New Encanto and Indiana Jones-Themed Expansion Confirmed for Disney’s Animal Kingdom

by Morgan Flaherty | Aug 10, 2024 | Animal Kingdom, Walt Disney World, Walt Disney World News

new disney attractions,, disney world future plans, Tropical Americas at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Encanto Casita

At D23: The Ultimate Fan Event, it was confirmed that a new Tropical Americas expansion would be arriving at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, taking the place of the current DinoLand, U.S.A.

At Destination D23 in 2023, Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro teased an exciting potential project coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Specifically, D’Amaro shared concept art for a potential Tropical Americas expansion at the park, bringing to life attractions themed to Encanto and Indiana Jones. And now, we have confirmation that this major project will be moving forward.

New Pueblo Esperanza Expansion at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

At D23: The Ultimate Fan Event in 2024, Disney confirmed that a new Tropical Americas expansion, named Pueblo Esperanza, will be coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, taking over the DinoLand, U.S.A. area of the park. The new area will feature rides based around both Encanto and Indiana Jones.

Photo Courtesy of Disney

While Indiana Jones Adventure already exists at Disneyland Resort, this new ride will have a completely original storyline separate from the California counterpart. In this story, Indy will discover a Mayan temple, where he’s heard rumors of a mythical creature deep within the temple. He’ll be bringing you along with him, in a ride vehicle that looks similar to what we’ve seen with both Indiana Jones Adventure and DINOSAUR. The Indiana Jones attraction will take over the space where DINOSAUR currently exists, with construction set to start in phases this fall.

Additionally, the first-ever Encanto-themed ride will be coming to Animal Kingdom! Inside the Casita, Antonio has just received his gift, with his room transforming into rainforest. You’ll get to go inside and explore alongside him and members of the Madrigal family.

Photo Courtesy of Disney

Along with both attractions, the new 11-acre land will be home to the largest quick-service restaurants at Walt Disney World Resort, and a giant carousel with animals from Disney stories.

Pueblo Esperanza Opening 2027

Disney has confirmed that Pueblo Esperanza will open in 2027, with construction set to begin this fall. However, Disney has shared that guests will still have “plenty of time” to ride DINOSAUR, which may mean that the ride won’t be closing during the first phase of construction.

Want to follow along with all the latest announcements? Read all the updates you need from D23 in our guide.

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Posts by Morgan Flaherty

Morgan Flaherty, Disney World Expert | Morgan has been visiting Disney World for over 30 years, and has become an expert on the resort's theme parks, hotels, and surrounding area. As a Disney expert, Flaherty has been writing about the Disney Parks, history, and films for six years, covering everything from the latest breaking news to trip planning. She is a writer and editor with more than 10 years of experience, and you can find her work at Scary Mommy, Well + Good, The Everymom, and other outlets.