One of the most magical and unforgettable features of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas is the incredible savannas. These sprawling, lush habitats are home to a diverse array of African wildlife, offering guests a one-of-a-kind experience—whether you’re waking up to the sight of a grazing giraffe from your balcony or exploring the resort’s scenic overlooks.
But did you know that Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas actually feature four distinct savannas? Each has its own unique blend of animals and atmosphere, making your experience truly special depending on where you stay. Let’s take a closer look at each savanna and what makes them so enchanting.
Uzima Savanna (Jambo House)
Located on the east/southeast side of Jambo House, the Uzima Savanna is a vibrant habitat known for its active wildlife. It stretches along the Zebra Trail, with all DVC rooms on this savanna located on the 5th floor.
Why We Love It: Giraffes and gazelles are almost always on the move, making this savanna feel alive with energy. Even if you’re not staying in a room directly overlooking Uzima, you can view it from the windows along the Zebra Trail or from the overlook by the Uzima Springs Pool, where you’ll also find a lively flock of flamingos.
Wildlife You’ll See: Giraffes, impalas, kudus, bongos, blesboks, and Thompsons gazelles.
Arusha Savanna (Jambo House)
The Arusha Savanna is the heart of Jambo House, occupying the entire central courtyard of the resort in a horseshoe shape. You can view this savanna from both the Zebra Trail and Kudu Trail, with DVC rooms situated on the 5th floor.
- Wildlife You’ll See: Giraffes, ankole cattle, zebras, wildebeest, eland, gemsbok, pelicans, and geese.
- Why We Love It: Arusha feels like the most classic, grand savanna experience—wide open, with diverse animal activity. The best views can be found near the lobby, but for a quieter experience, request a room towards the end of the horseshoe. The Arusha Overlook near the lobby offers fantastic views for any guest.
Sunset Savanna (Kidani Village and Jambo House)
The largest of the four savannas, the Sunset Savanna stretches across both Kidani Village and Jambo House, offering guests a wide range of wildlife and the most dynamic animal viewing experience.
- Wildlife You’ll See: Male giraffes, bongos, impalas, Thompson’s gazelles, ostriches, ankole cattle, waterbuck, African crown cranes, storks, and blue cranes.
- Why We Love It: This savanna always feels the most alive. Whether you’re staying in a room at Kidani Village or Jambo House, there’s always something happening. You can view it from the lobby overlook at Jambo House or the overlook near Sanaa at Kidani Village.
- Room Tips: At Jambo House, Sunset Savanna rooms are on the 5th floor (6th for club level). At Kidani, you can stay as low as the 2nd floor or as high as the 5th floor, giving you a wide variety of perspectives.
Pembe Savanna (Kidani Village)
The Pembe Savanna is the smallest and most intimate of the four. Located on the North Trail side of Kidani Village, it is unique for being the only savanna without giraffes. But don’t let that discourage you—it has its own special charm.
- Wildlife You’ll See: Nyala, impala, waterbuck, spur-winged geese, ground hornbill, red river hogs, ostriches, and the elusive okapi—a rare relative of the giraffe with zebra-like stripes.
- Why We Love It: Pembe is peaceful and feels like a hidden gem. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, this is the place. Although there’s no main overlook, you can view Pembe from the hallway windows along the North Trail.
Which Savanna Is Right for You?
Regardless of which savanna your room overlooks, staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas guarantees a magical experience surrounded by breathtaking wildlife. Each savanna offers something different:
- For the Most Animal Activity: Go for the Sunset Savanna.
- For Giraffe Lovers: Choose Uzima Savanna.
- For a Classic Experience: Opt for Arusha Savanna.
- For a Quiet, Peaceful Retreat: Try Pembe Savanna.
No matter where you stay, the savannas are a signature part of what makes Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas so beloved by Disney Vacation Club Members.
Have you stayed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas? Which savanna is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Steven Abrams
May 10, 2025Great review Amy- thanks!
Calvin Kubota
May 10, 2025Hi Amy! There were also zebras in the Sunset Savanna. Last September, we saw some interesting interactions of a mom zebra and her foal. She was very protective of her inquisitive little one, aggressively placing herself between the other animals and her foal. When another zebra approached, she challenged it, circling her foal and making the other zebra make a wide circle around them. Later, while she was distracted feeding, the inquisitive foal got behind her and approached the other zebra. She got about 2/3 of the way there before mom noticed and I was amazed at how fast a mom could move to protect she baby. That is one of the reasons why having a “friggin Savanna” makes Animal Kingdom a top choice in places to stay.
Amy Krieger
May 10, 2025Thank you for this info! 🙂
kirstenbernhard
May 10, 2025Smart, informative, and really helpful article! Thank you!
Justice Jen
May 10, 2025This was very helpful! We’re in the final stretch of our Poly resale purchase and can’t wait to use our points at the Poly and AKL right away. So excited about the Savannah views. It’ll be worth the extra points. We paid the cash rate for a stay at Aulani in April 2021 and don’t want to ever pay cash at any DVC resort again 🙂
Heather
May 10, 2025This is really great information. Thank you!
Lynda
May 10, 2025Perfect timing for this article, Amy. My daughter and I just got back from our first stay as DVC members. While there, we checked out the Animal Kingdoms locations for our planned 2028 trip. This article was a great help. Now we’ll be sure to put in a request for the savannah that would be our preference.
Dennis Dougherty Jr.
May 10, 2025What is the protocol or process to request certain savannahs? Is it part of the online reservation or do you need to call and request?