Conservation Station, the Wildlife Express Train, and Affection Section at Disney’s Animal Kingdom closed on 23 February 2026. These areas are undergoing a major refurbishment to transform into a new Bluey and Bingo interactive experience, which is scheduled to debut in summer 2026.
A Hidden Gem of Animal Adventures Awaits!
Take some time out of your day to slow down on this fun-filled learning experience.
Location
Rafiki’s Planet Watch is tucked away in the Africa section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. To reach this secluded haven, you’ll need to venture slightly off the beaten path, adding an extra layer of discovery to your adventure.
The Queue
Before you hop aboard the train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch, you’ll enter a simple but pleasant queue area at the Wildlife Express Train station in Africa. This space is shaded and features some subtle African theming and wildlife signage to keep you engaged while you wait. The line typically moves at a steady pace, so while it’s not the most elaborate queue, it’s certainly not a dull one either.
The Train Ride
A ride on the Wildlife Express Train is the only way to access Rafiki’s Planet Watch. This open-air train features side-facing bench seating, allowing you to soak in the sights as you travel. The journey is about half a mile, takes about seven minutes, and offers a fascinating glimpse at some behind-the-scenes areas of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, including the backstage rhino enclosures.
Once you arrive at the Planet Watch station, you’ll embark on a short, scenic walk to reach the Conservation Station itself. The walk is about 750 feet or 0.15 miles. Along the way, you’ll enjoy lush greenery and themed details, setting the stage for the adventure ahead.
The Experience
Rafiki’s Planet Watch is home to the Conservation Station, an interactive hub for animal education and encounters. Inside, you can peek into the veterinary treatment rooms, explore exhibits about conservation efforts, and even meet some live animals up close.
- Meet Timon and Rafiki at Conservation Station – Take a walk on the wild side to Conservation Station—where you can meet Timon and Rafiki from The Lion King starting June 10, 2024.
- Veterinary Treatment Room – Get a close-up look at the place we care for the animals—and even glimpse a procedure in progress.
- Nutrition Center – Watch experts prepare meals for the park residents.
- Amphibian, Reptile, and Invertebrate Windows – Creep over to see some tarantulas, scorpions, millipedes and snakes.
- Science Center – Check out what our resident scientists are working on.
For budding artists, The Animation Experience offers a fun drawing class where you can learn to sketch a beloved Disney character.
Draw Your Own Disney Character:
- Uncover the secret of how Disney animators bring your favorite characters to life—using real-life animals as inspiration!
- Let your creativity shine—no matter your skill level—as a talented Disney animator gives you step-by-step instructions on how to illustrate your own version of a popular Disney character.
- Each 25-minute class will offer something different. Featured Characters change periodically, so you can keep adding to your art collection!
- Learn to draw characters from The Lion King this summer—with guidance from a Disney animator.
Outside, the Affection Section petting zoo invites you to meet and interact with friendly goats, sheep, and other small animals. Hand-washing stations are conveniently located nearby, so you can feel free to pet away and then clean up.
Rider Swap
Rider Swap is not applicable here, as this isn’t a traditional ride attraction. However, families with young children or differing interests will find plenty to do together at Rafiki’s Planet Watch, making it a great group experience.
Accessibility
The Wildlife Express Train and all areas of Rafiki’s Planet Watch are fully accessible. Guests using wheelchairs or mobility devices can board the train with assistance and explore the Conservation Station and Affection Section without barriers. Disney’s commitment to inclusivity shines here, ensuring everyone can enjoy this unique experience.
Height Requirement
None.
Have you ever ventured out to Rafiki’s Planet Watch? Share your thoughts and favorite activities in the comments below! We’d love to hear about your experience and any tips you have for making the most of this hidden gem.
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Effects/Sensory Warning None |
Comments, Questions, be sure to leave them in the Comment Section Below!
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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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