Walt Disney World Resort’s Imagineering (WDI) has officially announced a significant step forward in the transformation of Dinoland U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Exciting New Expansion for Walt Disney World Resort’s Animal Kingdom: Dinoland U.S.A. Transformation
The announcement comes as WDI files a Notice of Commencement for the site previously home to Primeval Whirl, signaling the next phase in the highly anticipated Tropical Americas expansion. This development promises to bring a fresh, immersive experience to one of Disney World’s most beloved theme parks, and visitors can look forward to a land inspired by the rich cultures and ecosystems of Central and South America.
Key Details About the Filing
The site where Primeval Whirl once stood has been largely unused since the ride’s permanent closure in 2020. The Notice of Commencement filed by WDI provides essential details about the project and sets the stage for the exciting new developments that are to come.
Location: Former Primeval Whirl site
Contractor: Whiting-Turner, a well-known firm with extensive experience in managing large-scale construction projects, including several for Disney.
Expiration Date: December 30, 2025
Description: “Area Development”

The filing suggests that work is set to begin soon on preparing the area for redevelopment. This aligns with Disney’s plans to reimagine Dinoland U.S.A. as a vibrant land featuring the natural beauty and cultural richness of Central and South America.
What Does “Area Development” Mean for Disney World?
While Disney has yet to release detailed specifics on the development process, the term “Area Development” provides insight into the scope of this first phase. This phase typically involves essential groundwork such as site preparation, infrastructure installation, and landscaping. It is likely that this stage will see significant changes to the landscape, including the clearing of land, the installation of utilities, and other necessary preparations to lay the foundation for future attractions.
Additionally, Disney’s meticulous attention to detail ensures that this development will fully immerse visitors in the unique ecosystems and cultures of the Tropical Americas, further enriching the diverse experiences available at Disney World.

Disney’s Vision for the Tropical Americas Expansion
The Tropical Americas expansion is one of the most highly anticipated projects for Disney World, as it will bring new life to Animal Kingdom’s Dinoland U.S.A. The land will be themed around the vibrant cultures, landscapes, and wildlife of Central and South America.
One of the most exciting features of this expansion is its integration of popular Disney franchises. The land will include attractions inspired by the beloved Disney film Encanto, as well as thrilling experiences based on the action-packed Indiana Jones films. These additions promise to captivate both longtime fans of the franchises and those new to the Disney World experience, offering something for every type of visitor.
The inclusion of Encanto is particularly exciting for Disney fans, as the film has sparked widespread cultural interest. Visitors can look forward to engaging, family-friendly attractions that bring the magic of the film’s setting to life, from the vibrant music to the stunning visual landscapes.

The Indiana Jones theme is also a welcome addition, adding an adventurous twist to the new land. Disney fans can expect a range of thrilling rides and experiences that transport them into the heart of the action, much like the Indiana Jones movies have done for decades.
Construction Timeline for the Tropical Americas Land
While the December 30, 2025 expiration date marks the anticipated end of this initial phase of the Tropical Americas expansion, construction on the individual attractions and experiences within the new land is expected to continue beyond this date. The land’s opening will likely occur in phases, with a full debut of all attractions and experiences expected around 2027.
This timeline allows for careful planning and construction to ensure that each aspect of the expansion meets Disney’s high standards of excellence. Guests visiting Disney World during this period can expect some areas of the park to remain under construction, though the end result will be well worth the wait.

What This Means for Disney World Visitors
This transformation of Dinoland U.S.A. into the Tropical Americas land is just one of the many exciting developments at Disney World, and it highlights Disney’s ongoing commitment to evolving and expanding its parks to provide fresh, innovative experiences. The integration of beloved Disney stories like Encanto and Indiana Jones will add even more magic to an already exceptional destination.
For Disney World fans and theme park enthusiasts, the Tropical Americas expansion represents the future of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, promising immersive cultural experiences, thrilling attractions, and a stunning reimagining of Dinoland U.S.A. With construction underway and the official opening of the new land just a few years away, there is much to look forward to in the coming years at Disney World.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting transformation and keep an eye on Disney World’s official announcements for the latest details on the Tropical Americas expansion.