Animal Kingdom is the smallest of the four Walt Disney World parks in terms of attractions, and it’s changing even more in 2026. After February 1, 2026, all of Dinoland USA will close, leaving fewer rides but still plenty of must-do experiences. We’re sharing our Animal Kingdom Lightning Lane tips with you, so you can make the most of your time while visiting.
Tip: You may not need a Lightning Lane Multi Pass at Animal Kingdom for every ride. However, Navi River Journey can have long waits all day because of slow loading and unloading, making a Multi Pass a smart choice if it’s on your must-do list.
Prioritize Key Rides
Top attractions to consider for Lightning Lane:
- Kilimanjaro Safaris – flagship ride; Multi Pass recommended
- Expedition Everest – single rider line available
- Navi River Journey – long lines; Multi Pass recommended
- Avatar Flight of Passage– Lightning Lane Single Pass option
Learn more about Epcot Lightning Lane strategies
Animal Kingdom is Different
The biggest difference for Lightning Lane Multi Pass at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park is there is no tier system. So, instead of starting your day with an easy Lightning Lane reservations like at Hollywood Studios or Magic Kingdom, prioritize an attraction that is a “must-do” for your group.
Refresh the Tip Board Screen
The My Disney Experience app Tip Board is your secret weapon. Refresh it often to see new Lightning Lane windows become available. This can help you snag earlier times or adjust your day based on your location in the park.
Lightning Lane Single Pass Strategy
The extremely popular attraction is where your Lightning Lane Single Pass reservation is worth considering, even at Animal Kingdom. Avatar Flight of Passage usually sees long wait times throughout the day and a Single Pass purchase can save a lot of time.
Standby Line Tips
Animal Kingdom has a few attractions that often maintain shorter standby lines. Consider riding:
- Dinosaur (until February 2)
- Kali River Rapids
Final Thoughts
Animal Kingdom may be smaller and less expensive for Lightning Lane purchases—averaging about $17 per person/day—but smart strategies like refreshing the app and specifically purchasing Lightning Lane Single Pass can help maximize your day.
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