Any links in this post to a merchant may contain an affiliate link, which means that if you click on that link and then buy something, I may earn a commission from it. However, all opinions in this link are 100% mine and 100% honest. If I didn't believe in a particular product, I wouldn't recommend it to you.
The newest expansion at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is Pandora: The World of Avatar. This land, created by James Cameron and Disney creative genius Joe Rhode, brings the blockbuster movie Avatar to life in an amazing and breathtaking landscape that you have to see to believe. And the best part is that you don’t have to be a fan of the movie to enjoy this beautiful new land! Read on to see why a visit to Pandora is a must-do at Disney’s Animal Kingdom for everyone in the family.
The Environment of Pandora
As you enter Pandora: The World of Avatar, you will definitely notice that you have left the rest of Animal Kingdom behind and entered a whole new world.
The most dramatic feature of this environment is the iconic floating mountains. You can’t help but notice them the moment you enter Pandora. They really are a sight to behold.
After you marvel at these gravity-defying beauties, take time to look around at the lush plant life that surrounds you. The creators did a wonderful job of mixing real plants with ones that would exist on the planet of Pandora.
At times, it is difficult to determine which plants are real and which ones are make-believe. But beware, the vegetation is so dense throughout the entire land that it is easy to get lost.
In typical Disney fashion, you will discover entertainment throughout the land. The Pandora drummers establish a lively feel in the area as they delight the crowds with their festive sets.
Kids and adults alike will be amazed by the researcher operating the 10-foot-tall Pandora Utility Suit.
The Rides in Pandora
Pandora only offers two rides. But, they are some of the most immersive rides you will find anywhere in Walt Disney World. Both rides will give you a more in-depth and up close look at this out-of-this-world land.
Flight of Passage
Flight of Passage is the headliner ride of the land. It is like no other ride you have ever experienced. It truly blew my mind!
After you make your way through the elaborate queue which sets up the backstory of the ride, you will mount a motorcycle-like ride vehicle to take a flight on the back of a banshee.
This 3D simulator ride is so immersive that I not only forgot I was in a theme park in the middle of Florida, but I also completely forgot there were other people around me!
If you ride no other rides at Disney World, you have to ride this one. It is an experience you will never forget!
Please note that there is a height requirement of 44 inches for this ride.
Nav’i River Journey
The other ride in Pandora is Nav’i River Journey. Unlike Flight of Passage, which is a thrill ride, the Nav’i River Journey is suitable for all ages. It is a gentle boat ride through the abundant bioluminescent rainforest of Pandora.
This short, but peaceful, journey allows you to relax and cool off while admiring your surroundings. At the end of the journey, you will be rewarded with the singing of a traditional song by the Shamen of Songs, Disney’s most advanced audio-animatronic ever created.
There is no height requirement for this ride.
Food and Merchandise
Like the rest of Pandora, the food and merchandise locations are uniquely themed. They are few in number, but they are definitely not your typical theme park food and merchandise options.
Satu’li Canteen
Satu’li Canteen is the main option in Pandora for food. It is a quick service restaurant, open for lunch and dinner.
The menu consists of various bowls with beef, chicken, shrimp, or tofu added to rice, beans, salad, or sweet potato hash and your choice of sauces. For children, the canteen offers a hot dog, quesadilla, or child-size bowl.
For a complete look at the menu, check out allears.net.
You can use the Disney Dining Plan here.
Pongu Pongu Snacks
The other food location in Pandora is Pongu Pongu Snacks.
The menu here is limited to french toast sticks, sausage and egg biscuit, pretzels, pineapple spring rolls, and drinks. The menu also includes the famous Night Blossom drink.
You can use your snack credits from the Disney Dining Plan here.
Windtraders
Windtraders is the main merchandise location in Pandora. It offers a variety of souvenirs, from clothing to toys, themed to the land.
The most popular items in Windtraders are the banshees which you can adopt and then take home with you. Kids love these!
Conclusion
When Disney added Pandora: World of Avatar to Animal Kingdom, they truly created an out-of-this-world experience. The immersive environment will transport you to a place you have never been before.
Flight of Passage is an unbelievable adventure that will blow your mind. Even if you are not a fan of the movie Avatar, you will be impressed by this new land.
For more to do in Animal Kingdom, see the amazing animals on the safari and my list of must-do’s.
To plan your Disney World trip, see my step-by-step guide, quick tips, and best resources for planning a trip. Visit Disney’s website to book your trip.
Happy travels!
Leave a Reply