I feel like a lot of people have never been to Rafiki’s Planet Watch. It’s only accessible by train, and many aren’t willing to take the time to get there and back. I think that’s a shame. Planet Watch is the perfect combination of fun and education. It’s also a beautiful, laid back area where you can slow down the pace for a little while. There’s no rides besides the train, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do.
Wildlife Express Train
Technically, this train is just transportation to and from Rafiki’s Planet Watch. There’s no other way to get out there. But it’s so much more than that. On the way to and from the land, you get a backstage look at animal housing and medical facilities. You can sometimes see baby animals or new arrivals. If you’re into backstage Disney, this train is an excellent way to get a glimpse. Other than that, it’s a very short ride to your destination.
All aboard!
Habitat Habit!
Here comes the edutainment. First of all, you get to look at adorable cotton-top tamarins. But this area is home to some of the smartest, friendliest cast members in the world. They’re always willing to answer questions, and they give fascinating presentations about sharing our planet properly with all sorts of creatures. There’s a beautiful nature walk here, and you don’t even feel like you’re in a theme park anymore. You’re just on a hike through the jungle.
Conservation Station
There’s tons to see here, and we never spend enough time seeing it. You can see so many animals and learn so much, but you have to seek it out. You can also meet characters here. I’ve met Rafiki, Pocahontas, and even Chip ‘n’ Dale in this beautiful building. It’s adorned with pictures of endangered animals, encouraging all of us to help where we can. I guess this is a good time to mention that you can donate to the Wildlife Conservation Fund almost anywhere things are sold in the park, and they’ll give you a Conservation Hero button.
These guys made kissy noises the whole time I was meeting them.
Affection Section
My favorite part of this area! GOATS! (Also sheep.) Yes, it’s a petting zoo, but it’s the best petting zoo of all time. I used to work at a zoo, and we had goats that I grew very attached to. I still miss them. And get way too excited whenever I visit them. So anyway, when we went to Disney in May, I ended up having a conversation with one of the Affection Section cast members about her goats. We compared goat personalities and goat species, and we just generally enthused about our little furry babies. That cast member was awesome, and you better believe I praised her at Guest Services later (as should we all for excellent cast members). I’ve forgotten her name, but I won’t forget my experience!
I understand that Rafiki’s Planet Watch is not exciting, and it doesn’t have any E-Tickets. But it’s beautiful and informational and you can pet goats. What more could you want?
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