Toddler Approved Hidden Gems in Disney’s Animal Kingdom
By Kayla Robinson
Are you ready to discover the enchanting world of Disney's Animal Kingdom through the eyes of your toddler? This curated list of hidden gems showcases the lesser-known wonders of this magical park, ensuring that your little ones have a memorable experience. With secret spots that are sure to captivate your little explorer's heart, let's go on a journey to explore toddler-approved treasures nestled within Disney's Animal Kingdom.
Spending time walking around these trails is such a fun way to get some wiggles out!
Discovery Island
Discovery Island Trails
Did you know that there are trails all around the Tree of Life? When you stroll through these self-guided beautiful trails, you’ll get an up-close view of the animal carvings that make up the Tree of Life!
These trails are also home to lemurs, flamingos, kangaroos, and tortoises. Our son absolutely loved getting to explore this hidden gem. With plenty of room to get his wiggles out and so much to discover, he loved being our little explorer and pointing out all of the animals he was able to spot!
Africa
Rafiki's Planet Watch - Affection Section
Hop aboard the Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch! This hidden gem is home to Affection Section, where your little explorer can get up close and personal with a variety of unique, domesticated animals – goats, pigs, donkeys, sheep, and more!
The animal care experts were amazing at answering all of our sons’ questions and he loved being able to utilize the brushes to help care for a few of the goats!
Pro Tip: The last daily train departs from Harambe Station at 4:30PM, so be sure to prioritize this experience earlier on in your day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
This trail is such an underrated gem!
Asia
Maharaja Jungle Trek
Your little one’s imagination can run wild on the Maharaja Jungle Trek. This self-guided tour will take you through a place that seems to be frozen in time! While crossing footbridges and taking in beautiful waterfalls your little explorer will be able to spot gibbons, Komodo dragons, over 50 species of birds, Asian tigers, and so much more!
The aviary was one of our son’s favorite parts! A Cast Member will hand you a guide to take with you while you are in the aviary to help you spot the different species of birds. Our son loved going on a scavenger hunt, and we loved seeing him learn and explore!
I hope this guide will add an extra layer of joy and discovery to your day in Disney's Animal Kingdom. The memories created with your toddlers amid the hidden gems of this remarkable park will stay with you for a lifetime. From playful encounters with wildlife, to joyful laughter brought about in the way only Disney can, may your family's love for adventure continue to grow! Happy exploring!
Kayla is a lifelong Disney fan who became a travel agent to help other families experience the same magic she grew up with and now shares with her husband and son! She is a detail-oriented planner who loves to bring her clients' visions to life whether it's a trip to a Disney Park, an all-inclusive holiday to a tropical destination or setting sail on a cruise ship! She loves being outside in nature, spending time with her loved ones and never says no to a good cup of iced coffee!
If you want to work with Kayla to plan your next great adventure to a Disney Park, on a cruise or beyond you can fill out a quote form here!