Photos/Videos: Explore the Construction Site of Busch Gardens Tampa’s Wild Oasis

The new rainforest-inspired family area is expected to open this Spring.

Over at Busch Gardens Tampa, a new family area is coming to life. Aptly called Wild Oasis, the new land features splash areas, rides, play structures and more all surrounded by animal habitats. Today, Laughing Place had the pleasure of attending a preview for the upcoming area, including a special presentation and a hardhat tour of the construction site.

This Spring, Wild Oasis will bring guests into an immersive world of animal exploration at Busch Gardens Tampa. The area will bring a refreshed and re-imagined version of the former Jungala area that will allow adventurers of all ages to embrace and explore the sounds and sights of the rainforest.

The hands-on area will feature many places for guests to play, including a refreshed drop tower experience called Tree Top Drop, water play areas, climbing gyms, and incorporated animal habitats.

Kicking off the event at the Stanleyville Theater, the park shared new information about the upcoming addition, including specific details of the theming elements of the area's major attractions. Hosted by Erick Elliot, Vice President of Design and Engineering; Kayla Wendzel, Zoological Curator; and Nicholas Pelisek, Manager of Creative Design, the “ Busch Gardens Trio” shared how excited they are for Wild Oasis. Throughout the land, Busch Gardens is pushing the limits of how to bridge immersive entertainment and animal encounters. With high flying climbing structures, observation platforms, and up-close animal enclosures, the area aims to bring you into the world of the rainforest.

After the presentation, it was time to get into our hard hats and take a walk through Wild Oasis. Stepping inside, the area is still heavily under construction with much to be done prior to its scheduled Spring opening. As you enter into Wild Oasis, you’ll be surrounded by play structures and water features that will allow guests to explore up to four stories high. The bravest of guests will be able to crawl through a net tunnel between different lookouts.

Exploring the site, we had the chance to talk with some of the project team about the land’s new experiences. Catching up with Nicholas Pelisek, he shared all about the land’s play areas.

Taking over the center of the land, Enchanted Falls will allow young explorers to cool off in the hot florida sun. With rockwork theming, geysers and waterfalls, the water play area is sure to make a splash with guests.

Pelisek also spoke about the many climbing areas that will be found throughout the land, many of which will offer unforgettable views of their rainforest inspired animal habitats.

Speaking of animals, Kayla Wenzel was onsite to share information on how the park curated the new area’s exhibits. Including capybaras, spider monkeys, tropical birds, and more, the enclosures are designed to allow the animals to safely interact with each other, creating a unique experience for all guests. Embracing Busch Gardens’ commitment to conservation, all of the animals arriving at the park have come from rehabilitation centers, zoos, and species survival plans. Many of the animals within the park have been affected by the pet trade, and the park intends to inform guests on the importance of protecting these wild animals.

Hugging the backside of the land, Habitat Hideaway will allow guests to get a closeup view of these incredible creatures. Hugging the backside of the giant play structure, many overlooks and elevated walkways will give guests unique views of these amazing animals.

Wild Oasis is also reimagining one of Jungala’s main attractions. Titled Tree Top Drop, the family-friendly thrill ride will see the addition of special effects and storylines similar to those found in the station of their new Phoenix Rising roller coaster.

As of now, the storylines for the attraction are yet to be revealed, but is set to include new screens and laser effects to enhance the drop tower experience. Right now, the attraction is currently being completely rebuilt as they continue to prepare the area for guests.

The area will absolutely be a breath of fresh air for the backside of Busch Gardens Tampa. Check out our video exploring the future site of Wild Oasis below.

Wild Oasis is incredibly promising and we can’t wait to see the rainforest come to life in Tampa. Thanks again to Busch Gardens Tampa for having us out.

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Maxon Faber
Based in Los Angeles, California, Maxon is roller coaster and musical theatre nerd. His favorite dinosaur is the parasaurolophus, specifically the one in Jurassic World: The Ride.