While the Magic Kingdom and Epcot Center are pretty friendly towards expectant mothers, being pregnant at Animal Kingdom presents a unique set of challenges. Many of the signature attractions feature high drops (Expedition Everest), bumpy roads (Kilamanjaro Safaris), or intense forces (Dinosaur)- all of which, of course, are unsuitable for an expectant mother. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the park and have an awesome day with your family!
Here are 9 things you CAN do while pregnant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
**Due to COVID-19, some attractions and experiences remain unavailable. Please check Disney’s website for updated attraction information before your visit.**
1.) It’s Tough To Be A Bug
One of the first attractions you’ll encounter after entering the park is It’s Tough To Be A Bug – a 3-D movie starring characters from Disney’s A Bug’s Life. Using multiple animatronics, fog, and other effects; you’ll experience what it’s like to be the size of an ant.
Fair warning – many of the scenes and themes in this attraction are surprisingly dark and creepy. If you have other young kids, use caution before bringing them with you into this film. Otherwise, this a fun experience and completely safe for pregnancy.
2.) Na’vi River Journey
The park’s newest section, Pandora – The World Avatar, features two amazing rides. While you won’t be able to enjoy the popular Flight of Passage attraction, you can absolutely take a trip through a bioluminescent forest on the Na’vi River Journey! Floating through this beautiful landscape, you’ll see many examples of Pandoran animals and plant life on your way to visit the Shaman of Songs (one of the most amazing audio animatronics I’ve ever seen).
If you’re traveling with small children, I will warn you that this ride (especially the load area) can feel very dark. When my son was young, it took a good bit of coaxing to get him onto the boat. Once the ride got going, however, both of my toddlers were entranced by the lights, animals, and music.
3.) Animal Trails
As you may have guessed from the name, Animal Kingdom includes plenty of live animal exhibits and habitats. While you’ll organically encounter many of these as you travel through the park, there are three specific trails offering a variety of unique environments and exotic creatures.
Discovery Island Trails
Near the entrance of the park, the Discovery Island Trails take guests around the Tree of Life to discover some amazing animals! Observe creatures such as the ring-tailed lemur, Asian small clawed otter, and the red kangaroo.
Fun Fact: During one visit to these trails, I saw a tortoise that absolutely LOVED having his neck scratched! It was pretty awesome to watch!
Maharajah Jungle Trek
Located in the Asia section of the park near Kali River Rapids, the Maharajah Jungle Trek is a beautiful trail with monkeys, an aviary filled with elegant birds, and even tigers!
One of my favorite animal exhibits on this trail is the bat habitat. However, Disney understands that not all people are as enthusiastic about these critters as I am. There’s a bypass for those not wanting to view these fabulous (and kind of creepy) animals!
Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
Finally, you’ll find the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail near Kilamanjaro Safaris in Africa. This trail includes some of the most interesting animal habitats like a hippo area with underwater viewing and a research station with a naked mole rat display!
4.) Conservation Station
Board a train (Yes, – even if you’re pregnant at Animal Kingdom – you can ride too!) through the backstage areas of the park to the Conservation Station! Upon arrival you can either visit the Affection Section (petting zoo with goats and other traditional animals) or venture inside the main building.
Once you enter, you’ll find a collection of windows highlighting Disney’s animal care and husbandry procedures. For example, through one window Guests can view Animal Kingdom’s veterinarians. Depending on that day’s schedule, you might even get a glimpse of an actual procedure. In another window, you can learn about the animals’ dietary needs and how Disney provides for them.
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Fair Warning: One area does include various small reptiles and invertebrates. If you or anyone else in your party wishes to avoid viewing snakes, scorpions, millipedes, etc – simply steer clear of this window.
5.) Live Stage Shows
Animal Kingdom features some incredible live entertainment, including two Broadway-style stage shows.
**Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these shows are not currently running. Festival of the Lion King will return in Summer 2021. Finding Nemo: The Musical and UP! A Great Bird Adventure do not have a scheduled return date.**
Festival of the Lion King
Festival of the Lion King is a visually stunning recreation of the classic tale – using acrobats, puppets, and talented performers. Enjoy familiar music and audience participation in this legendary show!
Finding Nemo: The Musical
This is – without a doubt – my favorite show on Disney property. With all original music, amazing puppets, and beautiful set pieces; your family will experience this story in a whole new way. Pregnant or not – DON’T MISS this show!
UP! A Great Bird Adventure
In this outdoor theater, you can learn about the world’s birds while watching some amazing demonstrations. You’ll also get a special appearance from Doug and Russell from the Disney/Pixar film Up!
If you have small children, check out my Toddler Tested review of this show!
**Disney’s website currently lists UP! A Great Bird Adventure as “temporarily unavailable.” In its place is a presentation called Feathered Friends in Flight! In this show, you’ll learn how Disney cares for its beautiful birds from real specialists!**
6.) Character Sightings
While traditional meet and greets are on hold until the Covid crisis has passed, you can still safely view many beloved characters throughout the day. Watch the rivers throughout Animal Kingdom for festive Floatillas carrying Pocahontas, Timon, or even Mickey Mouse himself!
7.) Take in the Scenery!
Animal Kingdom is a beautiful park with intricate theming and lots of gorgeous details! Take some time to just stroll the different “lands” (especially Africa, Asia, and Pandora- World of Avatar) to enjoy the unique atmospheres of each location.
8.) Nighttime Sights
Depending on the season, you can find lots of unique nighttime sights at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Tree of Life Awakenings
This is Animal Kingdom’s version of a projection show. After sundown, you can periodically watch different animals prance across the tree in a beautiful display!
Pandora – World of Avatar
Every night, this entire area will light up with bioluminescence. Even if you’ve explored this area in the daylight, you’ll want to return after dark. It is a completely different atmosphere!
9.) Shop ‘Til You Drop!
In addition to the expected theme park fare, you can find some amazing African imports at some of the Animal Kingdom shops. Look for beautiful toys, household goods, and authentic African wine (not that you can drink it yet). There’s plenty of variety to find something for everyone on your list!
Being pregnant at Animal Kingdom can be a drag. There’s no way to sugarcoat it. But it doesn’t have to spell doom for your vacation or day out with family and friends. We hope this guides helps you fill your day with plenty of fun while keeping yourself and your unborn child safe.
Stay tuned for more Walt Disney World guides, or check out: 8 Things You Can Do While Pregnant At Islands of Adventure.
