A Magical Experience on the Caring for Giants Tour

During our recent trip to Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom, we had the incredible opportunity to experience several animal-themed "Enchanting Extras." Among these were Starlight Safari, Up Close with Rhinos, and Caring for Giants.

The Caring for Giants tour is a backstage experience that allows guests to get a closer look at Animal Kingdom’s beloved African elephants. This 60-minute tour at Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park requires valid theme park admission and offers a rare peek into Disney’s animal care and conservation efforts, including a behind-the-scenes look at the Kilimanjaro Safaris’ elephant habitat.

Checking In: Getting Started with Caring for Giants

Our Caring for Giants adventure began at the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk, located conveniently next to the entrance of Kilimanjaro Safaris. Guests are advised to arrive and check in well before the start time to ensure a smooth experience.

We were each given unique name tags made from 85% elephant poop fibers—a fun, eco-friendly detail that reflects Disney's commitment to sustainability and conservation. Our tour started promptly at 2 p.m., led by a friendly guide (a cast member) who shared helpful information about what we would and wouldn’t experience on the tour.

It’s important to note that Caring for Giants does not include any up-close interactions or petting of the elephants. Instead, it provides a more unique experience, allowing guests to appreciate the elephants from a designated viewing area that offers closer and longer views than the standard Kilimanjaro Safari ride.

A Backstage Look into Animal Kingdom

Once the tour began, we took a short walk to a passenger van that would drive us to the elephant viewing area. We were grateful for the air conditioning in the van, as the afternoon heat was intense.

The van ride itself was an exciting transition to the backstage areas, giving us a sense of how Disney operates and cares for the animals behind the scenes. During the drive, an animal specialist cast member explained Disney's impressive conservation efforts, supported by the Disney Conservation Fund.

Proceeds from tours like Caring for Giants go toward helping preserve wild populations of African elephants and contribute to various conservation initiatives worldwide. Funds earned from the tours go towards the preservation of wild populations of elephants.

After a short drive, we arrived at an observation area on the opposite side of the elephant habitat from what is visible on the Kilimanjaro Safari. This unique vantage point provides a great perspective of the elephants’ daily life.

Though the tour doesn’t guarantee sightings, as the elephants roam freely, our group was fortunate to see them soon after we arrived.

The Viewing Area: A Memorable Encounter with Disney's Elephants

As we settled into the viewing area, we eagerly scanned the habitat, hoping to spot some elephants. After a few minutes, we were delighted to see several elephants making their way over to the viewing platform. Watching baby Stella explore alongside her mother, aunt, and grandmother was truly a magical moment.

Seeing the elephants interact with one another in such a natural environment was a beautiful reminder of their strong family bonds and social behaviors. From our vantage point, about 80 to 100 feet away, we had views of the elephants up close while allowing them their space and comfort.

The 30 minutes we spent at the viewing location felt like plenty of time to absorb the experience.

For those on the Kilimanjaro Safari ride, it’s possible to spot the Caring for Giants tour group from across the elephant habitat, adding a layer of excitement to both experiences. The ability to view the elephants from different perspectives highlights the careful planning that goes into Animal Kingdom's attractions.

Learning from Knowledgeable Guides

The Caring for Giants elephant experience includes more than just observation; it’s a mini-education in elephant care and conservation. Our guides were experts who shared in-depth information about the daily routines and specialized care provided to these magnificent animals. Disney’s animal care team works tirelessly to create a nurturing environment that prioritizes the elephants’ health and happiness. The guide’s insights into the care routines, diet, and enrichment activities gave us a greater appreciation for the dedication involved in supporting these gentle giants.

The interactive portion of the tour added a special touch. Our guide passed around an actual elephant tooth and a sample of a sanitized piece of elephant poop, For our kids, this hands-on element was especially memorable!

How to Book the Caring for Giants Tour

Advance reservations are required for Caring for Giants, and guests can book up to 60 days in advance through the My Disney Experience app. However, last-minute slots may sometimes be available on the day of, though it’s not guaranteed. The tour is open to guests aged four and older, making it a perfect experience for families with young children who are interested in backstage tours.

Since the tour involves both indoor and outdoor segments, it’s a good idea to bring water, hats, and sunscreen for hot days. While the van offers a cool break, the viewing area is outdoors and fully exposed to the elements.

Comparing Experiences: Caring for Giants vs. Up Close with Rhinos

While Caring for Giants offers a wonderful opportunity to observe elephants in a unique way, our family found the Up Close with Rhinos tour even more memorable. On the rhino tour, guests have the incredible chance to interact closely with the rhinos, including petting a white rhinoceros—a truly magical moment for any animal lover.

So, if you're looking for a more hands-on experience, the Up Close with Rhinos tour might be the perfect choice, while Caring for Giants is ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed, educational experience.

Is Caring for Giants Worth It?

Caring for Giants is an unforgettable experience, particularly for animal lovers and families interested in conservation. Watching the park's African elephants and learning about their care in such a peaceful, intimate setting felt like a genuine privilege. Disney’s dedication to animal welfare is apparent, and this tour shines a light on their extensive conservation efforts that go beyond the magic of the theme park.

While Caring for Giants may not have been our top pick among the in-park tours, it was certainly a valuable experience and one we’d recommend to those with an interest in conservation. To truly feel the magic of Disney animal care, however, Up Close with Rhinos was the standout for our family, as nothing quite compares to petting a rhino!

For more details on our Disney adventures, check out our Disney reviews, and for tips on planning your own trip with points, explore our guides on how to plan Disney World using points. You too can have a budget or low-cost dream Disney World vacation. This entire trip cost me only $1,414 including airfare, hotel, and 7-day park hopper plus park tickets for 3 people.

Caring for Giants Tour at Disney's Animal Kingdom