If you've ever watched the movie Up, you probably shed a few tears within the first 15 minutes of the film. After the tragic beginning of this Disney film, we are introduced to a young Wilderness Explorer named Russell. His ultimate goal in the film is to help Mr. Fredericksen with a simple task to earn his final Wilderness Explorer badge, which will then assist him in achieving the Golden Acorn. Their adventure includes traveling across the globe by floating house, meeting some new and unique animals, and encountering Mr. Fredericksen's childhood hero who ultimately wants to mess with the balance of nature to better his reputation.
Russell is a very enthusiastic and somewhat under-trained Wilderness Explorer, as we find out through the film. His love for nature and animals is seen through his character and interactions with the animals found along their way. Disney has given us the opportunity to share this same enthusiasm and joy for the outdoors, giving us the chance to become a Wilderness Explorer and earn badges throughout Disney's Animal Kingdom park. From the recycling badge to animal call badge, this adventure is one that you do not want to miss while visiting this park, and here are just a few reasons why!
1. You learn about nature in a new and fun way.
Activities such as listening to animal calls, identifying birds as they fly overhead and learning how we can help in our backyard are just 3 things that are done to earn each of the 29 badges around property. With your Wilderness Explorer Handbook, and map to guide the way to each troop leader at the badge points, it is a fun adventure that can fill as much time as you wish.
2. You “travel the world” to learn how to help it.
As you walk from Asia to Africa, you see different areas and representations of what is important in these countries. Every area in the world needs our help, whether it's through the care of animals or the protection of trees and nature. We can help from recycling to tracking animals and where to avoid uprooting trees and nature.
3. You learn about other cultures and meet people from around the world.
In addition to learning about taking care of the planet we call home, each explorer gets the opportunity to meet individuals from different countries. These include seeing their pride and learning the language from places such as India, Africa, and Thailand. Meeting others and learning about their culture is important in understanding each other and working to save our planet, together.
As a Wilderness Explorer, it is our responsibility to protect and conserve nature. This expedition is not just for little kids either, but for anyone that would love to learn about the wonderful world we call our home, as well as how we can save it. Be sure to bring your hat, sunglasses and sunscreen because the badges are from one end of the park to the next, and will definitely give you a bit of exercise. Enjoy learning and exploring!
The wilderness must be explored! CAW CAW, ROAR!
man running in forestPhoto by 
