Busch Gardens confirms the return of Kumba in Summer 2025. Learn what park president Jeff Davis had to say and what guests can expect from the roller coaster.
In recent months, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has been refurbishing several attractions, which has led to rides being closed. One attraction that has been down at Busch Gardens for some time has been Kumba. In fact, Kumba has not been operational for so long that many rumors have started that it will be closed permanently.
However, with the opening of Pass Member Landing and a media event for the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival, we have spoken with the new park president, Jeff Davis. In addition, we were in attendance when he spoke with guests, implying strongly that Kumba would be reopened. Nevertheless, things change quickly in the theme park industry, so even hearing those words did not reassure most guests.
Kumba at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Kumba, a steel roller coaster at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, has been thrilling guests since its debut on April 21, 1993. Designed by Bolliger & Mabillard, it introduced several groundbreaking elements, including interlocking corkscrews and a vertical loop that wraps around the lift hill
The ride stands 143 feet tall and features a 135-foot initial drop, reaching speeds up to 60 mph. Over its nearly three-minute duration, Kumba delivers seven inversions, including a dive loop, zero-g roll, cobra roll, and interlocking corkscrews, subjecting riders to forces up to 3.8 Gs.
Kumba’s hollow track design produces a distinctive roaring sound as the train navigates the course. Its innovative design and intense ride experience have earned it a place as a respected thrilling roller coaster. Guests will find it in the Congo section of the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
Reopening of Kumba at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
While we do not have a set opening date, we have a better idea when Kumba will reopen for guests to enjoy. In a social media post, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay said, “The roar returns… Stay tuned for more details on Kumba’s reopening this summer. So, summer 2025, it is!
Wild Oasis
With the opening of Wild Oasis, sometime soon at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, theme park fans have several things to look forward to at this Tampa theme park. For more information about theme parks, visit MSM News.
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