If you’re not much of a reader, you can watch the Podcast Episode we did for our review of Animal Kingdom Lodge below!

Welcome to another exciting edition of our travel blog! Today, we are thrilled to share our recent experiences at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, a unique resort that transports you straight to the heart of Africa. Our adventure took us to both the Kadani Village and Jambo House, allowing us to dive deep into the vibrant culture, art, and wildlife that make this resort a standout destination.

The Charm of Animal Kingdom Lodge

Kadani Village vs. Jambo House

Animal Kingdom Lodge opened in 2001. It’s a mesmerizing blend of African art, culture, and wildlife. The resort is divided into two main areas: Kadani Village and Jambo House. Each offers distinct experiences and amenities. While Kidani Village caters to the DVC crowd only, Jambo House does have some DVC rooms available on their top floor. So, as a DVC owner, you have the choice to either stay at Kidani or Jambo!

We first stayed at Kadani Village, which is known for its serene atmosphere and Disney Vacation Club (DVC) rooms. The calm, less hectic environment of Kadani was a pleasant surprise. The village is designed with more intimate spaces and fewer crowds, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat. It has all the amenities you would expect from a Disney Resort; Restaurants, a gift shop, quick service food, a pool, and more. It of course has beautiful views of the animal that make Animal Kingdom Lodge famous. It also has a community center and arcade where you can unwind after a busy day at the parks and do crafts or different activities with your family.

In contrast, Jambo House is bustling with activity, featuring a grand lobby, more dining options, and a larger pool area. The top floor of Jambo House is dedicated to DVC rooms, while the lower floors cater to regular hotel guests. This setup allows for a mix of DVC exclusivity and general hotel convenience. Jambo House does not have an arcade or community center, so if that is something you look forward to on your Disney stays, then we would suggest staying at Kidani Village.

Navigating Animal Kingdom Lodge

Accessibility Insights

During our stay, Kaity was in a wheelchair due to a leg injury, which gave us a unique perspective on the accessibility of both properties. Kadani Village, with its quieter ambiance and thoughtful layout, was easier to navigate. The bathrooms in Kadani’s rooms were more wheelchair-friendly, featuring walk-in showers rather than high tubs.

Jambo House, though grand and beautiful, presented some challenges. The public areas, especially around Victoria Falls Lounge, required navigating multiple levels, which was cumbersome. However, the room layout at Jambo House, with its open kitchen and island, felt more spacious and modern compared to Kadani’s traditional design.

Wildlife Encounters

A Safari Experience

One of the most enchanting aspects of Animal Kingdom Lodge is the opportunity to observe over 200 animals from 30 different species. Whether you wake up to giraffes grazing outside your balcony or watch zebras playfully interacting, the experience is magical.

Our favorite animals were the warthog, whose playful demeanor reminded her of the character from “The Lion King” and the majestic giraffes. The resort offers several overlooks where you can watch these beautiful creatures up close. Depending on your room location, you’ll be able to view your favorite animals from your own private balcony in your room!

Culinary Delights

Dining Adventures

Animal Kingdom Lodge is a paradise for food lovers, offering a range of dining options that cater to diverse tastes.

Kadani Village Dining:

• Sanaa: We never thought bread could be so exciting, but it was! The Bread Service at Sanaa located in Kidani Village is a MUST whenever you’re staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge. Even if you’re staying in Jambo House, we suggest you hop on the bus or take a stroll to Kidani to eat at Sanaa.

Jambo House Dining:

• Boma – Flavors of Africa: This buffet restaurant serves breakfast and dinner with a variety of African dishes. The dinner buffet, in particular, is a feast for the senses, featuring everything from roasted meats to unique salads.
• Jiko – The Cooking Place: This signature dining restaurant offers an upscale experience with authentic African flavors. We enjoyed a fantastic meal here, highlighted by the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service.

For a more casual meal, the poolside grill at Jambo House offers quick bites like BBQ sandwiches and pretzels, perfect for a relaxing day by the pool.

Activities and Entertainment at Animal Kingdom Lodge

Exploring the Resort

Animal Kingdom Lodge is not just a place to stay; it’s an experience. The resort offers a range of activities that allow guests to immerse themselves in African culture.

Arcade & Community Hall: Kidani Village has both an arcade and a community hall! Many DVC owners come here after a long day at the parks, or if it’s raining. At the community hall you can paint pottery, watch movies, play video games, play pool, color, and more!

Art Tour: One of the highlights is the free art tour at Jambo House. Knowledgeable staff members guide you through the extensive collection of African art and artifacts, providing fascinating insights into the pieces’ history and significance.

Community Hall: The Community Hall at Kadani Village offers various activities, from painting ceramics to making buttons. It’s a great way to spend a rainy afternoon or take a break from the Florida sun.

Night Safari: Though we missed out on the night safari, it’s a popular activity where guests can explore the savannas with night vision goggles, offering a unique perspective on the nocturnal habits of the animals.

Tips for Your Animal Kingdom Lodge Stay

Maximizing Your Experience

• Plan Ahead: Reservations for dining and activities can fill up quickly, so it’s best to book several months in advance.
• Accessibility Considerations: If you have mobility issues, Kadani Village might be more convenient. The layout is easier to navigate, and the bathrooms are more accessible.
• Balance Your Time: Don’t feel pressured to spend all your time at the parks. The resort itself offers plenty of entertainment and relaxation options.

Let’s Wrap It Up

Animal Kingdom Lodge is a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, offering guests the chance to immerse themselves in the wonders of Africa without leaving Florida. Whether you prefer the serene ambiance of Kadani Village or the bustling excitement of Jambo House, there’s something for everyone.

We hope this blog has inspired you to explore Animal Kingdom Lodge and discover its many treasures. Stay tuned for our next adventure at Disney’s Riviera Resort, and feel free to send us any questions or suggestions for future topics.

Until next time, happy travels!