At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the savanna has long been the heart of the park and home to more than 100 animals, including the savanna royalty – African lions. One of the most iconic stops on Kilimanjaro Safaris is that of the home of the lions. For the past decade, two special lions, Dakari and Kamari, have graced the highest point of the savanna, creating lasting memories for millions of guests who have admired their beauty or heard their roar.
Disney has announced that Dakari and Kamari will retire to a conservation haven in Florida accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
The decision was made with a focus on their well-being, happiness, and health in mind. Kamari and Dakari have received world-class care from the animal keepers, veterinarians, and the entire animal care team for many years and will be greatly missed. Their presence has left a legacy to those who were responsible for their care over the years.
In addition to creating memories for guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the pair also helped bring stories to life on the big screen.
In 2019, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures released a live-action version of “The Lion King.” The ability to create photo-real animals was years in the making and was no easy feat. Dakari and Kamari jumped into place and served as inspiration. Crews visited the savanna to observe and film them. The footage was woven together to create 3D models the could be used to create the animals featured in the film. This allowed for the most realistic retelling of the story.
As Disney prepares to say farewell and wish them well for their retirement, we will always recall them as marvelous ambassadors for African lions around the world.
Once Dakari and Kamari are settled into their new home, a group of young lions will be welcomed to the savanna. The animal care team is eager to welcome the new lions and work diligently with them to make them feel comfortable in their new home. During the first few weeks after their arrival, the pride will spend time backstage, getting acclimated to our keepers and their new space. It won’t be necessary to make introductions because these lions are already littermates. We hope that sibling dynamic will shine through as guests make their way to them on Kilimanjaro Safaris.
Stay tuned for details on the new lions’ arrival and when guests will be able to visit them.
Will you miss Dakari and Kamari when you visit the savannah on Kilimanjaro Safaris?