Jambo! The newest AKL Information thread

[bwbuddy5]

Just booked our first time AKL Kidani villa. October 6-9. What's the easiest way to poly (brekky reservations, I need my Tonga toast)? Any recommendation regarding the resort? We are a party of 6 (3 adults, 3 kids including infant). Has anyone used the in room babysitting service? Thoughts?
Cheers!

If you want free, it's easy. Bus to MK, monorail to Poly.

 

[Christiaan]

If you want free, it's easy. Bus to MK, monorail to Poly.

Can we uber from AKL to Poly? Not sure of uber rules etc in WDW.

 

[bwbuddy5]

Can we uber from AKL to Poly? Not sure of uber rules etc in WDW.

Of course. If you decide to go with the free transportation, it's less "painful" if you schedule your ADR same day as an MK day - no extra bus rades that way.

 

[sndral]

Can we uber from AKL to Poly? Not sure of uber rules etc in WDW.

Here you go -
https://www.disboards.com/threads/everthing-you-wanted-to-know-about-uber-lyft-at-wdw.3443634/

 

[Christiaan]

Here you go -
https://www.disboards.com/threads/everthing-you-wanted-to-know-about-uber-lyft-at-wdw.3443634/

Thank you!

 

[tseitel]

We have rented a DVC 2 bedroom villa in Jambo House for this October. It is my understanding that the DVC units are all on the 5th floor.

Could someone please tell me if there is an ice machine located on that floor? We always fill our water bottles with ice prior to heading to the parks.

I know there will be a full size fridge, but I don't really want to have to fool with ice trays, and we use a lot of ice.
Thanks!

 

[suse66]

Only 5 more days until I arrive!!!!!!!

 

[John's Mom]

We have rented a DVC 2 bedroom villa in Jambo House for this October. It is my understanding that the DVC units are all on the 5th floor.

Could someone please tell me if there is an ice machine located on that floor? We always fill our water bottles with ice prior to heading to the parks.

I know there will be a full size fridge, but I don't really want to have to fool with ice trays, and we use a lot of ice.
Thanks!

Yes.

 

[cwis]

Minnie Van service is available starting today! We're so excited!

 

[KELLY]

Minnie Van service is available starting today! We're so excited!

Are you serious??? This is the one reason I didn't book the HDDR. Well off to book it for Thursday night!!

What is the resort delivery fee? I just sent a box of water and a few other things.

 

[cwis]

Are you serious??? This is the one reason I didn't book the HDDR. Well off to book it for Thursday night!!

What is the resort delivery fee? I just sent a box of water and a few other things.

We were so glad we could try the service this morning!

We were heading to Typhoon Lagoon, and the transfer at Disney Springs is such a pain… the Minnie Van service surely is more convenient, and our driver was so professional: he introduced us to the various places we went through, talked to us about the new Riviera resort that is being built, and when we entered Typhoon Lagoon he even let us know about the opening hours for today! We were also given a visit card with the nice looking Minnie Van logo, and a reminder of the pickup location at Magic Kingdom. We tried tipping him at the end; he refused, inviting us to enjoy a lovely day at the water park.

 

[cwis]

Oh, forgot about resort delivery fees. We're staying CL and were not charged for the packages we received front Amazon/Apple. They tried to deliver in-room, but we had a DnD at the door, they slipped a paper which invited to get back to front desk to collect our package, which we did painlessly a few minutes later. (They requested no payment of any kind, and declined tipping.)

I'm not sure for guests not staying CL though I believe at least the front desk will collect the packages at no extra cost.

 

[pixarmom]

Just back from AKL a few days ago! It was our 4th AKL stay and it was fantastic. Booked standard, and received a room on Kudu trail overlooking what I think is referred to as the "people pen." Tons of animals back there in the afternoon and evening. A few notes regarding our stay:

1. Room: In great condition! LOVED the new large shampoo/conditioner/shower gel/lotions. The scent brings back happy memories of our Disney cruises and it's so nice not to run out of shampoo. Beds were super comfy as always, and didn't really miss the runner at the end of the bed. Temperature in the room was great - we set it down to 68 degrees and that was perfect for sleeping. Housekeeping was well-done and prompt - always returned to a clean room during our afternoon break.

2. Buses: Yay!! Over 5 days, we went to all four parks (and the MK area twice.) The buses were outstanding. Never waited more than 10 minutes for a bus, and we frequently walked right on when arriving at the bus stops. Even after fireworks/park closing, not more than 10 minutes ever. Seriously, the best bus luck we've ever had in probably 40+ stays. And I'm SO happy we chose AKL for a summer trip because as much as I love walking to parks from the Epcot resorts, I'd far prefer a nice, cool bus in the summer months. And as mentioned previously, in our experience, AKL bus went direct to each park and then only stopped at Kidani on the way home. Much better than the multiple stops at not-so-close resorts when staying elsewhere.

3. Proximity to AK: This was great for Pandora and our plan to ride FOP at rope drop. While the bus ride to AK is only 5 minutes, we read on other threads that it's a good idea to arrive super early. So for a 9am opening, we left our room at 7am. Stopped at Mara for breakfast to go, and arrived at bus stop by 7:20am. Bus to AK was there within 5 minutes and we were at AK by 7:30am. At this point, bag check line was forming but bag check was not yet open. It opened around 7:50, I think. After clearing bag check, we lined up at the gate - we were toward the front. They started letting us through the gate around 8:15 or 8:20. Then we line up at the rope to Pandora. They dropped it gradually - the whole group would move forward in stages. Not sure when it actually dropped, but probably after 8:30 and before 9am. Loved FOP!

4. Dining: Mara was quick and convenient. Never too crowded. Used it for lunch on arrival day, snacks, quick breakfasts, etc. From the african potjie to the flatbreads (plain, like pepperoni or more interesting, like artichoke/tomato) to the african chili dog, everyone enjoyed! Food was good and there was enough variety for both our picky and adventurous eaters. Had dinner at Jiko one night and it was delicious as usual. The service at Jiko was super friendly and they did a nice job of accommodating an allergy without making a big deal about it.

5. Pools: Always able to find a spot to sit at both the Kidani and Jambo pools. Walk to Kidani was relatively quick, and both pools were well-maintained and not too crowded.

6. Luggage: Love magical express, and our bags arrived in our room as anticipated - about 3 hours after we arrived at the resort. On the way out, I love how the bell services and airline check-in desks are right next to each other. At other resorts, we send our checked luggage at a desk outside and then go back in to store our carry-ons. At AKL, it's all in the same spot. Never a more smooth luggage drop on departure day! On the way out, they sent our carry ons with a tour group headed to Brazil, so there was a moment of panic until a CM retrieved them as that bus was leaving. Phew! Very stressful, but resolved within 10 minutes.

7. Other: Everything about this stay was fantastic. Although not my favorite theme (I prefer a water/beach theme over animals) AKL is one of my favorite resorts. The smell in the lobby is not as present when first walking in as it was in the past, but it's still wonderful and strong near Victoria Falls/Boma and on the way out to the pool/Mara - so we enjoyed that! Water was available in the lobby each day and the flavors were yummy - cucumber, lime, orange, some combination. Kidani offered my favorite - strawberry/lime/cilantro. Finally, the price! $260/night for a standard room with a nice view of the animals.

Happy to try to answer any questions!

 

[Skippyboo]

The Minnie Van drivers are Disney employees so you can't tip them like you would a Uber/Lyft driver

 

[Harambe]

Just back from AKL a few days ago! It was our 4th AKL stay and it was fantastic. Booked standard, and received a room on Kudu trail overlooking what I think is referred to as the "people pen." Tons of animals back there in the afternoon and evening. A few notes regarding our stay:

1. Room: In great condition! LOVED the new large shampoo/conditioner/shower gel/lotions. The scent brings back happy memories of our Disney cruises and it's so nice not to run out of shampoo. Beds were super comfy as always, and didn't really miss the runner at the end of the bed. Temperature in the room was great - we set it down to 68 degrees and that was perfect for sleeping. Housekeeping was well-done and prompt - always returned to a clean room during our afternoon break.

2. Buses: Yay!! Over 5 days, we went to all four parks (and the MK area twice.) The buses were outstanding. Never waited more than 10 minutes for a bus, and we frequently walked right on when arriving at the bus stops. Even after fireworks/park closing, not more than 10 minutes ever. Seriously, the best bus luck we've ever had in probably 40+ stays. And I'm SO happy we chose AKL for a summer trip because as much as I love walking to parks from the Epcot resorts, I'd far prefer a nice, cool bus in the summer months. And as mentioned previously, in our experience, AKL bus went direct to each park and then only stopped at Kidani on the way home. Much better than the multiple stops at not-so-close resorts when staying elsewhere.

3. Proximity to AK: This was great for Pandora and our plan to ride FOP at rope drop. While the bus ride to AK is only 5 minutes, we read on other threads that it's a good idea to arrive super early. So for a 9am opening, we left our room at 7am. Stopped at Mara for breakfast to go, and arrived at bus stop by 7:20am. Bus to AK was there within 5 minutes and we were at AK by 7:30am. At this point, bag check line was forming but bag check was not yet open. It opened around 7:50, I think. After clearing bag check, we lined up at the gate - we were toward the front. They started letting us through the gate around 8:15 or 8:20. Then we line up at the rope to Pandora. They dropped it gradually - the whole group would move forward in stages. Not sure when it actually dropped, but probably after 8:30 and before 9am. Loved FOP!

4. Dining: Mara was quick and convenient. Never too crowded. Used it for lunch on arrival day, snacks, quick breakfasts, etc. From the african potjie to the flatbreads (plain, like pepperoni or more interesting, like artichoke/tomato) to the african chili dog, everyone enjoyed! Food was good and there was enough variety for both our picky and adventurous eaters. Had dinner at Jiko one night and it was delicious as usual. The service at Jiko was super friendly and they did a nice job of accommodating an allergy without making a big deal about it.

5. Pools: Always able to find a spot to sit at both the Kidani and Jambo pools. Walk to Kidani was relatively quick, and both pools were well-maintained and not too crowded.

6. Luggage: Love magical express, and our bags arrived in our room as anticipated - about 3 hours after we arrived at the resort. On the way out, I love how the bell services and airline check-in desks are right next to each other. At other resorts, we send our checked luggage at a desk outside and then go back in to store our carry-ons. At AKL, it's all in the same spot. Never a more smooth luggage drop on departure day! On the way out, they sent our carry ons with a tour group headed to Brazil, so there was a moment of panic until a CM retrieved them as that bus was leaving. Phew! Very stressful, but resolved within 10 minutes.

7. Other: Everything about this stay was fantastic. Although not my favorite theme (I prefer a water/beach theme over animals) AKL is one of my favorite resorts. The smell in the lobby is not as present when first walking in as it was in the past, but it's still wonderful and strong near Victoria Falls/Boma and on the way out to the pool/Mara - so we enjoyed that! Water was available in the lobby each day and the flavors were yummy - cucumber, lime, orange, some combination. Kidani offered my favorite - strawberry/lime/cilantro. Finally, the price! $260/night for a standard room with a nice view of the animals.

Happy to try to answer any questions!

Thank you for this review! I wish I could go right now! Did you see the Zebra Domes at the Mara for purchase?

 

[cwis]

Thank you for this review! I wish I could go right now! Did you see the Zebra Domes at the Mara for purchase?

We are at the AKL at the moment, and we can confirm the Zebra domes are for sale at the Mara!

 

[cwis]

The Minnie Van drivers are Disney employees so you can't tip them like you would a Uber/Lyft driver

Thanks for that info! I wanted to ask the driver but was so thrilled about being INSIDE A MINNIE VAN OMG THIS HAPPENED that I forgot!

 

[pixarmom]

Thank you for this review! I wish I could go right now! Did you see the Zebra Domes at the Mara for purchase?

We saw them too! Yay!

 

[mickey1968]

Just back from AKL a few days ago! It was our 4th AKL stay and it was fantastic. Booked standard, and received a room on Kudu trail overlooking what I think is referred to as the "people pen." Tons of animals back there in the afternoon and evening. A few notes regarding our stay:

1. Room: In great condition! LOVED the new large shampoo/conditioner/shower gel/lotions. The scent brings back happy memories of our Disney cruises and it's so nice not to run out of shampoo. Beds were super comfy as always, and didn't really miss the runner at the end of the bed. Temperature in the room was great - we set it down to 68 degrees and that was perfect for sleeping. Housekeeping was well-done and prompt - always returned to a clean room during our afternoon break.

2. Buses: Yay!! Over 5 days, we went to all four parks (and the MK area twice.) The buses were outstanding. Never waited more than 10 minutes for a bus, and we frequently walked right on when arriving at the bus stops. Even after fireworks/park closing, not more than 10 minutes ever. Seriously, the best bus luck we've ever had in probably 40+ stays. And I'm SO happy we chose AKL for a summer trip because as much as I love walking to parks from the Epcot resorts, I'd far prefer a nice, cool bus in the summer months. And as mentioned previously, in our experience, AKL bus went direct to each park and then only stopped at Kidani on the way home. Much better than the multiple stops at not-so-close resorts when staying elsewhere.

3. Proximity to AK: This was great for Pandora and our plan to ride FOP at rope drop. While the bus ride to AK is only 5 minutes, we read on other threads that it's a good idea to arrive super early. So for a 9am opening, we left our room at 7am. Stopped at Mara for breakfast to go, and arrived at bus stop by 7:20am. Bus to AK was there within 5 minutes and we were at AK by 7:30am. At this point, bag check line was forming but bag check was not yet open. It opened around 7:50, I think. After clearing bag check, we lined up at the gate - we were toward the front. They started letting us through the gate around 8:15 or 8:20. Then we line up at the rope to Pandora. They dropped it gradually - the whole group would move forward in stages. Not sure when it actually dropped, but probably after 8:30 and before 9am. Loved FOP!

4. Dining: Mara was quick and convenient. Never too crowded. Used it for lunch on arrival day, snacks, quick breakfasts, etc. From the african potjie to the flatbreads (plain, like pepperoni or more interesting, like artichoke/tomato) to the african chili dog, everyone enjoyed! Food was good and there was enough variety for both our picky and adventurous eaters. Had dinner at Jiko one night and it was delicious as usual. The service at Jiko was super friendly and they did a nice job of accommodating an allergy without making a big deal about it.

5. Pools: Always able to find a spot to sit at both the Kidani and Jambo pools. Walk to Kidani was relatively quick, and both pools were well-maintained and not too crowded.

6. Luggage: Love magical express, and our bags arrived in our room as anticipated - about 3 hours after we arrived at the resort. On the way out, I love how the bell services and airline check-in desks are right next to each other. At other resorts, we send our checked luggage at a desk outside and then go back in to store our carry-ons. At AKL, it's all in the same spot. Never a more smooth luggage drop on departure day! On the way out, they sent our carry ons with a tour group headed to Brazil, so there was a moment of panic until a CM retrieved them as that bus was leaving. Phew! Very stressful, but resolved within 10 minutes.

7. Other: Everything about this stay was fantastic. Although not my favorite theme (I prefer a water/beach theme over animals) AKL is one of my favorite resorts. The smell in the lobby is not as present when first walking in as it was in the past, but it's still wonderful and strong near Victoria Falls/Boma and on the way out to the pool/Mara - so we enjoyed that! Water was available in the lobby each day and the flavors were yummy - cucumber, lime, orange, some combination. Kidani offered my favorite - strawberry/lime/cilantro. Finally, the price! $260/night for a standard room with a nice view of the animals.

Happy to try to answer any questions!

Thank you for this great report! I am new on this board and will be staying at AKL for the first time over Halloween! I cannot wait! I got lucky in the middle of the night last week and picked up an AP rate of $243 a night for a standard room, only $20 more than PORS where I was going to stay. I can't believe it, this will be my first deluxe that is not for a work conference and that trip was interrupted by Hurricane Matthew!

Anyway, thanks again. Do you happen to remember your room number? I have been playing with Touring Plans room views trying to decide on where to request.

 

[cwis]

Thank you for this great report! I am new on this board and will be staying at AKL for the first time over Halloween! I cannot wait! I got lucky in the middle of the night last week and picked up an AP rate of $243 a night for a standard room, only $20 more than PORS where I was going to stay. I can't believe it, this will be my first deluxe that is not for a work conference and that trip was interrupted by Hurricane Matthew!

Anyway, thanks again. Do you happen to remember your room number? I have been playing with Touring Plans room views trying to decide on where to request.

I would suggest you do not request a room number specifically, as this would make the work harder for the room assignor if that room is not vacant. Try to list the features that interest you the most.

All rooms have their advantages and their disadvantages, so even if you don't have the room you dreamt, you might still enjoy it for other reasons.