Disney’s Animal Kingdom is getting its biggest transformation in years. Beginning in 2026, Tropical Americas will replace DinoLand U.S.A. with an entirely new land inspired by Latin American culture, Encanto, and Indiana Jones.

If you are planning a 2026 Disney World vacation, this expansion will directly impact crowd levels, park strategy, and where you spend your time.

Here is everything officially announced so far.

What Is Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom?

Tropical Americas is a newly themed land coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It will replace DinoLand U.S.A., which has already begun phased closure and reimagining.

Disney has confirmed the new land will feature:

• An Encanto-themed attraction
• An Indiana Jones adventure
• New themed dining locations
• Updated pathways and immersive environments

The setting will reflect the landscapes and architecture of Latin America, with strong storytelling elements tied to both franchises.

Encanto Attraction at Animal Kingdom

One of the most anticipated additions to Animal Kingdom 2026 is the Encanto ride.

While Disney has not released full ride details, we do know:

• The attraction will center around the Madrigal family
• It will take place inside Casita
• Guests will encounter magical elements from the film

Encanto continues to be one of Disney’s most popular modern films, and its addition is expected to significantly increase demand at Animal Kingdom.

This will likely become one of the park’s headliner attractions once it opens.

Indiana Jones Replacing DinoLand

The Indiana Jones attraction will replace DINOSAUR in DinoLand U.S.A.

Disney has confirmed:

• The ride will be reimagined into an Indiana Jones adventure
• It will retain a similar ride system
• The storyline will change to fit the Indiana Jones universe

This mirrors the popular Indiana Jones Adventure attraction at Disneyland but will have a unique storyline for Walt Disney World.

This update gives Animal Kingdom a stronger thrill component and refreshes one of its longest-running attractions.

New Dining Locations in Tropical Americas

Disney has confirmed that Tropical Americas will include new dining options, though exact restaurant names and menus have not been announced.

Based on concept art and Disney’s recent trends, guests can expect:

• Culturally inspired quick-service dining
• Themed snack locations
• Possibly a table-service restaurant

Animal Kingdom has historically had strong food offerings, and this new land will likely continue that trend with regionally inspired cuisine.

This will be one of the few brand-new dining expansions inside a park tied directly to 2026.

When Will Tropical Americas Open?

Disney has announced the land will open in phases beginning in 2026.

Important planning notes:

• Construction will impact portions of Animal Kingdom before full completion
• Some areas of DinoLand may close earlier than others
• Opening timelines may vary between attractions

If you are visiting in early 2026, portions may still be under construction. Late 2026 visitors are more likely to experience completed offerings.

How Tropical Americas Will Impact Crowds

This expansion will likely shift crowd patterns in several ways:

• Animal Kingdom attendance will increase
• Rope drop strategy may change
• Genie+ and Lightning Lane demand will rise
• Dining reservations inside the land will be competitive

Encanto alone has strong draw power among families.

For 2026 planning, Animal Kingdom will no longer be considered a half-day park by many guests.

Is 2026 a Good Year to Visit Animal Kingdom?

If you enjoy experiencing new lands and attractions early, 2026 will be exciting.

However, it may also bring:

• Higher crowd levels
• Construction overlap
• Opening-day demand spikes

Historically, new Disney lands drive attendance increases for at least 12 to 18 months after opening.

If your goal is to experience Tropical Americas with shorter waits, late 2026 or early 2027 may offer more stable crowd patterns.

Why This Is One of the Biggest Disney World Updates for 2026

Tropical Americas represents:

• A full land replacement
• Two major intellectual properties
• New dining experiences
• A shift in Animal Kingdom’s identity

This is not a minor overlay. It is a structural transformation of a full section of the park.

For 2026 Disney World vacation planning, this expansion is one of the most important developments to watch.