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 Disney's Animal Kingdom Park opened to the public on Earth Day, April 22, 1998. The slogan "Nahtazu" is clearly evident from
the moment that you enter this unique destination. It's so much more than a traditional zoo. Great care has been taken to
transport guests to exotic locales within it's lush confines. You'll encounter wildlife from all the corners of the earth,
enjoy exciting shows, experience the thrill rides that you've come to expect as part of your Disney vacation, and leave with
a renewed respect for this planet and its inhabitants. The Animal Kingdom Park covers 500 acres. Among it's residents
are over 1700 animals representing 250 different species. Great efforts were made to re-create
their native habitats. Over 4 million plants, trees, grasses and shrubs were planted to produce this jungle in the midst of
Florida. You enter through the Oasis where you're immediately
immersed in the tropical atmosphere. Nestled in the backdrop of cooling streams, waterfalls and luxuriant foliage you'll find
macaws, anteaters, boars and iguanas as well as other exotic animals.
The Animal Kingdom layout is similar to the
Magic Kingdom. The majestic Tree of Life is the icon of this park and serves as the center of the
hub that leads to the different sections. At 14 stories tall, this amazing showpiece commands your attention. You'll find
325 animals intertwined in it's intricately sculpted trunk and limbs. Located on Discovery Island,
the Tree of Life is home to the 3D attraction, "It's Tough To Be A Bug." Put on your "Bugs Eyes" and be prepared to be chilled
and thrilled as you experience life from the perspective of an insect. In this section are the Discovery Island Trails which
are home to Galapagos tortoises, tamarins and lemurs.
In Africa you'll find the not to
be missed Kilimanjaro Safari. You're transported in open air vehicles on an amazing journey through the African Savannah.
Elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, gazelles, zebras and a bevy of other animals freely roam the terrain. Along the way you'll
find yourself in pursuit of poachers. Don't worry, your adventure always has a happy ending. Another feature of this section
are the Pangani Forest Exploration Trails. Imagine seeing a hippo underwater! You can through glass viewing areas. Not to
be missed is the gorilla exhibit, as well as real-life "Timons".
In Asia prepare to get
soaked on the Kali River Rapids. You'll be whitewater rafting along the Chakranadi River, with waterfalls and waves that are
guaranteed to create a most "refreshing" experience. You can dry off as you explore the Maharajah Jungle Trek. Nestled amidst
the ruins of a temple you'll find stately Asian tigers. Another special exhibit houses the giant fruit bats. You'll be amazed
when you witness their 6 foot wingspan. At The Flights of Wonder, you'll find a talented cast of birds who will entertain
you with their natural and humorous behaviors.
At Camp Minnie-Mickey you'll find character
greeting stations. Here you can get those special hugs and photos with your favorite Disney friend. The fabulous Festival
of the Lion King show is performed in this section. With an amazing and talented cast, this lively show is considered one
of Disney's best. Another show found here is Pocahontas and her Forest Friends. With Grandmother Willow serving as her guide,
Pocahontas learns a lesson in protecting the forest and it's many residents.
Dinoland U.S.A.
has a carnival atmosphere. You can try your luck at the Fossil Fun Games. At the Boneyard, kids can climb fossils in this
prehistoric playground. The TriceraTop Spin moves up and down and around, while the Primeval Whirl sends you spinning and
swerving amidst giggles and smiles. Dinosaur takes you back in time as you go in pursuit of the iguanodon. Strapped in, prepare
for a wild ride as your vehicle encounters meteors and fierce dinosaurs.
For an up close look at the inner-workings
of the Animal Kingdom, hop on the Wildlife Express train to Rafiki's Planet Watch. The Conservation
Station features a glimpse of the veterinary care, research and food preparation that are an integral part of this park. Lessons
in conservation are found throughout this section. Kids will love the chance to pet some furry friends in the Affection Section.
The
underlying theme of the Animal Kingdom Park is conservation and preservation. As Walt Disney once said: "I have learned from
the animal world, and what everyone will learn who studies it is, a renewed sense of kinship with the earth and all its inhabitants."
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