At Epcot, guests can travel around the World Showcase and get a taste of countries like Germany, Italy, France, and even Morocco. But for a true taste of Africa, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is the place to go, and even more so now with the opening of the new Kidani Village Resort. A new Disney Vacation Club property that’s begun opening in phases earlier this month, Kidani Village envelops guests with African-inspired art, authentic African cuisine, and incredible views looking out onto an animal-filled savannah.

Families will be able to indulge their taste for adventure at Kidani Village, which is named for the Swahili word for “necklace.” From the moment they step into the lobby and take in the hand-carved columns, intricate patterns, and gold-toned furnishings, guests will feel like they’ve been transported to Africa. Arching windows in the lobby provide an unparalled view of the savannah, and swaying floor lamps and vibrant fixtures add to the splendor and authenticity of the resort.

Guests can choose from studio and one, two, and three bedroom accommodations at Kidani Village, each equipped with homey comforts like kitchens, living areas, and more. Each villa features custom-made furnishings and African décor, in addition to a view of the savannah.

The Village also includes Jambo House, which opened in July 2007 and consists of 109 remodeled two-bedroom equivalent accommodations on the fifth and sixth floors of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. The remaining rooms of Kidani Village are expected to open this fall.

Other new amenities in the resort at Kidani Village include Sanaa, a 150-seat restaurant serving African cooking infused with Indian flavors. Named after the Swahili word for “artwork,” Sanaa opened May 1 and features interiors inspired by African art.

Guests can also enjoy Samawati Springs Pool, a themed pool area with a 128-foot slide and two whirlpool spas, and Uwanja Camp, a water-play area with three themed zones featuring age-specific activities for kids. More active fun is available on a basketball half-court, a shuffleboard court, and two lighted, hard-court tennis courts located in a sports area, and there’s also a “Survival of the Fittest” fitness center featuring treadmills, bicycles, stair climbers, and limited free weights.

To wind down and relax, guests of Kidani Village can utilize the Zahanati Massage & Fitness Center inside Jambo House, which offers spa services. Meanwhile, any shopping bug can be satisfied at Johari Treasures, a merchandise shop with logo and character merchandise, plush toys, sundries, books and magazines, and more.

And of course, no resort is complete without handy access to Walt Disney World. Kidani Village offers convenient transportation to all the Disney parks.

To book a stay at Kidani Village, one need only call Disney to make reservations. And to begin your escape to the wild savannah, don’t forget to pair your African accommodations with an African-style adventure at Animal Kingdom or one of the other parks by getting your Walt Disney World tickets from OrlandoFunTickets.com.