Nestled in the Egyptian-themed area of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Montu is a renowned roller coaster that has thrilled visitors since its grand opening in 1996. Known for its high-speed inversions, intense G-forces, and smooth ride experience, Montu is a landmark attraction at the park. As an inverted roller coaster, it offers riders the unique sensation of having their feet dangle freely while they swoop through the air. Montu is often regarded as one of the best B&M (Bolliger & Mabillard) inverted coasters in the world, thanks to its combination of technical prowess and exhilarating ride elements.
History and Theme
Montu was designed and built by the acclaimed coaster manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard, which has developed many of the world's most iconic roller coasters. Named after an ancient Egyptian war god, Montu’s theming is inspired by the mystique of ancient Egypt. The coaster’s entrance and surrounding area are adorned with hieroglyphics, Egyptian statues, and architectural elements reminiscent of grand temples.
The attraction was part of Busch Gardens’ expansion into different cultural themes, and the Egyptian area became a hub for thrilling adventures with Montu as its centerpiece. When it debuted, Montu set new standards for inverted coasters, featuring the longest track length and the tallest vertical loop for its ride type at the time.
Ride Experience
Montu stands 150 feet tall and has a track length of 3,983 feet. The ride reaches a top speed of 60 mph, propelling riders through seven inversions and countless twists and turns. The smooth, graceful transitions and intense forces keep riders on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
The ride starts with a 128-foot drop that plunges into a 104-foot vertical loop, immediately letting riders know they’re in for a high-octane experience. Following the loop, Montu twists into an Immelmann inversion, where the train rolls upside down and then performs a half-loop, allowing a rapid change in direction. Next comes the zero-G roll, a thrilling element that provides a sensation of weightlessness.
The journey continues into a batwing inversion (a double-inverting element shaped like a bat's wings), and then a sweeping corkscrew. Just when you think Montu is losing steam, it dives into a subterranean trench, only to emerge in a final corkscrew before entering the brake run. The trench sections, intertwined with the ride’s supports, add a unique, visual appeal as the track dives underground and then re-emerges, creating surprising and thrilling moments of near-miss elements.
Unique Features
One of Montu’s standout characteristics is its interaction with the terrain and the park’s landscaping. The coaster’s track dips into and out of trenches, adding to the sensation of speed and creating multiple "head-chopper" moments where riders feel as if they are about to collide with the ground or nearby structures. This use of trenches, combined with its clever layout, makes Montu a visually striking and thrilling ride.
Montu is also famous for its sustained high G-forces, especially in its batwing element, where riders experience up to 3.8 Gs. The coaster’s intensity is carefully balanced with its smoothness, a signature of Bolliger & Mabillard designs, allowing both thrill-seekers and roller coaster enthusiasts to enjoy multiple back-to-back rides without feeling overwhelmed.
Accolades and Legacy
Since its opening, Montu has consistently ranked high in coaster polls and reviews, often hailed as one of the top inverted coasters globally. It has maintained a reputation for being a must-ride attraction at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, drawing in coaster enthusiasts from all over the world.
The ride’s longevity and continued popularity are testaments to its excellent design and thrilling layout. Even as other coasters are built with ever-increasing heights and speeds, Montu’s blend of smoothness, intensity, and theming keeps it relevant and beloved.
Tips for Riders
For those visiting Busch Gardens, Montu is a ride not to be missed. To get the best experience:
- Ride Early or Late: Visit Montu early in the morning or later in the day to avoid long lines.
- Best Seats: For the most intense experience, sit in the front row for an unobstructed view of the ride’s drops and inversions. For the strongest G-forces, opt for the back row.
- Stay Hydrated: The ride’s Egyptian theme extends to its location, which is often one of the hottest areas in the park. Be sure to stay hydrated, especially if you’re planning on multiple rides.
Montu at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay remains a premier attraction for both thrill-seekers and casual visitors alike. Its timeless design, exhilarating ride elements, and immersive theming make it one of the best roller coasters in Florida, if not the world. For over two decades, Montu has stood as a monument to coaster engineering excellence, delivering unforgettable experiences and solidifying its status as a coaster classic.