Becoming a Wilderness Explorer at Animal Kingdom
Becoming a Wilderness Explorer at Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom is a dream come true for kids who love animals. And let’s be honest—don’t all kids love animals?
This interactive, educational experience is fun for the whole family, providing an exciting way to explore the park while learning about nature, wildlife, and conservation.
What is the Wilderness Explorers Challenge?
Inspired by Disney Pixar’s Up, the Wilderness Explorers Challenge is an interactive adventure where guests of all ages complete fun and educational activities throughout Animal Kingdom. As you participate, you’ll earn badges (stickers) for your Wilderness Explorers Field Guide. The goal? Collect all 30 badges and become a true Wilderness Explorer!
The best part? It’s completely free! Both your kids (and you!) can become a Wilderness Explorer, and it’s a fun way to see things at the Disney theme Parks you might have missed otherwise.
To begin your adventure, stop by the Wilderness Explorers Headquarters, located between The Oasis and Discovery Island, to pick up your Field Guide. A friendly Wilderness Explorer guide will introduce you to the challenge and teach you the official Explorer Call:
“Caw! Caw! Roar!”
You’ll need to complete your first challenge before officially earning the right to use the call—so get ready!
You can also find Wilderness Explorer stops in Africa, Asia, Dinoland U.S.A., and Rafiki’s Planet Watch, where cast members will help you earn new badges.
How Long Does It Take?
The Wilderness Explorer Challenge can take anywhere from a few hours to an entire day, depending on how many badges you want to earn. Some families choose to complete the challenge over multiple visits. No need to rush—enjoy the journey!
Keep in mind that Florida weather can be unpredictable. Make time for breaks stay hydrated, and if it’s a warm day, grab lunch in an air-conditioned restaurant.
What Kind of Badges Can You Earn?
Throughout Animal Kingdom, you’ll find 30 different badge stops. Here are just a few examples:
- Safari Badge – Learn about African wildlife on Kilimanjaro Safaris.
- Dinosaur Badge – Discover fossils and prehistoric creatures in Dinoland U.S.A.
- Veterinary Badge – Explore animal care and conservation efforts at Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
- Yeti Badge – Uncover the legend of the Yeti in Asia.
- Music Badge – Experience cultural music from around the world.
At each stop, a Wilderness Explorer Guide will help you complete a small activity or answer questions before placing your earned sticker in your Field Guide.
Hidden Surprises Along the Way
One of the best things about the Wilderness Explorers Challenge is that it encourages you to slow down and notice the little details in Animal Kingdom.
To give you an idea of what a Wilderness Explorers experience challenge is like, we had to figure out what clues were available and answer questions on the one below.
Hint: There were footprints, but what kind? Often answers are found in the little details!
Here are some hidden gems you might discover while earning your badges:
- Live tigers on the viewing platform in Maharajah Jungle Trek.
- Hidden Mickeys on the murals in Asia.
- Wildlife Express Train – A 7-minute ride to Rafiki’s Planet Watch, where you’ll learn about conservation.
- Discovery Island Trails – Get up close to fascinating animals like otters and porcupines.
Take your time, interact with cast member guides, and enjoy these unique experiences that many visitors overlook!
Tips for a Fun Wilderness Explorer Experience
- Pace Yourself – The challenge is designed to be fun, not stressful. Break it up over multiple days if needed.
- Stay Hydrated – Florida heat can be intense, so bring water bottles.
- Take Breaks – Stop for a snack, cool off inside an attraction, or watch a live show.
- Talk to Cast Members – They have a wealth of knowledge and love sharing fun facts about the animals!
Other Animal Kingdom Experiences You’ll Love
If you love the Wilderness Explorers Challenge, check out these other amazing experiences at Animal Kingdom:
- Wild Africa Trek – A VIP safari experience with breathtaking animal encounters (requires an additional fee).
- Backstage Tales Tour – Go behind the scenes to see how Disney cares for its animals.
- Animal Kingdom Lodge – Stay in at Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort, where you can wake up to giraffes and zebras outside your window!
These cast members often have long-standing relationships with the animals they show, so it’s really fun to learn from them.
The Wilderness Explorers Challenge is one of the most interactive and rewarding experiences at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It’s a fantastic way for kids (and adults!) to learn about wildlife, conservation, and different cultures, all while having fun exploring the park.
So, are you ready to earn your badges and become a Wilderness Explorer?
When visiting Animal Kingdom, you may also want to check out the Wild Africa Trek, which is the VIP safari experience. It was awesome!
The Backstage Tales Tour Experience at Animal Kingdom is also incredible. This tour requires registration and an extra fee, but it is so worth it!
And for the top views of the animals, stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge. There’s really nothing like it!
Come back and let me know if your family decided to get your Wilderness Explorers Badges!
According to the WDW website, the set times are 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. every day of the week.
According to the Walt Disney World website, there are 25 badges.
After completing all 25 badges, you’ll get a special sticker badge and the title of Senior Wilderness Explorer. You can continue the program on your next visit if you’re not able to finish.
You will need to make sure you have comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of it. You should also carry cold water to stay hydrated.
What’s your favorite thing to do in the Animal Kingdom Disney theme park?
This article was first seen on Food, Fun & Faraway Places on April 21, 2015, and was updated on February 28, 2025.
