Kilimanjaro Safari

The Kilimanjaro Safari is a MUST see at Disney's Animal Kingdom park. The safari is always busy with the peak in the morning. It's one of the first attractions people rush to when the park opens hoping to see the most animals before the hot afternoon. The animals reportedly are the most active during those morning hours. This is general true especially during the summer months when the temps hit 80+. However, my best safari experience was during an afternoon trek. Disney has a way to make the most of the experience at any time of day. There are feeders cleverly hid among the foliage to attract the animals even during the hot hours. If you are lucky to visit Animal Kingdom during the cooler months, I think the safari is great anytime of day.

As a mom, my favorite part of the safari is actually the line. I know that sounds weird but this is a popular attraction so the line can be on the long side throughout the day. Long lines are rough on small kids but you will be able to use your stroller through half the line. About half way up a cast member will take your stroller into the stroller parking for you. You will enter that parking area from the opposite side after the ride to find your stroller.

The best spot in the vehicle is the first row right behind the driver. It's easier to hear what your guide is saying about the animals. It will also provide the view of some of the animals. Sometimes the animals will walk in front of the vehicles and then disappear into the brush before everyone gets a good view. I also personally love to sit in the first row so I can get a cool picture of my children's reflection in the huge side mirrors. If you want to sit in the front row, just let the cast member know that you would like to sit behind the driver. You may have to wait a few minutes for the next vehicle since the front row is the handicap seats but it will be totally worth it if you have the time to spare.

The back row has been very bumping in my past experience. Now the whole ride is a little bumpy but that's part of the experience.
Tip: The animals are the most activity during the morning hours
Trick: Ask the cast member to sit in the front row.
Tidbit: You will be able to use your stroller through part of the line.