There are so many things that we fell in love with at AKL. This exotic resort that is surrounded by wild animal habitats really takes Disney theming to a whole new level. It absolutely just transports you....We loved the resort not only because of its spectacular theme, but also because there is just so much to do there!
We attended the fireside story telling in the evening where a cast member from Zimbabwae told African tales, we went on a cutural safari where a young woman from Souh Africa enlightened us about the differences between our countries. My ten year old daughter was facinated by this. We also watched the animals through night vision goggles. These are only about a quarter of free and interesting thinks that go on every day at AKL.
The pool is also awesome!! It is huge and really looks like an African watering hole. There was plenty or room, and a great slide. The zero entry is great for young children, and those who are in wheelchairs. There is also a savanah overlook a few steps away from the pool.
As far as location, the resort is large! We planned ahead and faxed in a room request so that we would have a view of the animals that we preferred (different animals are on different savannah's and my daughter loves Zebras) and be in close proximity to the pool. Also, I did not want to have a view of a "people pen" (These are large wooded circular fences on the savannah intended to act as a barrier between people and animals in the event of an emergency.. so I was told.)
We were on the Arusha savannah, all the way at the end, which was not a close walk. This was OK with us, because the view was unbelievable!! We were also on the side of the resort that the pool is located on. We were thrilled to get a room exactly as we requested! I would definitely fax in room preferences ahead of time if you would like to be near the pool, or on a certain savannah.
The restaurants are unbelielievable as well. We ate at Jiko twice and did BOMA for breakfast and dinner. Jiko was my favorite Disney restaurant of the trip !! We also ate at other great restaurants like Caifornia Grill, Flying Fish, but I just love the flavor of the African foods !!
The Zawandi marketplace is also the best resort gift shop, in my opinion. I bought hand carved wooden animals and other imported goods plus they have a large selectionof the usual Disney "goodies"
I did not exercise at the lodge, so I cannot comment on the fitness center. I took time off from working out, but that is ok since I go to the gym year round at home.
The Mara is also another resaon this resort is so great. Many of the Disney deluxe resorts do not have food courts. I like to partcipate in fine dining, but a quick bite at the food court is a great option to have !! We ate there twice!
The Disney imagineers have ventured into darkest Africa and created an awesome, magnificent, tranporting experience with the AKL.
