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Travel Talk
by Francine Brokaw
Animal Kingdom Lodge
in Walt Disney World
Have you ever thought about going to an African Wildlife Preserve? Or perhaps that thought might be a little daunting to you. Well, imagine being able to experience all of that without leaving the country. The Animal Kingdom Lodge in Orlando, Florida is just one of the many resorts in Walt Disney World. But this one is completely different from all of the others giving guests the experience of a real African Wildlife Preserve. With African music playing, African art on the walls, and decorated like a wildlife preserve, this place is the next best thing to actually going to Africa. And you don’t need any shots, passports, or a long airline flight to get there. Who would have thought that you could get the experience of being in Africa right here in the USA?
The Animal Kingdom Lodge is part of the Animal Kingdom, one of four amusement parks that make up Walt Disney World. With all the amenities of a deluxe hotel, they offer something extra – animals. The three savannas that surround the hotel are filled with animals from Africa. They are all vegetarians, with the exception of some of the birds, and they all get along, for the most part. You have to watch the zebras though. They are animals with an attitude and are separated from the small gazelles and other smaller animals, just in case. But generally these amazing creatures mingle and meander through the savannas playing, eating, and sleeping. And with a savanna-view room you can watch them from the comfort of your own room or balcony. You’ll find that watching the animals is more relaxing than taking a xanax or a valium! Most people have probably only seen these animals through bars in a zoo. The folks at Disney went to great lengths to recreate their real African environment and even planted the trees several years prior to bringing the animals over, to ensure they were comfortable in their new home. Of course, they are watched regularly and taken care of by the staff, but for the most part visitors have the unique experience of enjoying the animals in their true settings.
The resort was designed as a preserve with the hope that people who visit will learn about the animals and be more aware of them, possibly joining a preservation group or another animal friendly group. Appreciation and preservation is the goal.
There are about 200 individual animals in the resort representing 30 species, including birds. The three savannas surrounding the lodge make up 33 acres offering plenty of space for the animals to romp and stroll. Animals residing at the resort include Ankole Cattle, Bongos, Blesboks, Elands, Grant’s Gazelles, Grant’s Zebras, Greater Kudus, Impalas, Nyalas, Reticulated Giraffes. Thomson’s Gazelles, Waterbucks, and White-Bearded Wildebeests, along with 8 species of birds. Each room comes with a “Wildlife Field Guide” with descriptions of the animals and behavior tips, so by the end of your visit you’ll be familiar with these wildlife species and be able to identify them.
Besides just watching the incredible animals, there are plenty of activities in which visitors can partake: a Garden Safari, Wildlife Games, and Music of the Savannas program, bead making and other great things to do as well as a pool with a slide. The three restaurants offer a variety of food, with the flavor of Africa if you desire. Jiko, their fine-dining restaurant offers some interesting combinations. You might want to try the Kalamata Olive Flatbread. It’s delicious, and tastes kind of like a cheese and olive pizza. The Roasted Brentwood Corn Soup is also delicious. They are famous for the Wood-grilled Filet Mignon served on macaroni and cheese. Talk about a strange combination. Boma offers a variety of food with authentic African and American flavors. The Mara is more of a counter service restaurant with all the goodies for kids and adults. Room service is also available, in case you want to eat in your room or on your balcony while watching the animals roam free.
The Animal Kingdom Lodge is a unique experience. There is all the fun and excitement of Walt Disney World along with the atmosphere of an African Wildlife Preserve. And it’s all just a short plane ride away. If you love animals, this is the place for you!
© 2006 Francine Brokaw
All pictures ©Roy Brokaw
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