Walt Disney World is undergoing significant changes in its parks in the coming years. Brand-new lands and upgrades to existing attractions will reshape the vacation experience we have come to know and will set the scene for the next generation of theme park fans. Personally, I’m really excited for these changes, though it’s always sad to see something nostalgic close to make space.
Case in point: in early 2026, the remainder of DinoLand U.S.A. in Disney’s Animal Kingdom will permanently close so the area can transform into a new land inspired by the Tropical Americas. This is the next significant, large-scale addition coming to Walt Disney World, so it’s worth taking a look at the project and seeing exactly what we can expect once it’s completed.
Tropical Americas land, “Pueblo Esperanza,” opening in 2027
The Tropical Americas-themed land will be Animal Kingdom’s first new land since the opening of Pandora – The World of Avatar in 2017. As of this writing, an exact opening date or season has not been announced, but we do know it’s coming sometime in 2027.
The Tropical Americas land, also known as “Pueblo Esperanza” (the village of hope), will be located in the current and former location of DinoLand U.S.A. The O.G. Animal Kingdom land is currently undergoing a phased closure, with most of the land currently a thing of the past except for its hallmark ride, DINOSAUR, and its main dining location, Restaurantosaurus. Those two locations, along with what is currently left of DinoLand U.S.A., will have their final day of operation on February 1, 2026.
With the entirety of DinoLand closed starting February 2, construction can truly take off with the area transforming into an entirely new land. But what exactly will take the place of DinoLand?
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What are the “Tropical Americas”?
Disney first revealed details about the Tropical Americas project in 2023. It was later confirmed in 2024 that the land would take the place of DinoLand U.S.A., with more details and a scale model revealed at that year’s D23 Ultimate Disney Fan Event. This was the first opportunity for fans to see in person what’s coming to the land, including rides and dining.
The region of the world Imagineers are drawing inspiration from for Pueblo Esperanza includes northern South America and stretches into Central America. Because it’s Animal Kingdom, we can expect Pueblo Esperanza to be filled with adventure, exploration, and, of course, animals.
The focal point of Pueblo Esperanza will feature a large fountain where villagers will gather and swap stories. In the distance, you’ll be able to spot familiar structures, like the Family Madrigal’s Casita from Encanto. The hit animated film will play a large role in this new land.
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Tropical Americas attractions and dining
When completed, Pueblo Esperanza will include three rides for guests of all ages to enjoy. The first-ever Entanto ride-through attraction will bring guests inside the Family Madrigal’s Casita.
According to Disney, the story of the ride goes like this: “Inside the Casita, Antonio has just received his special gift — the ability to communicate with animals — and his room has transformed into a rainforest.” As riders explore the house, they are sure to run into plenty of animals and adventures along the way. This is, after all, Animal Kingdom.
If you’re looking for more thrills, don’t worry: DINOSAUR isn’t going away entirely. The bones of the ride (pun somewhat intended) will be transformed into a ride inspired by the Indiana Jones franchise. Disneyland fans might be thinking, “Wait…we already have an Indiana Jones ride with the same ride vehicles and layout as DINOSAUR.” According to Disney, the Indiana Jones ride coming to Animal Kingdom will have an entirely original story.
The third ride will be a carousel featuring some of the most beloved Disney animals. A model of one of the animals, Kevin from Up, was on display at the 2024 D23 Ultimate Disney Fan Event.
The animals in the carousel will appear to be hand-carved out of wood by a local woodcarver to fit the theme and story of Pueblo Esperanza.
In addition to these three rides, there will also be a themed play area for little ones. No word yet on whether there will be any live animals calling Pueblo Esperanza home, but this is Animal Kingdom. I wouldn’t be surprised if some smaller exhibits were scattered around the land.
When it’s time to eat, guests can head over to Pueblo Esperanza’s main eatery: a large hacienda quick-service restaurant. Few details are known as of this writing for what will be on the menu, but I would expect to see a blend of familiar and authentic South American flavors front and center. Personally, I cannot wait to eat here!
Be sure to follow along as more details are revealed ahead of the completion of Pueblo Esperanza, opening at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 2027.
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What We Know About the Tropical Americas Land Coming to Walt Disney World originally appeared on The World of Spark.
