Credit: DisneyWalt Disney World Resort recently announced changes coming to the operations of one of its most popular attractions.
If you’re planning a visit to Walt Disney World Resort in the coming months, it’s important to keep up with the latest changes, updates, and closures that will affect Disney park guests. Right now, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith is still shut down at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for refurbishment. Kali River Rapids is set to reopen this month at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
However, with Daylight Savings Time approaching, we have more news to share about changes coming to a popular Disney World ride, also at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Kilimanjaro Safaris is the only major riding attraction that closes down before the theme park actually closes, well, depending on the time of year. The attraction closes at sunset each day, so this means it will shut down prior to park closing, especially during the months that are not a part of Daylight Savings Time. With more daylight coming, this means that the attraction will now stay open even later.
Beginning March 10 through March 16, the Disney World attraction will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. However, after that, it actually will close earlier, at 6:00 p.m. each day starting March 11. Disney World’s calendar runs through April 30, and these attraction times are subject to change depending on crowd levels.
Disney’s official description for Kilimanjaro Safaris can be read below:
“Explore the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, home to over 30 species living in 110 acres of picturesque open plains, shady forest landscapes and rocky wetlands. Your rugged safari vehicle is driven by an expert guide, who helps point out animals and shares fascinating wildlife facts during this extraordinary 18-minute expedition.
Unique Animal Sightings
Spot a lounging hippopotamus nestled in a peaceful pond. Behold a regal lion sunbathing on a rocky perch. Drive past a towering giraffe grazing on the tall trees or a white rhino relaxing in the cool mud. Other amazing animals you may encounter include cheetahs, crocodiles, elephants, painted dogs, zebras—and so many more!Since animals have minds of their own, every expedition is a unique and unforgettable experience. Be sure to keep your eyes open and have a camera ready—you never know what you’ll see on a Kilimanjaro Safaris outing.”
As far as what’s next for Disney World, guests should be keeping their eyes on Magic Kingdom. Frontierland is currently undergoing some big changes that are set to be completed this summer. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will open in the place where Splash Mountain once was, and Country Bear Musical Jamboree will open with new songs in the summer, as well. For now, both attractions are closed and undergoing maintenance.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom will likely be the site for the next big construction project after Frontierland is completed. Dinoland, U.S.A. is rumored to close down permanently, and Disney has already been teasing what might go in its place. In addition, It’s Tough to be a Bug! in the Tree of Life will be closing permanently to make way for a Zootopia-themed attraction.
What do you think of these changes coming to Disney World? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments!