Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has permanently closed Kumba, a legendary roller coaster that operated for over three decades. The ride took its final riders on August 6, 2026, just months after its 33rd anniversary.
A Record-Breaking Legacy
Kumba first opened in 1993 as a side attraction to the then-new Busch Brewery location. At the time, it featured the world's tallest vertical loop at 114 feet, and was also the tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster in Florida.
Despite these records being broken over the years, the ride continued to attract crowds. It featured a 135-foot drop, a dive loop, a zero-g roll, a cobra roll, and a pair of interlocking corkscrews, putting the theme park on the map for thrill seekers and competing with Disney and Universal.
Announcement and Tribute
Busch announced at the start of 2026 that the attraction would close this year. The park paid tribute to the ride on social media, writing: “Debuting in 1993, Kumba set a new standard for thrill rides! It was Florida’s tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster when it opened, and it featured the world’s tallest vertical loop.”
The statement continued: “From its 7 exhilarating inversions to its iconic roar sound, Kumba has left its mark on Busch Gardens and will be remembered as an icon of the park.”
A Sequel in the Works
The statement also announced that a sequel ride is set to open after the closure. It said: “As part of our evolution and commitment to delivering innovative attractions, we are happy to announce Kumba’s Revenge! This new attraction is a part of our $100 million investment that will elevate Busch Gardens as Florida’s thrill leader and enhance our guest experience.”
“Kumba’s Revenge is an extension of an already legendary coaster, and it will allow its spirit to live on as we enter a new era of thrills.” Details of the new attraction are yet to be revealed.
