Disney’s Animal Kingdom has 6 rides: Avatar Flight of Passage, Na’vi River Journey, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Expedition Everest, Kali River Rapids, and Wildlife Express Train. These are the rides currently operating at Animal Kingdom in Walt Disney World, following the permanent closure of DINOSAUR and TriceraTop Spin.
Animal Kingdom has fewer rides than Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, or Hollywood Studios, but its attractions include some of the most immersive experiences at Disney World. Between the rides, you’ll also find live animal habitats, walking trails, and major stage shows.
Below is the complete Animal Kingdom rides list, including locations, height requirements, and what to expect from each attraction. I’ve also included the rides that have permanently closed so you won’t accidentally plan around outdated information.
Complete List of All 6 Rides at Animal Kingdom
Here are all the rides at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, organized by their location in the park.
| Ride | Location | Height Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Avatar Flight of Passage | Pandora | 44 inches (112 cm) |
| Na’vi River Journey | Pandora | Any height |
| Kilimanjaro Safaris | Africa | Any height |
| Expedition Everest | Asia | 44 inches (112 cm) |
| Kali River Rapids | Asia | 38 inches (97 cm) |
| Wildlife Express Train | Africa / Rafiki’s Planet Watch | Any height |
Three Animal Kingdom rides have minimum height requirements, while three can accommodate guests of any height. This gives families with younger children several options even if they cannot ride the park’s bigger thrill attractions.
The list includes transportation-based attractions such as Wildlife Express Train and Kilimanjaro Safaris, not just traditional amusement park rides. Shows, animal exhibits, and walking trails are covered separately below.
Animal Kingdom Rides by Land
Animal Kingdom is divided into several themed areas, but not every land contains a ride. Pandora has two, Africa has Kilimanjaro Safaris and the train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch, and Asia has two thrill-oriented attractions.
Pandora: The World of Avatar (2 Rides)
Pandora is home to two of Animal Kingdom’s most popular rides. Both take place in environments inspired by James Cameron’s Avatar movies, but they offer very different experiences.
1. Avatar Flight of Passage
Height requirement: 44 inches (112 cm)
Avatar Flight of Passage is a 3D flying simulator that lets guests experience soaring over Pandora on the back of a banshee. The ride combines enormous projection screens, motion, wind effects, and a specialized ride vehicle to create the sensation of flight.
This is my top priority for visitors who enjoy immersive thrill rides. However, the flying sensation and motion effects can be intense for people prone to motion sickness.
Flight of Passage typically draws substantial demand. You can use the standby line or purchase a Lightning Lane Single Pass, subject to availability. It is not included in the standard Lightning Lane Multi Pass attraction selections.
2. Na’vi River Journey
Height requirement: Any height
Na’vi River Journey is a gentle indoor boat ride through Pandora’s bioluminescent rainforest. The scenery is filled with glowing plants, unusual creatures, and detailed environmental effects.
The highlight is the Shaman of Songs, one of Disney’s most elaborate Audio-Animatronic figures.
Unlike Flight of Passage, Na’vi River Journey has no major drops or intense motion. It’s a good choice for younger children, guests avoiding thrill rides, and anyone who wants a slower experience.
Both attractions are covered in more detail in my guide to the Pandora rides at Animal Kingdom.
Africa (1 Safari Ride and 1 Train Ride)
Africa is home to Kilimanjaro Safaris and the Wildlife Express Train, which connects the main park with Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
3. Kilimanjaro Safaris
Height requirement: Any height
Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of Animal Kingdom’s signature attractions. Guests board an open-sided safari vehicle for a guided journey through a wildlife reserve featuring animals such as giraffes, elephants, lions, rhinos, hippos, and zebras.
Unlike a traditional Disney ride, the experience changes depending on the animals. Some may be walking alongside the road, while others may be resting or hidden from view.
I would prioritize Kilimanjaro Safaris on almost any Animal Kingdom visit. It combines animal encounters with an experience you can’t replicate at the other Walt Disney World theme parks.
Morning and late afternoon can be worthwhile times to ride, particularly during hot weather when animal activity may vary throughout the day.
4. Wildlife Express Train
Height requirement: Any height
Wildlife Express Train is a scenic train ride connecting the Africa section of Animal Kingdom with Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
The train passes backstage animal-care areas before arriving at the station serving Conservation Station and Affection Section.
It’s worth riding if you want to explore Disney’s animal-care facilities, see additional animal exhibits, or enjoy a relaxed train journey. However, it isn’t something I would prioritize above Flight of Passage, Kilimanjaro Safaris, or Expedition Everest if time is limited.
Remember to allow time for the return train journey when planning your visit to Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
Asia (2 Rides)
Asia has Animal Kingdom’s major roller coaster and its whitewater rafting attraction. Both have minimum height requirements and offer more excitement than the park’s gentle boat and train rides.
5. Expedition Everest: Legend of the Forbidden Mountain
Height requirement: 44 inches (112 cm)
Expedition Everest is Animal Kingdom’s main roller coaster and one of the best thrill rides at Walt Disney World.
The ride takes guests into a Himalayan mountain expedition that encounters the legendary Yeti. Along the way, the train travels through dark tunnels, climbs steep hills, and unexpectedly reverses direction.
The backward section is particularly intense and can be uncomfortable for guests sensitive to motion.
Expedition Everest is one of my highest priorities for adults and older children who enjoy roller coasters. It also offers Lightning Lane Multi Pass access when available.
For more rides with drops, speed, and intense motion, see my guide to Animal Kingdom thrill rides.
6. Kali River Rapids
Height requirement: 38 inches (97 cm)
Kali River Rapids is a whitewater rafting attraction through a jungle environment inspired by Asia. Guests sit in a circular raft that moves through rushing water, rapids, and a substantial drop.
Getting soaked is a real possibility, and some riders get considerably wetter than others. That makes it especially appealing during Florida’s warmer months.
I would usually save Kali River Rapids until later in the day, particularly if I’m wearing shoes or clothing that I don’t want to keep wet.
It’s also worth checking for temporary refurbishments, especially during cooler periods. My Animal Kingdom water rides guide goes deeper into what to expect.
How Many Rides Does Animal Kingdom Have?
Animal Kingdom currently has 6 rides, including its safari and train attractions. The number is lower than in previous years because several DinoLand U.S.A. rides have permanently closed.
Of those six rides, three have no minimum height requirement: Na’vi River Journey, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and Wildlife Express Train.
The remaining three are Avatar Flight of Passage, Expedition Everest, and Kali River Rapids, which have height restrictions.
Disney also operates many additional attractions that aren’t classified as rides, including animal trails, theaters, character experiences, and interactive exhibits.
Animal Kingdom Rides That Have Permanently Closed
If you’ve seen older lists showing eight, nine, or more rides at Animal Kingdom, those lists may include attractions that are no longer operating.
| Former Ride | Status |
|---|---|
| DINOSAUR | Permanently closed February 2, 2026 |
| TriceraTop Spin | Permanently closed in 2025 |
| Primeval Whirl | Permanently closed in 2020 |
DINOSAUR’s final operating day was February 1, 2026. The attraction closed as part of the transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. into the upcoming Tropical Americas area.
Disney has announced two major attractions for Tropical Americas: an Indiana Jones adventure and an Encanto-themed ride. Both are planned as part of the new land, with an opening targeted for 2027.
Until the new rides open, they should not be included in the list of operating Animal Kingdom rides.
For the latest construction and refurbishment information, see my guide to Animal Kingdom ride closures.
What Are the Best Rides at Animal Kingdom?
If you’re trying to decide which of the six Animal Kingdom rides to prioritize, I would focus on three:
- Avatar Flight of Passage: Best for immersive technology and simulator thrills.
- Kilimanjaro Safaris: Best for animal encounters and an experience unique to Animal Kingdom.
- Expedition Everest: Best for roller coaster fans and traditional thrill rides.
Those three provide the strongest combination of unique experiences, storytelling, and excitement.
Na’vi River Journey is particularly appealing for families and guests who prefer gentle rides. Kali River Rapids is enjoyable if you don’t mind getting wet, while Wildlife Express Train is most worthwhile when visiting Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
For a more detailed comparison, read my ranking of the best Animal Kingdom rides.
Which Animal Kingdom Rides Have Height Requirements?
Animal Kingdom has three rides with minimum height requirements:
- Avatar Flight of Passage: 44 inches (112 cm)
- Expedition Everest: 44 inches (112 cm)
- Kali River Rapids: 38 inches (97 cm)
Kilimanjaro Safaris, Na’vi River Journey, and Wildlife Express Train have no minimum height requirements.
However, height isn’t the only consideration. Flight of Passage uses intense motion simulation, while Expedition Everest has a backward roller coaster section. Kali River Rapids includes turbulent water and a drop.
For families visiting with younger children, I recommend my Animal Kingdom rides for kids guide.
Animal Kingdom Attractions That Are Not Rides
Animal Kingdom offers considerably more than six things to do. Several of its most memorable experiences aren’t rides at all.
Animal Trails and Wildlife Exhibits
These are some of the best attractions to add between rides:
- Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail: A self-guided walking trail in Africa featuring gorillas and other wildlife.
- Maharajah Jungle Trek: An Asian-themed walking trail with tigers, birds, and richly detailed environments.
- Discovery Island Trails: Quiet pathways near the Tree of Life with animal exhibits and opportunities to examine its detailed carvings.
- Conservation Station: Animal-care exhibits and interactive experiences reached by Wildlife Express Train.
I particularly like combining Kilimanjaro Safaris with Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. Both are in Africa, so you can enjoy more animal encounters without crossing the park.
Animal Kingdom Shows
Several major shows are also worth including in an Animal Kingdom day:
- Festival of the Lion King: A live musical production featuring singing, acrobatics, and elaborate performances.
- Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!: A theatrical production featuring large-scale puppets and music.
- Feathered Friends in Flight!: A live bird presentation highlighting natural behaviors and training.
- Zootopia: Better Zoogether!: A 4D theater experience inside the Tree of Life featuring characters from Zootopia.
These experiences don’t add to the park’s official ride count, but they can easily fill several hours of your visit. For more options, see the complete guide to Animal Kingdom shows.
Which Animal Kingdom Rides Should You Do First?
If I had one day at Animal Kingdom, I would build my morning around Avatar Flight of Passage and Kilimanjaro Safaris, then fit Expedition Everest into the first half of the day if possible.
My suggested approach would be:
- Start with Flight of Passage if you’re using standby and want to prioritize the park’s major simulator ride.
- Ride Na’vi River Journey while you’re in Pandora if the posted wait is reasonable.
- Visit Kilimanjaro Safaris during the morning when animal viewing conditions may be favorable.
- Head to Expedition Everest for the park’s main roller coaster.
- Add Kali River Rapids later if the weather is warm and your group enjoys water rides.
- Use the remaining time for Festival of the Lion King, animal trails, or Wildlife Express Train.
That isn’t a fixed itinerary. Wait times, attraction closures, and your Lightning Lane selections can change the best order.
At Animal Kingdom, Avatar Flight of Passage uses Lightning Lane Single Pass, while Expedition Everest, Na’vi River Journey, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and Kali River Rapids are among the attractions eligible for Lightning Lane Multi Pass.
For more detailed planning, see my Animal Kingdom Lightning Lane strategy and one-day Animal Kingdom itinerary.
Is Animal Kingdom Worth Visiting With Only 6 Rides?
Animal Kingdom is still worth visiting, particularly if you enjoy wildlife, immersive environments, and attractions that feel different from the rest of Walt Disney World.
The park’s smaller ride count doesn’t tell the whole story. Kilimanjaro Safaris is a major experience on its own, while Pandora has some of Disney’s most detailed themed environments. The animal trails and live shows also offer experiences that you won’t find in a typical amusement park.
If you only care about traditional thrill rides, Animal Kingdom may be easier to complete in a shorter visit. But for guests interested in animals, photography, and exploring themed environments, it’s possible to spend a full day here without feeling rushed.
My guide to whether you can do Animal Kingdom in half a day explains which experiences to prioritize when you’re short on time.
For the current operating lineup, ride restrictions, and temporary closures, check Disney’s official Animal Kingdom attractions page before your visit.
