The Kali River Rapids ride at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is finally reopening after closing this past November 1st due to refurbishment. It was announced via the My Disney Experience that the ride will reopen on December 16th, though reopening dates are subject to change.

The Kali River Rapids ride opening in March of 1999, almost one year after the opening of Animal Kingdom. The ride was part of the Asian Expansion, which was originally meant to open with the park but was delayed by a year due to budget constraints. 

The Kali River Rapids ride is a water raft ride where guests feel as if they are venturing into an ancient Asian civilization with ruins and old temples. The story for the ride is that illegal logging is taking place and the Kali River Expeditions send guests on a 12 person raft down the river to find out more. As the ride goes on you do see evidence of illegal logging and many beautiful sites that are offered by the ancient ruins and lovely trees and plants. 

The ride is one of the parks more popular attractions where guests can cool themselves off in the hot Floridian weather, though sandals are recommended as to not get soggy socks. The ride is similar to Grizzly River Run at Disney’s California Adventure as well as help inspire the Roaring Rapids ride at Shanghai Disneyland. The only major difference is that there is a giant animatronic crocodile that tries to eat you.

With the Kali River Rapids finally reopening guests will finally be able to cool off again from the sunny temperatures you usually get in the south.

Are you excited to see Kali River Rapids return? Do you plan on getting drenched the next time you take a trip down the river?

Source: WDWNT