Description And Comments

The Gran Fiesta Tour replaces this pavilion's first boat ride, El Rio del Tiempo. The new incarnation adds animated versions of Donald Duck, José Carioca and Panchito- an avian singing group called The Three Caballeros, from Disney's 1944 film of the same name, to spice up what was often characterized as a slower-paced Mexican-style it's a small world.

The new ride's premise is that the Caballeros are scheduled to perform at a fiesta, but Donald has gone missing. Large video screens show Donald off enjoying Mexico's pyramids, monuments, and water sports while José; and Panchito search other Mexican points of interest. Everyone is reunited in time for a rousing concert near the end of the ride. Along the way, guests are treated to detailed scenes in eye-catching colors, and an improved music system.

At the risk of sounding like the Disney geeks we are, we must point out that Panchito is technically the only Mexican Caballero; José Carioca is from Brazil and Donald is from Burbank. Either way, more of the ride's visuals seem to be situated on the left side of the boat. Have small children sit nearer to that side to keep their attention, and listen for Donald's humorous dialogue as you wait to disembark at the end of the ride.

A family of three from Fanwood, New Jersey, thinks Disney blew it with the Gran Fiesta Tour:

The Gran Fiesta Tour was dreadful. If the idea was to rid the ride of derogatory Mexican stereotypes, the designers woefully missed the mark. It was much worse than the original - and the original was pretty poor to begin with.

Touring Tips

The ride tends to get busier during early afternoon.

Special Comments

Special Needs

Other Attractions in World Showcase

Touring Plans with Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros

What is a Touring Plan?

Lands