Animal Kingdom - Africa
Africa Attractions
Animal Kingdom Africa Overview
Your entrance into Africa is through the friendly,
welcoming village of Harambe. Harambe is Swahili for “come together.” Interestingly enough, this village is a combination
of a number of some of the favorite places in Africa
found by Disney Imagineers whilst on a scouting
trip for Animal Kingdom’s Africa. Some of these snippets include a fortress
found in Zanzibar and a faux water-stained, crumbling
old building and private home that were originally
seen in Kenya. The thatched huts found throughout this community
were constructed by thirteen Zulu craftspeople from
South Africa. The quaint village area was designed to resemble
an East African port that caters to tourists prior
to their safari excursions (i.e. Kilimanjaro Safari). This bustling port includes a “hotel”, restaurants,
an outdoor bar complete with live entertainment
and the marketplace. Cast Members/villagers are dressed in colorful,
authentic African costumes to add to the atmosphere.
Your Disney safari experience will take you on a
journey chasing poachers as you cross the savannah
dotted with 34 different species of birds and animals. Following your safari, tour the Gorilla Falls
Exploration Trail and be entertained by the silverback
gorillas.The Wildlife Express steam-powered train
cuts through the savannah to Conservation Station where you’ll find an interactive center designed
to educate as well as entertain. Points
of interest along the train route include the buildings
where the animals are kept at night so that they
may be checked out medically and fed. The 1.2-mile train ride is wheelchair accessible. Assistive Listening Devices are available
for guests who are hearing impaired, check with
Guest Services for more information.
For a break from the heat, check out Festival of the Lion King, one of the most popular theater shows at Walt Disney World. The “Festival of the Lion King” is a virtual explosion of colors, music and amazing talent. You will be treated to 30 minutes of a variety of some of Disney’s best entertainment in this celebration.
As per the village atmosphere of Harambe, there
are a number of refreshment/dining establishments. Tusker House Restaurant offers a buffet for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. At Mr. Kamal’s Burger Grill, you can grab
a hamburger and beverage for a quick bite. Specialty coffees and delicious baked goods
are served at the Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery. Fresh fruit and juices are found at the Harambe
Fruit Market. The Tamu Tamu Refreshments stand offers
frozen treats and drinks. You can be entertained by live African music
as you sit enjoying cocktails and munching on snacks
at the “Dawa Bar.”
No village would be complete without its marketplace
and shops, and the Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders will not disappoint you. Kilimanjaro Safari souvenirs and apparel,
T-shirts, hats, gourds, carvings and jewelry, are
but a few of the many gifts and souvenirs offered
here.
Zuri's Sweets Shop is located at Harambe Market. Guests will find 80 new items such as decorative candy apples, flavored chocolate bars and popcorn. The treats are all inspired by Africa and many are unique to this location. One line of sweets is Lion King-themed, such as a Simba's paw lollipop, chocolate mini crocodiles and animal crackers. Another line is inspired by the colorful patterns and animals of the park.
Rice Krispie treats, Mickey Mouse-shaped chocolate-dipped coconut patties and chocolate bars with flavors like spicy cinnamon and banana chip are part of this line. An African spice popcorn with hints of cardamom is available, as well as the spice rub and barbecue sauce from Flame Tree Barbecue.
