Checking into the Jambo House, we were in awe of the soaring ceiling lobby filled with glass windows and one of the tallest Christmas Trees in Florida. Our girls took the stairs down to one of many wildlife viewing areas to observe zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and red river hogs.

The Lobby Concierge is a great place to also purchase tickets to the Disney World parks and make dining reservations. We learned that guests in Club Level rooms can also enjoy personalized concierge service, advance itinerary-planning assistance and complimentary refreshments throughout the day.

When we were led to our room, we were excited to have a view of the flamingos, large swimming pool and section of the savanna. We donned our bathing suits and went down the stairs to explore the property.

Safari Guides and Animal specialists from Africa answered our questions about the animals in the 4 different Savanna areas. We also learned about the guide's home country, where they lived, went to school and favorite foods. At dusk the guides bring out night-vision binoculars to see the animals in the dark.

The pool at the Jambo house is Retreat to a tropical oasis, featuring gently sloping with zero-depth entry. There is a small water-slide. Our room was above one of the two relaxing whirlpool spas. There is also a children's wading pool. In the evening, the staff bring out a big screen and project a movie for families to watch. Every now and then, you can hear a nearby animal make a sound to remind you of the savanna.

Our room in the lodge was a basic studio decorated in an African theme. Two Queen size beds, double sink, safe in the closet, shower/tub and a small balcony with two chairs for viewing the grounds and animals.

Next time we will splurge and pay up for a villa. Even though it may cost up to $200 more a night, a friend said the Kitchen and balcony with better views of the animals is worth the price.

We enjoyed the African-inspired architecture at the buffet restaurant fro breakfast and dinner. Staff members frequently bang on African drums and gather diners in a friendly congo line around the restaurant. We enjoyed some of the African stews and soups, as well as salads, pastas, meat carving stations and desserts.

For smaller children there is Simba's Clubhouse where kids can watch movies and play games, while parents enjoy some alone time.
Out by the pool is the Hakuna Matata Playground open 24-hours and overlooks the flamingos.

Kilimanjaro Safaris vehicles take families early in the morning for a one-hour animal viewing in one of the savanna's and have a hot breakfast afterwards.

Once you arrive by bus or park your car in the Jambo House lot, use the complimentary Disney bus transportation throughout Walt Disney World Resort.The bus stop at Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas Jambo House is located near the entrance of the Resort hotel, in front of the Giraffe Trail Guest Rooms.