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Credit: DisneyIn a groundbreaking move that has Disney enthusiasts buzzing with excitement, this Disney Resort is set to unveil the world’s first-ever “The Lion King” themed land, complete with an immersive flume ride that promises to transport guests straight into the heart of the African savanna.
The New Disney ‘Lion King’ Log Flume Ride Reminds You of an Old Friend
This ambitious project, announced during the D23 Expo in August 2024, marks a significant milestone in the park’s ongoing transformation and expansion efforts. The D23 Expo, held in August 2024, served as the grand stage for Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro to unveil plans for the new “The Lion King” attraction.
This announcement was part of a broader initiative to reimagine and expand Disneyland Paris’ second park, which is undergoing a transformation from Walt Disney Studios Park to Disney Adventure World.
The scale model for the upcoming “Lion King” flume ride coming to Disneyland Paris was just shared during the Disney annual shareholder meeting. – @Attractions on X
The scale model for the upcoming "Lion King" flume ride coming to Disneyland Paris was just shared during the Disney annual shareholder meeting.
We have lots more photos of this model from when we saw it at D23 2024: https://t.co/liMJyvDmIb pic.twitter.com/bKPffmPqv9
— Attractions Magazine (@Attractions) March 20, 2025
The rebranding reflects a shift towards more immersive and narrative-driven experiences, with “The Lion King” land being a cornerstone of this evolution. The forthcoming “The Lion King” land aims to provide guests with an authentic and immersive experience that brings the beloved 1994 animated classic to life. Central to this new area will be a flume-style attraction, reminiscent of the iconic Splash Mountain rides formerly found at Disney parks in the United States.
This ride is designed to take visitors on a journey alongside Simba, chronicling his transformation from a young cub to the king of the Pride Lands. As guests navigate the caverns beneath Pride Rock, they will encounter scenes and characters integral to Simba’s story, offering a narrative-rich experience that aligns with Disney’s storytelling tradition.
Beyond the Ride: Dining, Shopping, and Character Encounters
In addition to the flume ride, the new land will feature themed dining and shopping venues, allowing guests to further immerse themselves in the world of “The Lion King.” Character meet-and-greet opportunities will enable fans to interact with iconic figures such as Simba, Nala, Timon, and Pumbaa, enhancing the overall guest experience and providing memorable moments for visitors of all ages.
The introduction of “The Lion King” land is strategically planned to follow the opening of the “World of Frozen” area, slated for 2026. This phased approach to expansion underscores Disneyland Paris’ commitment to continually refreshing and enriching its attractions, ensuring that guests have new and diverse experiences to look forward to with each visit.
While the addition of a water-based attraction brings a new dimension to Disneyland Paris, it also presents unique challenges, particularly concerning the park’s temperate climate. Flume rides, by their nature, involve water elements that can be less appealing during colder months.
This raises questions about the ride’s operational schedule and guest comfort during the winter season. Disney’s Imagineers will need to address these considerations, possibly by implementing climate control measures or seasonal adaptations, to ensure that the attraction remains enjoyable year-round.
Drawing Parallels: Echoes of Splash Mountain
The design and concept of the new “The Lion King” flume ride bear similarities to the classic Splash Mountain attractions that once operated at Disney parks in the United States. Both rides utilize log flume mechanics to tell a story, combining gentle river sections with thrilling drops. However, the thematic shift to “The Lion King” offers a fresh narrative and visual experience, allowing guests to engage with a different facet of Disney’s rich storytelling heritage.
On March 20, 2025, during The Walt Disney Company’s shareholders call, new concept artwork and behind-the-scenes details of “The Lion King” attraction were unveiled. These insights provided a glimpse into the meticulous planning and creative efforts invested in bringing this project to fruition.
The artwork showcased the lush landscapes of the Pride Lands, intricate ride designs, and the immersive environments that guests can anticipate. This transparency reflects Disney’s dedication to keeping stakeholders and fans informed and engaged throughout the development process.
The introduction of “The Lion King” land is part of a broader €2 billion renovation plan aimed at transforming Disneyland Paris into a more immersive and expansive destination. This comprehensive strategy includes the reimagining of existing areas, the introduction of new themed lands, and enhancements to guest facilities. By aligning with popular franchises and incorporating state-of-the-art attractions, Disneyland Paris aims to solidify its position as a premier entertainment destination in Europe.
Anticipation for the Disney ‘Lion King’ Ride Builds: A New Era for Disney Adventure World
As Disneyland Paris transitions into Disney Adventure World, the addition of “The Lion King” land signifies a bold step towards redefining the park’s identity. By embracing immersive storytelling and innovative attraction designs, Disney continues to captivate audiences and set new standards in theme park entertainment. Guests eagerly await the opportunity to step into the Pride Lands and embark on a journey that celebrates courage, friendship, and the timeless appeal of “The Lion King.”
What are your thoughts on this new flume ride to Disney Resort overseas? Will it be enough to get you to Paris in the coming years? Does it look a lot or a little like Splash Mountain?