Will The Lion King spark an increase in African safari vacations?

As excitement builds for the opening of The Lion King, those adorable Disney characters could spark an interest to book a real African safari vacation.

Have you purchased your ticket to The Lion King? The revamped Disney classic film has some amazing visuals. Instead of the two-dimensional Simba and friends, the new version feels as if those creatures are walking along the Savannah in real life.

While everyone understands that this Disney movie is make believe, the realness of the visuals could entice many people to take an African safari vacation. After all, Africa has been a popular celebrity vacation spot for a lon time, and Harry and Meghan are visiting South Africa later this year.

With so many impressive visuals, you might start researching that epic vacation destination. But, will you be stepping into the picture perfect world or does something else await you?

I was fortunate enough to go on an African safari. My trip to South Africa was a bucket list trip and definitely impacted my perspective on many things. But, the reality is far from those majestic scenes that people view on movie screens.

Who doesn’t know that iconic moment when Simba is raised above Pride Rock as all the animals bow in his presence? If you honestly think that all the animals gather in one place waiting for you to capture their beauty, you are greatly mistaken.

Going on a safari means searching, looking, and sometimes not seeing animals. This experience is not like going to the zoo. Animals are living their lives, roaming around, and they aren’t on your schedule.

In a way, going on safari is like going on a search. Sure, you will be trying to “spot” animals hiding in the bush, but the experience can be more than that adventure.

Those quiet moments can be a time for reflection, introspection. Whether it is the moment that the sun crests the horizon or the vastness of the starry night sky, those pure, unfiltered moments can lead to a new purpose. Just as Simba needed to uncover his true self, many people discover a new part of themselves on these journeys.

During my experience, the day started early (often before 5 a.m.). As the dawn breaks, animals need to prepare for the hot day ahead. From finding a cool place to rest to staying safe from predators, the morning is a busy time.

In contrast, the night is filled with far away sounds that echo through the obscurity. During the veil of darkness, animals are extremely active. In some ways, the night is more exhilarating than the day.

Still, while animals are roaming about, certain creatures don’t all live together. Granted, it might not be as clear as the hyenas living in the desolate elephant burial ground, but predators and prey don’t live in perfect harmony.

Those beautiful Elton John lyrics of the Circle of Life are far more real on an African safari. Sure, there are stunning moments of a mother lion and her cubs at play, but the stark moments happen as well.

If you do go on safari, it is likely that you will see animals doing what they need to do to survive. While it might be brutal, it is part of nature. To some, it might be overwhelming and to others it could be exhilarating. But, that circle is continuous and one cannot happen without the other.

While The Lion King might have a heartfelt story, the influx of more travel to African safaris can be both good and bad. Disney launched the The Lion King “Protect the Pride” Campaign, which raises funds to Wildlife Conservation Network’s Lion Recovery Fund (LRF).

Disney always finds ways to integrate charitable endeavors with its own brand of magic. For example, this campaign donates funds for every rider of Kilimanjaro Safaris from July 19-25. Additionally, certain The Lion King Disney merchandise will raise funds for the project.

This blend of education, charity and awareness is vital. While the African lion population has lost about half of its lions over the past 25 years, the lure of nature’s power and beauty will never wane. Through education and activism, those majestic animals can continue to inspire others to journey to their homeland.

As people rush to see The Lion King in theaters, many people may consider a trip on an African safari. If you do choose this destination, educate yourself before jumping on that airplane.

Be respectful to the animals, land and culture that is welcoming you. While the lion might be king of the Savannah, the nature needs to live in harmony to flourish.

Have you ever been on an African Safari? Could The Lion King inspired your next epic adventure?