Animal Kingdom Quietly Reveals This Reopening Timeline

We actually have GREAT refurbishment news! Find out which attraction will be reopening soon.

Disney World Refurbishments

Refurbishments are a part of life at Disney Parks. These may take place for various reasons. Whether it be for mechanical issues or cosmetic updates, a refurbishment can take place for many reasons.

Based on the nature of the work, the refurbishment may take a few days or several months. Although refurbishments occur throughout the year, Walt Disney World tends to begin many refurbishments in the slower months of January and February.

Disney's Animal Kingdom is a bit of a mess right now. The "big elephant in the room" is the phased closure of DinoLand, USA. Although DINOSAUR and Restarauntosaurus are still open, construction walls line the majority of this space.

Kali River Rapids Closure

Kali River Rapids is closed each year for refurbishment, where routine maintenance is completed. Disney shared that this closure will now take place sooner than in years past.

Typically, Kali River Rapids closes in January for its annual refurbishment. However, Disney has moved up the schedule to ensure the work is complete prior to DinoLand closing in February.

Kali River Rapids closed for refurbishment on October 6th. The attraction was set to reopen in December.

Kali River Rapids Reopening

There are no operating hours for Kali River Rapids throughout December. The first operating hours are on January 1, 2026, opening at 9:00 am until 6:00 pm (operating hours subject to change).

Kali River Rapids offers the first operating hours on January 1, 2026.

Just a reminder, there are several big changes coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom with the closure of DinoLand. This includes the closure of attractions, dining locations, and changes to meet and greets. You can read all the details on these changes and how they will impact your visit HERE.

What do you think of the many changes at Disney's Animal Kingdom? Share your thoughts with us and share this news with your Disney pals.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Donna loved Disney from an early age. As a child, her family would joke that she lived in "Donna Land." As an adult, she enjoys planning and creating magical vacations for her family. She always brings a little faith, trust, and a little bit of Pixie Dust!