Wild Africa Trek at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Last month, I got the chance to go on the Wild Africa Trek — a private guided tour in Disney’s Animal Kingdom where you get to go behind the scenes and get close to the animals.

Don’t I look rugged and outdoorsey?

It was amazing. One of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had at Disney – and we’ve done some really cool things at Disney!! Check it out:

QUICK FACTS

• cost is about $200/person, depending on when you go.
• 3-hour VIP tour through Pangani Forest on a thrilling, privately guided expedition featuring close encounters with exotic wildlife species, followed by a VIP safari through African savanna, including a visit to an exclusive safari camp with incredible views of everything from towering giraffe to powerful rhinos.
• light African-inspired refreshments are served. And by ‘light refreshments’ they mean WOW. Curry-chicken salad, roasted pepper hummus, grilled shrimp, fresh food, pita bread… SO delicious.
  
• And while you’re on the tour, you have two guides with you who are taking tons of pictures – and you get a photo cd to bring home. So, while you will be taking tons of pictures – because its really amazing – you don’t have to worry about missing something. And you can put the camera down and enjoy the view!

QUICK TIPS

1. Only guests eight years old and up can go on the trek. There are medical restrictions as well, such as a minimum weight.
2. You cannot bring a camera without a strap and cell phones must be left back at base camp. Lockers are provided for all other belongings, but they aren’t huge, so leave the big backpack at the hotel.
3. You will not be near a bathroom for at least two hours, so plan accordingly.
4. You will be required to wear long shorts or pants and close-toed shoes. Trust me, you will be glad you did. This is off the beaten path.
5. Consider the weather and time of year when booking your trip. It was about 80 degrees the day we went, and I wouldn’t want it to be any hotter. I’m glad we were there during the morning hours, when it’s cooler and the animals were more active.

This was truly an experience I will never forget. I’m so glad I got to go with a few friends – I am dying to take my family as soon as my kids are all old enough!

disclosure: i experienced the wild africa trek as part of the disney social media moms conference. while i did pay to attend the conference, we were given a terrific deal by disney!