How to Ride the Top Attractions at Disney’s Animal Kingdom with Low Wait Times

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a one-of-a-kind park that combines thrilling attractions, immersive environments, and encounters with wildlife. With the addition of Pandora – The World of Avatar, it has solidified its place as a full-day destination for Disney fans. Whether you’re an adventurer seeking thrills or a nature lover, Animal Kingdom has something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ll explore the park’s top rides and share tips for enjoying them with minimal wait times.

Plan Ahead for a Magical Day

To make the most of your day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, it’s important to have a strategy. Here are some proven tips to minimize wait times:

• Arrive Early (Rope Drop): Be at the park gates before opening to get a head start on popular rides.
• Purchase Lightning Lane Access: Buy Lightning Lane passes to skip the regular lines for select attractions.
• Use Early Entry: Guests staying at Disney Resorts can enter the park 30 minutes before general admission.
• Visit During Off-Peak Hours: Lines are often shorter just before park closing.
• Consider Single-Rider Lines: For attractions that offer single-rider queues, you can save significant time if you don’t mind splitting up your group.

Top Rides at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

1. Avatar Flight of Passage – Pandora

This groundbreaking attraction allows guests to link with an Avatar and soar on the back of a banshee through Pandora’s breathtaking landscapes. The visuals, movement, and story make this a must-do ride for many park visitors.

How to Avoid Long Waits:

• Purchase Lightning Lane for this attraction.
• Take advantage of Early Entry.
• Arrive early and head straight to Pandora.
• Visit during the final hour before the park closes.

Pro Tip: Since Avatar Flight of Passage is one of the most popular rides at Walt Disney World, lines build quickly. If it’s a priority, plan to experience it early in the day or secure Lightning Lane access.

---

2. Na’vi River Journey – Pandora

This serene boat ride takes guests through Pandora’s bioluminescent rainforest. The stunning visuals and the Shaman of Songs animatronic make this a memorable experience, even though it’s less action-packed than its neighboring attraction.

How to Avoid Long Waits:

• Visit immediately after riding Avatar Flight of Passage.
• Opt for Lightning Lane access.
• Check wait times during meal hours or in the evening.

Pro Tip: The lines for Na’vi River Journey tend to build later in the morning. If possible, ride this attraction early in the day or near park closing for shorter waits.

3. Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain (Asia)

This thrilling roller coaster takes guests on an expedition through the Himalayas, complete with a backward plunge into darkness and an encounter with the legendary Yeti.

How to Avoid Long Waits:

• Use the Single Rider line for a quicker experience.
• Arrive early and make this your second stop after Pandora.
• Take advantage of Lightning Lane.
• Ride during the evening when lines are typically shorter.

Pro Tip: Expedition Everest is one of the few attractions in the park with a single-rider option, making it an excellent choice for solo travelers or groups willing to split up.

4. Kilimanjaro Safaris – Africa

This safari adventure transports guests to the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, where they can observe giraffes, elephants, and lions in habitats designed to mimic the African savanna.

How to Avoid Long Waits:

• Ride early in the morning when animals are most active.
• Use Lightning Lane to skip the line.
• Avoid the middle of the day, as wait times and temperatures peak.

Pro Tip: Kilimanjaro Safaris closes earlier than other attractions, so plan to ride before dusk. Morning safaris often provide the best animal activity.

Dining and Break Tips

To keep your energy up, consider taking breaks and enjoying some of the park’s dining options:

• Satu’li Canteen (Pandora): Known for its customizable bowls and unique flavors.
• Flame Tree Barbecue (Discovery Island): A great spot for ribs, chicken, and pulled pork.
• Tusker House Restaurant (Africa): A character dining experience offering African-inspired dishes.

Pro Tip: Use mobile ordering through the My Disney Experience app to save time and avoid long lines at quick-service locations.

Final Tips for Success

• Check the My Disney Experience App: Watch wait times and modify your plans as needed.
• Stay Hydrated: Florida’s heat can be intense, so drink plenty of water.
• Enjoy the Details: Disney’s Animal Kingdom is as much about the environment as the rides. Take time to explore the trails and animal exhibits.

Proper planning lets you make the most of your day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and experience its incredible attractions with minimal wait times. Whether you’re soaring through Pandora, braving the Forbidden Mountain, or spotting wildlife on safari, the magic of Disney is sure to create unforgettable memories.