Serengeti Flyer is one of the newest and most thrilling attractions at Busch Gardens Tampa, an amusement park renowned for its high-adrenaline rides and world-class animal exhibits. Located in Tampa, Florida, Busch Gardens blends the excitement of a theme park with the charm of a zoo. The Serengeti Flyer, which opened in early 2023, has quickly become a guest favorite, offering a unique blend of exhilarating thrills and breathtaking views of the park’s expansive Serengeti Plain.
This ride is a giant swing-type attraction that soars guests high into the sky, providing unparalleled excitement for thrill-seekers of all ages. The Serengeti Flyer adds to Busch Gardens Tampa’s impressive lineup of roller coasters and attractions, solidifying its place as a must-visit destination for theme park enthusiasts.
Ride Experience
The Serengeti Flyer is classified as a pendulum ride, where riders are seated on large swinging arms that rock back and forth, eventually reaching incredible heights and speeds. This ride is designed to mimic the sensation of weightlessness, with guests experiencing multiple moments of zero gravity as the swing reaches its apex. With seats facing outward, riders can enjoy unobstructed views of the park and surrounding scenery, adding an extra layer of excitement.
Key Features:
- Height and Speed: The Serengeti Flyer reaches a maximum height of approximately 135 feet and can hit speeds of up to 68 miles per hour, making it one of the tallest and fastest pendulum rides in North America.
- Capacity and Duration: Each cycle lasts around two minutes, providing ample time for riders to enjoy the breathtaking experience. The ride has a high capacity, seating up to 40 passengers at a time, which helps keep wait times relatively short.
- Swing Motion: The ride swings back and forth like a massive pendulum, with riders experiencing the thrill of negative G-forces as they float out of their seats during the ride’s highest peaks.
Theming and Setting
The Serengeti Flyer is situated within the heart of Busch Gardens Tampa’s iconic Serengeti Plain, a 65-acre naturalistic habitat that is home to a variety of African wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and rhinos. The ride’s location offers a unique juxtaposition of adrenaline-pumping excitement and serene wildlife viewing. While waiting in line or after disembarking, guests can enjoy panoramic views of the animal exhibits, adding to the overall immersive experience.
The attraction’s design and theming pay homage to the spirit of adventure and exploration. Its earthy colors and tribal-inspired decorations blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, maintaining the park’s cohesive African theme. The sound effects and ride music contribute to the excitement, creating a high-energy atmosphere that primes guests for the adventure ahead.
Thrill Level and Rider Requirements
Serengeti Flyer is classified as an "extreme thrill" ride, meaning it’s designed for experienced riders who are comfortable with intense motions, high speeds, and significant heights. Due to its thrilling nature, the ride has certain height and safety restrictions to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all riders.
Requirements:
- Minimum Height Requirement: Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to board.
- Health Warnings: Due to the extreme nature of the ride, it’s not recommended for guests with heart conditions, neck or back problems, or for those who are pregnant.
Accessibility and Guest Experience
Busch Gardens Tampa has taken steps to ensure that Serengeti Flyer is accessible to as many guests as possible. The ride is equipped with accessibility options for those with mobility concerns, and the park’s guest services team is available to assist with any special accommodations.
Tips for Enjoying Serengeti Flyer:
- Best Time to Ride: To avoid long wait times, it’s recommended to ride Serengeti Flyer early in the morning or later in the evening.
- Strategic Viewing Spots: If you want to capture some amazing photos of the ride or your friends and family on it, there are several great vantage points around the Serengeti Plain.
- Weather Considerations: Like many outdoor attractions, Serengeti Flyer may temporarily close during inclement weather, so it’s best to plan your visit around favorable conditions.
The Serengeti Flyer is a must-ride attraction for adrenaline junkies and theme park enthusiasts visiting Busch Gardens Tampa. Its combination of extreme thrills, stunning views, and unique setting makes it a standout experience. Whether you’re seeking a new heart-pounding adventure or simply want to take in the beautiful Serengeti landscape from a whole new perspective, the Serengeti Flyer delivers on all fronts. Make sure to add this ride to your list during your next visit to Busch Gardens Tampa, and prepare to soar to new heights!
Serengeti Flyer is one of the newest and most thrilling attractions at Busch Gardens Tampa