Photo courtesy of Rebecca Droeger.
Busch Gardens Tampa announced an upcoming expansion of the Lion & Hyena Ridge in the Edge of Africa section of the park.
–
By Nicole Droeger Stephens and Faith Montalvo
TAMPA, Fla. — On Nov. 5, Busch Gardens Tampa announced the upcoming expansion of the Lion & Hyena Ridge animal exhibit. Coming in 2026, the expansion will more than double the habitat’s size to 35,000 square feet. It will also include new habitats and enrichment centers for the animals.
“We’re thrilled to unveil our newest habitat, the all-new Lion & Hyena Ridge, opening in 2026,” said Brian Bacica, park president of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, in a press release. “This space not only offers our guests a closer look at these incredible species, but also reinforces our commitment to conservation, education, and animal care at the highest standards.”
Busch Gardens is known for its thrill rides and roller coasters like Iron Gwazi, Cheetah Hunt, and SheiKra, and it currently hosts thousands of animals from over 200 wildlife species. The park originally opened as a beer garden with animal shows under the Anheuser-Busch brewing company. It has since grown into a 335-acre amusement park operated by United Parks & Resorts, formerly known as SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment.
The announcement promises a new front entrance to the Edge of Africa section of the amusement park. New decorations will include water elements and Kopje-style rock formations that look and feel more natural to the animals. Guests will have access to four shaded viewing areas with a 270-degree view of the lion and hyena exhibits.
Busch Gardens Tampa posted on Facebook that this is the largest and most immersive expansion at the park in over a decade.
“This is the kind of stuff I want to see added,” a user commented on Facebook. “Busch should continue to invest in beautifying the parks and adding other experiences besides just another coaster.”
When another user asked if the park would add more lions, Busch Gardens responded that they will see new faces when the expansion opens. According to the press release, the exhibit will feature a pride of five male lions born in 2024 and a pair of hyenas.
“I can’t wait to see what you do for them,” a third user replied. “I will miss seeing them on display for the time being.”
The habitats will be upgraded with two interconnected exhibit spaces and enrichment centers that will allow the animals to interact more freely and show more dynamic social behaviors, according to the announcement. The park’s goal is to give the lions and hyenas more space to explore their habitat. Its website states that animal safety and comfort are top priorities.
This announcement comes shortly after Busch Gardens’ 52-year-old Stanley Falls Flume, a water ride, closed in September. The park said in a social media post that it will be replaced with a new attraction, which is still to be announced.
The amusement park’s animal habitats are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). According to its website, the AZA accredits zoos and aquariums that meet “the highest standards” in animal care that benefits the animals physically, mentally, and socially.
No official date has been announced for the expansion’s completion. For more information, visit the Busch Gardens Tampa website at buschgardens.com/tampa.