Disney Sets Closure Date for Rafiki’s Planet Watch Ahead of Bluey Experience

Animal Kingdom’s Conservation Station Closing Soon for Bluey Transformation

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is preparing for a major update at Rafiki’s Planet Watch. To make way for the highly anticipated Bluey and Bingo character experience, Disney has confirmed that both Conservation Station and the Wildlife Express Train will temporarily close starting February 23, 2026.

This closure will make the entire Rafiki’s Planet Watch area inaccessible to guests for several months as construction teams transform the space.

What to Expect During the Closure

The shutdown includes the Wildlife Express Train, the primary transportation from the Harambe station in Africa to the conservation area. Conservation Station—which currently houses animal exhibits, the veterinary treatment room, and the Animation Academy—will undergo significant changes to accommodate the new interactive offerings.

If you are planning a visit to see the animals or visit the “Affection Section” petting zoo in its current form, you have until February 22, 2026, to do so.

A New Way to Play with Bluey

The new experience, set to open in Summer 2026, will feature Bluey and Bingo leading interactive games and activities inspired by the hit series.

According to recent casting details, a new “P.A.C.K. team” (Playful Animal Crew for Kids) will host these excursions, which will include:

• Interactive Games: Activities like butterfly-themed “Keepy Uppy”.
• Character Meet-and-Greets: Opportunities to dance and take photos with Bluey and Bingo.
• Outdoor Elements: An updated outdoor component featuring animals native to Australia, the home of the Heeler family.

The Bluey Takeover of 2026

This Animal Kingdom update is just one part of a company-wide “Bluey Summer” in 2026. Other upcoming Bluey experiences include:

• Disneyland Resort: “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” debuting at the Fantasyland Theatre on March 22, 2026.
• Disney Cruise Line: New character meet-and-greets and themed dance parties on select sailings.

Rehearsals for the new Animal Kingdom offering are scheduled to begin in early May, pointing toward a late spring or early summer grand opening for the transformed space.

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