Africa

The friendly Harambe village greets visitors as they enter the Animal Kingdom’s Africa by walking across the Discovery Island bridge. Harambe means “come together” in Swahili and this welcoming village lives up to that name as it is a combination of the favorite African places of the Disney Imagineers. A 40 foot baobob tree, which is the traditional icon of the African savannah, adds to the authenticisy of the area.

Among the sites in Africa are a fortress in Zanzibar and a replica of an old crumbling, water-stained building that the imaginers discovered in Kenya. Throughout the community, visitors can enjoy thatched huts built by a total of thirteen South African Zulu craftspeople. The village was created to look like an East African port, which caters to tourists before heading out on their safaris. This port also has restaurants, a “hotel”, a marketplace, and an outdoor bar. The bar even has its own live entertainment. Cast Members, who are the villagers, wear authentic and colorful African costumes.

While enjoying the Disney Kilimanjaro safari, guests pretend to chase poachers while crossing the savannah. Along the savannah, 34 species of animals and birds can be discovered. Afterward, guests are treated to a tour of the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail. Here, the can enjoy observing silverback gorillas, mole rats, meercats, okapi and more.

Guests can also enjoy the Wildlife Express steam-powered train as it cuts through the savannah to reach Conservation Station. Here, guests can enjoy an interactive center that was created in order to both educate and entertain. There are many interesting points along the 1.2 mile train route, including buildings where animals are kept at night. The train ride is wheelchair accessible and Assistive Listening Devices are available to guests with hearing impairments. Guest Services can supply more information.

Harambe also includes several refreshment and dining establishments. For example, the “Tusker House Restaurant” provides beef stew, fried chicken, prime rib, turkey sandwiches, lasagna, salad, and vegetable sandwiches. Guests can enjoy a hamburger and a beverage at Mr. Kamal’s Burger Grill. “Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery” offers specialty coffees and tasty baked goods while fresh fruit and juices can be enjoyed at the “Harambe Fruit Market.” The “Tamu Tamu Refreshments” stand provides frozen treats and drinks, such as smoothies, ice cream, and sodas. A shaded area is situated next to the restaurant, which provides a nice place to relax and enjoy a snack. Guests can also entertained by live African music while enjoying cocktails and having a snack at the “Dawa Bar”.

The village also has its own marketplace and shops. The “Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders” provides excellent shopping opportunities. It includes Kilimanjaro Safari apparel and souvenirs, including hats, T-shirts, carvings, gourds, and jewellery. The “Daka La Filimu” provides a place to stop for film and batteries before boarding the Kilimanjaro Safari.