How Long Does Animal Kingdom Take?

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a theme park like no other, offering thrilling rides, fascinating exhibits, and unique experiences that bring you face-to-face with the wonders of the natural world. However, as with any theme park visit, it’s important to plan your day to make the most of your time. So, how long does it take to experience the Animal Kingdom? Let’s dive in.

Operating Hours

Typically, Animal Kingdom operates from 8 AM or 9 AM to 7 PM or 8 PM. However, these hours can change based on the time of year and special events. To get the most accurate information, check the official Disney hours for Animal Kingdom on their website. Guests staying at Disney hotels (and select partner hotels) also get an added perk of Early Theme Park Entry, which allows them access to select attractions 30 minutes before other visitors.

Time Spent in Each Section

Animal Kingdom is divided into several sections, each offering unique experiences. The time spent in each section depends on your interests and the attractions you prioritize. On average, you can experience all the ride-based attractions in six to seven hours. However, if you want to explore the entire park, including shows, exhibits, and other experiences, it could take a full day.

Popular Attractions and Wait Times

Animal Kingdom hosts a variety of attractions, but some of the most popular ones include Expedition Everest, Avatar Flight of Passage, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and the Festival of the Lion King. The average wait times for these attractions can vary depending on the time of day and year. For instance, Avatar Flight of Passage, one of the park’s most popular attractions, can have wait times exceeding two hours during peak times.

Time-Saving Strategies

To maximize your time at Animal Kingdom, consider these strategies:

• Arrive Early: Be at the park entrance before it opens to take advantage of lower crowd levels in the morning.
• Use Single Rider Lines: Attractions like Expedition Everest offer Single Rider Lines, which can significantly reduce wait times.
• Plan Your Itinerary: Prioritize the most popular attractions and visit them early in the day when lines are shorter.
• Use Mobile Ordering: Save time by ordering food from select quick-service restaurants through the My Disney Experience app.
• Use Genie+ and Lightning Lanes: These services, although they come at an additional cost, can help you skip long lines for popular attractions.

Time of Year

The time of year can significantly affect the amount of time you spend at Animal Kingdom. The park is usually less crowded and has shorter wait times in January and September. Weekdays, particularly from Monday to Wednesday, also tend to have lower crowds compared to weekends.

Mealtimes and Rest

A trip to Animal Kingdom is an adventure, and like any adventure, it’s important to take time for meals and rest. Allocate at least 30 minutes to 1 hour for each meal and take short, 10-15 minute breaks every 1-2 hours. If you’re spending a full day at the park, consider taking a longer break of 1-2 hours in the middle of the day to rest and recharge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the time it takes to experience Disney’s Animal Kingdom can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as your interests, the attractions you prioritize, and the time of year. However, with careful planning and strategic use of available services, you can make the most of your time and enjoy all the wonders this unique park has to offer.