Visitors to Disney’s Animal Kingdom in early 2025 may notice the absence of one of the park’s most popular water rides, Kali River Rapids. The annual winter refurbishment is set to ensure the attraction remains safe, functional, and thematically immersive for future guests. Here’s what you need to know about the refurbishment and what it means for your upcoming trip.
When Will Kali River Rapids Be Closed?
According to the official Walt Disney World website, Kali River Rapids is scheduled to close for refurbishment starting January 6th, 2025. The calendar suggests the ride will remain closed through mid-February; however, an exact reopening date has not been announced.
Past closures for the same ride might offer a clue about the duration. For example, in early 2024, Kali River Rapids was closed from January 8th to March 15th for its winter refurbishment. While Disney hasn’t confirmed the 2025 schedule, a similar multi-month closure could occur.
Why Is the Refurbishment Happening in Winter?
The decision to refurbish Kali River Rapids during winter aligns with guest attendance patterns and weather conditions. Water rides tend to see less traffic during cooler months, making it an opportune time for maintenance work. This also minimizes disruptions for guests, as the demand for water thrill rides tend to drop when temperatures are lower.
Annual maintenance typically includes inspecting ride equipment, cleaning and refreshing the water features, and enhancing the immersive storytelling elements of the attraction. This regular upkeep is crucial for maintaining the ride’s safety and thematic integrity.
What Makes Kali River Rapids Unique?
Located in the Asia section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Kali River Rapids offers guests a whitewater adventure complete with unexpected twists, splashes, and storytelling. The ride’s theme highlights the environmental message of combating deforestation, as guests are immersed in a setting inspired by South and Southeast Asian landscapes.
This experience, combined with its “you will get wet” reputation, makes it a standout attraction for thrill-seekers and families alike. While it may feel like a brief loss for the park, the refurbishment ensures the ride’s unique features remain intact for the future.
What Can Guests Expect During the Closure?
Guests should plan ahead for the refurbishment period by checking for updates from the Walt Disney World website or the My Disney Experience app. Animal Kingdom still boasts a wide variety of attractions, shows, and animal exhibits to fill a day of exploration.
Final Thoughts
The annual refurbishment of Kali River Rapids serves as a reminder of Disney’s commitment to maintaining high-quality and immersive attractions. While the closure may temporarily impact plans, the updates ensure that the ride continues to deliver safe, enjoyable adventures for years to come.
If you’re planning a visit to Animal Kingdom during this time, be sure to explore the park’s many other unique attractions, and stay tuned for announcements about the ride’s reopening. With a little planning, your trip will still be filled with the magic and fun Disney is known for.
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.
