Disney’s Animal Kingdom is loved for its immersive theming, wildlife, and thrilling attractions, but for many Disney fans in their 50s, not every ride is worth it.

Dinosaur in Animal Kingdom

While the park offers plenty of adventure, a handful of attractions have earned a reputation for being too rough, too jarring, or simply too uncomfortable to be fun. Whether it’s back pain concerns or the misery of walking around soaked for hours, these four rides are often the first to get crossed off the list for those guests in their 50s.

DINOSAUR: Your Back Adjustment

DINOSAUR looks innocent enough from the outside, but seasoned guests know better. This chaotic, dark ride sends guests careening through prehistoric jungles in what might be one of Disney’s bumpiest ride vehicles. In fact, some compare it to going to the chiropractor with the way it moves. Fans in their 50s frequently report that the attraction’s jerky movements and sudden jolts leave them feeling like they’ve been tossed around by a T. Rex. Even those who love the storyline admit that the physical discomfort simply isn’t worth the next-day soreness. It’s a ride many adults skip — not because it’s scary, but because their backs are begging them to.

DINOSAUR Ride Vehicle

Expedition Everest: Thrills That Take a Toll

Expedition Everest is an iconic Disney coaster, but it’s also notorious for being rougher than many expect. The backward segment, rapid directional changes, and high-speed drops can be exhilarating for thrill-seekers, but less so for those with aging joints. Disney fans in their 50s often say that, as much as they love Everest’s theming and the Yeti storyline, the ride leaves them feeling rattled. Some even report that it triggers dizziness or neck stiffness, making it one of the top Animal Kingdom attractions they reluctantly pass on.

Everest!

Kilimanjaro Safaris: Surprisingly Tough

At first glance, Kilimanjaro Safaris seems like the gentlest ride in the park, but don’t let the slow pace fool you. The safari trucks traverse rough, uneven terrain, and those bumps can add up over the course of the lengthy tour. Guests with back or hip issues often note that the constant jostling, combined with hard bench seating, makes the experience surprisingly uncomfortable. While the animals are incredible, many fans in their 50s choose to enjoy them from walking trails instead of bracing themselves for fifteen minutes of spine-shaking safari roads.

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kali River Rapids: Soaked Clothes + Florida Heat = Hard Pass

While the other rides are skipped for being physically rough, Kali River Rapids is avoided for an entirely different reason: getting absolutely drenched. Many adults in their 50s say the payoff just isn’t worth spending the rest of the day in wet clothes, soggy socks, and squishy shoes. Because the Florida humidity makes drying off nearly impossible, the discomfort lasts for hours. Add to that the spinning motion and the fact that you can’t predict who will get the worst of the splash, and this water ride easily lands on the “no thanks” list.

Kali River Rapids

Instead of these rides, guests might enjoy a few of the incredible shows that are at Animal Kingdom. Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! are both indoor shows that are entertaining and a great place to relax. There are also great lounges and restaurants to enjoy at this park as well. That’s what makes Disney parks great — there is still something for every kind of guest.

Festival of the Lion King

Animal Kingdom is filled with unforgettable experiences, but these four rides aren’t always friendly to aging backs, joints, and comfort preferences. Be sure to follow DFB for more tips for your Disney World vacation to see what might be a good fit for you!

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Is there a Disney World ride you refuse to ride? Tell us in the comments below!