Round Trip on the Wildlife Express at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
When was the last time you took a round trip on the Wildlife Express at Disney’s Animal Kingdom?
This ten-minute journey is more than just a train ride—it’s an experience that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the park’s dedication to animal care and conservation. As the only transportation to and from Conservation Station at Rafiki’s Planet Watch, the Wildlife Express provides guests with a unique way to explore a part of the park that many visitors overlook.
A Different Kind of Disney Train Ride
Unlike the classic steam trains at Magic Kingdom, the Wildlife Express is designed to resemble an African rail transport, complete with open-air seating that gives passengers a great view of the surrounding landscapes. This theming ties into the overall story of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, reinforcing the idea of a working conservation outpost where research and animal care take center stage.
One of the highlights of the ride is the glimpse into the backstage animal care facilities. As the train chugs along, guests can spot the nighttime enclosures for some of the park’s largest animals, including elephants, rhinos, and other safari residents. This behind-the-scenes peek is a rare treat, offering a small window into how Disney cares for its extensive animal population.
What Awaits at Rafiki’s Planet Watch?
Once you arrive at Conservation Station, you’ll find hands-on exhibits, animal encounters, and even a working veterinary clinic where you might see real procedures being performed on the park’s residents. It’s also home to the Affection Section, a petting zoo where younger guests can interact with goats, sheep, and other domesticated animals.
For Disney history fans, this train ride is significant because it was the only railroad operating at Walt Disney World when the Magic Kingdom’s trains went offline for refurbishment in 2018. Though the Magic Kingdom’s railroad is now running again, the Wildlife Express remains a special and often underappreciated experience at Animal Kingdom.
So next time you visit, don’t just rush through the park—take a moment to hop aboard the Wildlife Express and enjoy the ride!