carterman_12
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Mar 14, 2001
<center><b>Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort FAQ</b></center>
Welcome to the soon to be famous Animal Kingdom Lodge Frequently Asked Questions. This is your stop for information on the DIS. Hmmm I cant think of anything else to introduce, so lets get started with it
<b>QUICK INFO:</b>
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
PO Box 10,000
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-1000
AKL Phone Number: 1-407-938-3000
Unofficial AKL Photo Gallery: www.wdwig.com/g_akl.htm
AKL Official Website via Disney: http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/waltdisneyworld/resorts/resortindex?id=DRSAnimalKingdomLodgeRsrt
Reservations: 1-407-W-DISNEY
Credit Cards Accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Discover, Diners Club, and the Disney Credit Card
Check in: 3pm
Check out: 11am
<b>What is Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge?</b>
Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge, their newest Deluxe Resort, is designed by Peter Dominick, who designed Wilderness Lodge. As you enter the lobby (which is on the third floor) you can easily tell that the whole resort features an African Theme. From the rooms, to the restaurants, and hidden mickeys, you truly believe that you are actually in Africa. There are 1,290+ rooms at AKL.
<b>What are the rooms like?</b>
Roughly 90% of the rooms have views of one of the three Savannahs, which we will explain in detail later. 100% of the rooms have balconies. The STANDARD ROOMS are approx. 344 sq. feet. The DELUXE ROOMS (which either have a pool or savannah view) are approx. 381 sq. feet. All rooms are themed liked Africa. All rooms feature 2 queen beds, 1 king and a daybed, and 1 queen and bunk beds. Deluxe queen rooms are close to the same as the standard rooms plus more room. King deluxe rooms feature more room in addition to the day bed it features. Contrary to what some people believe, the rooms at AKL are not really that dark. Here are the layouts of all the rooms courtesy of wdwinfo.com:
http://www.wdwinfo.com/aklodge/roomlayout.htm
All rooms feature 27in. TV, iron w/ board, safe, (inside closet), Telephone w/ voice mail, and hair dryer. If you want a coffee maker, you MUST request it.
Side note: the safes in your room are quite small. Ask about Guest Services about their larger safes near check in. We had to use these when we were switching rooms at the lodge.
<b>What is the room rates for 2001?</b>
For suite info, call 1-407-W-DISNEY
(Order as follows: value, regular, peak, and holiday)
Standard View: $199, $230, $275, $305
Water/Pool View: $250, $280, $325, $365,
Savannah View: $265, $295, $340, $385
Water/Pool Deluxe: $320, $360, $420, $475
Savannah Deluxe: $335 ,$375, $435, $490,
Concierge: $380, $435, $510, $565
Suites: $600-$1850, $675-$1990, $750-$2140, $850-$2350
<b>What are the rates for 2002?</b>
Standard View: $204, $239, $284, $319
Water/Pool View: $255, $290, $340, $380
Savannah View: $270, $305, $355, $400
Water/Pool Deluxe: $330, $375, $435, $490
Savannah Deluxe: $340, $385, $450, $505
Concierge: $415, $470, $535, $595
Suites: Call Call Call Call
<b>Season Dates: (2002) </b>
Value Season - 1/1/02-2/13/02, 8/25/02-10/2/02, 11/3/02-12/19/02
Regular Season - 4/21/02-8/24/02, 10/3/02-11/2/02
Peak Season - 2/14/02-4/20/02
Holiday Season - 12/20/02-12/31/02
<b>What types of view are available @ AKL?</b>
There are three views at AKL. Savannah Views overlook Arusha, Uzima, and Sunset Savannahs. Pool views overlook the pool area. Standard views overlook the parking lot. Concierge/Deluxe rooms overlook either the pool or one of the three Savannahs.
<b>I see on the map that they divide the rooms into trails. What does this mean?</b>
Trails at AKL are much like the buildings at the Poly and GF; and the wings at CR. There is the Zebra Trail, Kudu Trail, Ostrich Trail, and Giraffe Trail. HOWEVER, if you have your heart set on seeing Kudu, then do not request the Kudu Trail. This trail offers views of the sunset and Arusha Savannahs, but the Kudu is only available on the Uzima Savannah.
<b>What animals would I expect to see at AKL?</b>
Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge is divided into 3 Savannahs: Uzima, Arusha, and Sunset. Some of the animals are enemies to each other, which explains that some animals can only be found on a certain savannah. Giraffes are the only animal that is found on every savannah. Info below is courtesy of wdwinfo.com:
<b>Sunset Savannah</b>: Male Giraffe, Bongo, Impala, Thompsons Gazelles, Ostrich, Ankole Cattle, Waterbuck, African crown cranes, stork and blue cranes.
<b>Arusha Savannah</b>: Pelicans, geese, giraffe, ankole cattle, zebra, Wildebeast, eland, gemsbok
<b>Uzima Savannah</b>: Giraffe, Impala, Kudu, Bongo, Blesbok, Thompsons Gazelles
Usually, a free animal guide is included in your room, (if you have a savannah view). If you dont have one, ask guest services.
<b>Can I see an AKL Map?</b>
http://www.wdwig.com/aklmap3.jpg
<b>Are there any special programs at AKL?</b>
There is nightly African Storytelling at the firepit at Arusha Rock. For time, inquire at guest services.
There is a daily tour of the lodge itself starting at 3:30. Once again, inquire at guest services.
There is a developing self-guided tour of the many African paintings. See when you check in to see if they have finished this.
<b>Can you tell me about AKL concierge?</b>
AKL Concierge is all of the 6th floor and part of the 5th floor. The concierge lounge, or the Kilimanjaro Club, is on the 6th floor. The rooms are the same as deluxe rooms in terms in size. Concierge at AKL includes all the features that you would expect from a Disney concierge service, plus a little bit more.
<b>SUNRISE SAFARI</b> - available to AKL concierge guests only, this exciting tour of Kilimanjaro Safaris @ the Animal Kingdom (without the poachers) is $40. Unlike the actual ride, this tour takes about 45 minutes to complete, with frequent stops to view and take pictures of the many animals. The CMs go in length about the animals, which is also different from the ride. After the tour, guests will be escorted to the Tusker House, where a wonderful buffet awaits you (you also receive a fast pass to experience the ride when the AK is open). The tour has a max of 28 persons, and is available to book through concierge 90 days head. Avail. Tuesdays and Saturdays, and you must be at the bus stop at 6:30am. Transportation back to the resort is on your own.
<b>FOOD</b>-The following from Dreams Unlimited Travel expains AKL Concierge food:Macheo (Sunrise Offering)
6:30am
Coffee and assorted juices
Miamko (Adventurous Awakenings)
7:00AM - 10:30AM
An assortment of fresh fruits, juices, pastries and cereals.
Vitafunio (Safari Snacks)
11:30AM to 3:00PM
Various snacks and beverages
Chai (Afternoon Tea)
3:00PM - 4:30PM
Loose leaf teas, assorted scones, cookies and biscuits.
Kisikusiku (Twighlight Offerings)
5:00PM - 7:00PM
Assorted wines, hors d'oeuvers, and specialty appetizers (provided from the Lodge's restaurants, like Jiko and Boma)
Rehema (Evening Indulgences)
8:00PM - 10:00PM
Desserts and Cordials
The assortment and quality of the Concierge offerings are on par with the best Concierge lounges on property. With the possible exception of the Polynesian, the evening offerings here are arguably the best on property.
<b>What dining possibilities does AKL Provide?</b>
AKL has 2 restaurants and 1 food court, as well as a pool side bar and another one inside the lobby. To make Priority Seating for Boma or Jiko, call 1-407-WDW-DINE.
Jiko- The Cooking Place- This restaurant, which will soon be famous for its many African Wines, adds a very unique taste to line of Disney World Restaurants. Dishes include Banana Leaf Steamed Sea Bass and Oak Grilled Beef Tenderloin. To see the whole menu, go here: http://www.wdwig.com/menu/menu_jiko.htm. To get to Jiko, walk into the lobby and walk the first set of stairs you see on your right. Jiko is a dinner only restaurant.
Boma-Flavors of Africa- This WONDERFUL, (and I mean wonderful) buffet has many African foods as well as some of the American Favorites. I personally recommend trying the Prime Rib and the Zebra Domes for dinner. Dinner Buffet is $19.95 for adults and $8.95 for children. For Breakfast they have made to order omelets, great potatoes, bacon, sausage, ham, and even more. For the menu, go here: http://www.wdwig.com/menu/menu_boma.htm. Breakfast is $14.95 for adults and $9.95 for children.
Mara- The food court at AKL, has breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Hours are 6am to Midnight. To see the breakfast menu, go here: http://www.wdwig.com/menu/menu_mara.htm. To see the Lunch/Dinner menu, go here: http://www.wdwig.com/menu/menu_marald.htm.
AKL also offers excellent 24hr room service. Go here: http://www.wdwig.com/menu/menus.htm#res for the menus.
Victoria Falls and the Uzima Springs Bar serve the usual beverages as well as many different African wines.
<b>Does AKL have any character breakfasts?</b>
To make it short, no. The managers at Boma have firmly decided that a character breakfast, with its huge crowds daily, would crowd the resort itself and disturb the animals.
<b>Is there a refillable mug program at AKL?</b>
Absolutely. For $8.95 you can purchase your mug and use it throughout your trip for free. It is redeemable at Mara only. For a picture, go here: http://www.howskaren.com/refmug3.jpg
<b>What kind of store does AKL have?</b>
There is one store at AKL, Zawadi Marketplace. This 6000sq. feet store, located to the left when you enter the lobby, seemed to be changing everyday I was there. It has a HUGE pin rack, more that any that I have seen in any of the parks (except @ Epcot, of course). They have many AKL merchandise, Animal Kingdom gear, and the usual WDW stuff. Magazines, drinks, and snacks are also for sell. The best part, though, about the store is its many African products. They actually have a African Painter on hand to paint something for you (for a hefty price). Many carvings, noise makers, carved elephant pens, and unique African products are at your fingertips at Zawadi Marketplace.
<b>What is the pool like?</b>
The largest pool in terms of square feet on Disney Property is located at AKL. The Uzima Pool, which is 11,000 sq. feet, is themed to be an Oasis. Its features include a zero-depth entry, a wading pool for the kids, two hot tubs, a pool side bar, and a slide. The pool only goes to about 4ft 5in. The lifeguards are out at the pool until 10pm; after that no one is allowed to use the slide. Behind the pool is the Uzima pool outlook, which showcases some of the Lodges aquatic animals.
<b>Is there a spa at AKL?</b>
Near the pool area, the Zahanati Fitness center is the place at AKL to workout, get a massage, of receive a facial. For prices and hours, punch the fitness button on your phone when you get to the lodge. Exercise equipment includes a full line of Cybex Equipment, treadmills, stairmasters, and bicycles. Treatments will include: Massage Therapy: Swedish, Sports, Aromatherapy; Body Treatments: Journey Rejuvenation, Paraffin Mody Basque, Aromatherapy massage and masque; and Facials: European Aromatherapy, Gentleman's, My First Facial (10-14 years).
<b>Can I do my laundry at AKL?</b>
Washers and Dryers are conveniently located right next to Simbas Clubhouse. They are $2 each, and soap costs $1. Dry cleaning is also available. To check on prices before your trip, call guest services. There is a price sheet in your room inside the closet.
<b>My spouse and I have PS at Victoria and Alberts at the Grand Floridan. Where can I take the kids at AKL for supervised baby-sitting?</b>
The following comes from wdwig.com:
The children's activity center is called Simba's Clubhouse. The tentative schedule for the Clubhouse is: 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. Check-in and free play; 6-8 p.m. Dinner; 8:30 p.m. Snack Time; 9 p.m. Creative Play; 10 p.m. Vote on a Disney Movie; 10:15 Movie time and quiet time. The Clubhouse is available for children 4-12 years old, cost $8 an hour, and closes at midnight.) Reservations can be made as far as 120 days in advance through 407-WDW-DINE
There is also a small playground near the pool area, with, of course an outlook for the kids who just dont like to swim.
<b>I am staying at the Contemporary and would like to check out AKL for a future stay. I want to drive over there in my car, but I heard I cannot do this. Why?</b>
Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge is a secure resort. You cannot drive your own car to the resort. This is only possible if you are staying at the lodge or have PS at either Boma or Jiko. However, if you ride WDW Transportation over to AKL, you will be allowed to check out the lodge.
<b>How do I get to and from _____ when I stay at AKL?</b>
All transportation to and from AKL is by bus. The AKL bus stop at most of the parks and DD is either stop 4 or 6. Do not be fooled by going into the AK bus stop, not the AKL stop. They are two different stops. The bus depot at the resort is to the right when you exit the lodge from the lobby. From my experiences, the max waiting time for a bus was to AK, and that was fifteen minutes. Another time we had to wait 10 minutes for the Epcot bus. Every other time (we went to all parks + DD) the bus was waiting for us. Some reports have had the AKL transportation is very sloppy, so use with caution.
<b>I need a taxi to take me to USF/IOA for a day, but not sure about the ones waiting outside the hotel. Who can I call to set me up a taxi?</b>
To set up a taxi, call guest services on your in room telephone, they will set up a taxi for you for free- even if you are going to USF/IOA.
<b>Hey! Im back from the parks mid-day and the animals are no-where to be seen! Where are they?!?</b>
Dont worry. Disney suddenly hasnt decided to ship them off to the Animal Kingdom. The animals go back to the barn area where they receive check-ups and get out of the Florida Heat. The animals usually return to the Savannahs around 4pm.
<b>I am in a standard view, so I cannot see the animals from my balcony. Is there any other outlooks available?</b>
Absolutely. The main outlook is called Arusha Rock, which is right outside the lobby area. This is where story-telling is nightly. This outlook is prime for getting even more up-close and personal with your favorite animal. For evening viewing, a must is the Sunset Savannah viewing area. This outlooks the sunset savannah. There is also viewing area on all the trails where the rooms are.
<b>I would love to eat and watch the animals at the same time. Can I eat at one of the three restaurants and do this?</b>
To make it short, no. The three restaurants outlook the pool area; but, if you have a savannah view room, in-room dining is a must.
<b>I am hesitant about staying at AKL because I am afraid that the animals odor might stink. Does this happen?</b>
Absolutely not. Another reason that the animals go back to the barn daily is for the AKL crew to clean up the savannahs. So far there have been no complaints that I have heard of of the smells.
<b>I would love to know more about the animals and Africa. Who can I turn to to get more information?</b>
During the day, many Animal guides from Africa are on Arusha Rock. There job is to talk to you about the many different kinds of animals. Also, because they are from Africa, it is very interesting to learn about their homeland.
<b>After watching the channel in my room, I have decided to look into the Disney Vacation Club. Is there a DVC Desk anywhere at AKL?</b>
Right next to the sunset savannah viewing area and near the entrance onto the Kudu Trail, is where you will find the DVC.
<b>What perks do I get by staying at AKL, which is a Disney owned Resort?</b>
Staying at AKL has all the perks that the rest of the resorts have, except if you are staying in concierge (sunrise safari) Those perks include-
Character Caravan- see the Disney World characters greet you just before you hit the parks! Near the entrance to the resort, numerous Disney characters greet you for a meet and greet type deal to wave you off before you go to any of the parks. This event replaces early entry at the parks.
E-ride nights- on select nights during several months of the year, Disney World guests are able to stay at the Magic Kingdom for an extra three hours for a "private party for resort guests". The charge for this is $10-$12, but it is defineatly worth it, because you can ride many of the classic e-rides (three mountains, alien encounter, haunted mansion) a lot faster due to the dramatic decrease in population at the park.
Transportation- Just like above, complientary transportation by bus is available to AKL to anywhere in the "World".
<b>When does the character caravan come to AKL?</b>
The caravan comes Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Times are: 8:10 8:40 a.m. & 9:10 9:40 a.m.
Did I forget anything? Respond to this or email me at carterman_12@hotmail.com and I will!Thanks for everyone for reading and adding to the FAQ!!!! It makes me glad that I did it....just for your information, I will be doing a huge update to the FAQ this weekend which will have all the latest updates about the hotel. Thanks!
Welcome to the soon to be famous Animal Kingdom Lodge Frequently Asked Questions. This is your stop for information on the DIS. Hmmm I cant think of anything else to introduce, so lets get started with it
<b>QUICK INFO:</b>
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
PO Box 10,000
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-1000
AKL Phone Number: 1-407-938-3000
Unofficial AKL Photo Gallery: www.wdwig.com/g_akl.htm
AKL Official Website via Disney: http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/waltdisneyworld/resorts/resortindex?id=DRSAnimalKingdomLodgeRsrt
Reservations: 1-407-W-DISNEY
Credit Cards Accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Discover, Diners Club, and the Disney Credit Card
Check in: 3pm
Check out: 11am
<b>What is Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge?</b>
Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge, their newest Deluxe Resort, is designed by Peter Dominick, who designed Wilderness Lodge. As you enter the lobby (which is on the third floor) you can easily tell that the whole resort features an African Theme. From the rooms, to the restaurants, and hidden mickeys, you truly believe that you are actually in Africa. There are 1,290+ rooms at AKL.
<b>What are the rooms like?</b>
Roughly 90% of the rooms have views of one of the three Savannahs, which we will explain in detail later. 100% of the rooms have balconies. The STANDARD ROOMS are approx. 344 sq. feet. The DELUXE ROOMS (which either have a pool or savannah view) are approx. 381 sq. feet. All rooms are themed liked Africa. All rooms feature 2 queen beds, 1 king and a daybed, and 1 queen and bunk beds. Deluxe queen rooms are close to the same as the standard rooms plus more room. King deluxe rooms feature more room in addition to the day bed it features. Contrary to what some people believe, the rooms at AKL are not really that dark. Here are the layouts of all the rooms courtesy of wdwinfo.com:
http://www.wdwinfo.com/aklodge/roomlayout.htm
All rooms feature 27in. TV, iron w/ board, safe, (inside closet), Telephone w/ voice mail, and hair dryer. If you want a coffee maker, you MUST request it.
Side note: the safes in your room are quite small. Ask about Guest Services about their larger safes near check in. We had to use these when we were switching rooms at the lodge.
<b>What is the room rates for 2001?</b>
For suite info, call 1-407-W-DISNEY
(Order as follows: value, regular, peak, and holiday)
Standard View: $199, $230, $275, $305
Water/Pool View: $250, $280, $325, $365,
Savannah View: $265, $295, $340, $385
Water/Pool Deluxe: $320, $360, $420, $475
Savannah Deluxe: $335 ,$375, $435, $490,
Concierge: $380, $435, $510, $565
Suites: $600-$1850, $675-$1990, $750-$2140, $850-$2350
<b>What are the rates for 2002?</b>
Standard View: $204, $239, $284, $319
Water/Pool View: $255, $290, $340, $380
Savannah View: $270, $305, $355, $400
Water/Pool Deluxe: $330, $375, $435, $490
Savannah Deluxe: $340, $385, $450, $505
Concierge: $415, $470, $535, $595
Suites: Call Call Call Call
<b>Season Dates: (2002) </b>
Value Season - 1/1/02-2/13/02, 8/25/02-10/2/02, 11/3/02-12/19/02
Regular Season - 4/21/02-8/24/02, 10/3/02-11/2/02
Peak Season - 2/14/02-4/20/02
Holiday Season - 12/20/02-12/31/02
<b>What types of view are available @ AKL?</b>
There are three views at AKL. Savannah Views overlook Arusha, Uzima, and Sunset Savannahs. Pool views overlook the pool area. Standard views overlook the parking lot. Concierge/Deluxe rooms overlook either the pool or one of the three Savannahs.
<b>I see on the map that they divide the rooms into trails. What does this mean?</b>
Trails at AKL are much like the buildings at the Poly and GF; and the wings at CR. There is the Zebra Trail, Kudu Trail, Ostrich Trail, and Giraffe Trail. HOWEVER, if you have your heart set on seeing Kudu, then do not request the Kudu Trail. This trail offers views of the sunset and Arusha Savannahs, but the Kudu is only available on the Uzima Savannah.
<b>What animals would I expect to see at AKL?</b>
Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge is divided into 3 Savannahs: Uzima, Arusha, and Sunset. Some of the animals are enemies to each other, which explains that some animals can only be found on a certain savannah. Giraffes are the only animal that is found on every savannah. Info below is courtesy of wdwinfo.com:
<b>Sunset Savannah</b>: Male Giraffe, Bongo, Impala, Thompsons Gazelles, Ostrich, Ankole Cattle, Waterbuck, African crown cranes, stork and blue cranes.
<b>Arusha Savannah</b>: Pelicans, geese, giraffe, ankole cattle, zebra, Wildebeast, eland, gemsbok
<b>Uzima Savannah</b>: Giraffe, Impala, Kudu, Bongo, Blesbok, Thompsons Gazelles
Usually, a free animal guide is included in your room, (if you have a savannah view). If you dont have one, ask guest services.
<b>Can I see an AKL Map?</b>
http://www.wdwig.com/aklmap3.jpg
<b>Are there any special programs at AKL?</b>
There is nightly African Storytelling at the firepit at Arusha Rock. For time, inquire at guest services.
There is a daily tour of the lodge itself starting at 3:30. Once again, inquire at guest services.
There is a developing self-guided tour of the many African paintings. See when you check in to see if they have finished this.
<b>Can you tell me about AKL concierge?</b>
AKL Concierge is all of the 6th floor and part of the 5th floor. The concierge lounge, or the Kilimanjaro Club, is on the 6th floor. The rooms are the same as deluxe rooms in terms in size. Concierge at AKL includes all the features that you would expect from a Disney concierge service, plus a little bit more.
<b>SUNRISE SAFARI</b> - available to AKL concierge guests only, this exciting tour of Kilimanjaro Safaris @ the Animal Kingdom (without the poachers) is $40. Unlike the actual ride, this tour takes about 45 minutes to complete, with frequent stops to view and take pictures of the many animals. The CMs go in length about the animals, which is also different from the ride. After the tour, guests will be escorted to the Tusker House, where a wonderful buffet awaits you (you also receive a fast pass to experience the ride when the AK is open). The tour has a max of 28 persons, and is available to book through concierge 90 days head. Avail. Tuesdays and Saturdays, and you must be at the bus stop at 6:30am. Transportation back to the resort is on your own.
<b>FOOD</b>-The following from Dreams Unlimited Travel expains AKL Concierge food:Macheo (Sunrise Offering)
6:30am
Coffee and assorted juices
Miamko (Adventurous Awakenings)
7:00AM - 10:30AM
An assortment of fresh fruits, juices, pastries and cereals.
Vitafunio (Safari Snacks)
11:30AM to 3:00PM
Various snacks and beverages
Chai (Afternoon Tea)
3:00PM - 4:30PM
Loose leaf teas, assorted scones, cookies and biscuits.
Kisikusiku (Twighlight Offerings)
5:00PM - 7:00PM
Assorted wines, hors d'oeuvers, and specialty appetizers (provided from the Lodge's restaurants, like Jiko and Boma)
Rehema (Evening Indulgences)
8:00PM - 10:00PM
Desserts and Cordials
The assortment and quality of the Concierge offerings are on par with the best Concierge lounges on property. With the possible exception of the Polynesian, the evening offerings here are arguably the best on property.
<b>What dining possibilities does AKL Provide?</b>
AKL has 2 restaurants and 1 food court, as well as a pool side bar and another one inside the lobby. To make Priority Seating for Boma or Jiko, call 1-407-WDW-DINE.
Jiko- The Cooking Place- This restaurant, which will soon be famous for its many African Wines, adds a very unique taste to line of Disney World Restaurants. Dishes include Banana Leaf Steamed Sea Bass and Oak Grilled Beef Tenderloin. To see the whole menu, go here: http://www.wdwig.com/menu/menu_jiko.htm. To get to Jiko, walk into the lobby and walk the first set of stairs you see on your right. Jiko is a dinner only restaurant.
Boma-Flavors of Africa- This WONDERFUL, (and I mean wonderful) buffet has many African foods as well as some of the American Favorites. I personally recommend trying the Prime Rib and the Zebra Domes for dinner. Dinner Buffet is $19.95 for adults and $8.95 for children. For Breakfast they have made to order omelets, great potatoes, bacon, sausage, ham, and even more. For the menu, go here: http://www.wdwig.com/menu/menu_boma.htm. Breakfast is $14.95 for adults and $9.95 for children.
Mara- The food court at AKL, has breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Hours are 6am to Midnight. To see the breakfast menu, go here: http://www.wdwig.com/menu/menu_mara.htm. To see the Lunch/Dinner menu, go here: http://www.wdwig.com/menu/menu_marald.htm.
AKL also offers excellent 24hr room service. Go here: http://www.wdwig.com/menu/menus.htm#res for the menus.
Victoria Falls and the Uzima Springs Bar serve the usual beverages as well as many different African wines.
<b>Does AKL have any character breakfasts?</b>
To make it short, no. The managers at Boma have firmly decided that a character breakfast, with its huge crowds daily, would crowd the resort itself and disturb the animals.
<b>Is there a refillable mug program at AKL?</b>
Absolutely. For $8.95 you can purchase your mug and use it throughout your trip for free. It is redeemable at Mara only. For a picture, go here: http://www.howskaren.com/refmug3.jpg
<b>What kind of store does AKL have?</b>
There is one store at AKL, Zawadi Marketplace. This 6000sq. feet store, located to the left when you enter the lobby, seemed to be changing everyday I was there. It has a HUGE pin rack, more that any that I have seen in any of the parks (except @ Epcot, of course). They have many AKL merchandise, Animal Kingdom gear, and the usual WDW stuff. Magazines, drinks, and snacks are also for sell. The best part, though, about the store is its many African products. They actually have a African Painter on hand to paint something for you (for a hefty price). Many carvings, noise makers, carved elephant pens, and unique African products are at your fingertips at Zawadi Marketplace.
<b>What is the pool like?</b>
The largest pool in terms of square feet on Disney Property is located at AKL. The Uzima Pool, which is 11,000 sq. feet, is themed to be an Oasis. Its features include a zero-depth entry, a wading pool for the kids, two hot tubs, a pool side bar, and a slide. The pool only goes to about 4ft 5in. The lifeguards are out at the pool until 10pm; after that no one is allowed to use the slide. Behind the pool is the Uzima pool outlook, which showcases some of the Lodges aquatic animals.
<b>Is there a spa at AKL?</b>
Near the pool area, the Zahanati Fitness center is the place at AKL to workout, get a massage, of receive a facial. For prices and hours, punch the fitness button on your phone when you get to the lodge. Exercise equipment includes a full line of Cybex Equipment, treadmills, stairmasters, and bicycles. Treatments will include: Massage Therapy: Swedish, Sports, Aromatherapy; Body Treatments: Journey Rejuvenation, Paraffin Mody Basque, Aromatherapy massage and masque; and Facials: European Aromatherapy, Gentleman's, My First Facial (10-14 years).
<b>Can I do my laundry at AKL?</b>
Washers and Dryers are conveniently located right next to Simbas Clubhouse. They are $2 each, and soap costs $1. Dry cleaning is also available. To check on prices before your trip, call guest services. There is a price sheet in your room inside the closet.
<b>My spouse and I have PS at Victoria and Alberts at the Grand Floridan. Where can I take the kids at AKL for supervised baby-sitting?</b>
The following comes from wdwig.com:
The children's activity center is called Simba's Clubhouse. The tentative schedule for the Clubhouse is: 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. Check-in and free play; 6-8 p.m. Dinner; 8:30 p.m. Snack Time; 9 p.m. Creative Play; 10 p.m. Vote on a Disney Movie; 10:15 Movie time and quiet time. The Clubhouse is available for children 4-12 years old, cost $8 an hour, and closes at midnight.) Reservations can be made as far as 120 days in advance through 407-WDW-DINE
There is also a small playground near the pool area, with, of course an outlook for the kids who just dont like to swim.
<b>I am staying at the Contemporary and would like to check out AKL for a future stay. I want to drive over there in my car, but I heard I cannot do this. Why?</b>
Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge is a secure resort. You cannot drive your own car to the resort. This is only possible if you are staying at the lodge or have PS at either Boma or Jiko. However, if you ride WDW Transportation over to AKL, you will be allowed to check out the lodge.
<b>How do I get to and from _____ when I stay at AKL?</b>
All transportation to and from AKL is by bus. The AKL bus stop at most of the parks and DD is either stop 4 or 6. Do not be fooled by going into the AK bus stop, not the AKL stop. They are two different stops. The bus depot at the resort is to the right when you exit the lodge from the lobby. From my experiences, the max waiting time for a bus was to AK, and that was fifteen minutes. Another time we had to wait 10 minutes for the Epcot bus. Every other time (we went to all parks + DD) the bus was waiting for us. Some reports have had the AKL transportation is very sloppy, so use with caution.
<b>I need a taxi to take me to USF/IOA for a day, but not sure about the ones waiting outside the hotel. Who can I call to set me up a taxi?</b>
To set up a taxi, call guest services on your in room telephone, they will set up a taxi for you for free- even if you are going to USF/IOA.
<b>Hey! Im back from the parks mid-day and the animals are no-where to be seen! Where are they?!?</b>
Dont worry. Disney suddenly hasnt decided to ship them off to the Animal Kingdom. The animals go back to the barn area where they receive check-ups and get out of the Florida Heat. The animals usually return to the Savannahs around 4pm.
<b>I am in a standard view, so I cannot see the animals from my balcony. Is there any other outlooks available?</b>
Absolutely. The main outlook is called Arusha Rock, which is right outside the lobby area. This is where story-telling is nightly. This outlook is prime for getting even more up-close and personal with your favorite animal. For evening viewing, a must is the Sunset Savannah viewing area. This outlooks the sunset savannah. There is also viewing area on all the trails where the rooms are.
<b>I would love to eat and watch the animals at the same time. Can I eat at one of the three restaurants and do this?</b>
To make it short, no. The three restaurants outlook the pool area; but, if you have a savannah view room, in-room dining is a must.
<b>I am hesitant about staying at AKL because I am afraid that the animals odor might stink. Does this happen?</b>
Absolutely not. Another reason that the animals go back to the barn daily is for the AKL crew to clean up the savannahs. So far there have been no complaints that I have heard of of the smells.
<b>I would love to know more about the animals and Africa. Who can I turn to to get more information?</b>
During the day, many Animal guides from Africa are on Arusha Rock. There job is to talk to you about the many different kinds of animals. Also, because they are from Africa, it is very interesting to learn about their homeland.
<b>After watching the channel in my room, I have decided to look into the Disney Vacation Club. Is there a DVC Desk anywhere at AKL?</b>
Right next to the sunset savannah viewing area and near the entrance onto the Kudu Trail, is where you will find the DVC.
<b>What perks do I get by staying at AKL, which is a Disney owned Resort?</b>
Staying at AKL has all the perks that the rest of the resorts have, except if you are staying in concierge (sunrise safari) Those perks include-
Character Caravan- see the Disney World characters greet you just before you hit the parks! Near the entrance to the resort, numerous Disney characters greet you for a meet and greet type deal to wave you off before you go to any of the parks. This event replaces early entry at the parks.
E-ride nights- on select nights during several months of the year, Disney World guests are able to stay at the Magic Kingdom for an extra three hours for a "private party for resort guests". The charge for this is $10-$12, but it is defineatly worth it, because you can ride many of the classic e-rides (three mountains, alien encounter, haunted mansion) a lot faster due to the dramatic decrease in population at the park.
Transportation- Just like above, complientary transportation by bus is available to AKL to anywhere in the "World".
<b>When does the character caravan come to AKL?</b>
The caravan comes Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Times are: 8:10 8:40 a.m. & 9:10 9:40 a.m.
Did I forget anything? Respond to this or email me at carterman_12@hotmail.com and I will!
Thanks for everyone for reading and adding to the FAQ!!!! It makes me glad that I did it....just for your information, I will be doing a huge update to the FAQ this weekend which will have all the latest updates about the hotel. Thanks!
