traveling with my bwuhs

This is a repost from momma mommy bwuh.

Our third family adventure to Disney’s Animal Kingdom was truly magical! As a family of four, we knew we had to keep our list of must-dos manageable. After all, it was Florida in June, and we knew our stamina for a full day at a theme park would be tested. So, we focused on the experiences that mattered most to us this time around.

Since Boy1 benefits from Disney World’s Disability Access Service, our visit was made a bit smoother. This service acts like a fast pass or lightning lane for guests who might find waiting in traditional lines challenging. After an online interview with a Disney cast member, we were able to schedule return times for attractions with longer waits.

Our first magical stop was the Na’vi River Journey. Even though I haven’t seen Avatar, I’m enchanted by the ride’s vibrant colors and soothing sounds. It’s a serene escape from the Florida heat, and the kids are equally mesmerized. The cool mist from the water feels like a refreshing breeze amidst the summer warmth, making it an experience we’d happily repeat.

Next up was “It’s Tough to be a Bug,” a classic favorite of ours. This interactive 3D show offers a delightful break from the sun with its engaging effects, sounds, and even scents. We were a bit disheartened to hear it might be replaced soon, as it’s been a staple of our visits. If you’re considering this show, keep in mind that it’s quite sensory-rich. While Boy1 managed well overall, he was a bit unsettled by the crawling “bugs” on the seats. A helpful tip: removing the 3D glasses can lessen the impact for those sensitive to the effects.

To round off our adventure, we marveled at the Tree of Life. Walking the path to “It’s Tough to be a Bug,” we were in awe of the intricate carvings adorning the tree. The boys had a blast spotting and naming the animals hidden within the tree’s bark, adding an extra layer of wonder to our day.

Our trip to Animal Kingdom was a wonderful blend of adventure and relaxation, making it yet another unforgettable experience in the Disney magic.

The Kilimanjaro Safari once again worked its magic, delivering an exhilarating adventure through the African savanna. While we didn’t spot as many lions as we had on our previous visit, catching a glimpse of even one was a highlight for our crew. Our safari guide was a true entertainer, with jokes that made me wonder if she might have moonlighted on the Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom. The experience was filled with excitement and animal sightings, including a charming baby elephant that stole the show!

Lunch at Harambe Market was a delicious respite from the summer heat. By this point, we were relying on our fans and cooling towels to stay comfortable. The food was fantastic, and I’ll dive into those culinary delights in a separate post, but let me just say, the flavors were worth every bite.

The boys then braved the Kali River Rapids, emerging thoroughly soaked but grinning from ear to ear. As I waited on the bridge, I was enchanted by the intricate details of the realistic candle holders scattered across the structure. Disney’s attention to detail never ceases to amaze me. Additionally, the bridge features interactive buttons that control spray features, allowing guests to give a playful splash to those riding the rapids as they approach the finish line.

Overall, it was another day full of Disney enchantment and adventure, leaving us with cherished memories and a longing for our next magical journey.

On this trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, we encountered a small hiccup: we forgot the boys’ Wilderness Explorer books from our last visit. Unfortunately, that meant no Wilderness Explorer adventures this time. However, we made the most of it by shopping for a hat for me—I had left mine behind, and with the sun blazing, I was the only one in the family without one! The boys were all set with their hats, keeping the sun at bay. We also indulged in a bit of shopping, picking up some pins for our collections and adding to our new favorite souvenirs: pressed pennies!

This visit was a bit more laid-back compared to our previous action-packed trips, but that turned out to be just what we needed, especially in the sweltering heat. We focused on the experiences we really wanted to enjoy and ended up having a wonderful day. As a bonus, we capped off our adventure with some pool time back at the Lodge, a perfect way to cool off and relax.

What are your favorite must-do activities at Animal Kingdom?

❤ Jen