Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas—encompassing both Kidani Village and Jambo House—offer a unique stay that immerses guests in the vibrant culture and stunning wildlife of Africa. As part of the Disney Vacation Club (DVC), these villas provide an experience like no other at Walt Disney World, combining luxury accommodations with the extraordinary experience of staying within a living, breathing wildlife preserve. Both Kidani Village and Jambo House offer incredible views of the savanna, where over 30 species of animals roam freely, right outside your window.
For those seeking an unforgettable Disney trip with a focus on nature and culture, the Animal Kingdom Villas are a must-stay destination.
Key Features of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas (Kidani Village & Jambo House)
1. Wildlife Views from Your Room
One of the most unique features of the Animal Kingdom Villas is the opportunity to wake up to stunning views of African wildlife right from your balcony. Both Kidani Village and Jambo House have rooms that overlook the Savanna, which houses giraffes, zebras, gazelles, and more.
- Savanna View Rooms: These rooms offer a direct view of the savanna, providing an unparalleled experience. Guests can enjoy watching the animals roam free throughout the day.
- Standard View Rooms: For those on a budget, standard view rooms still offer great views of the lush landscaping and resort but don’t face the savanna.
Key Tip: If your budget allows, go for the Savanna View. It’s an experience like no other in Disney World, and perfect for animal lovers.
2. Distinct Theming and Architecture
The architecture and theming of both Kidani Village and Jambo House reflect the cultures and art of Africa, creating an immersive and authentic experience. You’ll find stunning African art, detailed wood carvings, and intricate beadwork throughout both areas of the resort.
- Kidani Village: Known for its smaller, more intimate feel, Kidani Village has a lobby designed around African influences with high ceilings, dark woods, and windows offering sweeping views of the savanna.
- Jambo House: Jambo House is larger and more vibrant, with a grand lobby that features towering ceilings, massive windows overlooking the savanna, and one of the most impressive collections of African art in the U.S.
Key Tip: Kidani Village tends to be quieter and more laid-back, while Jambo House offers more activities, restaurants, and a larger lobby. Pick based on the experience you want.
3. Luxury Villa Accommodations
Animal Kingdom Villas offer a variety of villa-style rooms, from Deluxe Studios to Two- and Three-Bedroom Villas. The accommodations combine rustic African decor with modern amenities, creating a luxurious yet cozy atmosphere.
- Deluxe Studios: Perfect for couples or smaller families, these studios come equipped with kitchenettes and can sleep up to five guests.
- One-, Two-, and Three-Bedroom Villas: These larger villas feature full kitchens, living areas, and washer/dryer units, making them ideal for larger groups or extended stays. The Two-Bedroom Villas can sleep up to nine people, while Three-Bedroom Villas can accommodate up to 12.
Key Tip: If you’re staying with a larger family or group, the Two- or Three-Bedroom Villas offer more space and the convenience of a full kitchen and in-room laundry, perfect for longer stays.
4. Dining Options Inspired by African Flavours
Animal Kingdom Villas feature some of the best dining options at Disney, offering a mix of traditional African, Indian, and American cuisine. Both Kidani Village and Jambo House have their own dining experiences, from table service to quick service.
- Sanaa (Kidani Village): Famous for its Indian-African fusion cuisine, Sanaa offers views of the savanna while you dine. Try the bread service with a selection of dipping sauces—it’s a guest favourite.
- Boma – Flavors of Africa (Jambo House): Boma is an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring African-inspired dishes like bobotie, zebra domes, and carved meats. The breakfast buffet is also highly popular.
- Jiko – The Cooking Place (Jambo House): For fine dining, Jiko offers an upscale experience with African flavours, including wood-grilled meats and seafood.
Key Tip: Sanaa’s bread service is a must-try, and reservations are highly recommended for Jiko and Boma as these are very popular dining spots.
5. Recreation and Pools
The Animal Kingdom Villas offer a wealth of recreational activities for guests of all ages, making it easy to enjoy a day at the resort without visiting the parks.
- Uzima Springs Pool (Jambo House): This large pool area features a waterslide, zero-entry point, and a hot tub, making it a great place to cool off after a day in the parks. The pool area is beautifully themed, with lush landscaping and African design elements.
- Samawati Springs Pool (Kidani Village): Kidani’s pool features a waterslide, hot tub, and an interactive water playground for kids, making it a fantastic option for families. This pool area is slightly quieter and more relaxed than Jambo House’s pool.
- Animal Programs: Both resorts offer cultural activities and educational programs about African wildlife and conservation, often hosted by cultural representatives from various African nations.
Key Tip: If you’re travelling with kids, take advantage of the animal viewing areas and educational programs that teach children about African wildlife and culture.
6. Proximity to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Both Kidani Village and Jambo House are just minutes away from Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, making them the perfect choice for animal lovers and fans of the park. Although neither resort offers walking access to the park, Disney provides frequent bus transportation between the resort and all theme parks.
Key Tip: If Animal Kingdom is a major part of your trip, staying at either Kidani Village or Jambo House allows you to immerse yourself in the park’s themes and atmosphere even when you’re not at the park itself.
Renting DVC Points at Animal Kingdom Villas
Renting DVC points is one of the best ways to experience Animal Kingdom Villas—both Kidani Village and Jambo House—at a reduced cost. By renting points from a DVC member, you can enjoy all the luxury and benefits of the villas without paying the full price that comes with booking directly through Disney. This option is particularly popular for Savanna View rooms, where renting points offers significant savings while providing one of the most unique hotel experiences Disney has to offer.
Renting DVC points for Animal Kingdom Villas also gives access to larger accommodations, such as One-, Two-, and Three-Bedroom Villas, which are ideal for larger families or groups. It’s a smart way to enjoy the extra amenities of DVC, like full kitchens, in-room laundry, and exclusive villa areas, without the commitment of owning DVC points.
Key Tip: Since Savanna View rooms are highly sought after, be sure to book your DVC rental as early as possible to secure the best views and accommodations. Kidani Village tends to have more availability for DVC rentals compared to Jambo House.
Benefits of Staying at Animal Kingdom Villas
1. Unique Wildlife Experience
There’s no other Disney resort where you can wake up to the sight of giraffes, zebras, and other African wildlife roaming outside your window. The Savanna View rooms are truly special, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.
2. Spacious and Luxurious Villas
Whether you’re staying in a Studio or a Three-Bedroom Villa, the accommodations at Animal Kingdom Villas provide comfort, luxury, and plenty of space, making them ideal for families or larger groups.
3. Outstanding Dining
With some of Disney’s best restaurants on-site, such as Sanaa, Jiko, and Boma, you won’t have to venture far for excellent food. The African-inspired dishes offer a culinary adventure of their own.
Downsides of Animal Kingdom Villas
1. Distance from Other Parks
While Animal Kingdom Villas are perfect for guests who love Disney’s Animal Kingdom, they are located farther away from Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios, making the bus rides a bit longer than other resorts.
2. Limited Transportation Options
Unlike some other Disney resorts, there’s no Monorail or Skyliner access, so guests must rely on bus transportation for all parks and Disney Springs.
Final Thoughts: Is Animal Kingdom Villas Worth It?
Yes, the distance and limited travel options are a downside, but the upsides are simply stellar. What other theme park resort at Walt Disney World (or many of its competitors!) can you see savannah animals right from your bedroom window? For those looking for a truly unique Disney experience, Animal Kingdom Villas at Kidani Village and Jambo House are absolutely worth it. The combination of wildlife views, spacious villas, and incredible dining options make these resorts stand out as one of the most memorable places to stay at Walt Disney World. Renting DVC points makes this experience more accessible, especially for those looking for Savanna View rooms.
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