Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is officially ready to welcome guests into Wild Oasis, the park’s newest and most immersive family-friendly experience, as previews begin this weekend. Originally slated to open in early June, the debut of Wild Oasis faced a slight delay. But starting July 12, the long-awaited adventure is finally ready to bloom — and it’s bringing the rainforest with it.
What Is Wild Oasis?
Nestled within the Jungala area of Busch Gardens, Wild Oasis is a vibrant, rainforest-themed realm designed with kids and families in mind. It blends exciting attractions, new animal habitats, and engaging play zones to create an interactive environment where fun and learning meet. Whether you’re climbing through treetops, cooling off at a splash pad, or getting up close with exotic animals, there’s something for every age group to enjoy.
New Animals Take the Spotlight at Habitat Hideaway
At the heart of Wild Oasis is Habitat Hideaway, a lush animal exhibit area introducing several new species to Busch Gardens’ already impressive animal lineup. Guests will encounter capybaras, giant anteaters, squirrel monkeys, and tropical birds in an immersive, multi-level viewing environment that lets you see the animals from ground and aerial vantage points. The naturalistic setting highlights the beauty and diversity of rainforest species and encourages curiosity and conservation.
Tree Top Drop – Opening Later This Month
Thrill-seekers, especially the younger crowd, will want to return later in July for the opening of Tree Top Drop, a family-friendly 35-foot drop tower with an immersive multimedia experience. Riders descend through an underground spring-themed setting surrounded by vivid jungle imagery. With a height requirement of just 38 inches (with an adult), it’s designed to be many kids’ first real thrill ride.
Climb, Splash, and Explore
Wild Oasis is filled with hands-on attractions that encourage movement, exploration, and imagination. The Canopy Climb features four levels of climbing trails, rope bridges, and vertical challenges that reach up to 45 feet. It’s a paradise for little adventurers ready to scale the trees like rainforest creatures.
Meanwhile, Enchanted Falls offers a splash-tastic break from the Florida heat. This interactive splash pad features fountains, spray towers, and water surprises perfect for cooling down.
Families can also join in the Rainforest Quest, a self-guided scavenger hunt that educates while it entertains, highlighting the complex relationships between rainforest species and their ecosystems.
Preview and Grand Opening Schedule
Wild Oasis will open in waves throughout the weekend and early next week:
- Saturday, July 12: Platinum Pass Members only
- Sunday, July 13: All Pass Members (Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze)
- Monday, July 14: Pass Members & Fun Card Holders
- Tuesday, July 15: Grand Opening for All Guests (10:30 AM Ribbon Cutting)
There’s also a special Passport to Discovery exclusive event for qualified Pass Members — be sure to check your email for details.
Guests are reminded that the new animal residents are still settling into their habitats. Some may be a bit shy at first, but with patience, you’ll soon see them thriving in their new environment.
Final Thoughts
After a brief delay, Wild Oasis is ready to welcome adventurers of all ages. Whether you’re marveling at exotic animals, getting drenched in splash zones, or conquering rope bridges high above the ground, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s newest realm brings the wonder of the rainforest to life like never before.
Mark your calendars — this weekend, the adventure begins.