One of Busch Gardens’ most popular roller coasters will be riding into the sunset.
The theme park announced Tuesday that it is retiring the Kumba, its famed roller coaster that has been a destination for thrill seekers for the past 33 years.
The coaster will take its final ride Aug. 2 but will pave the way for a new ride, Kumba’s Revenge.
The move is part of a $100 million investment to enhance and transform the park experience, said Jon Vigue, president of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
“Kumba has inspired generations of thrill seekers and earned its place as one of the world’s most iconic roller coasters,” Vigue said. “As we celebrate its incredible legacy, we’re also looking ahead. Kumba’s Revenge will honor everything guests loved about the original while delivering an entirely new level of thrills.”
When Kumba debuted in 1993, it was Florida’s tallest, fastest and longest coaster, featuring the world’s tallest vertical loop. During its nearly three-minute ride, guests plunge 135 feet, reach speeds of 60 mph and race through seven inversions.
“The legend of Kumba isn’t ending — it’s evolving,” Vigue said.
