Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Opens Lion Hyena Exhibit, Part of Major Enhancement

The new Lion & Hyena Ridge at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay officially opened on July 25 as part of a $200 million planned five-year investment.

The newest addition to the park’s award-winning zoological collection, the attraction is described as a highly immersive animal habitat. The opening anchors Busch Gardens’ ongoing transformation, with additional new attractions, park enhancements and more planned for the future.

Featuring America’s largest coalition of lions in an Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility and a pair of playful hyenas, the habitat is designed to inspire conservation and curiosity for visitors of all ages. 

The 38,000 square feet facility features immersive viewing areas and naturalistic environments, and pledges to support the physical, social and mental well-being of the two of Africa’s most iconic species.

“This immersive experience brings guests face to face with these incredible animals while showcasing our continued commitment to exceptional animal care and creating unforgettable experiences for our guests,” said Jon Vigue, Park President of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. 

Lion & Hyena Ridge features an expansive, 270-degree glass viewing areas that offer guests remarkable face-to-face perspectives of the animals. Guests can also explore interactive cave spaces and cross overhead bridges, creating unique vantage points throughout the expansive habitat.

The habitat includes climbing structures, water elements and specially designed heated and cooled rocks, providing the lions and hyenas with opportunities to play, explore and choose comfortable areas throughout the day. The animals can also rotate between different areas of the habitat, offering enrichment and variety while allowing guests to experience both species.

Because lions and hyenas are natural rivals in the wild, the animals do not occupy the same habitat areas at the same time. This carefully designed approach supports the animals’ well-being while providing a dynamic and engaging experience for guests.

“Lion & Hyena Ridge was designed to create a very immersive and interactive experience for the animals,” said Andrew Schaffer, VP of Design and Engineering at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. “Lions and hyenas are both incredible predatory animals and getting to see them up close and personal is an amazing experience for our guests.”

The opening is part of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s broader $200 million enhancement plan, bringing new attractions, animal habitats and guest experience improvements to the park.