"A higher-end, safari-themed resort where the décor and grounds emphasize African motifs and where guests may be able to observe giraffes, zebras, and other animals from their rooms or resort overlooks." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeared in print or online for Travel + Leisure, Time, Los Angeles Times, Glamour, and many more. You'll usually find her in an airport. If you do see her there, please say hello. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"It’s impossible to talk about Animal Kingdom Lodge without first mentioning the 74-acre animal reserve that wraps around the resort. About 200 animals live on the property—and yes, they're visible from the guest rooms and public viewing stations. Spring for a savanna-view room, and you might wake up to the sight of a giraffe or a gazelle grazing outside your balcony. Suffice it to say: This hotel offers an experience unlike any other in the state." - Valerie Marino
"It’s impossible to talk about Animal Kingdom Lodge without first mentioning the 74-acre animal reserve that wraps around the resort. About 200 animals live on the property—and yes, they're visible from the guest rooms and the public viewing stations. (If you can, spring for a savanna-view room, and you might wake up to the sight of a giraffe or a gazelle grazing outside your balcony.) Suffice it to say: This hotel offers an experience unlike any other in Central Florida. Combine that with its relatively low price—at least compared to Disney’s other deluxe resorts—and it’s absolutely worth a stay. Just be aware that because of its location, the only way to get to Animal Kingdom Lodge is via car or Disney bus; unlike other Disney deluxe resorts, there's no boat or monorail service here." - Valerie Marino
"Start each day by greeting giraffes, zebras, and other animals when you stay at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. With an African safari feel, this resort offers an experience unlike anything found elsewhere in the United States. The Deluxe resort is located near Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park, but it feels like it's part of the park thanks to the animal programs and savanna-view rooms. Other on-site amenities include themed pools and unique dining experiences showcasing African flavors. I've stayed at this hotel several times in the past three years alone, and it is consistently great — the magic of waking up to the sight of a giraffe outside your window truly never gets old." - Travel + Leisure Editors
"Features safari-like experiences with animals like white rhinoceroses and giraffes." - Travel + Leisure Editors