A journey from the heart of Africa to Rafiki’s Planet Watch that promises enchanting views of the park’s wildlife.
| Walt Disney World Resort Park | Animal Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Location in Park | Africa and Rafiki’s Planet Watch |
| Height Restrictions | Any Height |
| Age Interests | All Ages |
| Thrill Type | Slow Rides |
| Hours | 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM |
| Wait Times | Low to Moderate |
| Lightning Lane | No |
| Accessibility Information | Must Transfer from Wheelchair/ECV |
Attraction Overview
The Wildlife Express Train is an open-air train ride that transports guests from Harambe, Africa to Rafiki’s Planet Watch and back. The seven-minute one-way trip provides a behind-the-scenes look at the animal housing and care facilities of Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Unlike other rides, this isn’t about thrills or spills. Instead, it offers a leisurely and educational experience. Each train ride is accompanied by a narration detailing the animals and their natural habitats. It’s a must-do for animal lovers and those interested in conservation efforts. The train ride itself is also quite scenic, offering panoramic views of the park’s landscape.
The Wildlife Express Train operates daily, weather permitting, with trains departing approximately every 5-7 minutes. It’s worth noting that while the train ride is wheelchair accessible, guests will need to transfer from their ECVs to available wheelchairs to board the train.
Map
Location & Wait Times
The Wildlife Express Train is located in the Africa section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, near the entrance to Kilimanjaro Safaris.
Wait times for the Wildlife Express Train are typically minimal compared to other attractions in the park. However, during peak times, there may be a short wait. It’s recommended to check the daily schedule or the My Disney Experience app for the most accurate wait times and operational hours.
Queue Experience
The queue for the Wildlife Express Train is designed to resemble a rural African train station complete with rustic signage and themed decor.
Once you board the train, each car offers bench-style seating with a canopy overhead for shade. As the train chugs along the track, you’ll pass by several animal enclosures and backstage areas, providing a unique perspective not seen elsewhere in the park.
The Wildlife Express Train at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is more than just a mode of transportation. It’s an immersive journey that offers a unique glimpse into the world of animals and their care within the park. Whether you’re an animal enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing ride amidst your park adventures, the Wildlife Express Train is a charming attraction that shouldn’t be missed.
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.
