A new backstage animal experience called, "Up Close with Rhinos" will allow Disney guests to make a connection with the white rhinos at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Starting Nov. 1, the 60-minute guided adventure will give you a behind-the-scenes look at how Disney's dedicated animal team cares for the white rhinos on Kilimanjaro Safaris and how Disney is helping save endangered rhinos in the wild. Guests may even get a chance to touch a rhino!
Caitlin Miller a Disney rhino care team is very excited about teaching guests about rhinos, “I love talking to guests about how unique each individual rhino’s personality is. I know once guests come and meet the rhinos, they are going to see just how amazing they are and will want to help us secure a future for them.”
The rhinoceros is the second largest-land animal on Earth, and can are found in bush country and open grassy flatlands in Africa and Southeast Asia. Unfortunately, the rhino is among the most endangered animals in the world due to poaching. The Disney Conservation Fund is proud to support rhino conversation around the world and has provided more than $2 million to support rhino conservation efforts around the world.
One “Up Close with Rhinos” tour will be offered each day and reservations will open on Sept. 22, which is also World Rhino Day. Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate, and the cost is $40 (plus tax). Discounts are available to select passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members. To make a reservation, call 407-WDW-PLAY.
Know before you go:
This is an outdoor experience. Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended.
No cameras, video equipment or cell phones may be used within the rhino enclosure. Photography is allowed and encouraged in the open viewing areas.
Guests must be 4 years of age or older to participate. Guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a participating adult (18 years of age or older).
Park admission is required and is not included in the tour price.
Check in at 10:45 AM at the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk, located across from the Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction entrance.
The tour begins right at 11:00 AM. Late arrivals will not be permitted.
Itinerary, content, duration and availability are subject to change without notice.
You will forfeit the entire price if you fail to show or if you cancel within 2 days of your reservation.
For information about service animal policies, please call the Guest Animal Experience team directly at (407) 938-1487
Guests using nontransferable wheelchairs may remain in them throughout this experience; however, all accommodation requests should be confirmed by calling (407) 938-1487.*
Guests using an ECV must leave their mobility device at the transport vehicle boarding area, where they will retrieve them upon conclusion of the experience. Guests must walk by themselves, or be assisted by a member or members of their party in a courtesy wheelchair to participate in this experience.
This experience includes visits to outdoor areas that may contain common allergens such as dust and hay as well as biting and stinging insects.
The experience will be held rain or shine, with the exception of severe weather or lightning.
News & Media Source: Disney Parks Blog