Sunday, April 15, 2012

Expedition Everest - Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World

One of the most intriguing rides at Disney's Animal Kingdom is Expedition Everest, a high-speed roller coaster train ride to the top of the world guarded by the ferocious Yeti. The visual effects on this one are remarkable. As you enter the country of Nepal you feel as though you left Florida and are climbing into the Himalayas.  The cultural accuracy of this part of the park is so cool that you get into the mood for the ride long before you get on it.

You'll get in line at the train station and wind through the building until you board the train.  As you're walking there are all kinds of examples of artifacts and photos from real expeditions into the Himalayas to keep you interested.  It's laid out in an intelligent display so you can not only enjoy the ride but educate yourself along the way.

The ride takes you straight to the summit and then plunges you backward into darkness with hairpin turns and screaming beasts culminating in a huge plunge down the mountain.  I don't want to describe it any more but I don't thing a could possibly ruin it for you!

This is one of the funnest rides in the park and may well be worth using Fast Pass due to it's popularity. The kids will love it - guaranteed! There are health restrictions but it's also wheelchair accessible like all the rides so check your program or the signs as you enter the ride.  Any questions there are always cast members to help you.  Parents may wish to consider if it's an appropriate ride for children under 7 but I've seen smaller kids on it before.