Disney's Animal Kingdom - Rafiki's Planet Watch

DAK Lands
Animal Kingdom Attractions	Discovery Island
Africa	Oasis
Asia	Pandora - The World of AVATAR
DinoLand USA	Rafiki's Planet Watch

Rafiki's Planet Watch

• The Animation Experience at Conservation Station
• The Affection Section

• Blog with Photos of Rafiki's Planet Watch

The Wildlife Express train takes you to the research and education center, Rafiki's Planet Watch.

At the Rafiki's Planet Watch, the first building that visitors see is topped with spectacular, large, colorful murals of the animals. Inside, you will find viewing areas where exams and surgical procedures may be observed. In addition to the veterinary facilities, experts are on hand to educate you on the caring for, and meal preparation for the many animals found in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Pellets for the parrots, “cookies” for the elephants and live mealy worms for the meerkats are some of the delicacies prepared for the Animal Kingdom’s inhabitants.

There is a multitude of information on conservation efforts of organizations throughout the world, including a computer that can tell you where the one nearest to your hometown is. There are many interactive displays with environmental information and tips for preserving our natural resources including sound booths featuring the sounds of the rain forest. Touch screens allow you to check out the Animal Cams throughout the park.

The "Affection Section" is where young and old alike have an opportunity to interact with the animals. At first, they appear to be the usual petting zoo variety of animals, but you'll discover that they are exotic breeds of sheep, goats, deer, pigs, etc.

Of course, all of this "hands-on" play means that little fingers must be washed. There's a cute elephant fountain nearby that will accomplish this task and bring a smile.

At the “Out of the Wild” shop, guests will find conservation-themed clothing, snacks, environmentally friendly toiletries, books and stuffed toys.

The Animation Experience at Conservation Station is a newer experience that offers guests the opportunity to learn more about how live animals have inspired some of Disney’s most iconic characters.

Guests can now learn how to draw the characters from Disney's Raya and the Last Dragon, including Raya’s companion Tuk Tuk.

Disney describes this character as "part-pill bug, part-pug, part-high speed off-road vehicle and all adorable, Tuk Tuk has been Raya’s best friend since she could hold him in the palm of her hand." Guests will also get to enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the inspiration for Tuk Tuk shared by Kelly Marie Tran (voice of Raya) and Awkwafina (voice of Sisu) as part of this new experience.

Additionally, guests who visit have the chance to create a personalized piece of Disney art featuring Simba, Zazu, Pumbaa, or Timon from Disney’s The Lion King and others through an instructor-led animation class. Each session is different so guests are encouraged to visit often in order to complete their collection.

Watch our first experience in the video below!

---