Your entrance into Africa is through the friendly, welcoming village of Harambe. Harambe is Swahili for “come together”. Interestingly enough, this village is a combination of a number of some of the favorite places in Africa found by Disney Imagineers whilst on a scouting trip for Animal Kingdom’s Africa. Some of these snippets include a fortress found in Zanzibar and a faux water-stained, crumbling old building and private home that were originally seen in Kenya. The thatched huts found throughout this community were constructed by thirteen Zulu craftspeople from South Africa. The quaint village area was designed to resemble an East African port that caters to tourists prior to their safari excursions (i.e. Kilimanjaro Safari). This bustling port includes a “hotel”, restaurants, an outdoor bar complete with live entertainment and the marketplace. Cast Members/villagers are dressed in colorful, authentic African costumes to add to the atmosphere.
Your Disney safari experience will take you on a journey chasing poachers as you cross the savannah dotted with 34 different species of birds and animals. Following your safari, tour the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail and be entertained by the silverback gorillas.The Wildlife Express steam-powered train cuts through the savannah to Conservation Station where you’ll find an interactive center designed to educate as well as entertain. Points of interest along the train route include the buildings where the animals are kept at night so that they may be checked out medically and fed. The 1.2-mile train ride is wheelchair accessible. Assistive Listening Devices are available for guests who are hearing impaired, check with Guest Services for more information.
As per the village atmosphere of Harambe, there are a number of refreshment/dining establishments. Tusker House Restaurant offers a buffet for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. At Mr. Kamal’s Burger Grill, you can grab a hamburger and beverage for a quick bite. Specialty coffees and delicious baked goods are served at the Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery. Fresh fruit and juices are found at the Harambe Fruit Market. The Tamu Tamu Refreshments stand offers frozen treats and drinks. You can be entertained by live African music as you sit enjoying cocktails and munching on snacks at the “Dawa Bar”.
No village would be complete without its marketplace and shops, and the Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders” will not disappoint you. Kilimanjaro Safari souvenirs and apparel, T-shirts, hats, gourds, carvings and jewelry, are but a few of the many gifts and souvenirs offered here.