Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will open Lion & Hyena Ridge on July 25. Pass members can preview the rebuilt Edge of Africa habitat on July 22 and July 24.
The habitat covers nearly 35,000 square feet. Expansive glass panels and shaded paths give guests views spanning 270 degrees. Inside are kopje-style rock formations, naturalistic terrain, multiple enrichment zones and rotating spaces that let animal-care teams vary social groupings.
The lion coalition includes Pascal, Lou, Hugo, Henri and Herman. Spotted hyenas Dazi and Cazi also live in the habitat. Interpretive displays cover the animals' social behavior, the relationship between lions and hyenas in the wild, and conservation work.
Lion & Hyena Ridge replaces the former viewing area along the park's Edge of Africa trail. The July 25 public opening falls on the same day Busch Gardens begins its 2026 Bier Fest Brews & BBQ event.
Sources: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's official Lion & Hyena Ridge page and Creative Loafing Tampa Bay's local report.
Image credit: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.