How Many Rides Are At Animal Kingdom?

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is more than a theme park; it’s a captivating blend of thrilling rides, lush landscapes, and immersive animal encounters that transport guests into the heart of the natural world. With so many experiences available, it’s no wonder guests ask, “How many rides are at Animal Kingdom?” From exhilarating roller coasters to peaceful nature trails, each attraction tells a story that celebrates wildlife and conservation.

This complete guide breaks down all the rides and experiences that make Animal Kingdom a unique destination for adventure and discovery.

Total Number of Rides at Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort

Animal Kingdom has about seven main rides (as of this post) that offer a mix of thrill and immersion. While the park is known for live animals and nature trails, its rides also stand out with advanced tech and storytelling.

Disney technically calls everything an “attraction,” whether its a show, an exhibit, or a ride. For our purposes, “rides” are vehicle-based, even if they aren’t high-speed or roller coasters. But the interpretation of what’s a “ride” and what’s an “attraction” is up to you, which, oftentimes, causes confusion about the exact amount of rides at Animal Kingdom.

For example, the gentle Na’vi River Journey is a boat ride through Pandora’s bioluminescent forest, which is a far cry from the intense roller coaster of Expedition Everest.

Nevertheless, Animal Kingdom has something for everyone: rides for thrill seekers and those looking for a more gentle scenic experience.

The 7 Different Lands of Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is broken up into seven different lands, so you can experience the many different animals, fictional and non-fictional, that Disney has to offer.

• Africa
• Asia
• DinoLand U.S.A (Currently being transformed into a new Tropical Americas / Pueblo Esperanza land)
• Discovery Island
• The Oasis
• Pandora – The World of Avatar
• Rafiki’s Planet Watch

Animal Kingdom’s Adventurous, Family-Friendly Rides and Walkthroughs

Animal Kingdom has rides and walkthroughs for everyone, whether you’re looking for a high-speed coaster or a relaxing, smooth ride where you can look at the scenery.

Rides: For the Thrillseekers and Casual Riders

Kilimanjaro Safaris (Africa)

Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of the biggest and most immersive safaris outside of Africa. You board open-air vehicles and go on a guided tour through lush savannas and different ecosystems, with over 30 species of animals up close. Each safari is unique as animals like elephants, giraffes, lions, and hippos roam free in the habitat, creating unpredictable and sometimes thrilling encounters.

This is a ride for all ages and is an actual safari experience that feels like you’re a million miles from a typical theme park ride.

Here’s a secret for your Kilimanjaro Safaris experience: While the lions appear very close, they are not as close to guests as they seem. There is an 18-foot deep, 21-foot wide moat that separates park guests from the lions, so you don’t have to worry!

Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain (Asia)

Expedition Everest is one of the top attractions in Asia, in the Animal Kingdom. It’s a high-speed roller coaster that takes you on a journey through the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas and the mysterious Forbidden Mountain as you trek toward the highest mountain peak, Mount Everest. This ride is famous for its backward motion sequence, where the train reverses direction deep in a dark mountain tunnel.

Along the way, you’ll meet the elusive Yeti, a massive creature that adds suspense and danger to the experience. Expedition Everest is for thrill seekers who love unexpected turns, big drops, and Disney storytelling; it’s one of the most iconic attractions in Animal Kingdom.

Height requirements: Must be 44 in. or taller.

Appeals to: Riders of all ages

Kali River Rapids (Asia)

Kali River Rapids is a great escape from the heat, especially during the summer months, with a meandering journey through jungle scenery inspired by Southeast Asia’s rainforests. This water raft ride takes you on a wild adventure through rapids, drops, and splash zones that often leave you soaked. Designed to showcase the beauty of the natural world, the ride also touches on the theme of conservation by showing the impact of deforestation. With scenic views and water fun, Kali River Rapids is a fun, family-friendly ride for all ages.

Height requirements: Must be 38 in. or taller

Appeals to: Riders of all ages

Dinosaur (DinoLand U.S.A)

Dinosaur is a high-speed dark ride where you travel back to the late Cretaceous period to rescue an Iguanodon before an asteroid hits Earth. As you journey through the jungle and past towering dinosaurs, you’ll encounter drops, sharp turns, and intense moments that build up to the big finish. This attraction’s animatronics and storytelling are top-notch, making it one of the best rides in DinoLand U.S.A., and will have you on the edge of your seat.

NOTE: Dinosaur will eventually be closing (probably in 2026) for transformation into a new Indiana Jones attraction. This is part of a series of major construction projects at Disney World taking place over the next few years.

Height requirements: Must be 40 in. or taller.

Appeals to: Riders of all ages

Avatar Flight of Passage (Pandora – The World of Avatar)

Avatar Flight of Passage is one of Animal Kingdom’s most popular attractions, offering a breathtaking 3D flying simulator experience in Pandora – The World of Avatar. Guests “link” with an Avatar and soar over Pandora’s landscapes on the back of a banshee, feeling every dip, dive, and breeze. The ride’s impressive visuals, lifelike motion, and sensory effects make it a thrilling, immersive adventure that captures the essence of flight and the natural beauty of Pandora’s world.

Height requirements: Must be 44 in. or taller.

Appeals to: Riders of all ages

Na’vi River Journey (Pandora – The World of Avatar)

Na’vi River Journey provides a gentle, scenic boat ride through Pandora’s enchanting bioluminescent forest. Guests drift along a serene river, surrounded by glowing plants, exotic creatures, and the soothing sounds of nature. The highlight of the journey is the animatronic Shaman of Songs, who brings the beauty and harmony of Pandora to life. This peaceful, visually stunning experience offers a more relaxed but equally immersive adventure, ideal for guests of all ages.

Height requirements: None

Walkthroughs: Explore the Countries in Animal Kingdom

Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail (Africa)

As you explore through Gorilla Falls, which features gorillas, birds, zebras, and other animals, you course through a trail that transports you to the African wilderness.

Maharajah Jungle Trek (Asia)

The Maharajah Jungle Trek is an up-close animal encounter area where you can see some of the park’s most amazing animals. This walking trail winds through temple-like ruins and provides habitats for tigers, giant fruit bats, Komodo dragons, and various bird species. You can take your time and enjoy the views of the majestic creatures in carefully designed environments that reflect the diverse wildlife and landscapes of Southeast Asia. The Maharajah Jungle Trek is a great addition to the thrill rides in Asia, animal encounters with cultural storytelling in a peaceful, natural setting.

Discovery Island Trails (Discovery Island)

The Discovery Island Trails are a hidden gem at Animal Kingdom, offering a tranquil escape where you can wander through lush pathways around the breathtaking Tree of Life. Along these shaded trails, you’ll come face-to-face with a delightful variety of animals, from playful otters and curious lemurs to elegant flamingos and gentle tortoises, each in habitats designed to make them feel right at home. It’s a perfect spot to slow down, take in the natural beauty, snap some amazing photos, and connect with the wildlife in a quieter corner of the park.

Additional Fun Experiences at Animal Kingdom

Beyond the main attractions, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has several other experiences that, while not “rides” per se, add to the park experience with entertainment, education, and immersion. These extra experiences give guests of all ages memorable moments, combining animal encounters with interactive fun and conservation awareness.

Affection Section (Rafiki’s Planet Watch)

The Affection Section, located within Rafiki’s Planet Watch, is an interactive petting zoo that lets guests get hands-on with gentle, domesticated animals like goats, sheep, and llamas. This family-friendly area offers a fun and educational opportunity for younger guests to learn about animal care and handling in a safe, supervised environment. This used to be located at Magic Kingdom but was moved to Animal Kingdom after opening.

The Boneyard (DinoLand U.S.A)

This interactive play area features ropes, tunnels, and a soft, sandy dig zone where kids can search for fossils and explore mock dinosaur skeletons. The Boneyard is an educational part of DinoLand U.S.A., where kids can dig, climb, and learn about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the earth. A must-visit for families, it’s a fun and educational break from the bigger rides in the park.

It’s Tough to Be a Bug! [Currently Closed for transformation into new Zootopia show]

Based on Pixar’s A Bug’s Life, Animal Kingdom’s It’s Tough to Be a Bug! was a 3D film that took you into the world of insects, combining a clever animation experience with in-theater effects like scents, sounds, and surprises. Located at the base of the Tree of Life, this show invited you to see life from a bug’s point of view while learning about the importance of insects in nature.

It’s Tough to Be a Bug permanently closed in March 2025 and is due to be replaced with a new Zootopia 3D film, likely sometime in late 2025.

Wildlife Express Train

The Wildlife Express Train takes you on a scenic ride to Rafiki’s Planet Watch, an area focused on animal care and conservation. The train ride itself is nice, but the real fun is at the end. Rafiki’s Planet Watch lets you explore animal exhibits, see animal care in action, and participate in interactive conservation activities. This train is perfect for families and those who want to see behind the scenes how Disney cares for its animals. While the train is technically just for transportation purposes, we still consider it an additional “ride” at Animal Kingdom.

Feathered Friends in Flight!

Feathered Friends in Flight! is a live bird show with a variety of birds, from majestic macaws to playful parrots. This educational show demonstrates the birds’ skills, natural behaviors, and intelligence while also highlighting conservation efforts to protect these species in the wild. Hosted by animal trainers, this show is fun and informative, a nice break from the regular rides, and gives you a new appreciation for the beauty and diversity of birds.

Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!

Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! is a vibrant, live-stage show that brings the beloved characters from Disney and Pixar’s Finding Nemo to life in a musical adventure. Set in an underwater world, this Broadway-style production features stunning puppetry, colorful sets, and lively performances as it follows Marlin, Dory, and Nemo on their journey across the ocean. With catchy songs, engaging visuals, and a heartwarming story, this show captivates audiences of all ages, offering a delightful break from the rides and a chance to experience the magic of Nemo’s world up close.

Festival of the Lion King

Festival of the Lion King is an energetic live show celebrating Disney’s The Lion King through music, dance, and acrobatics. Set in an elaborate theater-in-the-round, this production brings Simba, Timon, Pumbaa, and other beloved characters to life with vibrant costumes, powerful singing, and awe-inspiring performances. The show combines African-inspired rhythms with classic songs like “Circle of Life” and “Hakuna Matata,” making it a lively, interactive experience that resonates with audiences of all ages. With its impressive choreography and captivating visuals, Festival of the Lion King is a must-see attraction that captures the spirit and joy of this Disney classic.

Conservation Station (Rafiki’s Planet Watch)

Conservation Station, located within Rafiki’s Planet Watch, offers an educational and interactive experience that connects guests with Disney’s commitment to animal care and environmental conservation. Accessible by the Wildlife Express Train, this area features exhibits on animal health, nutrition, and care, along with opportunities to see veterinarians and animal specialists at work in the on-site Animal Hospital. With hands-on activities, educational displays, and occasional animal encounters, Conservation Station provides a unique, behind-the-scenes look at how Disney supports wildlife conservation.

Unforgettable Adventures Await at Animal Kingdom

With its unique blend of thrilling rides, immersive animal encounters, and educational experiences, Walt Disney World Resort’s Animal Kingdom offers something special for every type of explorer. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a wildlife enthusiast, or a family looking for interactive fun, this park brings the magic of nature and storytelling together like nowhere else. From heart-pounding coasters to peaceful trails and hands-on exhibits, each attraction enriches the Animal Kingdom journey, making it a must-visit for any Disney World traveler. Prepare for a day of adventure, discovery, and unforgettable memories in this enchanting world of nature and imagination.