Disney’s Animal Kingdom is about to get a major new land, and it’s rooted in one of the most vibrant regions on Earth.
A new chapter is unfolding at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and it’s unlike anything the park has done before. Inspired by the cultures, landscapes, and stories of Central and South America, Tropical Americas is shaping up to be one of Disney’s most immersive expansions yet.
For nearly 30 years, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has blended nature, storytelling, and adventure into one unforgettable experience. From the savannas of Africa to the floating mountains of Pandora, each land connects guests to the natural world in a meaningful way.
Now, that legacy continues with the upcoming Tropical Americas land, set to open in 2027 — bringing lush rainforests, vibrant cultures, and new stories to life.
A New Land Inspired by a Living, Breathing Region
Tropical Americas will represent one of the most culturally rich and biodiverse regions in the world, spanning northern South America, Central America, and parts of Mexico.
Here, nature isn’t just a backdrop — it shapes daily life, traditions, and communities. That connection between people and the environment is at the heart of what this land will bring to Animal Kingdom.
At the center of it all will be Pueblo Esperanza, a fully realized town designed with its own history, culture, and personality — much like Harambe in Africa or Anandapur in Asia.
A Long Time in the Making
The idea of a Tropical Americas-inspired land isn’t new.
Imagineers have explored the concept for years, including early ideas centered around ancient Maya temples and rainforest adventures. According to Disney Legend Joe Rohde, the region has always been a natural fit for Animal Kingdom due to its deep connection between culture and nature.
Now, those ideas are finally coming together — blended with beloved Disney storytelling like Encanto and Indiana Jones.
The result is a land that merges real-world inspiration with Disney magic.
Imagineering’s Real-World Research
To bring Tropical Americas to life authentically, teams from Walt Disney Imagineering traveled directly to the region for in-depth research.
Honduras & the Maya Connection
In Honduras, Imagineers worked alongside Maya artists near the historic Copán site — one of the most significant ancient Maya cities.
They explored traditional stone carving techniques, local quarries used for centuries, and native red and green stone unique to the region.
These same materials (and the craftsmanship behind them) will be reflected in the land, using time-honored techniques to recreate authentic details.
Colombia & the World of Encanto
The team also traveled to Colombia to study the real-world inspiration behind Encanto.
This research will directly influence the first-ever Encanto attraction in a Disney park, where guests will celebrate Antonio’s new gift of communicating with animals, and explore themes of family, identity, and connection to nature.
During the trip, Imagineers visited the same locations and met many of the same people who inspired the original film — ensuring the attraction feels deeply rooted in reality.
Designing Pueblo Esperanza
Beyond attractions, Imagineers focused heavily on creating a town that feels authentic and lived-in.
They studied the colors and textures of plazas and haciendas, how architecture adapts to climate and terrain, and everyday cultural details that bring a place to life.
The goal is for Pueblo Esperanza to feel like a real community — not just a themed environment.
A Land Built on Authenticity and Story
Every research trip, conversation, and detail feeds into a bigger mission: telling stories with care, respect, and authenticity.
Tropical Americas will be a layered, immersive environment that honors the cultures of Central and South America—while still delivering the magic and storytelling Disney is known for.
What to Expect in 2027
When it opens, Tropical Americas will welcome guests into a vibrant rainforest environment filled with life, a culturally rich town at the heart of the land, new attractions inspired by Encanto and Indiana Jones, and a deeper connection between nature, people, and storytelling.
Follow along for more updates — because as Tropical Americas comes to life, it’s shaping up to be one of the most meaningful additions the park has ever seen.
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