Rafiki’s Planet Watch will reopen this summer at Animal Kingdom

Rafiki’s Planet Watch, the Affection Section and the Wildlife Express in Animal Kingdom at the Walt Disney World Resort will fully reopen this summer with new enhancements and in celebration of things all “The Lion King,” Disney announced.

Rafiki’s Planet Watch will still include the animal encounters, but will also have new experiences that draw from “The  Lion  King.”

Rafiki’s Planet Watch closed on Oct. 21, 2018. Disney never gave an official explanation for the closure. There were numerous rumors going around about retheming and how the Wildlife Express Train needs some refurbishment.

The area includes the following experiences:

• Animal Encounters Stage – Enjoy fun shows starring a rotating roster of animals that offer an up-close peek into the habitats of our wildlife friends.
• Song of the Rainforest – Join Grandma Willow for a 3D audio journey through a rainforest and experience the wondrous serenade of nature.
• Veterinary Treatment Room – This healing facility—viewable through an expansive glass window—offers a unique look into the “hands-on” care of the park’s animals.
• Nutrition Center – Watch handlers prepare meals for the park inhabitants and discover the diets of some of the world’s most fascinating creatures.
• Amphibian, Reptile and Invertebrate Windows – Glimpse tarantulas, scorpions, millipedes and snakes at this creepy-crawly spot.
• Science Center – Take a look inside the lives of our actual working scientists as they study and learn about wildlife all around the world.
• Affection Section – A petting zoo providing delightful hands-on encounters with a variety of animals, including goats and sheep.
• Habitat Habit! – An outdoor discovery trail featuring exotic sights and sounds.