Ever since Disney & Pixar’s UP hit theaters, fans have saying “The wilderness must be explored … caw, caw, ROAR!” Since 2013, guests have been doing the same through the Wilderness Explorers program. In fact, this motto has been a part of the program that over 23 million fans have known and loved in the last decade.
The Wilderness Explorers program allows guests to participate in an immersive experiences where they go on self-guided activities to be a hero of conservation. Along the way, they learn about plants, animals and conservation. There are over 20 badges that can be earned along the way that range from helping save endangered species to recycling and protecting wildlife. Quite often the messages that are learned along the way align with Planet Possible. This helps guests picture what is possible when they take action to help our planet, both in the parks on their vacations and at home during their daily lives.
“Seeing this program come to life through the eyes of Wilderness Explorers from across the globe has been incredibly inspiring,” shares Nadine, a 21-year cast member and guest animal experience director.
Nadine had a passion for both conservation and animals, which led her to assisting in the creation of the Wilderness Explorers program in 2013 after the release of Up. The program’s motto, “A Wilderness Explorer is a friend to all, be a plant, or fish, or tiny mole,” comes directly from the film.
Since the program debuted in 2013, there have been over 600 cast members that have participated in the Wilderness Explorers program. This includes some new cast members who are inspired like Victoria who experienced the program during her college program. During her stint with the Disney College Program, she heard about it at an informational session. Fast forward a bit and now Victoria is a part of that panel that inspired her to join the program.
“To be able to come back and inspire other interns to take their passion for conservation and the environment and extend those messages to guests is very rewarding,” Victoria said.
The Wilderness Explores program supports Disney’s Planet Possible, a commitment to a brighter future supporting a healthier planet for people and wildlife. Since 1995, the Disney Conservation Fund has utilized more than $125 million to save wildlife, inspire action and protect the planet.
What do you think of the Wilderness Explorers program? Have you participated in its activities? If not, are you planning on it the next time you visit? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
