The gem of Animal Kingdom, the Kilimanjaro Safari, gets a nighttime makeover this year. Through the use of new lighting technology, Disney has created a perpetual sunset that shines over part of the park and allows the safari jeeps to roll into the night. The park has also brought in hyenas and African wild dogs — two nocturnal species — to enhance the experience. But before heading onto the safari, you'll want to know a few things.
- Go about 30 minutes before dusk: While the faux sunset Disney's created is amazing (that's it in the photo above), it doesn't light the entire safari and it can be difficult to see the animals once it is dark.
- Sit in the first two rows: Doing so will allow you see any animals lit by your driver's headlights.
- Allow children to sit on the ends of the rows: Slightly obvious, but the end seats will give them the best views.
- Don't plan on taking photos: Consider this your tech-free ride. Flashes are banned because they'll scare the animals, and due to the darkness, most photos just don't come out. So rather than focusing on your selfie with a rhino, spend your time enjoying the nocturnal habits of the animals.
