Photos: The Beautiful Lobby at Disney's Kidani Village

I remember the first time I set foot inside the lobby of Disney’s Kidani Village. It was late in the evening, and we had just gotten off the Magical Express. How’s that for a throwback? It was dark outside, and it felt like we’d been dropped off in a remote area. A soft note of music played in the background. If you’ve visited before, I would be willing to bet that you can close your eyes right about now and feel the beat. The music is designed to make you feel like you’re on the Serengeti.

As we gathered our belongings, I couldn’t help but notice the wall of lanterns flanking both sides of the lobby entrance. These beacons of light are meant to welcome weary travelers as they return to their rooms after nightfall. We continued through the lobby doors, and I was immediately in awe. Other than a sole cast member at a nearby reception area, we had the place to ourselves. It was gorgeous, and I immediately knew that I had made a good decision to stay here.

Since that visit, we’ve stayed at Kidani Village many times. It is truly one of our favorite places, and we consider it a hidden gem. So I thought we’d take a look at a few photos of the lobby. Most of the photos in this article have been taken within the last year. I hope you enjoy them.

the light fixture display in the Kidani Village lobby

We’ll start with the porte cochère entrance of Kidani Village. For reference, this resort originally opened on May 1, 2009. Kidani is a Disney Vacation Club Resort, which is part of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas. The resort sits next door to Animal Kingdom Lodge, more commonly referred to as Jambo House.

the port cochere at sunset at Kidani Village

the covered area outside the entrance to the lobby at Kidani Village

Here is the wall of lanterns mentioned above. They serve as a light to guide you home.

a wall of lanterns at the entrance to the Kidani Village lobby

the lanterns on the opposite wall of the lobby

It’s important to note that the lobby of Kidani Village is a fraction of the size of Jambo House. When most people say that you must see the lobby at Animal Kingdom Lodge, they are referring to Jambo House. But those who appreciate the details will truly enjoy seeing both. If you’re visiting for dining or resort-hopping, you can walk or take the resort shuttle between Kidani Village and Jambo House.

While the lobby is more boutique, there are still plenty of seating areas to enjoy. You might also check out Johari Treasures, the resort’s gift shop. It’s on the right-hand side of the lobby. Here are a few more photos.

a variety of seating areas in the lobby of Kidani Village

a bench with two chairs and a small table in the Kidani Lobby

glowing light fixtures in the lobby of Kidani Village

The lobby is especially pretty right about sunset. The sky tends to turn into a backdrop of pink and purple tones, adding an extra layer to the serene setting.

A two-story wall of windows looks out to the savanna-viewing area. You can take the stairs from the lobby down to the second level. This is where you’ll find the outdoor animal viewing area. (An elevator is available down the hall to your right, past the arcade.)

The resort is inspired by what’s called an African kraal, which is a group of houses or dwellings surrounding a livestock enclosure. It has a horseshoe-curved shape, allowing for unique views of the savannas. Over 30 species of African wildlife roam the savannas. Those species comprise over 200 hoofed animals and birds like giraffes, zebras, kudu, and gazelles. Here is a view of the savanna from the public outdoor viewing area off the lobby.

a giraffe on the savanna at Kidani Village from the overlook beyond the lobby

Overall, the lobby of Kidani Village is definitely worth taking a few moments to explore. While you’re there, you might do a little shopping, see what animals are on the savanna, and take a few moments to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you.

a set of light fixtures at Kidani Village

It’s the perfect place to slow down and decompress. If you would like to know more about planning a stay at Kidani Village, you might enjoy the following:

Our Experience with the String of Memories Activity: We participated in this activity at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Kidani Village. It’s fun for everyone!

Kidani Village Pool: This extensive guide provides photos and everything else you need to know about the Samawati Springs Pool at Kidani Village.

Kidani Village Review: Our review details what it’s like to stay at this resort.

Refillable Mugs at Animal Kingdom Lodge: Find out every location to refill mugs at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Kidani Village.

I hope you enjoyed these photos of the lobby at Kidani Village and have an opportunity to stay at or visit the resort in the future. Let us know in the comments below if you’ve ever visited. Check back with ResortsGal.com for more updates.