African-inspired lodge with savanna views and exotic animals












































"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

"I've woken up to giraffes, zebras, and other animals outside the window at this African safari–inspired Deluxe resort, which truly feels like part of the park; savanna-view rooms, animal programs, themed pools, and unique dining showcasing African flavors create an experience unlike anywhere else in the U.S., and I've stayed here several times in the past three years because the magic of that morning wildlife sighting never gets old." - Elizabeth Rhodes Elizabeth Rhodes Elizabeth Rhodes is a senior editor at Travel + Leisure, covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A resort built around an immersive recreation of the African savannah where more than 200 live animals — from flamingos to giraffes — roam the grounds, supported by naturalist-led programming that educates young animal lovers and the convenience of complimentary transportation to nearby theme parks." - Chelsee Lowe Chelsee Lowe Chelsee Lowe is a Los Angeles-based writer with an obsession with good eats and interesting stories. She regularly contributes to Travel + Leisure, TravelAge West, Ventura Blvd, and L.A. Parent, writing about food, family travel, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines