How to get the "Lion's Share" out of Disney's Animal Kingdom

Walt Disney World opened its newest attraction park in 1998, and although it's considered a "Theme" park, it is a bit different from Magic Kingdom, Epcot, or MGM. The Animal Kingdom was built to educate the public about animals and inform everyone about environmental conservation. It does so in an entertaining manner, and has been widely successful. As long as visitors know that this is neither a zoo, nor a theme park like the others, they will not be disappointed.

The Animal Kingdom covers an area of 500 acres, and as such, requires a bit of understanding before visiting. There are over 1700 animals in this park, representing 250 species of wildlife, and since the park is laid out to fit the animal's natural environments, a lot of walking is required. If there is any question of which shoes to wear, or whether or not to bring or rent a stroller, guests should definitely opt for what is most comfortable. (In addition, since there is not much shade throughout the park, sunglasses, hats, sunscreen and water are necessities.)

Since the animals are the focal point at the Animal Kingdom, respect to their schedules is top priority. For this reason, the park closes earlier than the other ones, so it's best to arrive early to get a full day's worth of viewing. If this isn't possible, get "fast passes" for popular attractions like Expedition Everest and Kilimanjaro Safari soon after entering the park. Also, seeing certain animals is not guaranteed, due to the animals being free to roam where they like. A trip to Africa may or may not result in seeing the elephant, rhino or giraffe a guest hopes to view up close, and this is something over which Disney has no control. (However, visitors have reported seeing more activity on the Kilimanjaro Safari in the early AM hours.) Also, be aware that the Savannah jeeps travel quickly and picture taking is often compromised; it may be best to just sit back and enjoy the scenery. While in Africa, be sure not to miss the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail with its hippo park and gorilla families. For the best viewing, this should be done either in the early morning or later afternoon hours-and do expect this area to be quite crowded.

It's almost tradition to get a picture in front of The Tree of Life, a 14 story artificial tree in the front of the park, containing carvings of over 300 animals. As a guest continues to Asia, they will find the Maharaja Jungle Trek, home to komodo dragons and bats, and the Kali River Rapids, a water ride. (Ponchos are provided, but visitors should know that they will get completely wet, so if a ruined hairstyle will also ruin one's day, this attraction should be avoided.) Before leaving this part of the world, Expedition Everest offers a back-and-forth roller coaster experience that's not too rough or scary, while Flights of Wonder presents a live bird show and a chance to rest one's feet.

Dinoland USA boasts the Dinosaur ride, which, due to its pace and momentum, is not advised for those with back problems or heart conditions. The Tricera Top Spin and the Primevil Whirl are also fast rides with long lines, but are worth the wait for those who like to spin while moving in other directions. The Boneyard gives children the chance to dig for and examine dinosaur fossils, while Fossil Fun offers carnival games with a dinosaur twist. (Additional costs may apply.) This area is great if traveling with young children, but the Cretaceous Trail is a chance to get away from the excitement for awhile.

In Discovery Islands, a guest will find the 3-D film, "It's Tough to be a Bug" (in the Tree of Life's trunk) and the Discovery Islands Trails. Both are attractions that are amusing for all ages, and the trails can be entered or maneuvered in several directions. Therefore, this walking tour can be done conveniently at any time during your visit.

At the very center of the Animal Kingdom sits the Oasis Exhibits, a hub for paths to the park's different areas. The Oasis abounds with lovely landscaping, waterfalls, streams animals-and benches. For those traveling with very young children, Camp Minnie-Mickey will entertain them with its live presentation of Lion King songs (be sure to get there early), character greetings throughout the day, and an Audio-Animatronic show about Pocahontas and Her Forest Friends.

There are sit-down and counter restaurants in every area of the park that offer a variety of dishes. There is even a character breakfast buffet at Donald's Breakfastosaurus, which is good for those want to catch the animals at play early in the morning and don't have time to eat breakfast at their hotel!