Disney has announced a new Lion King attraction coming to its Paris resort. Guests will embark on a “journey through the African savanna” with beloved characters such as Mufasa, Simba, Timon, and Pumbaa, according to theme park head Josh D’Amaro. Mock-ups unveiled at the D23 convention depicted a log flume ride descending Pride Rock while Rafiki watches.
This announcement follows Disney’s recent report of lower-than-expected theme park earnings for the quarter ending in June. Rumors of a Lion King attraction at Disneyland Paris have been circulating since 2022.
Last year, Disney revealed plans to invest $60 billion over the next decade to expand its theme parks and cruise operations, doubling the previous decade’s spending. The Lion King-themed area will be introduced after the World of Frozen, a Frozen-themed section set to open in Paris in 2026.
The new areas will be part of the Walt Disney Studios Park, which will be renamed Disney Adventure World. Disney’s Imagineering team promises to bring “the majestic Pride Rock” to life, serving as the entrance to an adventure-filled water attraction that will take guests through Simba’s journey from cub to king.
Additionally, Disney’s Magic Kingdom in Florida will see its largest expansion in 53 years, with new lands dedicated to classic Disney villains and Pixar’s Cars. Disney’s Hollywood Studios will feature a new Monsters Inc rollercoaster, while Disney’s Animal Kingdom will introduce Encanto and Indiana Jones-themed rides.
On the West Coast, Disneyland Resort in California will add superhero-themed rides, an Avatar water attraction, and its first Coco ride. Hong Kong Disneyland will launch a new Spider-Man attraction within a Marvel-themed area. Disney also announced four new cruise ships, nearly tripling its fleet by 2031.
D’Amaro emphasized that all these developments are actively underway, countering any speculation. These announcements follow a period of upheaval at Disney, including Bob Iger’s return as CEO and a major reorganization. Disney has also faced challenges, including a dispute with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, which led to the cancellation of a new office campus.
Despite a recent decline in operating profit by 3% to $2.2 billion, attributed to “moderation of consumer demand” and increased costs, Disney’s parks remain a strong profit driver. The experiences unit, including parks and cruise ships, now accounts for 60% of Disney’s operating profit.
