Credit: Disney / Canva / edited by ITMIf there’s one thing that keeps Walt Disney World fans on their toes, it’s the never-ending cycle of changes across the parks and resorts. One month, a beloved attraction closes for refurbishment; the next, a new restaurant pops up. Disney has clarified that it’s willing to shake things up—even at the expense of longtime guest favorites.
Recently, the changes haven’t just been in the theme parks. They’ve hit the resorts, where vacationers spend much of their trips. And now, another major hotel closure is on the horizon, adding to a long list of shake-ups.
The Allure of Disney Resort Hotels
Staying on Disney property has always been part of the magic. Guests often describe waking up inside the “Disney bubble” as a completely different experience from staying offsite. Complimentary transportation, immersive theming, proximity to the parks, and exclusive perks like Early Entry make Disney resort hotels a premium option.
From budget-friendly Value Resorts to deluxe accommodations with Savannah views, these hotels aren’t just places to crash after a long day at the parks. They’re an extension of the storytelling.
Whether you’re wandering the Victorian-inspired lobbies of Disney’s Grand Floridian or soaking in the rustic charm of Wilderness Lodge, Disney resorts have always been designed as destinations in themselves. That’s why any hotel closure or refurbishment instantly sparks conversation—guests want to know how their vacations might be affected.
Spotlight on Animal Kingdom Lodge
Among Disney’s most unique resorts is Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Opened in 2001, this deluxe hotel is unlike anything else at Walt Disney World. Modeled after African lodges, the resort surrounds a private savanna where giraffes, zebras, and other exotic animals roam freely.
Guests can step onto their balconies and watch wildlife graze right outside their rooms—something that has given this resort its reputation as one of the most breathtaking in Disney’s lineup.
Animal Kingdom Lodge is divided into two sections: Jambo House, the original main lodge, and Kidani Village, which primarily serves Disney Vacation Club (DVC) members. Both areas are richly themed, with dark wood tones, African art, and authentic details that make you feel transported far from Orlando.
Between the cultural offerings, award-winning restaurants like Boma and Jiko, and multiple pool areas, Animal Kingdom Lodge has built a loyal fan base that considers it a must-stay. But even fan-favorite resorts need updates, and that’s where Disney’s latest announcement comes into play.
Major Changes Coming to the Lodge
Disney recently confirmed a multi-phase closure and refurbishment plan that will keep parts of Animal Kingdom Lodge out of commission for quite some time. While the resort itself isn’t closing entirely, the scale of the work makes this one of the most significant hotel updates currently on Disney property.
The timeline begins with Zebra Trail Terrace at Jambo House, where work started in July 2025 and will continue into September. This marks the kickoff to a larger series of projects touching nearly every part of the resort.
Next, Kidani Village guest rooms will undergo a massive overhaul from October 2025 through May 2026. This project goes far beyond surface-level changes—Disney plans to replace furniture, upgrade lighting, install new flooring, and refresh bathroom fixtures.
Once Kidani is complete, the focus will shift back to Jambo House guest rooms, with renovations scheduled from May 2026 through January 2027. These will include the same level of upgrades, ensuring the entire resort feels brand-new when the dust settles.
Blending Timeless Charm With Modern Amenities
This marks the first significant refurbishment since the Villas debuted between 2007 and 2009, making it long overdue. Disney has also hinted that Murphy beds—already a popular addition in other DVC resorts—could be introduced here.
These beds fold into the wall when unused, giving families more space to move around during the day while accommodating additional guests at night.
The end result will be a refreshed, modernized Animal Kingdom Lodge that preserves its immersive charm while giving guests the comforts they expect from a high-end Disney hotel.
Another Closure Hits the Resort
But it’s not just guest rooms that will be affected. Disney has also announced a temporary closure that will impact families visiting the pool area. Starting September 8, 2025, the Samawati Springs Pool Slide at Kidani Village will close for routine maintenance.
While this might disappoint kids (and adults who love a good waterslide), Disney has pointed out that the Uzima Springs Pool slide at Jambo House will remain open during this time.
The Samawati Springs Pool itself will not close—only the slide—so guests can still enjoy the water, just without that extra thrill. Still, for families who have made this slide part of their vacation tradition, it adds another wrinkle to planning a stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge this fall.
The Bigger Picture
When you look at the scope of these projects, it’s clear Disney is investing heavily in keeping its resorts competitive. Theming and location are still big draws, but in an era where guests are paying premium prices, expectations around room quality are higher than ever.
Once the refurbishments are complete, a refreshed Animal Kingdom Lodge will likely wow returning guests, but in the meantime, the closures are unavoidable. For those planning a trip in the next year or two, it’s worth paying attention to these updates. Booking a stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge may be limited depending on when you travel.
That could mean construction noise, unavailable sections, or closed amenities like the pool slide. Disney typically does a decent job of minimizing disruptions, but the scale of these refurbishments means some impact is inevitable.
Once the work is complete, guests can expect a more comfortable, modern, and family-friendly experience that continues to deliver on the resort’s promise of bringing the spirit of Africa to the heart of Walt Disney World.