Kumba Roller Coaster, Tampa

Unleashing a roar across the landscape of Tampa's thrill parks, the Kumba Roller Coaster stands as an exhilarating highlight for adrenaline seekers visiting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This steel beast, known for its intense loops and inversions, has been a centerpiece of the park since its debut in 1993.

Kumba, which means "roar" in the Congo language, lives up to its name with a 143-foot drop and speeds reaching up to 60 miles per hour. Riders are catapulted through a series of seven inversions, including a 114-foot vertical loop, a dive loop, a zero-G roll, and interlocking corkscrews. The experience is not for the faint of heart, with a ride time of about three minutes that will leave even the most seasoned roller coaster aficionados breathless.

As one of the first coasters to offer a number of these thrilling elements, Kumba set new standards in roller coaster design. Its seamless integration with the surrounding terrain adds to the excitement, giving the illusion of even higher speeds and more dramatic plunges.

For those planning a visit, Kumba is located in the Congo area of Busch Gardens. The park itself is a blend of thrilling rides, animal encounters, and live entertainment, making it a full-day destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. Given the popularity of the coaster, it's wise to plan your ride early in the day or to use the Quick Queue system offered by the park to minimize wait times.

Before boarding Kumba, visitors should note the height requirement of 54 inches. It's also advisable to secure any loose items, as the coaster's intense forces are known to send belongings flying. Lastly, for those who want a keepsake of their daring adventure, a photo is snapped during the ride, capturing the exhilaration of the moment.