- “Harambe” is Swahili, meaning ” coming together”
- The village of Harambe is based on the ancient Kenyan island town of Lamu. According to Disney “legend”, this town was once a hub for gold and ivory trade, and is now a tourist village. I agineers worked hard to tell the story of this small village that has grown and changed over the years. In fact, Disney brought over 13 Zulu craftsman from Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa, to create the thatched roofs throughout Africa including the Harambe Village Marketplace. They also looked to capture the flavor of this coastal town by creating narrow, winding streets, importing native artifacts, and even creating cracks in the sidewalks create a town that looks weathered by time.
- There is only one live baobab tree in Harambe, outside Tusker House restaurant.
- The largest tree replanted in Disney’s Animal Kingdom is located in Harambe village, and tipped the scales at 90 tons… that’s equal to the weight of 16 male elephants.
Africa
Lou Mongello
Lou Mongello is a former attorney who left the practice of law to pursue his passion for Disney. He began as one of the earliest podcasters back in 2005, and is the founder and host of WDW Radio (WDWRadio.com), named Best Travel Podcast for 9 consecutive years). Founded in 2004, WDW Radio also includes live video, blog, community, products, tours, and events dedicated to celebrating the magic of Walt Disney World, the Disney Parks, Disney Cruise Line, Marvel, and Star Wars.
He is also the author of numerous books about Disney, and a series of virtual Audio Tours of the parks, all created in an effort to help enhance guests' enjoyment and appreciation of the theme parks, shows, and films, and the people who make the magic happen.
Lou is also the founder of the Dream Team Project (DreamTeamProject.org), which sends children with life-threatening illnesses to Walt Disney World, and has raised more than $550,000.00 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America.
In addition to creating content around the Disney brands, Lou is also an author, coach, keynote speaker, and founder of the Momentum series of events and workshops for those looking to build their business and brand. Learn more at LouMongello.com.
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About Lou Mongello
Lou Mongello is a former attorney who left the practice to pursue his passion, and is now a recognized Disney expert, author, speaker, and host of WDW Radio. Learn more…