specialist for a fun, interactive lunch (Reservations are Highly Recommended).
In addition to the beautiful scenery, decorations, restaurants Animal Kingdom Lodge has plenty more to offer. Pumbaa’s Fun and Game Arcade located on the ground floor; next to The Mara is always a family favorite. The Uzima Springs Pool area is a beautifully landscaped oasis on its own. In this area you will find a zero-entry swimming pool, with slide and a children’s wading pool, two secluded Jacuzzi hot tubs, and the Uzima Springs Pool Bar. The Hakuna Matata Playgroud is also located in this area in the Uzima Springs Pool area. Animal Kingdom Lodge also has unique programs for guests to learn about different African cultures, foods, and traditions. Other amenities include Zahanati Spa and Fitness Center, Simba’s Cubhouse and a laundry facility.
We truly enjoyed our stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. I would like to highly encourage you to take the opportunity to explore this resort a little more yourself the next time you visit Walt Disney World.
Cindy Dismukes
