Everything You Need to Know About the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail

You’re going on vacation to Walt Disney World! The only problem? You’re not sure which attractions are right for you and your kiddos and you have questions. Which attractions are too intense for little ones? What rides do I really need a FastPass+ reservation for? What’s the disability access like for certain attractions? We’re answering all those questions and more in our Everything You Need to Know attraction series with today’s focus on the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

What is the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail?

The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is a self-guided walking trail where guests encounter a variety of African wildlife including two troops of lowland gorillas.

Where is the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail?

The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail sits between Kilimanjaro Safaris and the entrance to Rafiki’s Planet Watch in Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Guests exiting Kilimanjaro Safaris can choose between returning to Harambe or walking the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail.

What is the History of the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail?

The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail opened with Disney’s Animal Kingdom on April 22, 1998. In August of the same year, the trail changed its name to Pangani Forest Exploration Trail. Then, in May of 2016, the trail reverted back to its original name of the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail.

What You Need to Know About the Queue?

There is no queue for the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail since its a self-guided walking tour. However, guests might encounter crowds around certain animal viewing areas and may need to wait their turn for a good view.

What You Need to Know About the Experience

Right next to the exit of Kilimanjaro Safaris is the entrance to the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. This self-guided trail allows guests to discover viewing areas for African animals on both the savanna and in the jungle at their own speed.

Guests may find hippos, zebras, naked mole rats, black-and-white colobus monkeys, meerkats, a vast variety of birds, and, of course, gorillas!

What You Need to Know About Accessibility

Guests may remain in a wheelchair/ECV to experience the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. Due to the nature of the experience, guests with service animals should check with a Cast Member for information relating to service animal access in certain areas.

What You Need to Know About Health and Safety Advisories

There are no health or safety advisories for this attraction! It’s an experience everyone in the family can enjoy together. Note: Food is not allowed on the trail.

What are the Height Requirements?

There is no height requirement for the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail!

Does the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail Offer FastPass+?

No. The the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail does not offer FastPass+. Since this is a self-guided attraction, there is no wait to experience it.

Does Weather Affect the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail?

The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is located outdoors and guests will be exposed to inclement weather.

What’s the Best Time of Day to Experience the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail?

Since the exit of Kilimanjaro Safaris is next to the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, the trail absorbs many of the guests exiting the safaris. While crowds won’t stop you from enjoying the trail, you may have to wait your turn for a good view at one of the enclosures.

Tip: There are multiple gorilla viewing locations. If you don’t see much at the first location, keep moving. A perfect view may be just around the corner.

While you never know when the animals might make their appearance, the coolest part of the day is often your best bet. It’s also the least crowded part of the day. Also, be aware that the trail’s hours are cut during fall and winter, closing as early as 4:30 p.m. Check the Times Guide for the schedule.

Did I answer all of your questions about the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail? Is this attraction at the top of your family’s vacation to-do list? Let us know in the comments.