Animal Kingdom Lodge is a beautiful and unique resort that transports guests to the heart of Africa. The resort is divided into two distinct areas: Jambo House and Kidani Village. Both properties offer an immersive experience into the animal kingdom, with expansive views of the savannah and opportunities to see animals up close.
Jambo House
Jambo House is the original part of the Animal Kingdom Lodge, and it is the primary hub of activity for guests. The lobby is a grand space with towering pillars, intricate African-inspired decor, and a massive fireplace that is always roaring with a fire.
One of the highlights of staying at Jambo House is the opportunity to see animals up close. The resort offers several viewing areas throughout the property, including the Arusha Rock overlook, where guests can watch animals roam freely on the savannah. The resort also offers special programs for guests, such as the Safari, which allows guests to experience the savannah with a Cast Member and see animals in their natural habitat.
Jambo House is also home to the resort's signature restaurant, Jiko - The Cooking Place, which is a fine-dining experience that features a fusion of African, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisine. It is also home to Boma - Flavors of Africa which is a buffet-style restaurant that offers a wide range of African-inspired dishes. Victoria Falls Lounge is located right near both and offers a selection of cocktails, beer, and wine. Guests can relax in the comfortable seating area and enjoy a drink or two after a long day at the parks.
The Mara is the quick service dining option that is designed to resemble an African marketplace, with colorful decor and African-inspired cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes that offers up some unique eats that are only found here. For dessert, Zebra Domes are a popular item that are small, chocolate-covered, mousse-filled domes with a hint of Amarula liqueur. With its tasty food and unique atmosphere, The Mara is one of the better quick service options at any of the resorts.
Kidani Village
Kidani Village is the newer part of the Animal Kingdom Lodge, and it offers a quieter and more intimate experience for guests. The lobby at Kidani Village is smaller than Jambo House but no less impressive, with intricate African-inspired decor and a stunning chandelier that is made of hand-blown glass. This section makes up the bulk of the Disney Vacation Club rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge.
One of the highlights of staying at Kidani Village is the Kidani Village Savannah, which is a smaller savannah than Jambo House but no less impressive. Guests can enjoy views of animals such as giraffes, zebras, and gazelles right from their balconies. Similarly to Jambo House, Kidani Village also offers several viewing areas throughout the property, including the Pembe Savanna overlook, which offers panoramic views of the savannah.
For dining, Sanaa is the table service restaurant at Kidani Village and offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant's menu features Indian-style bread service, which includes a selection of breads and dipping sauces. Guests can also choose from a variety of African-inspired dishes, including tandoori chicken and lamb shank. The restaurant has a beautiful view of the savannah, so guests can watch animals as they dine. While there is no quick service location at Kidani Village, guests are able to either walk to Jambo House along a pathway or take the shuttle bus that makes a loop between the two sections of the Lodge.
Animal Kingdom Lodge offers a wide range of activities for guests, including special programs that allow guests to experience the savannah up close. The Starlight Safari is a popular program that allows guests to experience the savannah at night and see nocturnal animals in their natural habitat with the use of night vision glasses. The resort also offers several other activities for guests, including pool parties, cookie decorating, and African storytelling.
Animal Kingdom Lodge features two main pools, Uzima Pool located in Jambo House and Samawati Springs Pool located in Kidani Village. Both pools offer guests the chance to swim and cool off, with Uzima Pool featuring a zero-entry point, a 67-foot-long water slide, and two hot tubs, while Samawati Springs Pool boasts a 128-foot-long waterslide, a zero-entry point, and two hot tubs.
For children, there are several activities to keep them entertained, including Simba's Activity Center, where kids can play games, watch movies, and participate in supervised activities. There is also a pool area specifically designed for children, with a water slide and other fun features.
Overall, Animal Kingdom Lodge is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers guests a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of Africa. Whether staying at Jambo House or Kidani Village, guests will be treated to deluxe accommodations, breathtaking views of the savannah, and unparalleled opportunities to see animals up close. Both locations offer the epitome of Disney Imagineering while feeling transported far away from the theme parks into the heart of Africa. The resort's dining options, activities, and cultural experiences make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a truly unique vacation experience.
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