Is Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Jambo House Worth It? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
WONDERING IF JAMBO HOUSE IS THE RIGHT RESORT FOR YOUR NEXT DISNEY STAY? LET’S DIVE INTO THE DETAILS!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House is a deluxe resort that delivers a bold, immersive experience you won’t find anywhere else at Walt Disney World. With its grand lobby, African-inspired design, and sweeping savanna views, this resort makes you feel like you’ve stepped into the heart of a luxury safari lodge—with all the perks of staying on Disney property.
I’ve stayed at Jambo House myself, and it feels every bit as deluxe as it looks. It’s elegant, peaceful, and full of incredible details—from the artwork and architecture to the animal encounters just outside your window.
Between the relaxing atmosphere, the top-rated buffet at Boma, and the beauty of the savannas, Jambo House is easily one of the most impressive places to stay at Disney World.
Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:
- Accommodation Options
- Dining & Amenities
- Transportation to the Parks
- Recreation & Entertainment
Let’s take a closer look at what makes Jambo House such a special resort—and why it might be the perfect fit for your next Disney vacation.
Resort History and Theme
Jambo House isn’t just another Disney resort—it’s an experience. The moment you walk through the doors and into that stunning grand lobby, it feels like you’ve stepped into an African safari lodge. The soaring ceilings, warm lighting, and handcrafted art make it one of the most jaw-dropping resort entrances at Disney.
This is the original Animal Kingdom Lodge building, and it still has that wow factor. You’ll find authentic African design woven into every detail—from the music playing in the background to the carvings, textiles, and artwork throughout the resort.
And then there’s the savanna. More than 30 species of animals roam just outside, and you can watch them from the lobby, the viewing areas, or even your own balcony.
The Origins of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Jambo House Resort
Jambo House first opened in 2001 as Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. A few years later, part of the resort was turned into Disney Vacation Club villas, so now you’ll find a mix of standard resort rooms and villa-style accommodations all in one place.
While Kidani Village came later and has a quieter, residential vibe, Jambo House is where it all started. It’s home to the grand lobby, the main gift shop, and some of the best dining options on property.
Theming at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Jambo House Resort
What I love most about Jambo House is that the theming doesn’t just feel pretty—it feels real. The resort tells a story, and it does it in a way that feels both relaxing and completely transportive. There’s something about the way the space is designed that just invites you to slow down and soak it all in.
If you’re someone who appreciates unique theming, amazing food, and waking up to the sight of giraffes outside your window, Jambo House is going to feel pretty magical.
Room Accommodations
At Jambo House, you’ve got a nice mix of both traditional resort rooms and villa-style accommodations. So whether you’re planning a couples getaway, a family trip, or a multi-generational vacation, you’ll find something that fits.
Every room is decorated with rich African-inspired details—think warm wood tones, bold patterns, and subtle safari touches. And many rooms offer balconies with views of the savanna, so you just might wake up to giraffes and zebras strolling by.
Here’s a quick look at your room options:
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!
Standard Studios
If you’re not staying in a villa, Jambo House also offers standard hotel rooms that sleep up to 4 or 5 guests. These are a great option if you want the deluxe resort experience without needing the villa space. You can still choose from Standard or Savanna View rooms.
Deluxe Studios
These are perfect for smaller families or couples. They sleep up to 4 and come with a queen bed and a queen-size sleeper sofa, plus a handy kitchenette with a mini fridge, microwave, toaster, and coffee maker. You’ll also get a private balcony—book a Savanna View if you want a front-row seat to the animals.
1 Bedroom Villas
Need more space? These sleep up to 5 and come with a full kitchen, a washer and dryer, a king bed in the bedroom, and a living area with a sleeper sofa and single sleeper chair. There are two bathrooms and a big balcony to enjoy your morning coffee—especially nice if you’ve got a Savanna View room.
TRAVELISTA TIP: If you plan to spend any amount of time enjoying your resort, I highly recommend upgrading to villa! The extra space and full kitchen really make you feel like you are vacationing in luxury!
2 Bedroom Villas
These are great for larger families or if you’re traveling with a group. You’ll get a king bed in the master, two queen beds in the second bedroom, plus a sleeper sofa and sleeper chair in the living area—enough room to sleep up to 9 people. They also come with a full kitchen, in-room laundry, and either two or three bathrooms, depending on the setup.
3 Bedroom Villas
If you’re planning a big trip, these are the ultimate upgrade. Grand Villas sleep up to 12 and have a full kitchen, three bathrooms, a dining area, washer and dryer, and a huge living space. There’s one king bed, four queen beds, and a queen sleeper sofa—plenty of space for everyone to spread out. These are limited, so they do book up quickly!
Club Level
Staying Club Level at Jambo House gives you access to the Kilimanjaro Club, located right in the main building. You’ll enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks throughout the day, personalized concierge service, and a cozy lounge with a beautiful overlook. It’s a great way to add a little extra magic to your stay.
Decorating Your Room Door & Window
Want to add a little personality to your room? Guests at Jambo House sometimes decorate their doors or windows for birthdays, holidays, or special trips. You’ll see everything from Disney magnets to runDisney signs. It’s a fun little tradition—and a sweet way to make your stay feel extra 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 Jambo House is simple, but it’s good to know a few basics before your trip—especially since this resort is a bit more tucked away than others on property.
Disney Bus Transportation
Jambo House uses Disney’s complimentary bus system to get you to all four theme parks, Disney Springs, and the water parks. The bus stop is located right outside the main entrance and is easy to find.
Animal Kingdom is just around the corner, so it’s a super quick ride—usually under 5 minutes. Trips to Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios take a little longer, typically around 20–25 minutes.
Depending on the time of day, your bus may also stop at Kidani Village. Just check the sign before boarding to make sure you’re headed to the right place.
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
To make things easier, I recommend using the My Disney Experience app to check real-time bus arrival times right from your phone—it’s a game changer. Always give yourself a little extra time in the mornings or before dining reservations, just in case buses are running behind or a stop gets added.
If you have plans at Kidani Village, you can either walk (it’s about 10 minutes) or hop on the internal resort shuttle that runs between the two buildings.
Resort Shopping Options
Shopping at Jambo House is easy thanks to Zawadi Marketplace, located just off the main lobby. It’s actually one of the largest gift shops at any Disney resort, so you’ll find a great mix of classic Disney merchandise and unique, African-inspired items you won’t see anywhere else.
They’ve got everything from apparel and souvenirs to snacks, drinks, and those easy-to-forget essentials like sunscreen or extra chargers. You’ll also find Jambo House-specific merchandise if you want a keepsake to remember your stay.
I always like to stop in on arrival day or during a slower afternoon. It’s a relaxing place to browse, especially if you want to avoid the busy park shops—and I love picking up a little something that reminds me of the resort long after the trip ends.
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Resort Dining Options
Jambo House is one of my favorite resorts for dining. Whether you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal or just want to grab a quick bite between park days, there’s something here for every appetite—and the flavors are anything but ordinary.
Boma – Flavors of Africa
This is Jambo House’s main buffet and one of the most loved on property. Open for both breakfast and dinner, Boma offers a wide variety of African-inspired dishes alongside familiar favorites.
Breakfast here is my go-to—tons of variety, fresh options, and the juice they serve is out of this world! I don’t know what kind of magic is in it, but trust me, you’ll want a second glass. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to linger a little longer.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Boma is a must do for breakfast! We like to do breakfast here on a day when we aren’t going to the parks or don’t have to be anywhere early.
Jinko – The Cooking Place
If you’re looking for a signature dining experience, Jiko is the place. The menu features upscale African fusion dishes, an award-winning South African wine list, and a peaceful, elegant setting. It’s perfect for a date night or special dinner during your stay.
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!
The Mara
This is the quick-service option at Jambo House and it’s perfect for grab-and-go meals. You’ll find flatbreads, salads, sandwiches, and a few African-inspired dishes mixed in. Great for a quick breakfast before the parks or a late-night snack when you get back.
Uzima Springs Pool Bar
Located by the pool, this laid-back spot serves up refreshing drinks, cocktails, and light snacks. It’s a great place to grab a bite while the kids swim or just relax with a frozen cocktail in hand.
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.
Cape Town Lounge
Right outside Jiko, this cozy little spot offers wine flights and small plates. It’s quiet, easy to miss, and perfect for a relaxing pre-dinner drink or a nightcap.
Victoria Falls Lounge
This hidden gem sits on the mezzanine level above Boma and overlooks the main lobby. It’s warm, cozy, and serves up beer, wine, cocktails, and a small appetizer menu. A great spot to wind down after a park day.
Resort Recreation & Amenities
Jambo House has a nice balance of things to do when you’re not in the parks. Whether you’re looking to cool off, spot animals, or just enjoy a slower pace, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained right at the resort.
Water Fun at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Jambo House Resort
If pool days are part of your vacation plans, you’re in for a treat. Jambo House’s water areas are well-themed, family-friendly, and perfect for both play and relaxation.
🌊 Uzima Springs – A large, zero-entry pool with a 67-foot waterslide, plenty of lounge space, and a nearby kiddie wading pool for the little ones.
🌊 Daily Poolside Activities – Disney’s recreation team hosts games, trivia, and fun challenges throughout the day—perfect for some extra entertainment during your pool break.
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 looking for a little activity between park days, Jambo House has some great options to help you stay moving—or just enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
☀️ Fitness Center – The fitness center at Jambo House is fully equipped with cardio machines, free weights, and strength training equipment. It’s perfect for getting in a quick workout before heading to the parks.
☀️ Basketball, Tennis, and Pickleball Courts – Courts are located over near Kidani Village, and Jambo House guests are welcome to use them. Just check with the front desk if you need to borrow equipment like balls or racquets.
☀️ Outdoor Playground – Little ones can burn off energy at the playground near the pool area. It’s a great stop for afternoon play before heading back to the room or out for dinner.
☀️ Walking Path – A scenic walking trail connects Jambo House and Kidani Village. It’s perfect for a peaceful morning stroll or an evening wind-down, and you might even spot animals along the way.
☀️ Mickey Tie-Dye – On select afternoons, guests can take part in a fun Mickey tie-dye activity. It’s a great way to create a one-of-a-kind souvenir and enjoy a little downtime at the resort.
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 something extra to enjoy at Jambo House—whether you’re looking to relax in the evening or sneak in a little family fun between park days.
💥 Exotic Animals – One of the best parts of staying at Jambo House is the chance to see animals up close. You’ll find public viewing areas with rocking chairs scattered throughout the resort—perfect for a peaceful moment with a giraffe or zebra in the background.
💥 Campfire – In the evenings, you can roast marshmallows at the resort’s outdoor fire pit. It’s free, family-friendly, and a fun way to unwind after a busy day.
💥 Movies Under the Stars – On select nights, catch a Disney movie out on the lawn near the pool. Bring a blanket, grab a snack, and enjoy a cozy night under the stars.
TRAVELISTA TIP: The weekly movie lineup is usually posted in or near the lobby.
💥 Simba’s Activity Center – This indoor space is a great spot for crafts, games, and family-friendly fun throughout the day. Perfect for a break from the heat—or just a little creative downtime.
💥 Pumbaa’s Fun and Games Arcade – Located near the lobby, the arcade offers classic and modern games for kids (and grown-ups!) who want to play for a bit—especially great on a rainy day.
Other Onsite Amenities
Disney really does think of everything—and Jambo House has a few extra touches that help make your stay even more comfortable and convenient.
✨ Hey Disney! Voice Assistant – Each room is equipped with “Hey Disney!,” a voice assistant that can help you check park hours, get weather updates, set alarms, and more—like having a mini 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 – Staying at Jambo means you also have access to everything over at Kidani Village. You can walk or take the internal shuttle to enjoy their recreation, pool, or dining options like Sanaa.
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 – Jambo House falls under the deluxe villa category, so the pricing is definitely on the higher end—but it comes with a lot of value, especially if you plan to spend time enjoying the resort.
The villa-style rooms feel more like a home than a hotel, with full kitchens or kitchenettes, spacious layouts, private balconies, and in-room laundry in many units. And of course, you’ve got the added bonus of seeing exotic animals just outside your window—which is an experience you really can’t get anywhere else on property.
As a deluxe resort guest, you’ll also get early park entry every day and extended evening hours at select parks on certain nights. Plus, it’s easier to snag those top Lightning Lane reservations when you’re staying on-site.
Jambo House is a great pick if you want a stay that feels upscale and relaxing while still keeping you close to the Disney magic. It’s especially ideal for longer trips, bigger families, or anyone who wants a more immersive experience with a little extra space to spread out.
If you’re ready to plan your stay at Jambo House, I’d love to help! As a Disney travel professional, I’ll take care of the details—finding the best rates, booking dining, and creating a stress-free trip that’s personalized just for you.
Pros and Cons of Staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Jambo House Resort
Trying to decide if Jambo House is the right fit for your Disney trip? Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons to help you weigh it all out.
Pros:
- Savanna Views & Animal Watching – Wake up to giraffes, zebras, and more right outside your balcony—it’s one of the most unique experiences on Disney property.
- Stunning Lobby & Theming – The grand lobby at Jambo House is absolutely breathtaking and filled with African art, cozy seating areas, and immersive details everywhere you look.
- Spacious Villas – The Deluxe Studios and multi-bedroom villas give you more room to spread out, with full kitchens and in-room laundry in most units.
- Top-Rated Dining Options – With Boma and Jiko right on-site, you’ve got two of Disney’s best dining spots just steps away.
- Deluxe Resort Perks – Enjoy early park entry, extended evening hours, and better access to top Lightning Lanes.
- Great Pool Area – Uzima Springs is a big, beautiful pool with a waterslide and nearby lounge space for relaxing.
- Access to Kidani Village Amenities – You can walk or take the shuttle to Kidani for more dining options, recreation, and animal viewing areas.
Cons:
- Bus-Only Transportation – Jambo House doesn’t have boat, monorail, or Skyliner access—buses are your only included transportation.
- Remote Location – The resort is peaceful and tucked away, but that also means longer travel times to most parks (aside from Animal Kingdom, which is super close).
- No In-Room Club Level at Villas – While you can book Club Level rooms in the main hotel section, the DVC villas don’t come with access unless specifically booked that way.
- Long Hallways – Depending on your room location, it might be a bit of a walk to the lobby, bus stop, or pool.
- Higher Price Point – As a deluxe resort, it’s definitely more of a splurge—especially if you’re going for a Savanna View or Club Level.
Packing for a Stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Jambo House Resort
Packing for your stay at Jambo House is simple—just bring a few essentials to help you feel comfortable and prepared. Here’s a quick list to get you ready for a relaxing and unforgettable stay at this stunning, safari-style resort.
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 pools at both Jambo House and Kidani 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 Jambo House Resort
Thinking about a stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House? I’d love to help make the booking process easy and stress-free.
As a Disney travel professional, I’ll handle all the details—from finding the best rates and room options to booking dining, park tickets, and more. I’m here to make sure your trip runs smoothly so you can focus on the fun and magic. And the best part? My services are always FREE when you book your Disney vacation through me!
Ready to start planning your stay at Jambo House? Click the button below and let’s bring your Disney vacation to life!
Final Thoughts: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Jambo House Resort
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House is a beautiful choice if you’re looking for a deluxe resort that feels immersive, relaxing, and totally unique. Between the incredible theming, the grand lobby, and the chance to see giraffes and zebras just outside your window, this resort delivers something truly special.
Whether you’re starting your morning with breakfast at Boma, watching animals roam from one of the viewing areas, or winding down with a quiet evening at the pool, Jambo House has a calm, peaceful vibe that makes it easy to slow down and soak in the magic.
If you’re planning a Disney vacation and want a stay that blends comfort, culture, and a touch of adventure, Jambo House is a place you’ll love calling home.
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