Pandora at Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom is without a doubt a must see! My husband and I had the privilege of visiting in person a few weeks ago, and we were blown away by the life likeness of this park. I wanted to share with you a recap of our incredible journey into Pandora-World Of Avatar!
The Sights- Entering into the world and walking through it was like nothing I have seen before. No detail was spared when imagineers designed this work of art. You are completely immersed into the world that is Pandora. The trees, the shrubbery, the floating mountains, the distant banshee sounds, it feels like you are actually there! When you are walking on a luminescent path and look up to be greeted by a giant floating mountain, you are in the Valley of Mo’ara, and can’t help but smile and revel in the Disney magic.
The Rides- The Flight Of Passage is my all time favorite ride! It does not compare or hold a candle to any other ride. The technology is so advanced that you will be blown away. Even waiting for this ride was an experience I would like to have again and again. You are in the land of the Na’vi, walking through their caves, seeing the writings on the cave walls. You then journey through a bioluminescent forest where you see strange, glowing plant life. Finally, you reach a lab. Here you see how the scientists are working on Avatars, and yes you see an Avatar waiting to be linked! It is larger than life, literally, and it is the coolest thing ever. You are ushered into a waiting room where you hear about the ability to bond with a banshee. You are then linked to an avatar and then aboard your ride. The ride itself is bicycle shaped. You straddle, lean forward and restraints are lifted. All of a sudden the doors open and you are on top of a mountain side, greeted by your guide, and ready for your ride. You soar across the lands, seeing the beauty of Pandora. It is breathtaking, intense, and the most fun you will have all day! You really do feel like you are flying – the simulation is amazing! I did not want this ride to end. An absolute must when visiting the park.
The Na’vi River Journey- This is a spectacular sight to see! You walk through a local Na’vi hut, which is very cool to see, and await your turn to climb aboard the boat. This ride is perfect for all ages, calm, serene, and beautiful. Once board your boat you travel through the Na’vi River. There is something to see all around you. Be sure to look on both sides and even above you. Again, Disney uses state of the art technology to transport guests through the river. It is very cool to see the bioluminescent plant life and creatures. You are then greeted by Shaman of Songs. She is so beautiful and life like, singing and moving so gracefully – Disney’s most life-like animatronic ever created, by far! Also a must see.
The Food- When in Pandora, you should eat like the locals! Be sure to visit Satu’li Canteen. Here you can try a menu inspired by Pandora’s bounty. This restaurant features international-inspired cuisine, vegetarian options and of course some local specialties. It’s the perfect place to refuel! We tried the Cheeseburger Steamed Pods – Bao Buns. This is like a deconstructed burger with Ground Beef, Ketchup, Mustard, Pickle, and Cheddar Cheese served with Crunchy Vegetable Slaw and Vegetable Chips. It was delicious! My husband had the Chopped Wood-Grilled Chicken Bowl. This main dish had Wood-Grilled Chicken Thighs marinated with Garlic and Olive Oil topped with Crunchy Vegetable Slaw and Boba Balls served with your choice of Base and Sauce. It was very tasty. Similar to a rice bowl with a kick! I had to try a dessert item while there, too! The Blueberry Cream Cheese Mousse with Passion Fruit Curd was a delectable dessert choice. Fruity and creamy, I would order all of this again on our next visit. The restaurant itself is beautiful to see!
If you are planning a trip to Walt Disney World, be sure to add Animal Kingdom and Pandora to your itinerary. You will not want to miss out on this incredible experience!