TAMPA, Fla. – Starting next year, a bold new Busch Gardens Tampa Bay habitat will bring guests closer than ever to the wild world of lions and hyenas in an immersive savanna setting.
Opening spring 2026, the reimagined Lion & Hyena Ridge spans nearly 35,000 square feet of dynamic savanna terrain. It will be home to a pride of five young male lions—Pascal, Lou, Henri, Hugo, and Herman—and a pair of playful hyenas named Cazi and Dazi.
The habitat expansion is the park’s most significant in over a decade, more than doubling the space for two of Africa’s most iconic species.
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Brian Bacica, Park President of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, said, “We’re thrilled to unveil our newest habitat, the all-new Lion & Hyena Ridge, opening in 2026. 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.”
Guests can immerse themselves in the savanna through expansive glass viewing areas and shaded pathways that offer awe-inspiring 270-degree perspectives of the habitat. The innovative design features naturalistic elements like rocky kopje formations and cascading water, giving the animals diverse spaces to explore throughout the day.
Visitors will connect with the animals through engaging educational moments designed to inspire conservation and curiosity. The new habitat promises an unforgettable experience that highlights Busch Gardens’ award-winning animal care and dedication to wildlife preservation.
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