Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge in Orlando, FL

We last stayed at this resort in 2016 (previously visited in 2014) and spent 2 weeks here as a family ranging from 5-75 years old in July 2025. What an absolutely fabulous resort the staff are a credit to Disney from the check in staff, bell services, restaurant staff, cleaners and the entertainment staff all go above and beyond to give you the most welcoming experience. The resort is spotless and the range of activities available is endless. Our youngest loved learning about the animals and conservation from the excellent cultural representatives in both Jambo and Kidani. She took part in the strings of memories activities, marshmallows by the campfire and the other daily education stands in the lobby and every single member of staff who was involved was knowledgable, passionate and really grasped her interest I wish I had taken the names of all involved but every single one was amazing and added to the unique experience of the hotel. To wake up to giraffes, zebras and ostriches outside your room daily is something I don’t think we will ever get over we were lucky enough to be upgraded to a partial savannah view room but there are numerous viewing areas throughout the hotel for everyone to be able to experience. The food options at this hotel are all top tier. Mara the quick service has plenty of “usual options” such as chicken strips, burgers and pizzas (freshly made) but also healthier options such as shrimp or chicken bowls, salads etc between us we probably tried most options and all were excellent. Top tip make sure you try the zebra domes! We ate at Sanaa (at kidani) for lunch, you can view the animals from this restaurant and the tandoori chicken and the burger were up there with one of the best of our whole trip. We also ate at Boma for dinner again the options were endless plenty of meats and veg with an African twist and last but not least Jiko - this is in our top 3 restaurants in the whole of Disney the service, ambience and food were all excellent a real hidden gem and a must do if you want to splurge! We spent plenty of time at the pool, plenty of lifeguards on duty, slides in both pools and daily activities put on. They never felt too crowded and were clean and well maintained. We also managed to do the starlight safari (youngest had to miss out as age 8 and over) and again this was a unique experience getting writhing arms reach of zebras, giraffes and other animals at the resort. The guide was extremely passionate and knowledgable and was great value for a once in a lifetime experience - make sure you book at 60 days though! We all had the best 2 weeks at the resort and made lifelong memories, the theming of the hotel, the animals, experiences available, food and the wonderful staff will ensure you have the holiday of a lifetime - thanks AKL we will back soon!

A true escape into the heart of Africa—without ever leaving Florida! From the moment we stepped into the grand lobby of Jambo House, we were transported. The architecture, cultural details, and warm ambiance create an immersive experience unlike any other Disney resort. Our Savanna View room let us wake up to giraffes and zebras just outside our balcony—easily the most magical wake-up call we’ve had on vacation. The rooms are beautifully themed with subtle African details, and while not the most modern, they’re cozy and full of character. The dining options are excellent—Boma for buffets, Jiko for signature dining, The Mara for quick service, and we even took a stroll over to Kidani for Sanaa (totally worth it). Resort activities like night vision animal viewing, firepit storytelling, and cultural presentations gave us so much to do beyond the parks. Transportation is bus-only, but we never waited long. Tip: Book a Savanna View room—it’s worth every penny. Bring binoculars and ask Cast Members about hidden animals and fun facts—they love to share! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A peaceful, enriching, and truly unique resort. Perfect for families and couples alike.

Animal Kingdom had activities for the whole family, especially if you have a range of ages. The Avatar ride is incredible !! We also loved the safari (giraffes, elephants, hippos) and navi river journey rides. Walking around and seeing the animals and learning about conservation was truly inspiring. By far our favorite park this trip

My wife and I and two adult children went to visit Disney and chose to stay at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Jambo House for this trip. Jambo House was built first, with 900+ rooms. Just down the street is the other part of this resort, the Kidani Village, which is all villas. Both resorts sit on savannas, three for Jambo and one for Kidani. The Jambo savannas surround the lodge and it’s so cool to see such a variety of African animals right outside the patio doors of your room. Jambo House is big. When arriving at the Lodge, you drive up a small hill to the front door area. Do not plan to unload your bags and bring them to your room yourself. This is pretty much set up for bellhop service. They will bring your bags to your room. There are several very large parking lots for guests close to the lodge, or use the valet service at the door. The lobby is impressive to say the least. African motif, four floors, a thatched roof looking arched ceiling and some of the most impressive hanging lamps ever. There are numerous sitting areas with couches and chairs to sit and take it all in. Check in was very smooth and easy. Lots of walking just to get to our room and the hallways seem to never end. Our room had two queen beds and for the short time that we were in the room, it was fine. Nice African decor with in room Keurig and mini-fridge. We had an outdoor terrace with a few chairs to sit and watch the wildlife. As instructed by the bellhops, we were to remain in our room until they arrived and they showed up a few minutes later. There are numerous places to eat in the lodge and I wrote another review of the Boma Buffet. We found a little grab and go place in the lodge that stays open late on the pool level that made small flatbread pizzas that were surprisingly good. During our stay, we met several workers, who came from Africa, that had set up small educational stands. They spoke perfect English and their strong accent was so cool to listen to. One day we learned about animal dung. Really? YES! Set up like a game, they explained how dung from various animals is used for different purposes in Africa and how vital it was for these animals to remain plentiful for people there to survive. On another day, we learned to play a very simple game, Mancala, which is very popular in Africa. I guess this was the predecessor to Xbox. Wonderful, pleasant, personable staff. This resort is very far from the theme parks, but transportation via the Disney bus service is top notch. Buses for the various parks arrive and depart regularly from stops outside the lodge. Signs are very clear on where to wait. Likewise, when leaving any park, signs and bus markings are very clear and easy to understand. No problems with getting around and no need to drive a personal vehicle from place to place and find parking. I strongly recommend the buses. Not wanting to use the bell staff on departure, my son went down and grabbed a cart and we took our own luggage out to the car which I carefully positioned along a curb just short of the valet/bellhop only lanes at the front door. The Animal Kingdom Lodge Jambo House has that Disney magic. It transports you to a place far away where you can relax after a day of park hopping, try unique foods and meet some great people.

We had a room with a nice balcony so we could see the animals outside, which we loved. The hotel has the Africa/Animal theme and it is fun and beautiful too. The service was nice overall except for our check in woman who had a name close sounding to Rafiki from the Lion King story. She was rude and in a bad mood, and this can never exist at Disneyworld because it does not align with the brand. Also, some gift shop cashiers had no idea how to set up the Disney magic bands, The check in lady also did not tell us how to get magic bands even though I told her what we purchased online. Very unhelpful and unfriendly. They need to train their staff better.