Disney's Animal Kingdom is home to plenty of exotic animals, from cheetahs and lions to gorillas, zebras, and elephants. You can see them on the walking trails and the Kilimanjaro Safari ride, but there's another way to experience them that's a little more up close and personal.
Wild Africa Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom is an extra cost experience that takes you out onto the savannah on foor and in a private safari vehicle just for your group of trekkers. It goes in spots where the regular ride can't venture and stops as long as needed for everyone to get perfect photos of the animals. Click the video at lower left for a quick overview of the experience.
This tour is offered all year 'round, but winter is the best time for several reasons. First, the animals are more active in cooler weather. Second, because it involves some hiking, you'll be more comfortable. Third, you don gear that will help you when you negotiate the rickety bridges and peer over the banks down into the hippo habitat, and it won't feel as heavy or sweaty on a cool day.
The cost for this special Walt Disney World experience varies by season, running between $189 and $249 per person. While that sounds costly, it includes all your gear and breakfast or lunch out on the savannah with an African flare. All told, it's an experience far beyond what you get on the regular Kilimanjaro Safari ride.
If you prefer to stick to the regular ride, you'll still have some great animal spotting in the winter. The savannah residents are more lively when the hot Florida sun isn't beating down on them. Ride more than once at different times of day to spot different species.
If you opt for Wild Africa Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom, check availability and current prices by calling 407-WDW-TOUR.
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