Kumba Closing at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay After 33 Years

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay confirmed Kumba will close for good on August 2 2026. The coaster has run since 1993 and became one of the park's most recognized rides. Its closing comes as Busch Gardens announces new leadership and continues a $100 million investment across the park.

Kumba

Kumba's Final Days

Kumba opened in 1993 as Florida's tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster. It also featured the tallest vertical loop on any coaster at the time. Riders have taken on Kumba's seven inversions and heard its rumbling roar for 33 years.

Busch Gardens shared the news on social media, calling August 2 the day Kumba "takes its final roar." The park credited Kumba with setting a new standard for thrill rides when it debuted, and said it will be remembered as one of Busch Gardens' most recognizable coasters.

After 33 years, it's time for Kumba to take its final roar on August 2nd...
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. 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.
While Kumba may be retiring this summer, Busch Gardens is dedicated to thrilling the next generation of coaster enthusiasts by continuing the Kumba story. 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. The legend of Kumba will continue...Stay tuned for this brand-new adventure

Kumba's Revenge Takes Its Place

Busch Gardens is not retiring the Kumba name for good. The park announced Kumba's Revenge, a new coaster built as an extension of the original ride. Details on the layout and opening date have not been released yet. Busch Gardens said the new coaster is part of its push to stay Florida's thrill leader and will be part of the ongoing $100 million investment in new attractions and park upgrades.

New Park President Named

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay also named Jon Vigue as its new park president. Vigue has close to 30 years in the attractions industry. He previously led Wild Adventures Theme Park in Georgia and spent almost 20 years at Lake Compounce Theme Park in Connecticut before that.

Vigue has been involved with the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions since 2007. He most recently chaired the organization's Food & Beverage Committee for North America.

Kyle Miller, Co-Chief Parks Operations Officer at United Parks & Resorts, said Vigue's experience makes him the right fit to guide the park through its current round of investments.

"I'm incredibly honored to join the talented team at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and help lead one of the most iconic theme parks in the country," Vigue said. He added that he's looking forward to working with the park's staff and meeting guests and passholders.

More Changes Across the Park

Kumba's closing and Vigue's appointment follow a string of new additions at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Wild Oasis, a family adventure area, opened in 2025. Lion and Hyena Ridge, the park's largest animal habitat in more than a decade, opens later this year. The habitat will house five young male lions and two hyenas, with 270-degree viewing areas and elevated overlooks for guests.

Busch Gardens' Summer Nights event runs through August 9 with extended evening hours. New for this year is the Beach Bash show, along with the return of Boom Box Dance Party and complimentary beer for guests 21 and older. Indoor shows Cirque Electric, Animal Tales, Icons and Rhythm of Nature are also running this summer.

At night, Wild Skies: Drone Show & Fireworks Spectacular returns with 400 drones paired with fireworks and music. The season opened with a patriotic show for America's 250th birthday. A new Busch Gardens-exclusive drone show opened July 10.

Have you ridden Kumba? Let us know your favorite memories of the coaster before it closes on August 2.