( David Roark and Matt Stroshane, photographers)

Youngsters Can Embark on New Lion Guard Adventure At Walt Disney World Resort

Lion Guard Roars into Disney’s Animal Kingdom in February

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Jan. 25, 2016) – In February, young explorers will have the chance to participate in a quest to become honorary members of the Lion Guard in a new Disney’s Animal Kingdom adventure inspired by Disney Junior’s animated series “The Lion Guard,” premiering January 15, 2016 on Disney Channel.

“The Lion Guard” continues the epic storytelling of “The Lion King” and follows Kion, the second-born cub of Simba and Nala, and his diverse group of friends as they unite to protect the Pride Lands. The story of Kion and his friends, who make up the Pride Lands’ fiercest, bravest, fastest, strongest and keenest of sight, was introduced in “The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar” television movie which premiered on Disney Channel in November 2015 and became the #1 primetime cable TV telecast of 2015 among kids ages 2-5. The Education and Science experts at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park serve as consultants, inspiring original stories based on their first-hand experiences, and advising on the characteristics, behaviors and habitats of various African animal species.

The new Lion Guard Adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom sends young explorers on a park-wide search for the five Lion Guard characters: Kion, the fierce leader of the Lion Guard; Bunga, a brave and fearless honey badger; Fuli, a confident cheetah; Beshte, a friendly and good-natured hippo; and Ono, an intellectual egret.

The expedition begins as guests pick up a Lion Guard Adventure Map available in select merchandise locations. Youngsters will search for character statues hidden in themed locations throughout the park that represent each animal. For instance, Kion, the son of Simba, can be found in the Africa section of the park, Ono, the egret can be found near the Tree of Life, and Beshte, the hippo is hidden in Harambe. At each stop, there’s a Lion Guard banner and a sign with the character’s attribute.

As guests journey through the park, they learn about animals and the Circle of Life along the way. Once all five character traits are discovered, the adventure culminates at Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Here, cast members induct participants into the Lion Guard with a special pledge, fun activities, and a Lion Guard Button identifying them as honorary members. Plus, featured character from The Lion Guard, Rafiki, joins the newest inductees for a memorable photo opportunity.

Fans can enjoy even more Lion Guard experiences inside Conservation Station with Lion Guard music, videos and a special look at Disney Junior and Disneynature’s new short-form series “It’s UnBungalievable,” a nature show hosted by “The Lion Guard’s” animated Bunga the honey badger, and Ono the egret, featuring live-action wildlife footage.