Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail Review at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail Opened On: April 22, 1998 as Pangani Forest Exploration Trail. Disney changed the name so guests would have a better idea about what they might see on the trail.
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Location: Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is located in the very back of Africa.
To get to it specifically, most people will pass the entrance to Kilimanjaro Safaris and take a left at this sign outside the walkway down to the Wildlife Express Train. If you’re passing by Harambe Market and the walkway down to the train, continue walking straight ahead and take a left.
Most people will see the entrance as they exit Kilimanjaro Safaris, where it will be on your right. Your safari driver will assuredly discuss it near the end of the the ride.
Extra Magic Hours: Morning.
Time Commitment: Gorilla Falls is a little less than a half mile long. Most visitors spend about 30 minutes moving through the trail and the various exhibits, but you can spend as much or as little time as you like.
Colobus Monkeys, one of many types of animals that you may see.
Expect to Wait: No waits.
FastPass+: No.
Type: Self-guided walking tour, zoo exhibit.
Similar To: Maharajah Jungle Trek
Requirements: None.
Scary Factor: Zero.
When To Go: Kilimanjaro Safaris spits out thousands of guests an hour right at the doors to Gorilla Falls, causing crowding from 10am to 4pm. Technically, the best time to visit is in the early morning, but most people will have attraction priorities like Flight of Passage at that time. I like to visit in the late afternoon, when the gorillas are more likely to be active. Note that Gorilla Falls typically closes before dusk, which may be as early as 5pm. Check the Times Guide if you’re planning on visiting in the late afternoon or evening to make sure that it’s open.
What to Expect: Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is one of the two major “zoo-like” exhibits at Animal Kingdom.
Visitors walk along the path and enter various enclosures and exhibits that show off the animals in their native habitats. You can watch a full walk-through here.
Expect to see animals such as hippopotamuses, meerkats, naked mole rats, gorillas, okapi, and an extensive number of rare African bird species.
Cast members are present at each exhibit to answer questions and direct your attention to where the animals are currently located.
Rating: 7/10
A big yawn after a long day.
Commentary: Gorilla Falls is much more than “just another zoo exhibit” with lush habitats and rare animals.
There are two major problems. First, you never know what animals will be out. Over the course of a few dozen visits, I’ve probably seen a hippo three times and a gorilla about half the time.
Still, most people will have some additional time at Animal Kingdom. Consider budgeting 20 to 30 minutes at some point when you’re in Africa to enjoy the walk through the habitats.
The under-water view of the hippo is so unique. A great trail and animal attraction.
The last two paragraphs…
There are two major problems. First, you never know what animals will be out. Over the course of a few dozen visits, I’ve probably seen a hippo three times and a gorilla about half the time.
Still, most people will have some additional time at Animal Kingdom. Consider budgeting 20 to 30 minutes at some point when you’re in Africa to enjoy the walk through the habitats.
So, what’s the second major problem?