If you’re planning a trip to Busch Gardens Tampa, you’re probably wondering which rides are absolute must-dos. Known as one of Florida’s premier theme parks, Busch Gardens combines thrilling roller coasters, exotic wildlife experiences, and family-friendly attractions that make it a top destination for thrill-seekers and families alike. In this guide, we’ll rank the best rides at Busch Gardens Tampa, so you can prioritize your day and make the most of your visit.
Why Busch Gardens Tampa is a Must-Visit
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is not just a theme park—it’s an adventure. Spanning over 335 acres, the park is divided into several themed areas inspired by Africa, each offering unique rides, live entertainment, and animal encounters. Whether you’re a fan of adrenaline-pumping roller coasters or prefer scenic attractions with breathtaking views, Busch Gardens Tampa has something for everyone.
The park is particularly famous for its mix of thrill rides and animal exhibits, making it one of the most unique theme parks in Tampa. Plus, its location in Tampa Bay makes it an ideal stop for visitors looking to combine Florida travel with amusement parks.
The Top Rides at Busch Gardens Tampa
1. SheiKra – Florida’s Diving Coaster
If you’re a thrill-seeker, SheiKra is an absolute must. This floorless dive coaster features a 200-foot vertical drop at 90 degrees, reaching speeds of up to 70 mph. The ride’s intense freefall and smooth inversions make it a favorite for adrenaline junkies. SheiKra is often ranked as one of the best roller coasters in Tampa for thrill enthusiasts.
Why ride SheiKra:
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Record-breaking vertical drop.
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Floorless coaster experience for an unobstructed view.
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Smooth ride with inversions and high-speed thrills.
2. Montu – Iconic Inverted Coaster
Montu is a legendary inverted roller coaster at Busch Gardens Tampa. Riders’ feet dangle freely as they soar through seven intense inversions, including loops and corkscrews. This ride is ideal for those who love high-speed thrills combined with intense airtime.
Highlights:
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Multiple inversions for non-stop excitement.
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High-speed curves and drops.
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Recognized as one of the top coasters in Tampa.
3. Cheetah Hunt – Speed & Smoothness Combined
Cheetah Hunt is themed after the world’s fastest land animal and offers a unique triple-launch coaster experience. Riders are propelled forward and backward, mimicking a cheetah’s sudden bursts of speed. Its smooth curves and airtime hills make it perfect for thrill-seekers who enjoy dynamic coaster rides.
Why it’s a favorite:
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Triple-launch coaster experience.
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Unique cheetah-themed design.
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Perfect combination of speed and smooth airtime.
4. Kumba – A Classic Busch Gardens Coaster
Kumba is one of the most iconic coasters at Busch Gardens Tampa, famous for its five inversions and high-speed corkscrews. It’s a thrilling ride that blends loops, drops, and intense turns, making it a classic favorite for both first-timers and returning visitors.
Key features:
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Five heart-pounding inversions.
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Smooth transitions between drops and loops.
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One of the most photographed roller coasters in Tampa.
5. Iron Gwazi – Record-Breaking Hybrid Coaster
As one of the newest additions, Iron Gwazi combines wood and steel in a hybrid coaster that delivers speed, height, and airtime. It’s known for being the tallest and fastest hybrid coaster in North America, reaching 206 feet with speeds over 76 mph. This ride is perfect for extreme thrill-seekers.
Why Iron Gwazi stands out:
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Tallest and fastest hybrid coaster in North America.
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Airtime-packed drops and smooth inversions.
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An adrenaline rush unlike any other at Busch Gardens Tampa.
6. Sand Serpent – Family-Friendly Fun
For families with younger children, Sand Serpent provides the perfect introduction to coasters. This junior coaster offers gentle twists and turns with a fun theme, making it a great way to ease kids into the thrill-ride experience.
Highlights:
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Safe and family-friendly.
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Gentle speeds and easy turns.
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Introduces kids to roller coasters without overwhelming them.
7. Kidzopolis Rides – Perfect for Little Adventurers
Kidzopolis is Busch Gardens’ dedicated area for children, featuring rides like Air Grover and Congo River Rapids Jr. These attractions are designed to be fun and interactive, ensuring younger guests have a memorable day without the intense thrills of adult coasters.
Why families love it:
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Age-appropriate attractions for children.
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Interactive play areas and gentle rides.
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Keeps kids engaged while adults enjoy bigger coasters.
8. Congo River Rapids – Water Ride Adventure
For those looking to cool off, Congo River Rapids is a must. This white-water rafting ride takes guests through a twisting, splashing adventure that is as thrilling as it is refreshing. It’s perfect for hot Florida days and offers laughs for both kids and adults.
Key features:
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Wet and wild experience.
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Fun for all ages, but be prepared to get soaked.
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Excellent photo opportunities during the ride.
9. Falcon’s Fury – Florida’s Tallest Drop Tower
Falcon’s Fury is a freefall tower that tilts riders 90 degrees as it drops from 335 feet. This ride is for thrill-seekers who want a heart-stopping view of Busch Gardens Tampa and beyond. Its unique tilting mechanism makes it one of the most intense drop towers in the world.
Why ride Falcon’s Fury:
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Tallest drop tower in Florida.
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Unique tilting feature enhances the thrill.
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Stunning panoramic views before the drop.
Tips for Enjoying Busch Gardens Tampa Rides
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Arrive early – Popular rides like Iron Gwazi and SheiKra get long lines quickly.
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Use Quick Queue – Skip long lines with this paid pass for faster access to top rides.
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Plan your route – Map out coasters and attractions to minimize walking and maximize fun.
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Check height restrictions – Make sure everyone meets the ride requirements.
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Stay hydrated – Tampa’s heat can be intense, especially on long coaster days.
FAQs About Busch Gardens Tampa Rides
Q1: What are the best thrill rides at Busch Gardens Tampa?
The top thrill rides include SheiKra, Montu, Cheetah Hunt, Iron Gwazi, and Falcon’s Fury. Each offers unique adrenaline-pumping experiences.
Q2: Are there rides suitable for children at Busch Gardens Tampa?
Yes! Kidzopolis rides and Sand Serpent are perfect for younger visitors and families looking for age-appropriate attractions.
Q3: Can I get wet on any rides?
Absolutely. Congo River Rapids is a water ride where getting soaked is part of the fun, so dress accordingly.
Q4: Is Busch Gardens Tampa worth visiting for roller coaster enthusiasts?
Definitely. With some of the tallest and fastest coasters in Florida, including Iron Gwazi and SheiKra, Busch Gardens is a must-visit for coaster lovers.
Q5: How long should I plan to spend at Busch Gardens Tampa?
For a full experience of rides, animal exhibits, and shows, plan at least one full day. Two days are ideal for a more relaxed visit.
Final Thoughts
Busch Gardens Tampa is a perfect blend of thrill rides, family attractions, and unique animal experiences. From record-breaking coasters like Iron Gwazi to family-friendly rides in Kidzopolis, there’s something for everyone. By following this ranking and tips, you can make the most of your visit and experience the best rides the park has to offer.
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, traveling with kids, or just looking for a fun day in Tampa, Busch Gardens delivers an unforgettable experience.