Walt Disney World has announced that Kali River Rapids, a popular attraction in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, will close for refurbishment starting October 6, 2025. This early closure deviates from the ride’s usual refurbishment schedule, which typically occurs in January. The decision to move up the timeline is part of a broader effort to ensure the attraction is available during a busy period for the park. In this article, we’ll explore the details of the refurbishment, its timing, and what it means for guests planning their visits.
Refurbishment Details and Timeline
Kali River Rapids will close on October 6, 2025, and is expected to reopen in December 2025. This earlier-than-usual refurbishment schedule is a departure from the ride’s typical January-to-March closure. The adjustment allows the attraction to be operational before the planned February 2026 closure of DinoLand USA and the DINOSAUR attraction, ensuring guests have more options during their visit.
The refurbishment will likely focus on routine maintenance and updates to ensure the ride continues to meet Disney’s high standards for safety and guest experience. While specific details about the updates have not been disclosed, such refurbishments often include work on ride systems, theming, and general upkeep.
Why the Schedule Change?
The decision to move the refurbishment to October reflects Disney’s strategic planning to minimize disruptions for guests. With the upcoming closure of DinoLand USA, having Kali River Rapids available during the winter months will help maintain a balanced lineup of attractions in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This proactive approach demonstrates Disney’s commitment to enhancing the guest experience, even during periods of significant park updates.
What Guests Should Know
Guests planning to visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom between October and December 2025 should be aware of the temporary closure of Kali River Rapids. For those who enjoy water-based attractions, it’s worth noting that the ride will reopen in time for the holiday season, offering a refreshing experience during the cooler months.
For a comprehensive list of refurbishments and closures across Walt Disney World, guests can refer to Disney’s official refurbishment schedule or dedicated resources for planning their visit.
Conclusion
The upcoming refurbishment of Kali River Rapids is a necessary step to ensure the attraction remains a safe and enjoyable experience for guests. While the early closure may be an inconvenience for some, the decision to adjust the schedule highlights Disney’s efforts to balance park operations and guest satisfaction. As the ride reopens in December, visitors can look forward to enjoying this thrilling water adventure once again. Stay tuned for updates on the refurbishment and other developments at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
