While the Serengeti Plain remains one of the most unique features of the park today, it was the roll out in 1977 of the Arrow corkscrew roller coaster — Python — that was the turning point in the park's history. Just four yeas after the Python, a classic looping roller coaster, Scorpion was introduced. Then, after a long 13 years, Busch Gardens unveiled its largest coaster yet in any of their parks. An original design, Kumba set the standard for the park's popularity with thrill seeking coaster enthusiasts. In 1996 the park added Montu, an inverted roller coaster; and, in 1999, Gwazi, a set of dueling wooden coasters. But they didn't stop there... the park also grew to include other thrill rides, shows, entertainment and the ever popular animals.
Possibly the most unique mix of discovery and adventure is new to Busch Gardens — Jungala, a colorful village with towering trees, flowing waterways and elaborate stone structures. Come face-to-face with orangutans and test your strength in a tug of war with a Bengal tiger. Children can explore a three-story play land of climbing nets, mazes and tunnels... or soar above the treetops on a zip line adventure.
Today, unforgettable adventures can be enjoyed by the entire family at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. It's a unique and entertaining experience based on exotic encounters with the African continent. While some of the wildest encounters may very well be aboard its coasters, let's not forget that you can enjoy one of the country's premier zoos featuring more than 2,000 animals, entertaining live shows, as well as delightful restaurants and shopping.
Animal Attractions
Jambo Junction is Busch Gardens' newest animal attraction. Guest may participate in animal feedings, lessons in husbandry and behavior training with featured animals — Caribbean flamingos, lemurs, cuscuses, sloths and opossums.The Serengeti Plain features 65 acres of exploration with hundreds of exotic African animals that can be seen from the Serengeti Express Railway, Skyride, Serengeti Safari and walkways.
The lush rain-forest habitat of Myombe Reserve is home to gorillas and chimpanzees. Guests may tour the Great Ape Domain amid waterfalls, mist and fog to get an up-close look at these primates.
Nearly 500 tropical birds from around the globe fill the aviary of Bird Gardens. Also enjoy the Wild Wings of Africa show and experience the majestic bald and golden eagles in Eagle Canyon.
The domed habitat of Lory Landing showcases a variety of brightly colored birds, including several species of parrots — both in free flight and observational environments.
One of Busch Gardens most popular animal attractions is Clydesdale Hamlet where guests can pose for a picture with one of the World Famous Budweiser Clydesdales during daily photo and petting sessions.
Ride Attractions
SheiKra was North America's first dive coaster with riders experiencing a three-minute ride taking them 200 feet up, then 90 degrees straight down. The tallest coaster in Florida features "floorless" cars that give riders a thrilling and unobstructed view of the 70-mph journey.Kumba incorporates an initial 135 foot drop with another diving loop while spiraling 350 degrees and one of the world's largest vertical loops.
Montu is one of the tallest and longest inverted roller coaster in the world, with rider experiencing an inverse diving loop and a 60-foot vertical loop at speeds of over 60 mph and a G-force of 3.85.
Gwazi intertwines two wooden tracks into the Southeast's largest and fastest double wooden roller coasters. Both the Lion and Tiger tracks offer two distinct ride experiences.
Cheetah Chase in Timbuktu features five-stories of curves, drops and corkscrews. At only 22 mph, it is said to be the perfect ride for a child's first coaster experience.
Scorpion stings riders with a terrifying 60-foot drop and a 360-degree loop.
The Wild Surge launches riders out of a 35-foot mountain crater above a towering waterfall for a thrilling view of Jungala's village below.
Jungle Flyers soar 50 feet above Jungala's village with the choice of three different flight patterns.
Rhino Rally is a wild jeep off-road adventure through the wilds of Africa.
Congo River Rapids spins passengers in a 12-person raft through a geyser and face-to-face with an ominous waterfall, as well as other thrilling obstacles.
Stanley Falls whisks the whole family through a splish-splashing log flume ride that ends in a 40-foot drenching drop.
Tanganyika Tidal Wave a tranquil jungle journey aboard a 20-passenger boat that takes a sudden 55-foot plunge, creating a tidal wave that soaks passengers.
Entertainment
Rock A Doo Wop is an all-new show at the Marrakesh Theater, featuring the greatest hits of the 50s and 60s, performed by talented singers and dancers. Favorite songs like "This Magic Moment" will take you back in time to the doo-wop era.KaTonga: Musical Tales From the Jungle takes you on a journey to the heart of Africa in a 35-minute musical celebration of animal folklore.
Pirates 4-D is a swashbuckling Caribbean treasure-hunt adventure that will entertain the entire family with the latest 4-D special effects technology.
