UPDATE: Rafiki’s Planet Watch Will Be Back!

Rafiki’s Planet Watch, which was scheduled to close to the public permanently on Oct. 20, will instead reopen in Spring 2019, according to a Walt Disney World spokesperson.

The change comes somewhat as a surprise — usually once Disney announces an attraction is closing, it closes.

Rafiki's Planet Watch
Rafiki’s Planet Watch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

The area, which is only accessible to guests via a ride on the Wildlife Express Train, offers a peek at how Disney’s Animal Kingdom animals are cared for.

It features hands-on displays and the opportunity to participate in conservation and species-survival efforts. There are also areas where guests can meet and pet small animals.

No additional details came with this announcement, but we’ll look forward to the area’s reopening next year.

When you visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom, keep your eyes peeled for Divine as you make your way to Rafiki’s Planet Watch!

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Debra Martin Koma wrote about food, travel and lifestyle issues for a number of local and national publications before she fell in love with Walt Disney World on her first visit — when she was 34! She's returned to her Laughing Place more times than she can count in the ensuing years, and enthusiastically shares her passion with readers of AllEars.Net and AllEars®. Deb also co-authored (along with Deb Wills) PassPorter's Open Mouse for Walt Disney World and the Disney Cruise Line, a travel guide designed for all travelers to Walt Disney World who may require special attention, from special diets to mobility issues.

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