Guests visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom will soon have the chance to get closer than ever before to rhinoceros during a 1-hour tour. The “Up Close with Rhinos” tour will be available for guests to experience starting November 1st. During the tour, guests will get a behind-the-scenes tour of the white rhinos seen in the Kilimanjaro Safari. Guests will see how these massive animals are cared for and learn from the people charged with doing that. During the course of the 60-minute guided tour, there will be a chance to get quite close to a rhino. It is possible that guests may even be able to touch a rhino! Disney is hoping that this interaction will further inspire people to aid in conservation efforts for this magnificent animal.
The rhinoceros has the distinction of being the second largest land animal on Earth. The white rhino can grow to weigh up to 5,100 lbs! It is the largest species of rhino. They can be found in the bush country and open grassy flatlands in Africa and Southeast Asia. The white rhino is constantly at risk from poachers who pursue them for their horns. The Disney Conservation Fund has aided in protecting rhinos around the world with over $2 million in support.
The “Up Close with Rhinos” tour tickets will go on sale on World Rhino Day, September 22nd. The cost of the tour is $40. Guests must be 4 years old or older to participate. There are discounts available for some passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members. To make a reservation, call 407-WDW-PLAY.
