An Inside Look at The Wild Africa Trek – Disney’s Best Kept Secret
If you’re looking for something totally unique and unforgettable at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the Wild Africa Trek might just be the hidden gem you’ve been missing.
At the Boma
I recently took part in this guided VIP experience, and let me tell you, it was 100% worth it!
Flamingo View from The Boma
From walking rope bridges over crocodile pits to standing just feet from giraffes on a private safari, this tour blends behind-the-scenes access with once-in-a-lifetime animal encounters.
Walking across Bridges
Whether you’re a Disney veteran or visiting for the first time, this is one adventure that goes way beyond your typical park day!
What Do You Experience On the Wild Africa Trek?
Baby Elephant
The Wild Africa Trek is more than just a tour, it’s a behind-the-scenes adventure through Animal Kingdom that lets you experience the Harambe Wildlife Reserve like never before.
Animal Kingdom Kilimanjaro Safaris Baobob Tree Elephant Tusk Marks
We started our trek with a hike through secluded jungle paths most guests never get to see.
Hiking Through Animal Kingdom
Along the way, we stopped at the hippo habitat, except instead of viewing from a distance, we were harnessed in and brought into the actual enclosure!
Up close and personal with the hippos
A guide fed the hippos while sharing fun facts and stories about each animal, giving us an up-close look at these surprisingly lovable giants.
From there, we clipped into safety harnesses and made our way across a series of rope bridges suspended high above the crocodile pit…yes, real crocodiles!
Walking Across the Rope Bridges
Don’t worry, the gear feels secure, and the views are worth every step!
Bridge Crossing
You can even see the other guests riding Kilimanjaro Safari as you walk along!
View of the Crocodiles
Once across, we entered the crocodile zone, where we paused to observe and learn about these powerful reptiles from a safe, guided vantage point.
You can bring your personal phones to take pictures on the bridges!
The second half of the trek brought a change of pace.
We boarded our own private safari truck and drove into the savanna, stopping frequently to get close to giraffes, zebras, and other animals grazing just feet away.
Painted Dogs
Finally, we arrived at a peaceful overlook (The Boma) where we enjoyed a delicious snack and drinks while watching the animals roam.
Food Spread – Wild Africa Trek
It was the perfect moment to relax and take it all in before heading back to civilization.
View from the Boma
What You Need to Know Before You Go
Before you set off on your Wild Africa Trek adventure, here are a few important things to keep in mind:
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Lockers Are Provided: You won’t be able to bring a backpack or loose items with you on the trek, but Disney provides free lockers at the base to store your belongings safely.
Wild Africa Trek Sign
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Phones and Glasses Are Allowed (With Straps!): You can bring your phone and glasses, but everything must be strapped in. Don’t worry, Disney gives you secure straps so you don’t risk dropping anything into the animal enclosures!
Harnesses – Wild Africa Trek
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Professional Photos Included: If you’d rather stay in the moment, the guides take professional-quality photos throughout the experience. Just let them know which animals you love most, and they’ll capture the perfect shot. All photos are included for free afterward, no extra purchase necessary.
Photo taken by the guides on Wild Africa Trek
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Dress for the Trek: Closed-toed shoes are required, and you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking and climbing. You’ll also be given a reusable water bottle (yours to keep!) with refill stations along the way to stay hydrated.
Free Water Bottle – Wild Africa Trek
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Timing Matters: The entire experience lasts about three hours. I highly recommend booking the early morning slot (we did the 8:45 a.m. time), as the animals are more active and the heat is still manageable. Guides mentioned that the afternoon can get pretty warm.
Wild Africa Trek – Up Close with the Hippos
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Food and Allergies: The snack portion takes place at the Boma overlook on the savanna. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, just let them know when you check in, they’re happy to accommodate.
Our AMAZING guides on the Wild Africa Trek
Booking the Wild Africa Trek
This is one of Animal Kingdom’s most exclusive experiences, and it does fill up quickly, especially the early morning slots.
Wild Africa Trek – Animals
Reservations open 60 days in advance, and if you’re planning your Disney trip during a busy season, it’s smart to book as soon as your window opens.
Wild Africa Trek – Disneyworld.disney.go.com
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Cost: The Wild Africa Trek is $219 per person (plus tax), and it’s worth every penny for the level of access and the personal attention from expert guides.
Bird Enclosure- Wild Africa Trek
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Age Requirement: Participants must be at least 8 years old, and there are height and weight guidelines for safety harnesses, which you’ll see during booking.
Views from the Savanna – Wild Africa Trek
This is a premium tour, but considering the length, the private safari truck, the food, the photos, and the up-close encounters, it truly delivers on value, especially for animal lovers and Disney veterans looking to try something new.
Crossing the Bridge – Wild Africa Trek
Final Thoughts: Absolutely Worth It
As someone who’s been to Animal Kingdom hundreds of times (and even used to work there) I can honestly say the Wild Africa Trek gave me a whole new appreciation for the park and its animals.
Wild Africa Trek
Seeing the savanna from this perspective, without the usual crowds, and getting to spend real time with the animals (and the amazing guides) made this one of the most memorable experiences I’ve ever had at Disney.
Crocodile Enclosure – Wild Africa Trek
The mix of adventure, education, and behind-the-scenes magic is something truly special.
Wild Africa Trek – Bridge Crossing
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Disney pro, the Wild Africa Trek is 100% worth it.
Wild Africa Trek – Crocodile Enclosure
It’s a splurge, yes, but one that delivers incredible value and unforgettable memories. I’d do it again in a heartbeat!
Stay Magical, friends!
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