A relaxed open-air bar in Harambe serving cocktails and beer with a village courtyard vibe — plus a fun bit of park history.
If you enjoy discovering quieter corners of Disney’s Animal Kingdom where you can slow down and soak in atmosphere, Dawa Bar is an easy favorite. Tucked into the Africa section of the park, this small open-air bar feels more like a neighborhood gathering spot than a theme park beverage stand.
Dawa Bar is at the back right under the covered area
Dawa Bar is known for its relaxed vibe, shaded seating, and occasional live musicians performing nearby. It’s a wonderful place to pause between attractions, enjoy a cold drink, and take in the details of Harambe village without feeling rushed.
Location
Dawa Bar is located in the Harambe village area of Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, near Tusker House Restaurant and not far from Harambe Market. Because it sits slightly recessed from the main walkway, many guests walk right past it without realizing it’s there — which helps preserve its calm, low-key feel.
Ambiance
Dawa Bar sits within a small covered courtyard framed by textured walls, hand-painted signage, hanging lanterns, and colorful details that reinforce the layered Harambe village story. The setting feels lived-in and authentic, which is one reason this spot stands out compared to many “grab-and-go” drink counters in the park.
Seating typically includes a mix of a few barstools on each side of the bar, as well as numerous high-top and standard tables in the covered area, where you can linger comfortably for a short break. Overhead fans and natural shade can make it feel noticeably more comfortable than the exposed walkways nearby.
When live musicians are performing in the courtyard outside, the space picks up extra energy while still keeping that laid-back, “take your time” vibe. Even when it’s quiet, the ambient sounds and visuals of Harambe make this a great place to pause and reset.
Drink Menu
Dawa Bar offers a small but well-curated selection of beverages. Options can rotate, but typical offerings may include:
- Specialty cocktails – Often fruit-forward, refreshing, and great for hot afternoons.
- Beer selections – A mix of familiar favorites and occasional international options.
- Wine and cider – Limited selections depending on availability.
- Non-alcoholic beverages – Soft drinks and bottled water.
Pro Tip:If you are a fan of Bloody Mary’s, this small location offers up the best one on property! The African Bloody Mary is a bold and flavorful take on the classic, featuring a house-made Bloody Mary mix with African spicy African berbere sauce and garnished with candied bacon. You’ll note all the pics in this post are of this drink, it’s all I get there!
Because menus can change seasonally, it’s always worth checking the My Disney Experience app for the most current offerings on your visit day.
Food Menu
Dawa Bar does not typically have a dedicated food menu, though they do at times have chips. If you want to pair your drink with a meal or something more substantial, nearby options like Harambe Market and Tusker House Restaurant are convenient.
History
Dawa Bar has a bit of “deep cut” Disney’s Animal Kingdom history. In September 2013, the bar was relocated to accommodate pathway changes and construction tied to improved guest flow toward the Festival of the Lion King theater during its move from Camp Mickey Minnie.
Where it used to be: The original Dawa Bar was a smaller building attached at the back left of the covered seating area. Now it is to the back right under the covered area.
Reservations
Reservations are not accepted or required at Dawa Bar. Seating is first-come, first-served, and the experience is designed for casual, flexible visits.
Wrap-Up
Dawa Bar is one of those spots that rewards guests who slow down and explore. Its relaxed atmosphere, shaded seating, and occasional live entertainment make it a wonderful place to enjoy a drink while soaking in the immersive details of Africa.
If you enjoy discovering low-key lounges with strong atmosphere and easygoing energy, Dawa Bar deserves a spot on your Animal Kingdom short list.
Have you stopped at Dawa Bar before? Did you catch live music while you were there? Let me know in the comments!
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This MDT Post By: Steve Bell Steve is the Military Disney Tips Founder. He is a retired U.S. Military Member who's been touring the Disney Parks since 1971! He has been writing about Disney for the US Military Community here for 18 years. Steve's mission is to help military families with their Disney vacations in every way possible. See Steve and His Family's Content |
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