Wilderness Explorers Program Continues Legacy of Learning
After over 24 years of immersive and up-close animal experiences, Disney’s Animal Kingdom also continues to provide one of the most unique quests at Walt Disney World through its Wilderness Explorers program. With almost 30 exploratory badges, the scavenger hunt challenges guests to not only locate trained guides but also to learn quite a bit during their day at the theme park.
The Wilderness Explorer program begins and ends with a stop at the Headquarters, a main post located on the bridge to Discovery Island. Though possible to complete in one day, those hoping to achieve “Senior Wilderness Explorer” ranking should plan on spending the bulk of their day acquiring their badges, which come in the form of stickers.
Botany, Conservation, Dinosaurs, and More
From learning about the botany involved in the Valley of Mo’ara in Pandora: The World of Avatar to hiking through the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail, Wilderness Explorers truly immerse themselves in the nuances of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. With its emphasis on conservation, those on this journey also learn a great deal about the park’s efforts to increase sustainability and help the environment both at the theme park and around the world.
The adventure to earn all of the badges also requires a trip out to Conservation Station, a hidden gem at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and now home to the Animation Experience (shown above). There, Wilderness Explorers learn about animal friends able to found in their own backyards.
A trip through the labs and facilities also introduces learners to animal diets. Thanks to large glass windows, visitors also may get to see a bit of veterinary work done at the facility. Another badge emphasizes the importance of recycling.
A quick stop at the Affection Section at Conservation Station lets young animal fans brush and interact with a range of livestock, including cows, goats, and even pigs. For that badge, learnes also make sure to remember the importance of hand washing after interacting with the animals.
Dressing the Explorer Way
The Wilderness Explorers finds takes inspiration from the Pixar Animation Studios film, “Up.” Of course, movie fans can even dress the part for their day embracing all that is Wilderness Explorer culture.
The $29.99 Wilderness Explorer set is often available at a range of merchandise locations at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It presents a perfect way for young adventurers to spend their day just as Russell would as he tries to gain his badges in the hearwarming film.
Whether dressed in costume or not, Wilderness Explorers collect badges in a handbook that they pick up in the beginning of their quest. With posts remaining for years, the challenge can be completed in one day or over a number of visits. Adventure really is out there at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Wilderness Explorers only adds to a day spent immersed in the theme park, especially for kids ages 6-12.