Jambo! It's Animal Kingdom!

Animal Kingdom is touted as the largest park of the four at Disney World. This is true as far as acreage is concerned because they need a lot of that for all the animals. As far as walking around the park, we’ve never spent more than half a day there. It really seems like the smallest park. The terrain is a bit rough, lots of up and downhill slopes. I think it tires you out more.

Our strategy for this park again involves walking straight back to the furthest part of the park. Our ritual used to include breakfast at Tusker House. They had the best cinnamon rolls there. It was closed for refurbishment the last time we went and was due to re-open as a Character meal buffet style restaurant, so we haven’t checked that out yet. I think you can still get the rolls at Kusafiri Coffee and Bakery.

Next is the Kilimanjaro Safari. This where you can experience a lot of the acreage that is Animal Kingdom as you take a safari through the wildlife preserve and see everything from Flamingos to the King of Beasts, the Lion. This area of the park is where you can also visit the Conservation Station, better known as Rafiki’s Planet Watch. A nice little train ride with lots of educational information and a petting zoo at the end. We also always visit Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders where we often find great clearance items. I have several t-shirts that I bought there at half price.

We next head over through Asia where you can ride the Kali River Rapids (if you don’t mind getting really wet) and experience the best new roller coaster at Disney World, Expedition Everest. Watch out for the Yeti! There’s a new restaurant there called the Yak and Yeti. Can’t wait to try it.

Then it’s on to Dinoland USA. There are great rides here for the little ones and the more intense 'Dinosaur' for the more adventurous. Donald’s Breakfastasaurus is located here as well and contains a pretty good Character Breakfast, although I don’t know if they will continue with the New Tusker House opening.

On your way out of the park, stop at the Tree of Life and experience the ‘It’s a Bug’s Life’ show. It’s surprising and enjoyable.

There are many little shops and stores along the way, so be sure to check them out as well. We are usually on our way by noon, heading over to Epcot or Hollywood Studios for the rest of the day.