Animal Kingdom Tree of Life | Everything to Know
In this page, we'll go over everything that you need to know about the iconic Tree of life at Animal Kingdom, including what it is, trails around the tree, and even shows inside and outside of the tree.
Table of Contents
About the Tree of Life
Located in the center of the Animal Kingdom park, the iconic tree of life towers at 145 feet and can be seen from quite a distance away.
As you walk closer towards the tree, you'll begin to make out shapes of different animals, which are perfectly carved on the actual tree.
Close to 400 types of animals are carved on this giant tree, and really showcases the talent of the team of artisans who came together to create this icon of the park.
These carvings extend from the roots of the tree all the way up to the branches.
The goal of this tree was to make a large enough tree that could withstand hurricane winds, while at the same time giving it a realistic look.
The realistic look is something they focused on heavily, as you'll notice that the carvings of each animal aren't true to size, but rather flow into one another.
Another goal with the tree was to show how animals are connected to one another, bring awareness to different types of species, and show the beauty of the several types of species.
Trails Around the Tree
Discovery Island Trails is a perfect Instagram-worthy adventure. You'll definitely want to have your cameras out for this one.
In this trail, visitors will be able to explore the 'wild side' of the massive tree. They'll encounter different types of animals including flamingos, lemurs. porcupines and tortoises, a beautiful waterfall and a glimpse of the swampy environment nearby.
The coolest part of this in our opinion however, is being able to see all of the carvings up close. You'll get a great feel for the intricate detail of each design.
If you're lucky, you may even encounter Flik! And of course take a picture with him.
Tree of Life Show
Tree of Life Awakenings
Tree of Life Awakenings is an amazing night time show where a different series of projections are mapped onto a tree to display stories.
It will feel like you're watching a movie from the side of the tree, as different animals appear and move including primates, giraffes and even schools of fish that move in different shapes.
Similarly to how different advances displays are shown on the Magic Kingdom castle during the fireworks celebration, you'll see beautiful projections that are animal-based.
Inside the Tree of Life
It's Tough to be a Bug
Inside of the actual tree, there's a 400 seat arena where visitors can watch the ultra popular It's Tough to be a Bug show.
This 3D live show is one of the best shows in all of the Disney parks, as it is very interactive.
Not only are you sitting inside of an extremely realistic environment that simulates the home of an ant, you'll also feel cold breezes (simulating a solider termite), and even take a whiff of the stink bug mechanism!
The 3D glasses along with the feeling of bugs moving near your seats, brings a very fun experience for all ages.