It's a one of a kind resort for the U.S. much less WDW. We've only stayed at Jambo House. The Arusha rock viewing area out on the savanna at dusk is pure magic. Be sure to speak with the friendly cast member animal guides out there. I've learned more from them than in a day at AK. Then, sit around the fire pit outside, or inside, located one level up in the lobby. Essential AKL relaxation.
The lobby is my personal favorite of the resorts. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the Wilderness Lodge but it doesn't have that gorgeous sculptural window looking out to the savanna. And there's colorful artwork everywhere. The space never feels stagnant. And of course, there's the smells emanating from the best Buffet at WDW, Boma. Walking into the resort through the whoosh of automatic doors, the scent hits you and it's just warm and comforting.
Onto the rooms. Because you have access to the other areas of the hotel, it isn't essential that you get a savanna view. We've been just as happy in a standard view because we simply don't spend enough time in the room to take advantage of it. And one thing I've noticed in my recent trips, there is always someone smoking on a nearby balcony. It's especially tacky since I'm sure it's extra prohibited there because of the animals. But anyway, splurge if you can. Waking up to a giraffe eating breakfast outside your window is kind of awe inspiring. But if you're always returning to the parks late at night, even though there are always some animals grazing or sleeping, there's not as much to see. We do like going to the various outdoor seating areas located in little patios scattered through the hotel wings and taking in the open air for the same views.
If the zero-entry pool isn't one of the largest at WDW, it sure feels like it. Again, really peaceful, I've never noticed as many kids there as in, say, the Contemporary, Poly, or Boardwalk. This could be because of AKL's distance to MK. And a bonus is at AKL you can walk over after a swim and look at the flamingo pond just a few steps away.
Back to the food. Boma. Essential. Jiko. Essential. The Mara, one of the best quick services at the Disney deluxes with healthier options and those Zebra Dome desserts. People love 'em or hate 'em. I love 'em. We always pick up a pack to "toast" our arrival day.
Finally, about the distance. People say it's isolated. But that's one of the many reasons why I love staying there! We love feeling cut off from the sturm and drang while in a completely classic WDW experience. The rooms have been updated to include Lion King details -- not my favorite turn of events -- but retain their beauty and faux-exotic charm.
And the buses are better than any of the Epcot or MK resorts. My personal favorite buses are from Port Orleans French Quarter (1st on and 1st off) but AKL is a close second.
