Rope dropping is a great way to experience attractions that have high wait times. The term “rope drop” comes from the days when ropes were used to hold back crowds before the park opened. Nowadays, this term simply means to arrive at the parks as soon as they open. If you’re staying at a Disney resort you can enter the parks 30 minutes before they actually open. Many guests make their way towards big and popular attractions during rope drop, but there are other attractions to rope drop with less stress and crowds. If you have an upcoming visit to Disney;s Animal Kingdom and want some low stress attractions to rope drop then here are a few of our favorites.
Kilimanjaro Safaris
Animal Kingdom’s crown jewel attraction is Kilimanjaro Safaris, and it’s the perfect rope drop attraction for a low stress experience. The animals are more active early in the morning so if you have the opportunity to get on this ride first thing you should take it. Kilimanjaro Safaris is for guests of all ages and heights, and gives you an incredible safari experience. Guests will see free-roaming animals in replications of their natural habitats. You’ll be able to spot lions, zebras, giraffes, flamingoes, and so much more. Cast Members drive the safari vehicles and give out information on what you’re seeing as you ride. Because you are so close to the animals you never really know what experience you’ll get. Some lucky guests are able to see animals right next to the safari vehicle.
DINOSAUR
This attraction will be permanently closing in 2026, so guests should rope drop it while they still have the chance! DINOSAUR is a fun thrill ride featuring intense dinosaur scenes and bumpy trails. Guests are invited to travel back in time to capture a dinosaur that’s needed for research. This ride is a great low stress rope drop option because most guests aren’t headed this direction first thing in the morning.
Na’vi River Journey
While most guests are rushing towards Avatar: Flight of Passage during rope drop, there is another attraction in Pandora that will be a much easier rope drop experience. Na’vi River Journey is a peaceful float down a river in a bioluminescent jungle. Experience the world of Pandora during this gentle dark ride featuring one of the most intricate and largest animatronics in the world. This attraction is for guests of all heights and ages.
Discovery Island Trails
One of my favorite things to do in Animal Kingdom is explore Discovery Island Trails. Many guests will be headed towards attractions during rope drop, but the early morning is a great time to explore what else the park has to offer. Part of what makes Animal Kingdom so unique is its animal enclosures and foliage. Discovery Island Trails consists of many pathways that take you through animal exhibits and up-close to the Tree of Life.
Do you typically rope drop when you visit Disney parks? What is your favorite attraction to rope drop at Animal Kingdom? We want to hear from you in the comments below!
Featured Photo: Emily Murray
Written by
Megan Woodard
Contributing Writer
Megan was born into a Disney family. Her first trip to Disney World was when she was only 18 months old. Now as an adult, Megan loves to share the magic of Disney with her family. Keeping up with Disney news and Disney World knowledge is a fun hobby for Megan. Disney World is her favorite place to be and continuously brings back her childhood joy.
