January 6, 2022

Design Detail: Animal Kingdom's Maharajah Jungle Trek

After our recent trip to Central Florida and the fresh discovery of Universal Orlando Resort and all it offers, I've been beating up Disney pretty well! A lot of it is deserved, but when it comes to design detail, the parks have some of the best in the state. Disney's Animal Kingdom may be the strongest of all in this regard thanks to Imagineering's Joe Rohde and his team. 

Here's proof: On the beautiful and exotic Maharajah Jungle Trek in the Asia section, Disney has taken a "simple" zoo concept and turned it into a work of art. Obviously this carving is brand new even though it looks ancient, but as you walk along the trail and discover tigers, bats, and more, beautiful surroundings, lush plantings, and art abound. The experience engulfs guests, making them feel as if they are thousands of miles away. Among Disney's Florida parks, Animal Kingdom feels surreal and authentic at once. It's almost as if God Himself had a hand in creating it. Well done, Imagineers!

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

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