by Shontell Crawford

This week, we are slowing things down a bit and taking a few moments to recharge our batteries. After all, you’ve spent a long day in the parks, and it’s time to sit back, relax, and take some time for yourself. Well, let me be the first to say, “Jambo, and welcome to the Animal Kingdom Lodge!” The home of this week’s little hideaway is sure to calm your senses and rejuvenate your spirit.

The Savanna View Window in Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. (Click for a larger photo)

If you have ever been to Jambo House, you already know that one of the first sights to infiltrate your line of vision is the grand savanna view that takes your breath away as soon as you enter the lobby. If you haven’t yet been to the AKL, it’s definitely worth checking out at least once, even if it’s just to spend some time watching the animals. As you enter, the architecture naturally draws one to the rear of the building, down the stairs, and outside to the animal viewing area. However, today I would like to point out a slightly different path. Don’t worry, you will still be able to view the animals if you choose.

As you head towards the rear of the lobby, just to the left of the Igbo Ijele Mask is the Sunset Savanna Lounge, a quiet little nook that is perfect for unwinding after a long day of traveling ~ whether you just got off the plane or you have been wandering through the many lands of the Animal Kingdom Park. Let’s talk about what makes this spot special….

The Igbo Ijele Mask. (Click for a larger photo)

First, the lounge is filled with relics and photos collected from adventurers on safari of yesteryear. Take a look inside the center cabinet and you will see what I mean. It reminds me of a time capsule from the early 20th century, complete with safari cap, binoculars, and a search lantern. If you take the time to check out all of the interesting artifacts within the lounge, you might leave with a few stories of your own to share with the folks back home.

Relics from the Savanna Lounge's centerpiece cabinet. (Click for a larger photo)

Second, the area provides some of the most comfortable chairs and seating areas on property. Our special guest on Friday prefers to plop down for a few moments in order to catch up on email, post a new message on twitter, or update a photo on his Facebook page. Although I may be guilty of doing the exact same thing, might I also recommend getting lost in a good book? Just be careful, those seats are so comfortable that you may find yourself nodding off. The seating, combined with the dim lighting and wonderful smells from the lobby create a very soothing experience.

Finally, this is the Animal Kingdom Lodge, you didn’t think I was going to forget about the animals, did you? In addition to a series of windows that align the western portion of the lounge, there is also an outdoor balcony. Take a step outside and you’re one step closer to the giraffes, gazelles, and ostriches. And if you’re not sure what that water buffalo looking animal is, don’t worry, Disney has provided animal fact plaques so that you can name every animal on the savanna.

One of the Animal Kingdom Lodge's local residence. (Click for a larger photo)

Let’s not forget, this is the Sunset Savanna Lounge. If you time your visit just right, you may have the privilege of witnessing one of the beautiful Flor-African sunsets….or would it be Afrida? Either way, it is a delight to the eyes and restful to the soul.

Come back on Friday to view the real thing and see why our guest thinks this is one of the coziest places at AKL as well as another of Disney’s best kept secrets!

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