Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

“Sanaa Breakfast Excellent”

We stayed at Coronado Springs but came over for a real breakfast as the Springs is lacking. Animal Lodge was close by and easy to get to via WDW bus it had EXCELLENT eggs Benny at Sanaa restaurant, plus we saw animals running around well eating.

“Great hotel, poor quality sleep”

I am currently staying here to celebrate my 30th birthday, a very special occasion that also coincides with the fifth anniversary of my mom’s passing. I chose Disney hoping for magical days and some rest during this meaningful time. The hotel itself is beautiful, but unfortunately, my experience h… more

I am currently staying here to celebrate my 30th birthday, a very special occasion that also coincides with the fifth anniversary of my mom’s passing. I chose Disney hoping for magical days and some rest during this meaningful time. The hotel itself is beautiful, but unfortunately, my experience has been overshadowed by constant noise that has prevented me from sleeping. Last night, at 2:30 am, housekeeping staff was vacuuming the hallway with a high-powered vacuum cleaner, creating an unbearable noise that disrupted my sleep. I called the front desk to report the issue, and all I received was an apology. A late check-out was not even offered; I had to go down personally to request it. In the end, I was only granted one extra hour as compensation, which is completely inadequate for such a disturbance. At check-out, we were offered $60 as compensation for the inconvenience caused, and they clarified that the vacuuming incident should not have happened. At check-out, we were offered $60 as compensation for the inconvenience caused, and they clarified that the vacuuming incident should not have happened. While this situation was disappointing and not reflective of the high standards Disney promises, there were positive aspects to our stay. We saw giraffes, zebras, and lots of animals on the hotel grounds, which was truly magical. The lobby’s decoration was excellent and immersive, though the room felt a bit outdated, with a very 90s style. However, that seems to be the case with most Disney properties, so it was to be expected.

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“Don’t bother getting Savannah view room”

I booked this hotel because we wanted to see animals from our balcony. I saw 2 giraffes in the distance one day, one zebra the next day, and some birds. I am here now and just got up at 7 am and no animals to be seen on Arusha Savannah. I did see some on the Sunset Savannah side as I walked down th… more

I booked this hotel because we wanted to see animals from our balcony. I saw 2 giraffes in the distance one day, one zebra the next day, and some birds. I am here now and just got up at 7 am and no animals to be seen on Arusha Savannah. I did see some on the Sunset Savannah side as I walked down the hall. I find it strange that so few are coming this way. The lobby is beautiful and our room was clean and it’s pretty quiet except for some loud neighbors who probably just arrived. They have their little kids screaming on the balcony next door. My kids aren’t crazy about the food. So it’s just ok. Below is a picture of the empty Savannah from my room.

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“A Mixed Experience for (South) African Travelers”

As South African travelers, we have a unique perspective on this Disney resort. While the Animal Kingdom Lodge is undoubtedly impressive to many international guests, it presents differently to those familiar with African game lodges. PROS: - Animals visible from balconies/public areas - Extremely… more

As South African travelers, we have a unique perspective on this Disney resort. While the Animal Kingdom Lodge is undoubtedly impressive to many international guests, it presents differently to those familiar with African game lodges. PROS: - Animals visible from balconies/public areas - Extremely friendly and courteous staff - Beautiful pool area and surroundings - Convenient laundry facilities - African-inspired architecture CONS: - Very dark interior with heavy wood themes - Significant noise issues: * Poor soundproofing between rooms * Hallway noise until late night * Early morning disturbances (from 6AM) * Constant rolling luggage noise * Can hear neighboring rooms clearly - Facilities showing age in places - Laundry room lacks basic amenities (no sink/sanitizer) The lodge attempts to recreate an African safari experience, which might be magical for European or American visitors. However, for South Africans familiar with authentic game lodges, it feels like a themed interpretation rather than the real thing. VERDICT: While well-executed for Disney's target market, we'd recommend South African travelers choose other Disney resorts that offer unique American experiences instead. Light sleepers should definitely consider other options due to the significant noise issues throughout the day and night. Perfect for: First-time safari experience, families with children, heavy sleepers Not ideal for: South African travelers seeking authentic experiences, light sleepers, those wanting peaceful mornings/evenings​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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