Rare Daytime Hippo Sighting Thrills Kilimanjaro Safaris Guests
Cast Members attributed the land lounging to a rare cool morning.
Overview
- Hippopotamuses were spotted out of the water and sunbathing during a daytime safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, an occurrence guests and staff described as uncommon.
- Articles published November 3 report that the sighting followed a morning with temperatures in the 50s, which staff said can prompt hippos to bask on land.
- A guest photo credited to PurpleSpaceSurfer documented the moment as safari riders passed the hippo habitat.
- Coverage notes that hippos at this attraction are typically seen mostly submerged to stay cool and protect their skin.
- Reports present the episode as a memorable example of the ride’s unpredictability, with suggestions to try early rides during cool snaps for a better chance at unusual animal activity.