Lion & Hyena Ridge Busch Gardens Tampa: Lions, Hyenas & What to Expect
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is set to roar into a new era with the debut of Lion & Hyena Ridge, a major expansion to the beloved Edge of Africa area. Announced in late 2025 and opening in 2026, this immersive habitat represents the park’s most ambitious animal experience project in more than a decade.
Lion & Hyena Ridge Busch Gardens Tampa: Lions, Hyenas & What to Expect
A Dramatic Transformation of Edge of Africa
Edge of Africa has long been a cornerstone of Busch Gardens’ award-winning animal collection, offering guests immersive views of African wildlife. Lion & Hyena Ridge takes this to the next level, expanding the area by approximately 150% (more than doubling or even tripling the previous footprint in some descriptions) to create nearly 35,000 square feet of dynamic savanna terrain.
The project includes:
- A grand new entrance with a serene water feature and naturalistic kopje (rocky outcrop) formations.
- Four (or more) shaded glass viewing structures providing stunning 270-degree views of the habitats.
- Multiple enrichment zones, rotating spaces, and varied terrain designed to promote natural animal behaviors, social dynamics, and mental stimulation.
Construction has featured kopje-style rockwork, water elements (including pools and sprayers for the hyenas), elevated perches for the lions, and enhanced pathways for guests. Animal welfare remains the top priority, with habitats engineered for physical, social, and psychological well-being.
Meet the Residents
The new ridge will be home to two iconic African species that naturally interact (and sometimes compete) in the wild:
- Five young male lion brothers: Pascal, Lou, Henri, Hugo, and Herman (born in 2024). The brothers are relocating from the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden.
- Two spotted hyenas: Cazi and Dazi, who already reside at Busch Gardens.
Because lions and hyenas are both scavengers and can be competitive, they will have separate but interchangeable, multi-functional habitats. This setup allows for dynamic groupings and behavioral variety while giving guests excellent opportunities to observe their personalities and interactions.
What Guests Can Expect
Lion & Hyena Ridge emphasizes immersion and education. Visitors can look forward to:
- Up-close animal viewing through expansive glass and mesh panels.
- Enhanced keeper talks and educational moments highlighting conservation, species roles in the ecosystem, and individual animal stories.
- Shaded walkways and viewing areas that make the experience comfortable even on hot Florida days.
The design draws guests deeper into the African savanna narrative while reinforcing Busch Gardens’ commitment to conservation and high-standard animal care.
Opening Timeline & Pass holder Previews
According to recent park imagery and announcements:
- Annual Pass Previews:
- Platinum Pass Members: Wednesday, July 22, 2026 (2PM – 7PM)
- All Pass Members: Friday, July 24, 2026 (10AM – Park Close)
- Grand Opening: July 25, 2026
- Passport to Discovery: August 01, 2026 (9AM – 11AM)
As Lion & Hyena Ridge prepares to welcome guests this summer, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay continues to solidify its reputation as a leader in immersive animal care and unforgettable guest experiences. Whether you’re eager to watch the five lion brothers survey their new kingdom or catch Cazi and Dazi splashing in their water features, this 35,000-square-foot savanna expansion promises to be a highlight of any visit.
