Your Guide to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Kidani Village: Why I Love It and What You Can Expect
CURIOUS IF KIDANI VILLAGE IS A GOOD FIT FOR YOUR DISNEY VACATION? LET’S TAKE A CLOSER LOOK!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village is a deluxe villa resort with one of the most peaceful and unique vibes you’ll find at Walt Disney World. It’s tucked away near Animal Kingdom park and designed to feel like an African safari lodge—complete with real savanna views and animals roaming just outside the windows.
I’ve stayed at Kidani myself, and it truly feels like a hidden gem. It’s calm, beautiful, and unlike any other Disney resort. If you’re looking for a stay that blends comfort, culture, and wildlife in one magical package, this is it.
Between the quiet atmosphere, the one-of-a-kind dining at Sanaa, and the chance to see giraffes with your morning coffee, Kidani Village has quickly become one of my favorite places to stay on Disney property.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this guide:
- Accommodation Options
- Dining & Amenities
- Transportation to the Parks
- Recreation & Entertainment
Let’s take a closer look at what makes Kidani Village such a special Disney resort—and why it might be the perfect choice for your next trip!
Resort History and Theme
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village isn’t your typical resort stay. From the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by earthy tones, handcrafted art, and sweeping savanna views that make it feel like you’ve stepped into a luxury safari lodge.
It’s one of the most peaceful and immersive resorts on Disney property, with theming that goes far beyond surface-level decor. Everything—from the architecture to the music playing in the background—is rooted in African culture and storytelling, creating a relaxing escape that still feels deeply connected to the magic of Disney.
The Origins of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village Resort
Kidani Village opened in 2009 as part of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge expansion, offering Disney Vacation Club accommodations with stunning views of the resort’s private savannas. It was built as a sister property to Jambo House, giving guests another way to experience the unique blend of African culture, wildlife, and Disney service.
While Jambo House is the main lodge with a grand lobby and large dining options, Kidani Village was designed to feel more intimate and residential. It’s quieter, more laid-back, and feels like a peaceful retreat tucked away from the busier parts of Walt Disney World.
Theming at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village Resort
The theming at Kidani Village is warm, immersive, and full of beautiful details inspired by the art and culture of Africa. From the handcrafted woodwork to the woven textures and earthy tones throughout the resort, everything feels intentional and authentic.
One of the standout features is the savanna. More than 30 species of African animals roam the open spaces just outside the resort, and you can see them from many of the rooms, the lobby overlook, or the public viewing areas. It’s an experience you truly can’t get anywhere else on Disney property.
The layout of the resort itself was designed to maximize savanna views, with long, curved hallways that give guests as much animal-watching access as possible. The atmosphere is calm and peaceful—perfect if you’re looking for a break from the hustle of the parks.
If you love resorts that feel immersive and one-of-a-kind, Kidani Village is a top-tier pick. Between the wildlife, the stunning design, and the sense of quiet luxury, it’s one of the most special places to stay at Walt Disney World.
Room Accommodations
Kidani Village is a deluxe villa resort, which means you’re getting spacious, apartment-style accommodations that feel like a home away from home. Whether you’re booking a cozy Deluxe Studio or a massive 3-Bedroom Grand Villa, every room is designed with rich African-inspired decor, warm colors, and thoughtful details that tie into the resort’s safari lodge theme.
Most rooms come with either a kitchenette or a full kitchen, plus private balconies—and the best part? You can choose a savanna view and wake up to giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife right outside your window. It’s seriously magical.
Here’s a closer look at the different room types available at Kidani Village:
Deluxe Studios
Perfect for smaller families or couples, these studios sleep up to 4 and come with one queen bed and a queen-size sleeper sofa. You’ll also get a kitchenette with a mini fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and toaster—just enough for quick breakfasts or light snacks in the room.
The real highlight is the balcony. Booking a Savanna View gives you a front-row seat to the animals roaming outside. Standard View rooms may face parking or landscaping, but the price point is friendlier. You can also book a Club Level Deluxe Studio if you’re looking for extra perks like lounge access and personalized service.
1 Bedroom Villas
If you want more space to stretch out, the 1-Bedroom Villas are a game changer. These sleep up to 5 and include a full kitchen, washer and dryer, separate bedroom with a king bed, and a living area with a sleeper sofa and single pull-out chair.
You also get two full bathrooms and a large private balcony—again, with the option for a Standard View, Savanna View, or Club Level. These rooms are perfect for longer stays or anyone who likes the flexibility of having a full kitchen and laundry right in their room.
2 Bedroom Villas
Traveling with a bigger group? The 2-Bedroom Villas sleep up to 9 and give you all the comforts of the 1-Bedroom setup—plus an extra bedroom with two queen beds. You’ll get three separate sleeping spaces, a full kitchen, washer and dryer, two or three bathrooms, and plenty of room to hang out.
Just like the other room types, you can book these with Standard, Savanna, or Club Level views.
TRAVELISTA TIP: If you are going to stay at the Animal Kingdom Villas, a Savannah View Room is a must! In face, I won’t even book my clients in anything less! They come at a little bit of a higher price point, but it is the only reason people choose this resort!
3 Bedroom Villas
These are the largest accommodations at Kidani Village and they are incredible. With room for up to 12 guests, Grand Villas include one king bed, four queen beds, and one queen-size sleeper sofa across three bedrooms and a large living area. You’ll also get a full kitchen, dining area, three bathrooms, washer and dryer, and a spacious balcony.
These are ideal for multi-generational trips or big family getaways where you want to all stay together without feeling cramped. Grand Villas are limited, so they book up fast—especially the ones with Savanna Views.
Club Level
While Kidani Village itself doesn’t have a Club Level lounge, guests staying in Club Level rooms get access to the Kilimanjaro Club at nearby Jambo House. This includes complimentary continental breakfast, evening snacks and desserts, beer and wine, and personalized concierge services. If you’re looking for a little extra luxury, it’s a great option to consider.
Decorating Your Room Door & Window
Decorating your villa door or window isn’t just for the value and moderate resorts—guests at Kidani love to add a little flair too! While the vibe here is more peaceful than festive, you’ll still see fun Disney magnets, birthday signs, and subtle decorations—especially during holidays or runDisney weekends.
With the resort’s long hallways and quiet atmosphere, walking through and spotting the occasional themed door or window display is such a sweet touch. It’s a fun, low-effort way to make your villa feel even more personal.
TRAVELISTA TIP: There are several companies that will come out and decorate your resort room or door. My favorite to use is Birthdays and More.
Resort Transportation to Parks
Getting around from Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village is straightforward, though it’s helpful to know a few tips since this resort is a bit more tucked away than others.
Disney Bus Transportation
Kidani Village has its own dedicated bus stop right out front, and buses run regularly to each park. Since Animal Kingdom park is the closest, you’ll have a super quick ride there—usually just about 5 minutes.
For all other parks and destinations, plan for a little more travel time. Magic Kingdom and EPCOT typically take 20–25 minutes, and buses may also stop at Jambo House along the way, depending on the time of day.
The buses are reliable and easy to use – just be sure to check the signage to make sure you’re hopping on the right one!
TRAVELISTA TIP: If you’re aiming to catch a specific show or reservation, give yourself plenty of time to navigate transportation and get through park security.
Tips for Navigating Disney Transportation
A few simple strategies can make transportation smoother:
- Use the My Disney Experience app to check when the next bus is arriving.
- Give yourself extra time for park openings, dining reservations, or Lightning Lane return windows.
- Walk to Jambo House or catch the interresort shuttle if you’re heading there for dining or want to catch a bus from their stop.
- Keep in mind: Uber or Lyft can be a helpful backup if you’re in a hurry or headed somewhere that requires transfers.
While Kidani doesn’t have boats or monorails, the peaceful setting and quick access to Animal Kingdom more than make up for it.
Resort Shopping Options
Shopping at Kidani Village is simple and convenient thanks to Johari Treasures, the resort’s gift shop located right off the main lobby. It’s a smaller shop, but it has everything you might need—from classic Disney souvenirs to resort-specific items you won’t find anywhere else.
You’ll find apparel, toys, pins, snacks, drinks, and those last-minute travel essentials (like sunscreen or a forgotten toothbrush). It’s also a great place to grab a Kidani Village-themed keepsake or something fun for the kids before heading to the parks.
I always like to pop in to the resort gift shop on arrival day or during some downtime—it’s a relaxing way to browse without the crowds you’ll find in the bigger park stores. Plus, there’s just something special about bringing home a little piece of the resort to remember your stay.
Follow My Socials for More Southern Travel Fun!
Resort Dining Options
Kidani Village may be peaceful and laid-back, but when it comes to food, this resort definitely delivers—especially if you’re into bold flavors and unique dishes. Whether you want a full sit-down meal or something quick by the pool, you’ve got some solid options right on-site.
Sanaa
Sanaa is the main dining location at Kidani Village, and it’s one of the most popular restaurants on all of Disney property—for good reason. It serves up a mix of African and Indian-inspired dishes in a beautiful setting that overlooks the savanna. Yep, you can literally watch giraffes and zebras while you eat.
The must-try? The Indian-style Bread Service with nine different dips—it’s iconic. You’ll also find delicious dishes like butter chicken, braised beef, and plant-based bowls. The food is flavorful, the atmosphere is calm and cozy, and the views are unbeatable.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Mobile ordering through the My Disney Experience app allows you to order ahead of time and schedule a pick up time. It is a life saver when you want to grab a quick meal to eat in the comfort of your resort room.
Sanaa Lounge
If you’re not up for a full meal but still want the vibe, Sanaa Lounge is the perfect spot. Tucked right next to the restaurant, this little lounge offers cocktails, wine flights, and small bites (including that Bread Service!).
It’s a great place to unwind after a day in the parks—especially if you grab a seat near the windows for a peek at the savanna animals.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Did you know that when you book with me as your agent, I take care of all of your dining reservations for you?! That’s right! No need for you to wake up at 5am to snag the best dining reservations… I’ve got you covered!
Maji Pool Bar
For something casual, head over to Maji Pool Bar by the Samawati Springs Pool. You’ll find sandwiches, salads, and snacks, along with cocktails, beer, and frozen drinks.
It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a poolside lunch or a refreshing drink while the kids play. Plus, there’s shaded seating nearby if you want to take a break from the sun.
TRAVELISTA TIP: If you want even more dining options, Jambo House is just a short walk away! They have sit down restaurants, Boma and Jiko, as well as a quick service – The Mara.
Resort Recreation & Amenities
Kidani Village may feel calm and quiet, but there’s still plenty to do beyond the parks. Whether you want to splash in the pool, enjoy a peaceful animal viewing session, or let the kids burn off some energy, this resort has a great mix of relaxing and active options.
Water Fun at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village Resort
If pool days are part of your vacation plans, you’re in for a treat. Kidani’s water areas are well-themed, family-friendly, and perfect for both play and relaxation.
🌊 Samawati Springs – This beautifully themed pool area is one of the highlights of Kidani Village. It features a 128-foot waterslide, zero-depth entry, and plenty of space to swim, splash, or lounge in the sun.
🌊 Uwanja Camp Water Playground – Right next to the main pool, this interactive splash zone is perfect for little ones (and even bigger kids). With water cannons, bubbling geysers, and climbing structures, it’s a great spot to cool off and have fun.
🌊 Daily Poolside Activities – Disney’s recreation team hosts games, trivia, and activities throughout the day at the main pool. It’s a fun way to add some extra Disney magic to your afternoon, especially if you’re taking a rest day from the parks.
As a result, these activities are perfect for keeping everyone in the family entertained —it’s all part of the Disney magic!
TRAVELISTA TIP: When planning how many days you want to spend on your Disney World vacation, make sure you allow for some time to enjoy the resort!
Sports and Recreation Adventures
If you’re craving a little activity between park days, Kidani offers a nice mix of options to keep everyone moving and entertained.
☀️ Fitness Center – Located inside the resort, the fitness center has cardio machines, free weights, and everything you need to squeeze in a quick workout.
☀️ Basketball, Tennis, and Pickleball Courts – Over at nearby Jambo House, guests have access to courts for basketball, tennis, and even pickleball. Just ask the front desk if you need equipment!
☀️ Outdoor Playground – Little ones can climb, slide, and explore at the playground located near the pool. It’s a great spot for a little afternoon play before heading back to the room.
☀️ Walking Path – There’s a peaceful walking path between Kidani Village and Jambo House that’s perfect for a quiet morning stroll or evening walk. Keep your eyes peeled—you might spot animals along the way!
☀️ Mickey Tie-Dye – On select afternoons, guests can join a Mickey tie-dye activity and design a one-of-a-kind Disney shirt. It’s a fun way to get creative and take home a colorful souvenir!
TRAVELISTA TIP: Mickey Tie Dye is one of my family’s favorite resort activities! We have done it on multiple Disney World vacations!
Entertainment Options
There’s always a little extra magic happening at Kidani Village. From relaxing evenings under the stars to family-friendly games and animal encounters, there’s something for everyone.
💥 Exotic Animals – One of the most unique features at Kidani Village is the chance to see African wildlife right at your resort. You’ll find public viewing areas and balconies with rocking chairs throughout the resort—perfect for a peaceful moment with a giraffe or zebra in the background.
💥 Campfire – In the evenings, you can roast marshmallows around the campfire (complimentary, of course!). It’s a simple, fun way to wind down with the family.
💥 Movies Under the Stars – On select nights, catch a Disney movie outside on the lawn. Bring a blanket or just relax under the stars—it’s such a cozy way to end the day.
TRAVELISTA TIP: The weekly movie lineup is usually posted in or near the lobby.
💥 Community Hall – The Community Hall offers crafts, games, and family activities daily. It’s a great spot for downtime, especially if you need a break from the heat or the parks.
💥 Safari So Good Arcade – Near the lobby, this colorful arcade is packed with games for kids and grown-ups alike. It’s a fun place to play for a bit, especially on a rainy afternoon.
Other Onsite Amenities
Disney thinks of all the little things to make your stay easier—and Kidani Village is no exception. Here are a few bonus perks to make your vacation even smoother.
✨ Hey Disney! Voice Assistant – All rooms come with Disney’s voice assistant device, “Hey Disney!” It can help with park info, weather updates, wake-up calls, and more—kind of like having your own little concierge in the room.
✨ Laundry Facilities – Self-service laundry rooms are available at the resort and come in handy for longer stays or after a day of pool-hopping.
✨ Mail Services – Need to send a postcard or ship a package? You can do it right from the main lobby, so you don’t have to leave Disney magic behind.
✨ Sister Resort Perks – One of the best parts about staying at Kidani? You get access to Jambo House, just a short walk or internal shuttle ride away. That means extra dining, shopping, animal viewing spots, and recreational options.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Check out my list of 27 Things to Do at Disney World Resorts for even more ideas!
Resort Pricing and Value
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village is part of the deluxe villa category, so it does come with a higher price tag than value or moderate resorts—but for good reason.
The rooms here are more like vacation homes, with full kitchens or kitchenettes, separate living spaces, private balconies, and even in-room laundry in many of the villas. Plus, you’re getting views of exotic animals, stunning theming, and access to all the deluxe resort perks.
Staying at a deluxe resort also means you’ll enjoy early park entry and extended evening hours at select parks on certain nights—plus easier access to those early Lightning Lane reservations. If you’re planning to spend time relaxing at the resort, the added space and peaceful atmosphere here are worth every penny.
Kidani Village is a great choice if you’re looking for a quieter, more immersive Disney stay, especially for longer trips or bigger groups who want the flexibility of cooking a few meals and spreading out a bit more.
And if you’re ready to book your stay at Kidani Village, I’d love to help! As a Disney travel professional, I’ll help you find the best rates, book dining and extras, and take all the stress out of planning so you can focus on enjoying your magical getaway.
Pros and Cons of Staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village Resort
Trying to decide if Kidani Village is the right resort for your Disney trip? Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide.
Pros:
- Disney Resort Guest Benefits – Enjoy perks like early park entry, Lightning Lane booking advantages, and complimentary transportation to all four theme parks.
- Savanna Views & Animal Watching – One of the only Disney resorts where you can watch giraffes, zebras, and other animals right from your balcony or nearby viewing areas.
- Spacious Villas – Deluxe Studios and multi-bedroom villas offer more space than standard hotel rooms, plus full kitchens and in-room laundry in the 1-bedroom villas and up.
- Peaceful, Immersive Theme – The resort’s African-inspired design and quiet atmosphere create a relaxing and culturally rich experience.
- Unique Dining at Sanaa – Enjoy African and Indian-inspired dishes—with savanna views. The Indian-style Bread Service is a fan favorite.
- Samawati Springs Pool & Uwanja Camp – A large, themed pool with a 128-foot waterslide and a fun splash area for kids.
- Access to Jambo House Amenities – Stay at Kidani but take advantage of everything at Jambo House, including additional dining, shopping, and animal viewing spots.
- Deluxe Resort Perks – Get early park entry and extended evening hours at select parks as a deluxe resort guest.
Cons:
- Bus-Only Transportation – Kidani doesn’t offer Skyliner, boat, or monorail transportation—buses are the only included transit option.
- No Quick-Service Dining – The resort lacks a true quick-service restaurant. Maji Pool Bar offers some light meals, but you’ll need to head to Jambo House for more variety.
- Remote Location – The resort is a bit more secluded, which means longer travel times to most parks (though Animal Kingdom is just minutes away).
- Long Hallways – Due to the layout of the resort, some rooms can be quite a walk from the lobby, bus stop, or pool area.
- Higher Price Point – As a deluxe villa resort, rates are on the higher side, especially for villas with savanna views or Club Level access.
Packing for a Stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village Resort
Packing for your stay at Kidani Village is pretty straightforward—just a few essentials will help make your trip extra comfortable. Here’s a quick list to get you ready for a relaxing and memorable stay at this peaceful, animal-filled retreat.
Essentials:
Comfortable Clothing: The overall size of Walt Disney World means lots of walking, so pack breathable outfits and supportive footwear.
Swimwear: With the fantastic pool and water playground at Kidnai Village, you’ll want to have swimsuits ready for some water fun.
Sunscreen, Hats, and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the Florida sun while you’re out enjoying the resort or the parks.
Ponchos or Rain Jackets: Afternoon rain showers are common, so bring lightweight ponchos or jackets.
Reusable Water Bottles: Stay hydrated with reusable bottles that you can refill at water stations.
Portable Chargers: Keep your devices charged while snapping photos or using the My Disney Experience app.
Extras:
Disney-Themed Decorations: Bring window clings, lights, or themed decorations to add a personal touch to your room.
Autograph Book and Sharpies: If you’re heading to the parks, bring these along for capturing magical character meet-and-greets.
Backpack or Day Bag: A lightweight bag is perfect for carrying your essentials to the parks or around the resort.
With this packing list, you’ll be well-prepared for a fantastic Disney resort experience!
TRAVELISTA TIP: For a list of my recommendations of items to bring into the Disney parks with you, check out my Travel Resources page.
Booking a Vacation at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village Resort
Thinking about a stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village? I’d love to help make the booking process easy and stress-free.
As a Disney travel professional, I’ll take care of the details—from finding the best rates and room type to booking dining and helping you plan your park days. I’m here to make sure everything runs smoothly so you can focus on the fun. And the best part? My planning services are always FREE when you book your Disney vacation through me!
Ready to start planning your stay at Kidani Village? Click the button below and let’s make your Disney dream trip a reality!
Final Thoughts: Disney’s Animal Kindgom Villas Kidani Village Resort
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village is a wonderful choice if you’re looking for a peaceful, immersive resort with one-of-a-kind experiences. Between the stunning African-inspired design, the quiet atmosphere, and the chance to see exotic animals right outside your window, it truly feels like a hidden gem.
Whether you’re enjoying a quiet meal at Sanaa, relaxing on your balcony with a view of the savanna, or watching the kids play at Uwanja Camp, there’s a special kind of calm and magic here that’s hard to beat.
If you’re planning a Disney vacation and want a deluxe stay that blends comfort, culture, and a little bit of wilderness adventure, Kidani Village is a beautiful place to call home.
Pin It For Later
