Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has permanently closed Kumba, a once record-breaking roller coaster, after 33 years of operation. The ride took its last passengers on August 2, 2026.
A Legendary Ride's History
Kumba first opened in 1993 as an attraction at 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. Those records have since been surpassed.
The ride included a 135-foot drop, a dive loop, a zero-g roll, a cobra roll, and a pair of interlocking corkscrews, helping put the park on the map for thrill seekers, competing with Disney and Universal.
Closure and Tribute
Busch Gardens announced earlier this year that the coaster would close shortly after its 33rd birthday. In a social media tribute, the park said: "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 added: "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."
What's Next
The park also announced a sequel ride, Kumba’s Revenge, as part of a $100 million investment to enhance the guest experience. The statement 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."
Further details about the new attraction have not yet been revealed.
