There are tons of unique ways to interact with nature at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
They’ve got animal trails where you can learn more about animals like gorillas and tigers. There are paths on Discovery Island where you can get an up-close look at the intricate Tree of Life while strolling through beautiful foliage. And, they’ve even got a safari ride where you can see live animals interact with the world around them! In addition to these opportunities, Animal Kingdom is home to its very own petting zoo, and while it’s been closed recently, we just got confirmation that it’s reopening this weekend!
Yesterday we shared that the Affection Section at Rafiki’s Planet Watch may be reopening since there were new operating hours on the website. This morning, that was further confirmed when Disney’s Dr. Mark Penning shared a post on Instagram.
In his post, he stated, “I’m delighted to share Affection Section at Rafiki’s Planet Watch is coming baa..ck November 15!” This is the date that we first noticed operating hours listed online. He also shared that the Affection Section will have new safety guidelines, limited attendance, social distancing, and guests will be required to wash their hands upon entry and exit of the area.
When the park reopened in July, you could visit the animals, just not pet them. We’re glad to see that the whole experience will once again be available for guests! The operating hours are currently listed from 9:30AM – 5:00PM starting this weekend. We’ll be sure to head that way and check it out in order to bring you all the updated details!
Read: 12 Things You Never Knew About Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Have you been to the Affection Section at Rafiki’s Planet Watch? Tell us in the comments below!
TRENDING NOW
A new Tinker Bell collection just dropped online!
Don't forget about this Magic Kingdom fireworks change!
If you don't watch out for this reoccurring Disney World hotel issue, you might have...
Disney love hiding things in plain sight in their concept art, so let's dive into...
There's a NEW character coming to Disneyland!
Check out everything that will be closed in Disney World this week. Good news, though,...
Disney shared a new clip that provides our first views inside Test Track 3.0.
There are lots of pros -- and some surprising cons -- to living so close...
Disneyland just dropped a ton of announcements -- see them all here!
Here are a few things we never thought we’d buy in Disney World, but they...
Here's everything you need to know about the upcoming closure of DinoLand at Animal Kingdom.
Disney World just announced details about the two attractions coming to the 'Cars' area in...
We're scratching our heads over this Disney World hotel room trend.
We rounded up the best Disney tees on Amazon so you don't have to!
Two popular rides are temporarily closing at Disneyland!
This water park upgrade could save your day!
New updates on Pop Century Resort at Disney World!
Let's take a look at our favorite Disney trip essentials hitting the shelves the week...
Disney's new timeline gives us a better idea when this EPCOT icon will be up-and-running...
If you're going to drink one drink from each EPCOT pavilion, these are the drinks...