Busch Gardens Tampa Bay to unleash new immersive Lion and Hyena habitats in Spring 2026
- Shane Walton
- 58 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s most ambitious new animal habitat in over a decade invites guests to explore the heart of the African savanna like never before.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is roaring into 2026 with the ALL-NEW Lion & Hyena Ridge, an extraordinary new addition to the park’s award-winning animal care portfolio and the most ambitious new habitat in more than a decade.
This reimagined area of the park expands the existing space to more than double its previous size, creating nearly 35,000 square feet of dynamic savanna terrain where two of Africa’s most iconic species will thrive - a pride of five young male lions and a pair of playful hyenas.
Highlights include:
Immersive Viewing – Step into the savanna through expansive glass viewing areas and shaded pathways offering awe-inspiring, 270-degree perspectives of the new habitat.
Innovative Habitat Design – A naturalistic environment featuring rocky kopje formations, cascading water elements, and diverse spaces that allow the animals to choose and explore their surroundings throughout the day.
Roaring Animal Stories – Guests will connect with lion brothers Pascal, Lou, Henri, Hugo, and Herman - born in 2024 - and hyenas Cazi and Dazi, in an immersive new setting that allows engaging educational moments that’ll inspire conservation and curiosity.
Keep up to date with the latest theme park news and updates from Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando, LEGOLAND Florida, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
“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. “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.”
Even More Reasons to Visit in 2026
Along with Lion & Hyena Ridge, Busch Gardens guests can look forward to a year packed with new festivals, family fun, and entertainment:
ALL-NEW Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends – fun-filled themed activities for the family
ALL-NEW Food, Wine & Garden Festival – the park’s largest culinary celebration to date
ALL-NEW Glory in the Gardens (May) – Christian music and spring garden festival
ALL-NEW Military Appreciation Month (May) – exclusive events honoring service members
ALL-NEW Wild Oasis Kids’ Weekend (November) – themed food, activities, and family fun
Be among the first to experience Lion & Hyena Ridge with a Busch Gardens Annual Pass
Guests can experience the best of Busch Gardens with a 2026 annual pass, including unbeatable benefits, unlimited visits, and the opportunity to be the first to experience the all-new Lion & Hyena Ridge before it opens to the public.
Annual passes for 2026 are on sale now, with our Black Friday Presale starting as low as $13.50 per month with no down payment. Membership includes access to all the returning and new vibrant seasonal events and exclusive Pass Member benefits.
2026 Annual Pass Benefits Include:
Unlimited admission with no blackout dates, free parking (select tiers) and guest tickets, discounts on food, beverages, and retail, plus, (New in 2026) Free Quick Queue (select tiers) and $10 in quarterly park credits.
Guests can learn more about all the events, future announcements by visiting BuschGardensTampa.com.
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